Some of the
little guys and gals in Kathy Bucher's Transformation Martial Arts class are
only weeks into their training. They are 5 to 7-year-olds learning more than
they realize. Their class is called "Powers Within.
Bucher says
the purpose of her program is straightforward: "Transforming children
using martial arts and using innovative ways to reach them and to teach them
focus, discipline and self control."
Now in its
fourth year, Bucher's program is offered at several midstate schools and
township centers, mixing drills and games in 30 minute sessions. And, it's a
format that also works with her 3 and 4-year-old students in the "Daring
Dragons" class.
"The
younger the child, the more you have to transition," said Bucher.
"Which means you have to change your drills every five to seven
minutes."
"I have
not met a kid that I don't think I can help," she said. " There's
always something within them that I can see that I can pull out of them to make
a positive. And, then I can start working through the other things that they're
struggling with."
The youngest
class, the "Happy Pandas, " involves two year olds and their parents.
It offers a chance for toddlers to socialize, with reassuring assistance from
mom or dad. Even these classes feature a martial arts theme, including the
traditional bow at the end. Sean Jensen says his son Conner is already learning
some positive character traits.
"He's
learning some discipline. And he's better able to listen and listen to a
teacher or some type of authority figure."
Tiffany Phan
also likes what she sees in her son Nolan after just six classes.
"We
notice a big difference with him, you know, with the class," said Phan.
"He's Listening. Paying attention. Following instructions."
And, in
spite of having to transport her training equipment to various locations,
Bucher says she'd delighted with how her program is being received.
"I have
joy with this. And I see the kids having joy, " she said. " So I
think maybe that something is translating here and they're having fun."
