His teacher has a brother who has down syndrum so he is very good with childrens needs
That is fantastic. How long did it take before he really started to enjoy the class? We just started Jason and the little girl I babysit Sierra. The first week went well but this second class Jason was way overstimulated and had a meltdown which frustrated the teacher. Wondering if it is worth it to continue. How long we will have to wait and see if he really gets it.
He is doing Japanese style, but the master came up with different things geared towards toddlers. More focus and teamwork and self-esteem, with just basic moves and Nicky does like to know he is doing well. They use positive reinforcement. And hand out a sticker to each child after class. He loves stickers.
I was worried at first but he loves it
I say go for itJohn:
I'd like to try this with my son Tyler who is 5. What style of Karate do they teach? Does Nicholas enjoy when he accomplishes a technique or move? I wonder if there is a teaching style or program specifically geared to autistic students,and that identifies which schools are using this program across the country.
Fred, This was the second place we went to. I talked to each before starting.told them about his issuse. Each place had a trial period . bucks for 3 weeks and you get the uniform. The first one was nice but only had one instructor with about 12-15 kids from 3-5 year olds. No helpers. so Nicky would wonder off and not pay attention. The second place the one he is in now. has an instructor with between 3-4 helpers. much better.
Wow, what a great karate teacher your son has, John!
On a related note, here's an article about a 15 year old with Aspergers who earned his black belt.
http://www.stockportexpress.co.uk/news/s/221/221595_blackbel t_ethan_is_an_inspiration.html
John, I didn't realize that Nicky was only 3-5 years old! From you initial post, I think his listening skills and self-control and concentration are way beyond my girls. I don't think I could expect them to stand in formation, go through 'karate' postures and exercises - that sort of thing :). I think they'd be a large disruption, unfortuneately :(
They don't really "get" the concept of trying to please other people. If it's what they want to do, they'll be fine. But it's hard to motivate them to do the "right" thing, just because...
My son does Ju Jitzu (3rd year), I find it really helps in many areas. Not least the physical contact with other kids, it really helps get over the 'no touchy' issues. Plus the sport, discipline, self confidence etc.. keep at it!
John, that's great! Sounds like you found a great place. Did you have to hunt around for a place that would work for your ASD kid, or did you just get lucky? We have a couple of karate places near our house, but I have no idea how to evaluate if the programs would be good for any of my kids.Nicholas has been doing Karate for about a month now, and things are pretty good so far. They really are very good with him . they try to keep on top of him , so he can stay focused. Every time he drifts or starts to spin or jump, the gently put a hand on his shoulder and whisper to him and he is fine. He is very outspoken there which is normal for him. When ever he says I can’t do it. They say “Nicky we don’t say can’t here, you have to try and we can all help each other. I was talking to the instructor after class and said I was sorry that he ran off once and he tends to be a bit of a hand full compared to some of the others. She said OH please its no trouble, we love helping children especially the ones with special needs. She said there is never any need for apologies for a child who is trying .
I LOVE this place.
John
That is great!! Congradulations to you and Nicky!! I always find that when you are looking into these things finding out if the instructors have ever had experience with special needs kids is the first step. If not then I would keep looking. Great job on finding the right place and sport for your son.
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