Frank Family Adventures: Yellow Belt

Two months ago Ethan moved from the Little Dragons Karate Program to the Black Belt Club program. While in the Little Dragons he had the chance to test twice and moved up to his white-orange belt. Those tests were in a group setting and the instructors were standing in front helping the “Little Dragons” with their forms. On April 10th, Ethan had the opportunity to test for his yellow belt. This test was a lot different than the Little Dragons program. Every time he goes to class he must take out his card which has all the requirements for the next belt. During the class his instructors will mark what he has learned. Once all the requirements are met he is eligible for testing. We were given a paper with questions for Ethan to answer as well as a spot for his preschool teacher and parents to sign off saying that he has been respectful and demonstrating good behavior. I really like that part of the program because without the signatures he would have to postpone the test. I think it is great that he is learning that he has to be disciplined and respectful all the time and not just in the Karate studio. Back to testing day……this time the instructors all sat behind a table and the students were called up front in groups depending on what color of belt they were testing for. Ethan was one of three boys testing for yellow belt. He really did not seem nervous while they were watching him perform. Let me remind you he is the smallest one out there. During his front kick combination the instructor made a comment about how he should try to kick without sticking out his tongue. All of the other parents laughed. Ethan had to demonstrate the 22B, Front kick combination, One-Step #1, and the Self Defense Number 1: Choke Hold. Then it was time for the instructors to make their comments. Ethan was left standing alone because of his order in line the other two boys got their comments first and then were told to sit down. At this point I believe Ethan got a little nervous. His instructor had wonderful things to say about Ethan but when asked a question Ethan was speechless. He just shrugged his shoulders. Honestly that is the first time I have ever seen Ethan at a loss for words. But I think it was good for him. The important thing is he got his yellow belt! This is the first of many testing days for Ethan as he has committed to three years with this Black Belt Club and one day he will receive that black belt.