Teachers are seeing more and more children challenged to deal with the normal frustration that comes from learning. It seems that kids expect that they must be "perfect" from the beginning. If they can't be, then you hear, "I can't do it." Or, "I stink at this." It's heart-breaking. We like to remind them that they ARE doing it, but at the beginner level.
If you or your child struggles with perfectionism, this may help. There is a need to re-program the thinking that comes from their perception that they must be good at everything at all times. Embrace failure! Celebrate it! Because you cannot achieve success without a series of fails. When learning, we will make mistakes. Why do our kids (or us) think we won't?
F.A.I.L. is First Attempt In Learning.
When students make "beginner mistakes" we need to let them know that is awesome! That was their first attempt in learning. They are getting it! Now, go FAIL at something else. After a string of FAILS, they will find success!
In our school, FAIL is our mantra with our students whose instinct is to be so hard on themselves. We will pull them aside for some one-on-one help. We will do whatever it takes to help them to not only learn the skill, but to understand there are many levels of success. This picture reminds us of how we can expect a kick to look at different levels. White Belts won't do a roundhouse kick like a Black Belt. It doesn't mean they are not successful.
Contact us if you are looking for a solution to perfectionism. We will help you / your child to have FUN while you FAIL.
My son started the program at age 4 ½, he is now six and was immediately hooked. I am honestly amazed that he is a living embodiment of the tenets of Taekwondo - courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit - at such a young age. Master Fox and Master Hagen prove on a daily basis that they are committed to my son’s success and that learning new things can be fun. I am extremely happy with how the program makes my son feel. And as a parent, I highly recommend the programs they offer.
My daughter began her TKD journey with Master Fox in September 2015. Not only has she achieved so much in the way of athleticism and sport, but she has gained an incredible amount of confidence, positive attitude and willingness to put herself out there and try new things.
We absolutely LOVE BucksMont Tae Kwon Do! The instructors are amazing with the kids! The older kids with the higher belts are always willing to help the younger belts. It makes me happy to see such dedicated kids and great teamwork throughout every class! (You can even stay and watch the class if you want.) We originally joined to help with focus with our daughter in school. We have already seen a difference! We are so happy we joined. Everyone there is amazing! I highly recommend joining!