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Information for Parents
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| Rank and Testing- In each age group, there is a certain amount of curriculum required for each belt level. This consists of kata (forms), several waza (self defense techniques), as well as certain strikes and kicks. Lower belts are also responsible for the 5 rules of conduct and the student creed. It is up to the Sensei to decide if each student is proficient enough with their curriculum to test for the next level. "Time in" is not always a factor, but students who get their two classes per week in are apt to move up more quickly. Younger students will usually spend more time in each rank, especially Purple, Blue and Green Belt; a Junior Shodan (Black Belt) must be at least 12-13 yrs old. Students who practice at home, do push-ups and sit-ups at home, make up missed classes, and don't take time off for the summer or other sports are likely to advance more quickly. Students should not be compared to their classmates, each journey is personal and each person is seen as an individual by their instructor. Students who achieve their rank at Kensho-Ryu Cumberland always feel a sense of pride because they know rank is not given easily, it is earned. |
| Techniques- Another frequently asked question is "why do we not explain to the younger students exactly what they are doing in their waza?". Many parents feel that their child may understand their techniques better if they knew it's application. Well, the Sensei at Kensho-Ryu feel that young students lack the maturity to make clear decisions about their techniques. Teaching a four year old that the technique "bending tree" contains a kick to the groin may actually encourage the child to test that waza out! We also do not teach youngsters the vital strike zones in their basic strikes and kicks. This information comes gradually as the children continue their training and personal development. More contact is gradually introduced beginning at Purple Belt; Brown Belts develop more use of the application of their techniques through controlled contact. We do of course discuss stangers and staying safe.
Brown Belts - Brown Belt rank at Kensho-Ryu Cumberland is a very important time for students' character development. Students are expected to attend occasional seminars outside of their class schedule, compete in our yearly tournament, help teach and lead younger students, as well as help maintain the dojo. Dojo etiquette must be observed at all times. Respect to parents and an increased sense of responsibility at home must be evident. Students must call in themselves if a class is to be missed and all classes MUST be made up. Not having homework/projects done is NOT an acceptable excuse for missing class; students must manage their time properly. Grades and homework must be at an acceptable level. ALL Brown Belts must show Sensei their report cards each quarter. Students who do not put forth effort in class or fill the above requirements will not be promoted and may even be asked to leave the dojo. There will be unpleasant consequences in class for poor effort and behavior. Parents must be aware that the instructors will be very tough on their kids at this point. Do not hesitate to contact Sensei with questions or concerns. |
| Expenses to expect other than tuition-
$35-test fee for yellow/orange - after orange rank is achieved, students will need sparring gear and must purchase it through the school ($170) $35-test fee for purple - students must wear a school t-shirt under their uniform ($18) $40 -test fee for blue - students will need a bo ($30) $45-test fee for green - students must have both school patches($22) $50-test fee brown one stripe, students must attend occasional seminars, Kyoshi's yearly seminar ($25) Kensho-Ryu Annual tournament ($50) and one 1440 sleepover during the course of their training ($125) $55 - test fee brown two stripe $60 test fee brown three stripe |
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Your Feedback is Important- Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments; your child's training is important to us!
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