Shudokan Aikido Lincoln's Blog

The 10 Secrets of a Black Belt Parent

Secret No 1: Black Belt Parents never interact with their children during class. They realise that watching a martial arts class is
just like observing their child in regular school, and the instructor is the only person in charge. Interrupting or interacting with their child
would be disrespectful to the instructor and distracting to all of the other students. Please refrain from all interaction unless asked by the
instructor to do so.

Secret No 2: Black Belt Parents always bring something to do during their child’s class. They know that talking is disruptive to the
class and to other parents who are reading or working quietly. If Black Belt Parents want to socialise, they go outside until the class has
finished. Black Belt Parents do not stand or wait by the door, front counter or hallway.

Secret No 3: Black Belt Parents keep their little ninjas (ages 0 and up), under control and quiet during older siblings class.
Crying, screaming or rowdy children can be major distraction to class. Black Belt Parents know this and always take overly enthusiastic
little ones outside.

Secret No 4: Black Belt Parents realise that the Shudokan Lincoln Black Belt Academy is not a daycare centre. They drop off and
pick up their children promptly. They realise that the instructors and staff members cannot be responsible for their children to be left alone
before and after classes. If a child MUST unavoidably be left for extra time, Black Belt Parents always notify and alert the instructor or
staff member and make sure that their child knows where to sit quietly and wait till they have arrived.

Secret No 5: Black Belt Parents know how and faithfully practice all school rules and policies. They follow and enforce these
rules with their children. When mum and dad follow the school rules and regulations, then their child is more likely to follow their example.
This starts at the front of the door, where everyone is to bow and greet the instructors when entering and leaving the Dojo.

Secret No 6: Black Belt Parents pay attention to what their children are learning in class and reinforce their positive behaviour
at home. They realise that as parents, they are an important part of the Shudokan Team, and help their child to improve by working with the
instructor and staff by staying informed of teaching schedules, events and activities.

Secret No 7: Black Belt Parents know that their child is an individual who will progress at their own rate. They never compare
their child to their sibling or other students. They encourage and support their children’s progress and help them to set and achieve
realistic goals.

Secret No 8: Black Belt Parents remember why their child joined in the first place, not to just memorise techniques, but to
improve themselves as people. Black Belt Parents are never harsh or pushy with instructors as to how fast their child is learning and
progressing through the belt ranks. Black Belt Parents know that memorising is important but not urgent. They take a moment to see
how their child is improving as a whole person, realising that the belt gradings are just a part of the big picture.

Secret No 9: Black Belt Parents know that if they have a concern about their child’s training, progress, or about the school,
they should make the first line of contact with the Sensei, not to other parents. Black Belt Parents never start or participate in
gossip. In fact, they do their best to stamp it out. They know they can approach the Sensei in the same way as they would with a family
member.

Secret No 10: Black Belt Parents are encouraging to all of the students in the Shudokan School during class, gradings, and
demonstrations. They know that through their example, their children will also learn to encourage and support their peers in their
Martial Arts training, that will also strengthen their bond and build a relationship based on friendship, trust and loyalty.