Sean Carey FRKK

Instructors Name: Sean Carey

Martial Arts School: Front Range Kenpo Karate, 6147 S Holland Way, Littleton CO 80123

Website: http://www.coloradokenpo.com

Motto: The Self-Defense Specialists

Motivation: We believe that EVERYONE, including children, have the right to defend themselves should the occasion ever require.  To that end, we teach self-defense as a focus in all of our classes, as well as the benefits that come from martial arts training such as honor, loyalty and compassion.  Seeing kids grow in confidence as they learn new skills is the biggest motivation.

When did you open the school?

Officially in 2008, though I have been teaching smaller groups since 1998.

What were you doing before running a Martial Arts School?

I still work as a Network Engineer for a consulting firm in addition to teaching classes.

Why did you decide to teach Kids classes?

Several reasons, of course one being to teach my own children.  I truly enjoy working with children, I have served as a PTA president, Cub Scout Den Leader and CubMaster.  But primarily, I believe EVERYONE has the right to learn to defend themselves, so I incorporate a nationally recognized anti-abduction program into each belt level of the kids curriculum.

What was your biggest hurdle when you started teaching kids classes?

Getting my curriculum to a point where I was comfortable with what I was teaching each and every class.

Front Range Kenpo Karate Kids Class

Which Martial Games have worked best with your young students?

Of course, all kids enjoy games that are ‘fun’, but the most successful ones with my students are ones that are fun, but that also focus specifically on martial arts.  Games that just get them moving around keep them occupied, but they truly enjoy the ones that are geared towards real martial arts training.

What do you love most about teaching kids?

Seeing them grow and progress and ENJOY themselves while learning martial arts skills and values.

Do you have any advice for other Instructors that are just starting their kids program?

Planning is key.  Put together your class by class lesson plans at least 2 months out to give yourself some spacing.  If you know what you’re going to teach, and don’t have to appear unsure about what you’re doing, you are free to focus on the discipline in the class, and focus on WHAT you are teaching, not trying to figure out what you are going to teach next.