Doesn’t it seem that a parent’s role is to be a taxi driver? It’s a familiar scenario – our lives seem to be increasingly frenetic, our children do far more than we ever did and there never seems to be enough time in the day to fit it all in. In trying to bring up superkids, parents are having to be superhuman.
Kids of today lead amazingly full and busy lives. And when families are trying to juggle the activities of more than one child, it’s very tempting to pick convenience over quality which isn’t always the best option in the long run.
How often have you agreed to a child’s persistent begging to take up riding, music, tennis, dancing or karate – or perhaps you’re the one encouraging them to take up a certain activity?. When it comes to selecting the dance teacher, karate club etc, time-poor parents often just do a quick search on the internet or go with the flow with what the friends are doing without proper research. Yes, convenience is vital but quality is even more important.
We spoke to a professional about how to make decisions when selecting clubs for children’s activities and what aspects should be considered. A martial arts Perth expert, Fourth Dan Grant Rollinson (who runs a chain of successful karate centres) advised people to:
1. Choose a club that is well-established with a good reputation. There is sometimes a vast difference between what people claim to do and what they actually do. Get contact details for some of the club’s existing customers and get their honest views.
2. Make choices based on practical considerations. Any supplier should operate according to strict quality standards and principles.
3. Ask about a ‘try before you buy’ option (which could be a gift voucher or a free session). People do unwittingly get conned into signing long-term contracts that don’t have an exit clause, and they’re unable to get out of the commitment. The customers’ interests should always come first – and a reputable club will be willing to do so.
4. Clubs should be community orientated and the adults should be mentors and role models to younger members.
5. If you’re looking for a martial arts or karate centre, look for a club that promotes discipline, respect, integrity and etiquette.
6. Investigate all avenues before making a final choice. Doing extra activities is often not a cheap exercise and it should be a good investment..
7. If your life changes or you make a move, it may be worth committing to a club that is represented in other locations.
8. First impressions count. Was your first impression one of safety, hygiene and welcome? Were you given satisfactory answers to any queries or questions ?
9. Try not to feel pressurized to make a quick decision. The old story of reading the small print applies – and make sure you understand what your obligations are.
This advice does come from a martial arts professional but the principles apply to any activity or club – be it a ballet school, gym or fitness centre.
Working out a harmonious work/life balance for ourselves and for our children means that we have to make carefully considered choices. Yes, the choice of a kids sporting activity isn’t the most important decision you’ll ever make – but it does have a surprisingly big impact on how kids develop, progress and mature. A carefully considered choice will make a difference.
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