About our ranking system
How does the ranking system work?
The ranking system consist of 6 major “sashes”. These sashes are unique to the Kung Fu Kids program, and though they may resemble other ranking systems they are solely created for use at Mantis Martial Arts. The colors for the major sashes, in order of respective rank, are, white, yellow, green, blue, brown, and black. Traditional Kung Fu does not employ the use of “sashes”; however, we believe that attainable goals and records of advancement are important in the development of youth training in the martial arts.
How long does it take for my child to advance in rank?
Each rank (sash) should take about one 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 approximately 1 year and 6 months. This works out to 1 year to attain the yellow sash and 6 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 for 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. At Mantis Martial Arts, we decided to adopt a ranking system for several reasons in our Kung Fu Kids program. 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 add 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 by peers, teachers, and family. The testing events and sash awards are for the families themselves as well as for the children earning them. Family involvement is key to the child’s success at Kung Fu Kids as well as in life. As with sports that have “game days,” Mantis Martial Arts has “test days” where the parents, friends, and family can cheer for the children. Through our test days, 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, and 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 approximately every 6 weeks.
General Information
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.
How much do classes cost?
Kung Fu Kids After School Program costs range from $300-$500 per month (approximately $6-$9 per hour). Family and friends enrolling together receive discounts.
Mini Mantis classes are available on Mondays and Weds, for a $60 monthly membership fee for our mini kung fu members ages 3-6.
Kung Fu classes are available for a monthly membership fee as follows:
1 day/week $80
2 days/week $90
unlimited monthly classes $120
Please call 831.251.1269 to make an appointment and discuss our pricing options in detail.
Information about Kung Fu Kids
What is meant by full service after school program?
We pick your child up from school and bring her or him to our training studio. With Kung Fu Kids, you won’t worry about getting off work early, arranging rides, or leaving your child home alone. Once in our studio, we provide a healthy snack, allow quiet time for homework, and training 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. When you pick your child up at the end of the day, he or she has already had a snack, homework time, and been engaged team-building exercise.
Do you really pick my kid up after school?
Yes! We pick your child(ren) up 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. We provide an innovative and structured after school, activity-based martial arts program that emphasizes our core values of integrity, discipline, and self-confidence.
How much does it cost?
Kung Fu Kids After School Program costs range from $300-$500 per month (approximately $6-$9 per hour). Family and friends enrolling together receive discounts. Please call 831.251.1269 to make an appointment and discuss our pricing options in detail.
What ages are accepted to Kung Fu Kids?
Kung Fu Kids accepts children that are enrolled in the grades 1-8 (typically ages 5-15).
Does Kung Fu Kids accept children in kindergarten?
On occasion, Kung Fu Kids may accept children in full-day kindergarten.
We do offer Mini Mantis classes for children ages 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. Please see our class descriptions.
Payments
Mantis Martial Arts accepts payment in the form of cash, check, or charge.
You may use PalPay to make credit or debit card payments online: just Login to your PayPal account and make your monthly payment to “billing@santacruzkungfu.com” - Thank you!
If you would like to make automatic monthly payments, please contact billing@santacruzkungfu.com or talk to Melissa at the kung fu school.