As a National Champion martial artist myself, having trained for over 15 years and beginning as a child, finding a great martial arts school for my son was important to me. So many schools either water-down their curriculum for kids, or just don't understand kids at all. Traditional martial arts teaching techniques won't work for little kids, and few instructors really understand this.
Fortunately, Melissa Sioson (aka ""Coach Apple"") is a nanny during the day so she really understands how to connect with kids in a meaningful, personal, and supportive way. She's also been training in martial arts since she was a kid, and she has multiple World Championship titles under her belt. This unique blend of experience enables her to compassionately teach kids in ways that they respond to... while simultaneously empowering them to experience the benefits that martial arts are known to instill in kids.
My son absolutely loves his classes there. He wants to go regularly, and doesn't want to leave when it's over. After class he really enjoys giving each of the coaches hugs. Yes, that's right... martial arts teachers who are comfortable and willing to physically express their care, appreciation, and respect for students in a personal way. This connection creates a unique bond that enables Coach Apple (and the other coaches) to challenge and push kids in ways that feel safe - because the kids KNOW the coaches care about them and have their best interests at heart.
Sometimes my son has difficulty learning certain motions. With a young body that he's still learning about and growing into, things don't always ""click"" right away. For this reason, I also really appreciate that in many of the kids classes, there's almost as many coaches and assistants as there are students. It's like blending the best of both worlds between private classes and public classes - ensuring my son gets the attention and support he needs to thrive. It's not uncommon to have as many as 3 or 4 other black belts supporting Coach Apple.
Coach Apple also integrates martial arts into the child's daily life. Students are taught respect and expected to bring it into their school and home environments. In fact, kids will not advance in their belt promotions if they are not choosing non-martial arts goals to strive for, AND, making progress towards them.
I have known Coach Apple for almost two decades, and I feel truly blessed and grateful that my son is under her teaching. My son deserves the best, and it's clear that I've found that for him.
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