I was listening to Dennis Leary on the radio today. He was talking about how his growing up was different than the kids today. He's not the only one who says this, BTW. His thought was that today kids gets a "participation trophy" for just for "showing up." to soccer, t-ball or whatever. There's really no incentive for children to try hard because the "playing field" is level for everyone. Children's self-esteem will be damaged if they are left out.
Looking at the point of view of MA, aren't we supposed to go against this thinking by both setting the bar high (a quality program) & also give them the tools to succeed. Rather than saying "everyone can be a BB," we can work with student's individual needs to help bring out their best.
As much fun as having a natural athlete in class is: I'd rather have a kid who trips over his feet but gives 100% every class. That kind of effort in the real world is rewarded. Not too mention that 100% effort usually means one learns the techniques because they are trying.
This is not a thread pointing out that there are too many McDojo's, or too many 5 year old BB's. My point simply is that MA classes should be a place where one can build their self-esteem through accomplishing things that are difficult.
I combat the current thinking of a lot of parents by explaining my expectations often & often saying no. As in "No, your child is not ready to test, yet."
How do you deal with this attitude among parents &/or kids?
Looking at the point of view of MA, aren't we supposed to go against this thinking by both setting the bar high (a quality program) & also give them the tools to succeed. Rather than saying "everyone can be a BB," we can work with student's individual needs to help bring out their best.
As much fun as having a natural athlete in class is: I'd rather have a kid who trips over his feet but gives 100% every class. That kind of effort in the real world is rewarded. Not too mention that 100% effort usually means one learns the techniques because they are trying.
This is not a thread pointing out that there are too many McDojo's, or too many 5 year old BB's. My point simply is that MA classes should be a place where one can build their self-esteem through accomplishing things that are difficult.
I combat the current thinking of a lot of parents by explaining my expectations often & often saying no. As in "No, your child is not ready to test, yet."
How do you deal with this attitude among parents &/or kids?