About our ranking system
How does the ranking system work?
The ranking system consist of 6 major “sashes”. These sashes are unique to the Academy of Martial Arts, and though they may resemble other ranking systems they are solely created for use at the Academy. The colors for the major sashes, in order of respective rank, are, white, yellow, green, blue, brown and black.
How long does it take for my child to advance in rank?
Each rank should take 9 months to 1 year to attain. For each of the 6 major sashes there are also 6 minor sashes. The minor sashes consist of the student’s major rank sash accompanied by a loop of the minor colored sash. The minor sash colors are the same as the major sashes. For example, it is possible to be yellow sash with a blue loop. This means that the student, in theory, has studied 1 years and 6 months. This works out to 1 year to attain the yellow sash and 6 to 8 weeks to earn each subsequent sash.
Can an eight year old earn a black belt?
Kung Fu Kids strives to set itself above other martial arts programs with it’s integrity. When one thinks of a black sash or a black belt, the image of a martial master, with the ability to best the average person, is conjured. Because of this, our integrity will not allow a black sash to be awarded to anyone under the age of 15. Many programs will advance an 8 year old to black belt and, by the values of our program, this advancement is irresponsible and possibly damaging to the child, who may build arrogance in lieu of self-confidence. As the old adage states, with great power comes great responsibility, and in our program this responsibility must be earned through integrity and discipline.
What ranks come after a black sash?
Within the ranking system instituted at Kung Fu Kids there are 4 advance ranks. These ranks are generally reserved for instructors. The ranks, in respective order, are black with brown, which equates the title of Si-Hing or coach; black with red, which means Shirfu or senior instructor; red which means master; and gold which is reserved for grand master or someone who has taught masters.
Why have ranks at all?
Unlike other martial arts, traditional Kung Fu has no ranking system. Kung Fu Kids has decided to adopt a ranking system for several reasons. First and foremost, kids need goals. In order to teach the treasures of martial arts to kids, they need to learn concentrate their efforts towards a specific task. Having mastered the tasks that are presented to them, the children will learn discipline and integrity, which will lead to self-confidence.
What is the deal with test days?
The sash tests themselves add to character and promote confidence. What better way to build the children’s self esteem than to work hard toward a goal and then be honored for their work by peers, teachers, and family. The testing events and sash awards are for the families themselves as well as for the kids. Family involvement is key to the child’s success at Kung Fu Kids as well as in life. As with any other sport there is a “game day” where the parents, friends, and family can cheer for the children. Through testing days, the parents are able to mark their child’s progress and be involved in the goals that they have strived to attain.
What if my child doesn’t pass the test?
This will not happen. One of our core values at Kung Fu Kids is self-confidence, therefore we will ensure that your child is ready to test. This does not mean that any child will slide through to the next sash if they are not ready. Each child is individually evaluated by our staff and tutored until they are ready to advance.
How often does testing occur?
Tests are held every six weeks.
General Information
What is meant by full service after-school program?
Kung Fu Kids is a full service after-school program. This means we pick your child up from school and bring her or him to our training studio. With Kung Fu Kids, you don’t have to worry about getting off work early, arranging rides, or leaving your child home alone. Once in our studio, we provide a healthy snack, allow some quiet time for homework, and train the child in traditional martial arts.
Our program encompasses the benefits of martial arts while providing convenience for the modern parent. By enrolling your child in Kung Fu Kids you free up evenings for what counts—quality time with your child. By the end of the day, your child has already had a snack, time for homework, and been engaged in team-building exercise.
Do you really pick my kid up after school?
Yes! We pick your kid(s) up everyday after school, Monday through Friday, and bring them to our training studio. You arrange for their transportation home by 6pm.
Is Kung Fu Kids a daycare?
Kung Fu Kids is not a daycare. We do not warehouse your children. Instead, we provide an innovative and structured after-school, activity-based program that emphasizes our core values of integrity, discipline, and self-confidence.
How much does it cost?
Kung Fu Kids offers competitive prices for top notch training. Please call 831.251.1269 to make an appointment and discuss our pricing in detail. There are family discounts.
What ages are accepted to Kung Fu Kids?
Kung Fu Kids accepts children that are enrolled in the grades 1-8th.
Does Kung Fu Kids accept children between the ages of 3-6?
No, Kung Fu Kids is a school age program.
However, we do offer classes for Mini Mantis’ aged 3-6.
Do I have to enroll my kid in the Kung Fu Kids program to learn kung fu at Mantis Martial Arts?
No. We offer classes independent of the after-school program for youths and adults as well as the littlest ones.
What style of Martial Arts is Kung Fu Kids?
Kung Fu Kids, as the name implies, teaches Kung Fu. Our particular style is 7 Star Praying Mantis. As with most styles of traditional Chinese martial arts, the movements of certain animals are emphasized. The praying mantis was praised by the ancient chinese kung fu masters for its quick boxy movements as well as smooth sliding steps. The basic forms, or choregraphed movements used to teach basic footwork, coordination and combinations, in order are Xiao Hu Yeun, Bung Bu, Mei Hua Lu, and Zai Yao.
What is the significance of the swallow with tiger stripes?
The Kung Fu Kids program starts by teaching the children a beginning form called Xiao Hu Yuen, which means “Small Tiger Swallow”. This form is designed to promote strength and coordination in children. This is why our logo fuses the acrobatic swallow with the colors of the powerful tiger. As the children progress, they will learn other forms.
What are forms and why do you teach them?
Forms are choreographed movements used to teach basic footwork, coordination and combinations, very similar to shadow boxing. They also promote cardiovascular fitness, strength, and balance. Forms are taught as a way of remembering combinations of strikes and kicks. Every child will know the significance of each movement in the form and be able to use them fluidly.
Information about Kung Fu Lessons
Can I watch my child during his/her class?
Yes! We encourage parents to come in at anytime and will provide seating and tea for parents who come to watch the Kung Fu classes.
Are private lessons available?
Private lessons are available for adults only. We feel that children benefit more by learning with their peers. However, our class size to teacher ratios are small, and every child gets plenty of individual attention.