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Your most enthusiastic teenage color belts can run the class with your supervision.

The drills are so simple and fun, that anyone with a heart for children would jump at the opportunity to teach your Little Dragons classes.

We do suggest that all instructors working with children complete the MATA Instructor Certification program to reduce potential liability and make sure your instructors understand professionalism and safety always come first.

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We suggest that all instructors working with children complete the MATA Instructor Certification program to reduce potential liability and make sure your instructors understand professionalism and safety always come first.

That said, anyone who likes to have fun when they teach and has a caring personality with a lot of charisma will be the most popular role model amongst the preschoolers in your town.

Keep the martial arts training simple and the Dragons will come back every day eager and willing to learn and play.

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[op_liveeditor_element][text_block]Little Dragons are generally 4, 5, and new 6 year olds. They can be older if you prefer, however 7 year olds generally are ready for the regular kids classes.[/text_block][/op_liveeditor_element]

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Saturday mornings at 9:00 a.m. is usually a good time, however you can form classes based upon the demand of the parents.

Younger children tend to either be at home with a parent during the day or go to preschool. They may get out of school earlier than the older children.

Therefore, a morning class might be successful as well as an early afternoon class, say around 3:00 p.m.

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30 minutes is perfect. Since we are dealing with 4, 5, and 6 year olds, we should keep in mind that paying attention in class for 30 minutes is quite an accomplishment. Longer classes can be a struggle for students and instructors.

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The evolution of our “Little Dragons” program  has seen a two day a week program as well as one day a week program.

One day a week is sufficient for a child that age, and they look forward to coming that one day a week.  After the kids get started if they are “karate crazy”, they can always enroll in a two time a week program.

What do you teach in class? Little Dragons are taught some basic skills, work on agility, coordination drills, and simple strengthening exercises. What makes the program so special is that the class also addresses: manners, stranger danger, and learning to set and achieve goals.

The class runs on positive reinforcement and the parents are encourage to clap for the kids at the end of each class. Little Dragons class can help  children get off to a great start in school.

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Require “Little Dragons” to be in the same uniform as our other students. They usually can’t wait to put it on. Our kids get gloves and a mouthpiece after enrollment.

At Gold belt they get their footgear and shin guards, etc.

How high should the student to teacher ratio be? In preschool classes a 1 teacher to 6 students or a 1 to 8 ratio is very attractive to the parents. Of course if you have a good assistant then you may have 12-16 kids in class and still be able to run a professional class.

Decide how many kids you are able to accommodate without going crazy.

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That depends on how many kids you want in class, how much you are charging per class in your other programs, etc. In my area $50 a month for one class a week is affordable for most and too much for some.

Our regular classes cost about $15 per class. Our “Little Dragons” classes cost about $10 a class. The higher the price the less students you will have. If you want lots of students in your classes keep your price low enough so any one can afford it.

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Most “Little Dragons” only come to class one day a week, so we test them every 6 weeks. At one time we tested them every month but found the way our curriculum was designed, made it difficult for the children to miss even one class and still be able to test. Therefore 6 weeks works out much better.

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That depends on how many kids you want in class, how much you are charging per class in your other programs, etc. In my area $50 a month for one class a week is affordable for most and too much for some.

Our regular classes cost about $15 per class. Our “Little Dragons” classes cost about $10 a class. The higher the price the less students you will have. If you want lots of students in your classes keep your price low enough so any one can afford it.

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Anything you can do for your class to make them feel special and look forward to coming back next time is a plus. You may use as many different items in class as you can think of. For example you can make class fun by using items like using “bopper bags” from the toy store, hula hoops, rubber balls, pool noodles and balloons to name a few. Perhaps give out stickers at the end of class.

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The Little Dragons program can double even triple your monthly merchandise sales. Parents are extremely involved with their children when they are at this age, and they seldom say no. They enjoy purchasing products for their children as rewards and motivators for being involved in something that is positive and educational.

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It is suggested that your Little Dragons take about a year and a half to graduate into the regular children1s program. The Dragons come to class twice a week and promote every eight weeks so their progression will be fast, yet challenging.

Since the Little Dragons will be in the program for around a year and a half, you will want to create about ten levels of belt rank for them. More than likely you can use your current belt system to promote your Dragons simply by adding another belt in between each level. For example, if your system typically goes from white belt to gold belt, consider placing a gold belt with a white stripe between the rank of white and solid gold belt. I call the additional level belt I1ve implemented into my rank system a “leader belt”. The word “leader” gives additional prestige and helps distinguish a yellow belt from a yellow belt leader. The belt colors and ranks I1ve chosen to use in my program are: White, orange, orange leader, yellow, yellow leader, green, green leader, purple, purple leader and blue belt.

It is important that your Dragons stay in the program about halfway to black belt, then graduate into your regular children1s program. You will have to make some exceptions and graduate older and exceptional Dragons earlier. Use your discretion. Look for maturity and ability when they perform at your Little Dragon’s belt promotion.

Most of your Dragon graduates will enter your children1s program sharper and more focused that the children who already participate in those classes. A customized belt system will play a big part in the retention of this age group.

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The Little Dragons program can double even triple your monthly merchandise sales. Parents are extremely involved with their children when they are at this age, and they seldom say no. They enjoy purchasing products for their children as rewards and motivators for being involved in something that is positive and educational.

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[op_liveeditor_element data-style=””][text_block style=”undefined” align=”left”]Be sure to visit the MATA Pre-Age Students section for great information on Little Dragons, Little Ninjas, and all pre-school age students.

Message of the Week🙁 In a circle or gathered around instructor)

Sharing – what is sharing? (Let class raise hands and take several answers) Who can you share with?  How does sharing help someone else? What can you share?

2 min.

Warm ups- Follow the leader; ( you or an assistant) You may run around the room, do slow jumping jacks,  touch different body parts, crawl over or under things, run in slow motion, etc. Make it fun! 3 min.

Teach jab punch in front of mirror in slow motion 6 on each side 1 min

Teach jab punch one time slow, one time fast 6 sets on each side 1min

Teach slow back hand punch (reverse punch) 6 sets each side 1 min

Teach slow back hand punch, fast back hand punch 6 sets each side. 1 min.

*You may have the kids punch through the center of a “frisbee like” flyer. (The center of the circle is cut out.) This is good for focus.

Use a bodyshield for  various strikes. Have the kids get in a circle and when you call their names they go to the center of the circle, find the target and fire the techniques on it.

Round one: jab, cross 10  slow sec. each child

Round two: grab the target and knee strike it. 10 sec. each child

Round three: Front kick the target 10 sec. each child

* Have all of the kids count with you to ten,  out loud. With 8 kids in class this drill may take about 10 minutes.

Practice low and high blocks vs. the blockers or noodles.

Line kids up side by side. Have them practice low blocks with you for a minute and the same with high blocks.  Let them know that you are going to randomly sneak up on them and they have to block your attack.

Round one: low attack ( really wind up so they see it coming)

Round two: high attack ( once again really make it obvious that it is coming)

Round three: swing at their feet and have them jump over.

Round four: mix up all of the attacks at a fast pace.

6 minutes

Clean up time and line up for summary of message and announcements.

Make sure to give high fives after class, stickers, energy (clapping), etc.

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Little Dragons uses a half white belt and a half colored belt. To get to the next belt level three black stripes must be earned and the next month they test for the next belt. Testing is every six weeks, so there is 24 weeks between new belts. Our particular program is put together to get students ready for our “regular” children’s program for ages 6-11.

Gold Belt 0-1 Stripe

Elbow Strike #1 ( Reach Back Arm To The Front, Look Over Back Shoulder And Fire Behind You)

Skip Up Side Kick

Guarding Stance, Jab, Reverse Punch Dropping To Back Knee

Gold 1-2 Stripes

Wrist Grab Escape- ( Bring Hands Together, Step and Pull Arm Away going towards the Thumb.)

Combo:Jab, Skip Side Kick

Low Parry Blocks Vs Front Kick Alternating Sides

Gold 2-3 Stripes

Elbow #2 ( Off The Back Arm, Face Elbow To The Ceiling And Bring Over Top On A 45 Degree Angle)

Combo: Skip Side Kick, Jab, Reverse Punch

Low Parry Blocks Vs. Front Kick, Counter Reverse Punch ( Front And Back Arm)

3- To New Belt- Perform All Gold Material And Recite Full Address.

Orange 0-1 Stripe

Elbow # 3 ( Thrown Off The Front Arm, Straight Across Much Like A Hook Punch)

Back Leg Cutting Kick

Dragons Form – Jab, Drop To Back Knee Reverse Punch, Left Side Kick ( Put Both Hands Down On The Ground Near The Right Hip), Left Upward Block, Reverse Punch, Kiai!

Orange 1-2 Stripes

Front Leg Round Kick

Jab, Reverse Punch, Back Leg Cutting kick

Choke hold escape- punch, knee, raise arm up, step away and load up for elbow #1

Orange 2-3 stripes

Jump front kick

Skip up front leg round kick, jab, elbow #2, elbow#3, front leg round kick, kiai!

Switch up front leg cutting kick, jab, elbow #2, elbow #3, front leg cutting kick, kiai!

Orange 3  to new belt-  perform all material and answer questions about what to do if a stranger approaches them and …..

*If you test your students once a month then this curriculum will last you one year. If you test every 6 weeks then this curriculum will last you about 18 months.

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Have the students jog in place.

When you say “cheetah” they must jog fast for three seconds.

When you say swim, they must move their arms like they are swimming.

When you say tree, they must reach high and pretend they are climbing a tree.

Have them sit down with their legs stretched in front. Have them reach for their toes, keeping their knees straight, and count out loud to five getting closer each number. Do the same for the middle stretch (sitting with their legs apart) and the side stretches (reaching to each leg).

Have them bring their legs in with their feet touching each other (butterfly position). Have the move their knees up and down like they are wings on a butterfly. This takes the little sting out from the stretches.

Repeat steps 5 and 6 one more time and you are ready to begin you drills.

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Drill 1: Dragon Ball

The instructor will bounce the ball to the Dragon and the Dragon must strike or kick the ball back to the instructor with the technique of choice depending on rank and style.

Goal: This drill develops good aim by using a visual aide as target practice for their martial art techniques.

Set up:

Step 1:  Split the groups into three in a line max with an instructor in front of each line. Three to a line ensures that no one has time to get bored and wander.

Step 2:  The Dragon must strike the ball back to the instructor with the technique of the instructor’s choice.

Step 3:  Repeat step 2 with each Dragon until everyone has gone at least 3 times.

Instructor Tips: Make sure that each Dragon has good eye contact on the ball and strikes the ball with proper technique. It is in my experience teaching Dragons when I discovered that the more you enforce hitting the ball straight back to the instructor, the better technique and proper execution each Dragon will develop. Constantly explain why good aim, execution, and technique will make for a more developed Dragon.

Drill 2: Dragon in the middle

The instructor will have each Dragon take turns to be blindfolded in the middle while all of the Dragons try to tag him or her.

Goal: This drill will help each Dragon focus on their reflexes concentrating on touch and sound because their eyes are covered.

Set up:

Step 1:  Gather all of the Dragons in a circle.

Step 2:  Select one Dragon to be in the middle. Blindfold the Dragon selected to be in the middle.

Step 3:  Point to one Dragon at a time on the outside of the circle to sneak up and tag the Dragon in the middle.

Step 4:  The Dragon in the middle (who is blindfolded) must react and tag whoever touched them before they run to the outside of the circle. Repeat step three until everyone on the outside of the circle has a chance to tag the Dragon in the middle.

Step 5:  Repeat steps 2-4 until every Dragon has a chance to be in the middle.

Instructor Tips: Make sure each Dragon concentrates on what they hear and feel. They should react as fast as they can each time someone tags them. Remember to enforce quick reaction on their tag backs.

Drill 3: Dragon Dodge Ball

The instructors must throw the dodge ball at the Dragons as they try to jump, duck, and move out of the way.

Goal: This drill will help Dragons focus on their surroundings and be able to react fast against moving objects.

Set up:

Step 1: Put one instructor or parent on each end of the room.

Step 2:  Direct all of the Dragons to stay in the middle of the floor and move about like Dragons.

Step 3:  Have the instructors or parents throw the dodge ball at the Dragons.

Step 4: When the ball tags a Dragon, the Dragon must sit against the wall until the drill is over.

Step 5:  The drill is over when everyone has been tagged.

Instructor Tips: Make sure that the Dragons practice their dodging skills without trying to run around as fast as they can. Enforce that there are many Dragons moving about so they need to be careful not to bump into each other. They will improve their Dragon skills better if they try to duck or jump over the ball instead of running away from whoever is throwing at them.

Drill 4: Dragon Says

The drill is the same as the traditional game “Simon Says” except for “Dragons” make better role models.

Goal: This drill will help Dragons on their listening skills when your instructor gives specific commands.

Set up:

Step 1:  Line up all of the Dragons into one straight line facing the instructor.

Step 2:  Explain to the Dragons that they must listen for the command “Dragon Says” before they respond to the order.

Step 3: The Dragons who respond to the order given without the command “Dragon says” is automatically out and must sit against the wall until the drill is over.

Step 4:  The Dragon can also be ejected if they do not perform the proper technique after the command and order is given.

Step 5:  Repeat various commands until every Dragon is out.

Instructor Tips: Challenge the Dragons by using specifics such as “left punch” or “right kick”. Your Dragons will become sharp after doing this drill if you spend the time to encourage them to know their left from their right.

Drill 5: Dragon target practice

Using small square pads as targets, the Dragons must strike the pad and send it across the floor as far as they can.

Goal: This drill will develop power and follow through on each technique.

Set up:

Step 1:  Split the Dragons into two lines at one end of the room using the rest of the floor space for the targets to land.

Step 2:  Have one instructor in front of each line to hold the small square target between both palms with the striking side facing the Dragon.

Step 3:  Have the Dragon strike the pad with the technique of your choice (depending on rank and style) as hard as they can.

Step 4:  Instruct the Dragons to strike the pad the as far as possible.

Step 5:  Have and assistant at the other end of the floor measure the results.

Step 6:  Repeat each step until every Dragon gets a turn.

Instructor Tips: Make sure that each strike executed is done with proper technique and good follow through. Also enforce that the direction of the strike must be straight. Aim is important when striking as well. If the pad is struck near the top, the pad will fly downward. If the pad is struck at the bottom, the pad will fly straight up. Striking the pad in the middle will send it much further across the floor.

Remember that these drills should be taught with a strong emphasis on getting the Little Dragon’s to really concentrate what they are doing. One good way to do so is to constantly catch their attention. Avoid any long-term gap between you and each student. The more you focus on them, the more they will focus on you and the task at hand.

At the end of this class, you should reward each Dragon with a red stripe showing that they have passed their focus requirement for that belt. At testing time, you can select one or more of these drills to demonstrate in front of the judges. Each drill is designed to accommodate all ranks and styles. The higher rank the student, the more difficult techniques you should use in each drill; and the higher standards you should set for their performance.

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One of the most valuable skills you can develop in your Dragons is memory. It is important to have a good memory for so many reasons. Your Dragons will begin to retain techniques and lessons. Your Dragons will also begin to make smart decisions because they will remember important thing that you teach them. Parents will notice just how smart their Dragons become when they attend the class that focuses on memory.

Drill 1: Martial Arts Name Game

The instructor will give each Dragon a new name that is related to martial arts technique. Each Dragon must remember every Dragons new name.

Goal: This drill will immediately help Dragons focus on remembering things. Use this drill to stress the important of paying attention, so that they will remember more.

Set up:

Step 1: Sit all of the Dragons in a circle low rank to high rank.

Step 2: Have the first Dragon stand up and give the Dragon a new name relating to a martial arts technique.

Ex. Mr. High Block

Step 3:  Have every Dragon say hello to the Dragon using the Dragon’s new name.

Step 4:  Go around the circle until every Dragon has a new name.

Step 5:  Start back at the beginning and have the Dragon repeat the name of the Dragon next to him or her.

Step 6:  The next Dragon must repeat the names of both the first Dragon and the Dragon next to him or her.

Step 7: The next Dragon will have one more Dragon’s name to remember and so on until you have gone around the circle.

Instructor Tips:  By the time you get to the highest rank in class, that Dragon will have to remember every Dragon’s new name making their job the most challenging. If a Dragon gets stuck, have the Dragon who has the forgotten name demonstrate the technique they were named after.

Drill 2: Memory Game

The instructor will lead the Dragons through a form starting with one technique and adding one more each time through.

Goal: This is the best drill used to get the Dragons to remember their form. The Dragons will learn that through repetition, they will remember more.

Set up:

Step 1: Have all of the Dragons line up facing the mirror. 

Step 2:  Have the instructor stand in front of the Dragons facing the mirror as well.

Step 3: The instructor will demonstrate the first move in the form. 

Step 4: The Dragons will then demonstrate that move.

Step 5: The instructor will then add one more move to the form, as the Dragons demonstrate both moves.

Step 6: Repeat the process until you have completed the form.

Remember, the form should vary according to rank and style. You may have to separate the Dragons into different groups if the form requirements are different.

Instructor Tips: Have the Dragon repeat the name of the technique as they demonstrate it. The best ways to learn are by sound, visual aid, and actual participation. Don’t forget to over exaggerate to motion of each technique so that the Dragons can follow along with proper technique.

Drill 3: The Jungle Game

The instructor will take the Dragons through the jungle calling out specific animals and objects that the Dragons must respond to.

Goal: This is a very fun drill that will help the Dragons develop memory by ply. It is also a very good work out.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have all of the Dragons and the instructor make a big circle.

Step 2:  Have the Dragons jog in place as you explain to them to pretend that they are running through a jungle.

Step 3:  Explain that when they see a log in the jungle the must jump and when they see a branch they must duck.

Step 4:  Call out a few logs and have the Dragons jump. Do the same for branches.

Step 5: Repeat step 3 & 4 with various animals. Bear means the Dragons pretend to sleep. Lion means the Dragons growl loud. Cheetah means the Dragons run fast in place.

Instructor Tips: Use a lot of animation in this drill. This is one of the Dragons favorite drills. The more the instructor puts into the drill, the more the Dragons will too.

Drill 4: Circle of Dragons

The instructor will demonstrate a technique. The next Dragons will demonstrate the same technique plus add one. The drill continues until someone forgets a technique.

Goal: This drill will help the Dragons focus on memorizing combinations of martial arts techniques. This will help prepare them for the regular martial arts classes when memorizing a form is mandatory.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have the instructor and the Dragons make a big circle low rank to high rank.

Step 2:  The instructor will go first demonstrating a martial arts technique.

Step 3:  The Dragon to the immediate left will demonstrate the same technique and add another technique.

Step 4:  The Dragon to the left of the Dragon who just demonstrated will then demonstrate both of their techniques and add one more technique.

Step 5: Repeat the process until a Dragon forgets a technique. Begin from there steps 2 and on.

Instructor tips: Make sure the techniques accommodate their rank and style. The techniques should be easy to follow. Dragon are still developing their basic motor skills, so be lenient when specifying which hand and foot they demonstrate with.

Drill 5:  Dragon Form

The instructor will have each Dragon perform his or her own form for the class.

Goal: This drill will help the Dragons retain their required techniques for their rank. It will also help them learn to perform in front of people.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have the Dragons make a circle.

Step 2: Review all of the martial arts techniques required for their rank and below.

Step 2:  Have the Dragons sit down. The Dragon who is sitting the best will go first on the Dragon form.

Step 3:  The first Dragons will stand in the middle of the circle and perform a creative Dragon form using the techniques the instructor just reviewed.

Step 4:  Repeat the process until every Dragon had a chance to perform.

Step 5: Follow the Little Dragon format to find the suggested amount of time the Dragons should spend performing their form according to their rank.

Instructor tips: Enforce creativity and variety in the form. Each Dragon should demonstrate each requires technique at least once. The instructor may have to coach the Dragons while they are performing. Avoid letting any Dragon just stand there in front of their classmates and parents. If that should happen, get up there and do a creative Dragon form with them.

Memorizing martial arts techniques is the core to the physical development of your Dragons. Try to constantly encourage the Dragons to remember each technique. This skill is covered specifically for that reason. The more your Dragons retain, the better students they will become.

At the end of this class, you should reward each Dragon with an orange stripe showing that they have passed their memory requirement for that belt. At testing time, you can select one or more of these drills to demonstrate in front of the judges. Each drill is designed to accommodate all ranks and styles. The higher rank the student, the more difficult techniques you should use in each drill; and the higher standards you should set for their performance.

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Drill 1: Left Hand-Right Hand

The instructor will have each Dragon strike the target showing the difference between their left and right hand.

Goal: This drill will help the Dragons know the difference between their left and right.

Set up:

Step 1: Have the Dragons make a straight line in front of you. You need two square targets or mitts for this drill.

Step 2: The first Dragon in line will strike your left target with their left hand then your right target with their right hand.

Step 3:  Repeat step 2 until every Dragon has gone two times.

Step 4:  On the third time through the line, call out either left or right four different times and the Dragon must strike the proper target.

Step 5: Repeat step 4 until every Dragon has gone two times.

Instructor Tips: Keep the line moving fast. If the Dragon begins to strike with the wrong hand, move the target out of the way so that they don’t make a mistake.

Drill 2: Left Foot-Right Foot

The instructor will have each Dragon kick the target showing the difference between their left and right foot.

Goal: This drill will help the Dragons know the difference between their left and right.

Set up:

Step 1: Have the Dragons make a straight line in front of you. You need two square targets or mitts for this drill.

Step 2: The first Dragon in line will kick your left target with their left foot then your right target with their right foot.

Step 3:  Repeat step 2 until every Dragon has gone two times.

Step 4:  On the third time through the line, call out either left or right four different times and the Dragon must kick the proper target.

Step 5: Repeat step 4 until every Dragon has gone two times.

Instructor Tips: Keep the line moving fast. If the Dragon begins to strike with the wrong foot, move the target out of the way so that they don’t make a mistake.

Drill 3: Jump and Move

The instructor will have each Dragon dodge the instructor’s hand targets.

Goal: This drill will help the Dragons develop good agility when dodging the hand targets

Set up:

Step 1:  Have the Dragons make a straight line in front of you. You need two square targets or mitts for this drill.

Step 2: The first Dragon in line will duck when you swing the target by their head. 

Step 3: Repeat step 2 until every Dragon has gone through the line twice.

Step 4:  On the third time swing the target by the Dragon’s chest as the Dragons dodge it

Step 5:  Repeat step 4 until every Dragon has gone through twice.

Step 6: Combine steps 2 & 4 until every Dragon has gone through twice.

Instructor Tips: Keep the line moving fast. Make sure the Dragons always have their hands on each side of their jaw at all times.

Drill 4: Dragon Kickboxing

The instructor will have the Dragon perform a series of combinations on the hand targets.

Goal: This drill will help prepare the Dragons for sparring when they practice combinations on the targets.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have the Dragons make a straight line in front of you. You need two square targets or mitts for this drill.

Step 2: The first Dragon in line will punch the left target with their left hand and the right target with their right hand then duck when you swing the target by their head. 

Step 3: Repeat step 2 until every Dragon has gone through the line twice.

Step 4:  On the third time the Dragon will kick the left target with their left foot and the right target with their right foot then swing the target by the Dragon’s chest as the Dragons dodge it

Step 5:  Repeat step 4 until every Dragon has gone through twice.

Step 6: Combine steps 2 & 4 until every Dragon has gone through twice.

Instructor tips: Coach the Dragons through this drill. They will learn to perform this combination really fast if you work drill 1 through 4 in order.

Drill 5:  Dragon Noodle

The instructor will have each Dragon run through the line jumping over the noodle demonstrating various techniques.

Goal: This drill will help Dragons develop coordination when jumping.

Set up:

Step 1: Have the Dragon make one straight line in front of you.

Step 2:  The first Dragon will jump over the noodle, followed by each Dragon in line.

Step 3:  On the second turn through the line have each Dragon jump and kick over the noodle.

Step 4:  On the third turn through the line have the Dragons jump and punch over the noodle.

Step 5: On the fourth turn through the line have the Dragons kick and punch while jumping over the noodle.

Instructor tips: Again, keep the line moving fast. Technique is not as important as the effort they should put into trying to execute the techniques. With practice, they will get better.

Working on developing coordination can be fun for Dragons. They like a challenge so don’t hesitate to add more to your drills. The more coordination the drill requires, the better, if the drills are fun and entertaining.

At the end of this class, you should reward each Dragon with a brown stripe showing that they have passed their coordination requirement for that belt. At testing time, you can select one or more of these drills to demonstrate in front of the judges. Each drill is designed to accommodate all ranks and styles. The higher rank the student, the more difficult techniques you should use in each drill; and the higher standards you should set for their performance.

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Drill 1: Dragon Rating Game

The instructor will have the Dragons demonstrate on a scale of 1-10 how they perform.

Goal: This drill will help Dragons compare what sloppiness looks like compared to performing to the best of their ability.

Set up:

Step 1: Have all of the Dragons sit like Black Belts.

Step 2: Discuss the difference between sitting like a perfect 10 and sitting like a 1.

Step 3: Have the Dragons demonstrate what a 1 would look like. 

Step 4:  Continue up the scale until they reach 10 being the best sitting position.

Step 5: Use the same concept for standing at attention.

Step 6: Continue having the Dragons rate everything they do.

Instructor Tips: Dragon like to animate. Make this drill fun by acting. The Dragons will begin to see the difference. Constantly challenge them to be a 10 in everything they do.

Drill 2: Dragon Speed

The instructor has the Dragons jog in place and gives the command “attention” as the Dragon respond as fast as they can.

Goal: This drill is a great way to get the Dragons to follow orders and respond fast.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have the Dragons make a straight line side by side facing the instructor.

Step 2:  Have the Dragons jog in place.

Step 3:  The instructor will give the command “attention”.

Step 4:  The Dragons must come to attention as fast as they can.

Step 5: Acknowledge the Dragon who is the fastest.

Instructor Tips: Make sure the Dragon don’t move when they get to attention. Remember, the drill is used to develop discipline, so make sure they respond fast. Use animation and fake motions just to add a little fun to the drill.

Drill 3: Dragon Pose

The instructor will pose all of the Dragons into a martial arts position as if they are taking a group picture.

Goal: This drill is used to teach Dragons to be still for a specific amount of time.

Set up:

Step 1:  Start with the highest-ranking Dragon. Pose that Dragon into a martial arts stance.

Step 2:  Continue to pose each Dragon until every Dragon is in the group in a specific martial arts pose.

Step 3:  Have every Dragon freeze in their pose.

Step 4:  Add variety and excitement by having the Dragons first smile in their pose for 5 seconds. Then have them look serious for 5 seconds.

Step 5:  Allow the parents to come onto the floor and take a picture.

Instructor Tips: make sure each Dragon has good technique when they are posing. The important part is that they shouldn’t move. Encourage good discipline by pointing out the sharpest Dragons.

Drill 4: Dragon Says

The drill is the same as the traditional game “Simon Says” except for “Dragons” make better role models.

Goal: This drill will help Dragons on their listening skills when your instructor gives specific commands.

Set up:

Step 1:  Line up all of the Dragons into one straight line facing the instructor.

Step 2:  Explain to the Dragons that they must listen for the command “Dragon Says” before they respond to the order.

Step 3: The Dragons who respond to the order given without the command “Dragon says” is automatically out and must sit against the wall until the drill is over.

Step 4:  The Dragon can also be ejected if they do not perform the proper technique after the command and order is given.

Step 5:  Repeat various commands until every Dragon is out.

Drill 5: Dragon Reaction Drill

The instructor will call out several martial arts techniques as the Dragons respond with loud confident answers

Goal: This drill will show the discipline of the entire class. The Dragons will learn to respond with loud confident answers.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have all of the Dragons make a straight line side by side facing the mirror.

Step 2: Face the Dragons.

Step 3: Call out a specific martial arts technique and demonstrate it with full power. 

Step 4: The Dragons must demonstrate the technique will full power and say the technique with confidence followed by saying “sir” or “ma’am” 

Instructor tips: Use this drill to capture the attention of the parents. The energy level of the classroom will boost their spirits.

Your role as the instructor is to create the vision that having good discipline is fun. Dragons like to have fun. The more you entertain them with this skill, the better discipline they will have. Try to avoid using this skill as a reason to punish them for having lack of discipline. Remember, be their friend and their hero, and they will follow your directions better.

At the end of this class, you should reward each Dragon with a white stripe showing that they have passed their discipline requirement for that belt. At testing time, you can select one or more of these drills to demonstrate in front of the judges. Each drill is designed to accommodate all ranks and styles. The higher rank the student, the more difficult techniques you should use in each drill; and the higher standards you should set for their performance.

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Drill 1: Dragon Tai-Chi

The instructor will perform the Dragons required techniques in slow motion. The Dragons must follow along making sure they do not go faster that the instructor.

Goal: This drill will help Dragons control the speed and power of their techniques.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have all of the Dragons line up facing the mirror. The instructor should stand in front of the Dragons facing them.

Step 2:  The instructor will perform a technique in slow notion.

Step 3:  Have the Dragons follow the instructor performing the same technique with the same speed.

Step 4: Do not allow the Dragons to go faster than the instructor.

Step 5: Repeat the steps with various techniques.

Instructor Tips: Make sure your Dragons are using good technique. This is a good opportunity to make any kind of improvements on specifics, such as proper wrist rotation, pull back arm, and proper foot placement.

Drill 2: Dragon bubble wrap

Each Dragon will have a chance to walk across a board covered with bubble wrap. First they must show control by not popping the bubbles, then they must walk across popping the bubbles.

Goal:  This drill will teach Dragons to control how hard they walk. It is also a good drill to use as an analogy when talking about when to use power and when not to use power.

Set up:

Step 1:  First you need a long piece of plywood and some bubble wrap. You can purchase bubble wrap at most large office supply stores.

Step 2:  Tape the bubble wrap to the board. This will make the paper stick better.

Step 3:  Have all of the Dragons make one straight line on the side of the board that gives them the most distance to walk across.

Step 4:  Have the Dragons walk across one at a time trying not to pop the bubbles.

Step 5:  Have them walk across a second time but this time they must try to pop as many bubbles as they can.

Step 6:  Sit them down after everyone had a turn and explain when they should use power and when they shouldn’t use power.

Instructor Tips: Teach the Dragons the concept that they need to be soft: playing with friends, holding a small child or animal, etc. Sometimes they need to be hard: breaking boards, performing katas, etc.

Drill 3: Dragon Freeze

Just like red light green light, the instructor will close their eyes and count to three as the Dragons try to sneak up and tag the instructor. If the instructor sees any motion in the Dragons, they must move to the beginning of the line.

Goal: This drill will help each Dragon control their motion. It will also help them respond fast.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have an instructor stand on one side of the room.

Step 2:  Place a line on the floor across the room from the instructor giving the Dragons the most amount of space possible to cross.

Step 3:  The instructor will turn around away from the Dragons and count out loud to three, while the Dragons sneak up to the instructor and try to tag the instructor.

Step 4:  When the instructor gets to three, he/she will yell freeze and turn around to spot the Dragons.

Step 5:  All of the Dragons must freeze before the instructor turns around.

Step 6: Any Dragons moving must return to the starting line. All of the Dragons who freeze without moving will start from that spot when the instructor begins to count again.

Step 7:  Repeat the process until one Dragon tags the instructor.

Instructor Tips: Encourage the Dragons to control their movement. If anyone makes a move, send him or her back. Challenge them by making the Dragons freeze into martial art poses.

Drill 4: Dragon Master

Each Dragon will strike the wave master trying not to knock off the target sitting on top.

Goal: This drill will help each Dragon control their power of their martial arts techniques.

Set up:

Step 1: Have the Dragons line up in front of your wave masters.

Step 2:  Place a small square target on top of the wave master that can be easily knocked off if the wave master is hit too hard.

Step 3:  Have the Dragons take turns kicking the bag with good control.

Step 4: Each Dragon must strike the wave master 2 times without knocking the target off. If the Dragon strikes the wave master too hard, the target will fall off.

Step 5:  Repeat steps 3 & 4 until every Dragon had at least 3 turns

Instructor Tips: Watch for good technique. Each Dragon must have good distance from the bag to help their control.  The main enforcement here is to have good distance from the wave master. This drill will help them have good control in sparring.

Drill 5: Dragon Blocking drill

Each Dragon will have a chance to be in the middle of the Dragons as they try to block each Dragons attack.

Goal: This drill will help each control their power when swinging the blocker pad at the Dragon in the middle of the circle.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have all of the Dragons make a big circle.

Step 2:  Give each Dragon a blocker target and a number that they must remember.

Step 3:  Have one Dragons stand in the middle of the circle.

Step 4:  Call out a number of one of the Dragons. That Dragon first kihaps (yells) and swings the blocker pads at the Dragon in the middle.

Step 5:  The Dragon in the middle must block the Dragons attack.

Step 6:  Repeat step 4 until every Dragon in the circle had a chance to attack the Dragon in the middle.

Step 7:  Designate a new Dragon to be in the middle until every Dragon had a chance to be in the middle.

Instructor Tips: The Dragon with the blocking target must use control when swinging the pad at the Dragon in the middle. Nobody should get hurt even if they get hit with the target. This drill will help each Dragon with control and also with their blocking and reacting skills.

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Drill 1: Dragon Crane

The instructor has each Dragon hold their leg up to practice their balance.

Goal: This drill will force your Dragons to develop balance while holding their leg up. This will also help them prepare for multiple kicks.

Set up:

Step 1: Have all of your Dragons sit in a circle. The instructor will stand in the middle of the circle.

Step 2:  Have whichever Dragon is sitting the best go first.

Step 3:  The first Dragon will stand next to the instructor and hold their leg up for 5 seconds. If they put their foot on the floor, have them try again.

Step 4:  Have all of the Dragons sitting in the circle help you count to five.

Step 5:  Repeat step 2-5 until every Dragon had a chance to participate.

Step 6:  Follow your Little Dragons format to find suggested rank requirements for holding their leg up

Instructor Tips: Some Dragons will have very poor balance. Help them by holding their hand. Sometimes the little boost of confidence will help them to develop good balance.

Drill 2: Dragon walk

The instructor will have each Dragon take turns walking with a small square target balanced on their head.

Goal: This drill will help your Dragons posture. Parents like this drill because they learn how to walk properly.

Set up:

Step 1: If you have an assistant, split the Dragons into two lines to make this drill go smoother. 

Step 2:  Have the first Dragon in line stand up. Balance the small square target in the Dragons head.

Step 3: The Dragon must balance the square target on their head for 5 seconds, then go to the end of the line. 

Step 4:  Repeat step 2 & 3 until every Dragon had a chance to participate.

Step 5:  On the second time around, have the Dragons walk as far as they can without dropping the target.

Step 6:  Follow the Little Dragon format to find the suggested distance the Dragons should walk according to their rank.

Instructor Tips: Some of the Dragons will have a difficult time balancing the target on their head. Help them by slightly holding the target with your finger until they learn to balance by themselves.

Drill 3: Dragon Rocks

The instructor will have each Dragon walk across a staggered row of small square targets.

Goal: This drill will help Dragons focus on their balance when walking.

Set up:

Step 1:  Lay out all of your square targets in a staggered line. You may need two lines depending on your class size.

Step 2:  Have your Dragons line up in front of the targets. 

Step 3:  Have the first Dragon in line walk across the targets without putting their foot on the floor. If they put their foot on the floor, they must start again.

Step 4:  Repeat step 3 until every Dragon had a chance to participate.

Instructor Tips: Dragons like to use their imagination. If you want to add some excitement to this drill, have all of the Dragons sit on each side of the targets and pretend that they are alligators. If one Dragon puts their foot on the floor when walking across the targets, have the closest Dragon pretend to bite the Dragons foot.

Drill 4: Dragon Stances

The instructor will have each Dragon walk across a line of tape using proper stances

Goal: This drill will help the Dragons use proper foot position in their stances.

Set up:

Step 1:  Make two line 2 feet apart from each other down your floor.

Step 2:  Have your Dragons make a straight line on one end of the two lines.

Step 3:  Have the first Dragon in line step into a front stance with the rear foot on one line and the front foot on the other.

Step 4:  Make sure the Dragon has proper foot and knee position.

Step 5:  Have the Dragon step forward into another front stance repeating steps 3 & 4.

Step 6:  Repeat steps 3-5 with each Dragon until every Dragon had a chance to participate.

Step 7:  Repeat the drill using additional stances such as back stance, middle stance, and rear stance.

Instructor tips: Watch their transition from one stance to the other. The ideal transition should be smooth with minimal adjustments to their feet, knees, and posture. Also make sure that each Dragons has their hand in guarding position.

Drill 5: Dragon Kicks

The instructor will have each Dragon kick the target with repetitions while not putting their foot on the ground.

Goal: This drill will help the Dragons work on proper chambers in their kicks. It will also help the Dragons improve their repetitious kicks when sparring.

Set up:

Have all of your Dragons sit in a circle. The instructor will stand in the middle of the circle with a target.

Step 2:  Have whichever Dragon is sitting the best go first.

Step 3:  The first Dragon will stand next to the instructor and kick the target five times without putting their leg down. If they put their foot on the floor, have them try again.

Step 4:  Have all of the Dragons sitting in the circle help you count to five.

Step 5:  Repeat step 2-5 until every Dragon had a chance to participate.

Step 6:  Follow your Little Dragons format to find suggested rank requirements for the amount of repetitions each rank should do.

Instructor tips: Some Dragons will have very poor balance. Help them by holding their hand. Sometimes the little boost of confidence will help them to develop good balance.

Keep in mind that each Dragon will vary in the degree of balance they have. The more you enforce good balance, the better they each will get. This is one of the main skills in which you and the parents will notice a significant improvement almost immediately. This skill will add a lot of value to your program because of that.

At the end of this class, you should reward each Dragon with a yellow stripe showing that they have passed their balance requirement for that belt. At testing time, you can select one or more of these drills to demonstrate in front of the judges. Each drill is designed to accommodate all ranks and styles. The higher rank the student, the more difficult techniques you should use in each drill; and the higher standards you should set for their performance.

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Drill 1: Dragon clean up

The instructor will have two teams compete to see who can clean the room the fastest.

Goal: This drill will help Dragons create organization as a team. The drill is also appealing to the parents because it makes cleaning fun.

Set up:

Step 1:  Split the class up into two even teams.

Step 2: Have team 1 grab all of your targets, pads, boards, and anything else you can use and throw them all over the room.

Step 3:  Team 2 is timed to see how fast they can clean up the mess. Neatness counts so encourage pride in the appearance of their school when they are putting the objects away.

Step 4:  Reverse roles and acknowledge whoever was the fastest. In most cases the team that was slower is usually the neater group, acknowledge their pride and neatness as well.

Instructor Tips: In this drill enforce the importance of working together while being neat. An example would be for one person to stack the pads, one to put the boards back on the shelf, and two to gather everything.

Drill 2: Bubbles in the middle

Two Dragons work together as they use their martial art techniques to pop the bubbles.

Goal: In this drill each Dragon learns to make room for help and work together to accomplish their goal.

Set up:

Step 1:  Pair up all of the Dragons and have then come up one pair at a time to the middle of a circle.

Step 2:  Have a parent volunteer if you would like, or the instructor can be the one to blow bubbles in the middle.

Step 3:  The two Dragons must execute the techniques required for their rank to pop the bubbles as fast as they can. They are done when more than three bubbles touch the floor.

Step 4:  Have all of the pairs of Dragons take turns until everyone has a chance.

This drill seems to be very popular so you may want to give everyone more than one opportunity to be in the middle.

Instructor Tips: It is very rare that you will see one Dragon not trying. Let’s face it: everyone loves to pop bubbles. Point out how proud you are that everyone tried really hard to help his or her teammate out.

Drill 3: Dragon Navigator

Each Dragon will have a chance to hide a sticker around the school deck. He/ She must direct their partner towards the hidden sticker by giving the commands “hot” and “cold”.

Goal: This partner drill will help both Dragons with their social skills and also help them learn how to give directions and follow directions.

Set up:

Step 1:  Pair up all of the Dragons in the class. For each pair, designate one as the “navigator” and one as the “locator”.

Step 2:  Give all of the navigators a different sticker. Make sure that their partner (locator) knows what the sticker looks like.

Step 3:  Have all of the locators’ close their eyes while all of the navigators hide their sticker in an easy to find spot.

Step 4:  The locators open their eyes and try to find their navigators’ sticker. The navigators must guide their locator around the deck by giving the command “hot” when they are close to finding the sticker and “cold” when they are far away. The first pair to locate to the sticker wins. 

Step 5:  Switch roles.

Instructor Tips: This drill should go by quick. Encourage the “navigator” to help their partner find the sticker as fast as possible. If ran correctly, each pair should have several chances to navigate and locate.

Drill 4: Dragon Relay

The class will be split into two teams who will compete against each other in a variety of drills.

Goal: This is a team exercise used to challenge each Dragon and build teamwork amongst their group.

Set up:

Step 1:  Divide the class into two teams. Allow each team to come up with a team name and a team cheer.

Step 2:  Set up a relay line for both teams to line up behind. Across the floor, set up another line where you will use two assistants to each hold a target.

Step 3:  The Dragons on both teams must race to the targets and strike the target with the technique of your choice depending on rank and style.

Step 4:  They must then run back to the starting line and tag their next teammate in line then sit down at the back of the line.

The team that wins gets to do their cheer.

*Ex. Tigers wins, they all growl like Tigers.

Instructor tips: Encourage the Dragons to cheer for their teammates.  Make sure each Dragon strikes the target with proper technique, if not, have them strike it again. Challenge them by adding reps to the strikes.

Drill 5: Dragon partner drills

Each Dragon will have a partner who will hold targets for various techniques. The techniques and reps will vary according to rank and style.

Goal: These drills will help your Dragons interact with each other.

Set up:

Step 1:  Pair up each Dragon. One Dragon is told to hold the target and the other will strike.

Step 3:  The Dragon must strike the target with the technique of the instructor’s choice and amount of reps the instructor request.

Step 2:  The Dragon holding the target will count out loud the number of reps their partner strikes on the target.

Step 3:  Switch roles.

Step 4:  Add more techniques if desire.

Instructor tips: Make sure you walk around and monitor your Dragons closely. Some Dragons may not execute proper technique; those are the Dragons you must spend time with to correct. Some Dragons may not work well together so you need to encourage the concept of teamwork.

Keep in mind that you must constantly encourage cooperation between your Dragons. Encourage them, but do not discourage them. Allow them to express themselves then, support the benefits of agreement. Support from you and each other create a positive environment. The better the environment to work and train in, the better talent you can create.

At the end of this class, you should reward each Dragon with a blue stripe showing that they have passed their teamwork requirement for that belt. At testing time, you can select one or more of these drills to demonstrate in front of the judges. Each drill is designed to accommodate all ranks and styles. The higher rank the student, the more difficult techniques you should use in each drill; and the higher standards you should set for their performance.

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Drill 1: Lion push-ups

The instructor will run the Dragons through reps of push-ups while the Dragons animate like lions.

Goal: This drill was specifically made to make doing push-ups fun.

Set up:

Step 1: Make a big circle with your Dragons.

Step 2: Have all of your Dragons lay on their stomachs.

Step 3:  Have the Dragons put their “lion paws” on the ground.

Step 4:  Each time you count have the Dragons do a push-up while growling loud like a lion.

Step 5: Follow the Little Dragon format to find the suggested amount of reps the Dragons should do according to their rank.

Instructor Tips: Animate with the Dragons. They love this drill and will do push-ups all day if you make this drill fun. Use these push-ups more often than just in your fitness class to get the best results. Remember, most Dragons will not be able to do decent push-ups. It is the concept that is important at this age.

Drill 2: Frog squat-jumps

The instructor will run the Dragons through a series of squat-jumps while the Dragons pretend they are frogs.

Goal: This drill was specifically made to make squat-jumps fun.

Set up:

Step 1:  Make a big circle with all of the Dragons.

Step 2:  Have the Dragons put their hands on their heads and bend their knees as low as they can go while keeping their back straight.

Step 3:  Each time you count the Dragons will jump as high as they can while making a loud frog sound.

Step 4:  Follow the Little Dragon format to find the suggested amount of squat-jumps the Dragons should do according to their rank.

Instructor Tips: Again, animate with the Dragons. They learn by play and imagination. Challenge them to jump and touch their head on the ceiling.

Drill 3: Cat sit-ups

The instructor will run the Dragons through reps of sit-ups while the Dragons animate like cats.

Goal: This drill was specifically made to make doing sit-ups fun.

Set up:

Step 1:  Make a big circle with your Dragons.

Step 2: Have all of your Dragons lay on their backs. 

Step 3:  Each time you count have the Dragons do a sit-up while meowing like a cat.

Step 4: Follow the Little Dragon format to find the suggested amount of reps the Dragons should do according to their rank.

Instructor Tips: Animate with the Dragons. They love this drill and will do sit-ups all day if you make this drill fun. Use these sit-ups more often than just in your fitness class to get the best results. Remember, most Dragons will not be able to do decent sit-ups. It is the concept that is important at this age.

Drill 4: Dragon Marathon

The instructor will run around the floor while giving the commands for the Dragons to do push-ups, sit-ups, and squat-jumps.

Goal: This drill is good cardio for children

Set up:

Step 1:  Set up markers on the four corners of the classroom allowing enough space for you and the Dragons to run around.

Step 2:  Have the Dragons make a straight line behind you.

Step 3: Jog around the classroom staying on the outside of the markers.

Step 4:  While jogging, give the command ‘lion”. The Dragons must stop and do 5 lion push-ups.

Step 5: Give the command “frog” and the Dragons must stop and do 5 frog squat-jumps.

Step 6: Give the command “cat” and the Dragons must stop and do 5 cat sit-ups.

Step 7: Repeat steps 4-6 at least two times each.

Instructor tips: Make sure you participate and do everything the Dragons have to do. This is a good workout for you and your Dragons. The parents will love you for burning off all of that excess energy.

Drill 5:  Dragon-Dragon-Turtle

This drill is done exactly like duck-duck-goose except for the names is different.

Goal: This drill will help the Dragon burn of excess energy in a fun way.

Set up:

Step 1:  Have the Dragons make a big circle.

Step 2: Have the Dragon that is sitting the best go first. 

Step 3:  The first Dragon will walk around the circle touching each Dragon on the head saying the name “Dragon”.

Step 4:  The Dragon must select one Dragon to chase him or her by calling that Dragon “turtle” and tapping them on the head.

Step 5: The “turtle” must then chase the Dragon around the circle before he or she can make it all the way around the circle and sit in the turtles spot.

Step 6: The “turtle” is now the one who gets to walk around the circle and select a new “turtle” to chase him or her.

Step 7: If the turtle tags the Dragon before he or she makes it to the spot safe, he or she must sit in the middle (known as the mush pot) and every Dragon in the circle gets to tickle him or her. The game then continues from step 7.

Instructor tips: Make sure every Dragon gets a chance to select a turtle. Encourage every Dragon to cheer the Dragon and the turtle on when playing.

This skill is used to help the Dragons prepare for any future sport. The more you make exercising fun, the better participant they will be in any sport they do. Keep in mind that there are many negative influences on children. One of the best ways to keep kids thinking healthy is through exercising.

At the end of this class, you should reward each Dragon with a black stripe showing that they have passed their fitness requirement for that belt. At testing time, you can select one or more of these drills to demonstrate in front of the judges. Each drill is designed to accommodate all ranks and styles. The higher rank the student, the more difficult techniques you should use in each drill; and the higher standards you should set for their performance.

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Create an 8 to 10 station obstacle course for fun with your kids or Little Dragons. 

Suggested Course Stations

1. Put two chairs next to each other and place a body shield between the two.  This creates two small tunnels for the kids to crawl through.

2. Stack targets for them to perform a jump kick over.  Or, simply have them jump over the targets as they pull their knees up to their chests.

3. Set up a kid’s IKON Bag to be used for a punch or a kick. Tell them to use the logo as the target to focus on striking.

4. Have a Leadership Team  member hold a foam baton for the student to kick with a front or side kick. Increase the difficulty by assigning a jump kick to your advanced students.

5. Have a Leadership Team member with one kid’s foam kali stick in each hand carefully strike downward so the student practices his defensive rising blocks against an overhead attack.

6. Have a Leadership Team member hold a body shield for a kick of the students’ choice.

7. Finish off with a Leadership Team member holding a body shield for a flying jump side kick.

8. The students run across the finish line.

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Using two boxing gloves have the kids stand about 8 feet apart.  Then use your best cowboy voice and tell them to draw.  The person that gets hit sits down, the person that dodged the glove gets to stay up until he/she gets hit. 

You can even give the kids nick names like Dead-Eye.

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Set up a series of jumps that the students must hop over. 

The next station involves roll forms, they come up in a fighting stance while someone swings a kick bat at them to be blocked. 

Then they go to a low crawl station. Coming up from the crawl they must attack the heavy bag with a preset number of kicks and punches, then finish with a sprint back to the start. 

Time each student and compare their times to each other.  We also have them compete against themselves for improvement. 

Often, when we set this up, we finish by having some of the dad’s compete. The kids enjoyed seeing their parents struggle through the rolls and low crawl and the fathers gained a better appreciation for their child’s training! 

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Have two parents hold a rope about the child’s shoulder height and then they bob under the rope and throw a punch, then bob to the other side and punch again all the way to the end.

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