Villari’s Martial Arts is an enrichment program at TLC that offers children the ability to learn self-defense techniques, improve coordination, hone reflexes, develop self-confidence, and increase self-discipline. Each class is taught by Christine, a certified black belt instructor, whose mission is to provide you with the highest quality martial arts training where each individual can reach their personal goals.
One parent recently asked their children, “What do you do if a stranger talks to you or tries to take you?” The children are part of Christine’s karate class and the answer – without hesitation – was remarkable: “Christine said that it is unlikely to happen, but if it does, we use our karate techniques to get away and say to others teach us this too! Christine says, don’t yell, because others might think we’re just throwing a tantrum but instead say, “This is not my Mom or Dad”. Even parents learn something new!
Do your children know the proper techniques to protect themselves or get away, if necessary?
This post is not to install fear by any means. More importantly, it is to showcase that karate is a positive experience to enhance self-defense and safety for your children in so many ways. At TLC’s program, Christine and TLC present karate to children as a body, mind, and spirit practice. And it’s also fun! The mental and physical elements of karate improve their fitness, concentration and coordination. The children also learn age appropriate skills for dealing with bullying and other forms of violence.
TLC’s karate program through Villari’s is committed to maintaining a culture of discipline, cooperation, and respect where your children can practice asserting themselves, taking on leadership, working as part of a team, and solving conflicts non-violently, while they become fit and learn skills to keep themselves safe. Jousting just might be their favorite as well as yelling the karate commands loudly!
Throughout its history, TLC has supported the development of martial arts and personal safety curricula for children. Karate enhances this. Together, TLC and Villari’s provide learning experiences that are age and developmentally appropriate. The spirit building and non-competitive environment enable every child to be proud of doing their best and feel successful with their effort. Earning a new belt is also a sign of progress and something the children are very proud of.
If you are interested in enrolling your child(ren) in karate at TLC, please speak to Trish, Jen or Melissa. A typical class begins and ends with a bow to Christine, the master. After a warm-up, students practice the art’s particular skills, which may include kicks, punches, and blocks. Each requires concentration and strict attention. Experts say that it is the respect kids learn, whether from bowing or standing still and waiting for the next command, that can be the most important benefit and it carries over into school, helping to improve behavior and even grades.
(Karate at TLC is on Tuesdays and a great way to have your children exert some extra energy!!)
TLC of Hopkinton 