As karate instructors at BMA, we have the privilege of teaching students of all ages, from those who are just learning how to make a proper fist, to retirees who are trying something new and stepping on the mat for the first time. Regardless of age, learning to fail and lose gracefully is essential, however…
When people talk about the old adage “It takes a village to raise a child,” they often envision a tight-knit community of neighbors, friends, grandparents, aunts and uncles working together. This is absolutely true and a wonderful thing! However, the “villages” of days past are not the same as they are today, with families more…
We have all experienced, from time to time, that uneasy feeling you get when something doesn’t seem right. Often, we can’t put our finger on it, but we know that we feel bothered. For children, that uneasy feeling may show up as grumpiness or irritability, which can interfere with learning. Serotonin is a significant chemical…
When it comes to applying to college, students often look for ways to stand out from the crowd to the admissions officers – and they’re right to do so! While strong academic performance, volunteer work, and SAT/ACT scores are important, extracurricular activities can play a crucial role in showcasing a well-rounded and dynamic individual. One…
Hey Parents! In the warm summer months, getting your child off their bikes or out of the pool for martial arts class can sometimes be a challenge. But fear not! Check out some mindful strategies to help you navigate those moments when your little ninja needs an extra nudge. 1. Set the Stage: Pay attention…
Learning is a big part of child development and how children learn things is dependent on a variety of factors. Much of the time, observational learning contributes to how children learn information and behaviors. This type of social learning can be greatly influential because of the role that mirror neurons play in learning. Providing children…
“Enough with the screens!” Parents: Have you ever felt like saying this to your child or teen when they just wont seem to put the phone or the tablet down? (If you answered “Yes”, you’re not alone!) Nowadays it can feel like children are only interested in their video games, smart phones, and social media…
When we hear the term “school readiness,” the first thing most people think of is children knowing academic basics that will help them meet the demands of the classroom. And while these cognitive skills are important, teachers feel that skills in the other areas of child development are just as, or more important. Social, emotional,…
Children today are presented with varying types of stressors in almost every aspect of their lives. The infamous “bar” has been set so high that in order to achieve it, children are asked to forgo “fun” and work towards superiority in everything they do. And while goal setting is an essential skill for future success,…
Today’s world is busy; People are rushing here and there to get to work, school, the store, or the next activity. Even our “leisure” time is filled with busyness. And during all of it, we are distracted by our devices. This not only leads to us missing important moments in our lives, but it also…