How to Find the Best Karate School for Your Kids

Are you searching for a holistic after-school activity for your kids? It can be tough to find an after school program that is both educational and fun. Not to mention, finding a place that you trust with your children is a big task.

Is your child interested in learning martial arts? If you’re considering enrolling your kids or teen in martial arts training, you’ve come to the right place! Martial arts is proven to prevent bullying, teach young people personal safety, and improve resilience.

No matter what the reason that brought you here, selecting the best karate school can be overwhelming. There are a variety of local dojos to choose from and several factors to consider. How do you make the right choice for your family? Or know what to ask the sensei’s?

At Total Impact Martial Arts, we understand the importance of selecting the best karate school for your child’s unique needs. While we’re confident in the quality and impact of our Children’s Martial Arts programs, don’t just take our word for it! We’re very transparent with the community and want to empower parents with the knowledge they need to make an informed decision.

Whether your family lives in Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove or Wheeling, here are some essential factors to keep in mind when evaluating karate schools for your kids…

What to Look for in a Karate School

Location and Accessibility

Is the dojo located nearby and easily accessible? A place that is close and easy to access is the best option for you and your child. It will be more convenient for your child to attend classes regularly and for you, as you drop and collect them every day.

Class Schedule

The class schedule will also be a major factor for you to consider. How many classes do they offer a week? Do the timings align with your child’s availability? Is there a policy for making up classes in case of any missed ones? Do they have multiple batches at the same time?

You should also inquire about the programs they offer at various age levels. Are all martial arts classes at all age levels? What are the programs you can enroll in? What other styles can your child learn here? Check out our class schedule where we offer a variety of classes at different times throughout the week!

Cleanliness

A clean and well-maintained facility is essential for hygiene. It also reflects the dojo’s commitment to providing a clean and organized learning environment for children. Observe the appearance of the dojo. Does the equipment look worn out or is well-maintained? Are the studios and mats dirty or are they pristine? Look for a dojo that takes pride in keeping its space clean and sanitized. We clean the mats before and after each class!

Friendliness and Qualification of Instructors

The instructors play a crucial role in shaping your child’s martial arts journey. Instructors must be welcoming and helpful. What training they have had and how many years have they spent on their martial arts journey? How long have they been teaching martial arts, particularly to kids? You can even ask to observe a session and see firsthand how the instructors conduct a session and how they work with their students. Opt for a dojo where instructors are not only skilled in karate but also approachable, patient, and dedicated to fostering a positive learning experience for kids.

Ease of Contacting Staff

Communication is key when addressing any concerns or inquiries about your child’s progress or the program in general. Does the school have a policy for connecting with parents? How accessible are they if you wish to discuss your child’s progress or any concerns they may have in class? Choose a karate school where staff members are accessible and responsive to parents’ needs. In addition to calling or emailing us, we also have a form right on our website!

Reviews and Reputation

Before making a decision, take the time to read reviews from other parents and students. Reach out to other parents whose children attend the dojo and ask about their experiences. Hearing firsthand accounts can provide valuable insights into what to expect from the program. Pay attention to feedback regarding the quality of instruction, safety measures, and overall atmosphere of the dojo. There’s a good reason Total Impact has 200+ 5-star reviews on Google!

Also, check whether the school is on social media sites and how regular is their communication on these sites. Are they transparent about their activities and their programs? Do they post videos from the classroom, sessions, competitions, etc? How are they responding to questions and whether they are perceived positively online?

Community and Values

Consider the values and ethos of the karate school. Look for a community that aligns with your family’s values and promotes traits, such as respect, discipline, and perseverance. A supportive class and community at martial arts training can make all the difference in your child’s development and learning. Hence, it should be a priority when choosing schools.