Karate Parent Portal

Introduction

Little Masters is designed for ages 4-7. We use karate to build physical skills (balance, awareness) and character (respect, focus, discipline). Belts are white with single or double colored stripes. Early training builds strong fundamentals for future sports and martial arts.

Expectations

• Arrive in uniform with belt; come 5 minutes early. Ask an instructor if you need help tying the belt.
• Turn in an attendance card each class; we track attendance and progress with these cards.

Equipment & Safety

Sparring optionally begins at white belt with green stripe. At double gold stripe, speak with Ms. Babler to order a sparring package.

Tape Stripes

Electrical tape on belts tracks skills and attendance. About every five classes, instructors review technique and listening; students may earn a tape. After four tapes, they're close to testing for the next belt.

Tournaments

Tournaments are available at this level. Rings are grouped by age and belt (and sometimes gender). Students receive a ring assignment and report time. Divisions they can enter include:

• Performance Basics — Students perform class basics one at a time. Practice often focuses on these before events. Participation awards; great for first-time competitors and as a warm-up alongside Competitive Basics.
• Competitive Basics — Same skills, but scored against peers. Judges consider:
  • Correct technique (e.g., punch twist)
  • Speed (every motion fast)
  • Power
  • Loud, controlled yells
  • Focused eyes and intent
• Sparring — By age, gender, and belt; eligible at green stripe or higher. Large divisions may split by height. Bracket format. Regular Friday sparring prepares students well for competition.

What's Next

Upon turning eight, students promote to solid gold belt regardless of current stripe (some progress as far as double brown before seven). This can feel odd at first, but prior experience usually leads to rapid success in the new class. If your student has been sparring, keep attending Friday sparring class.

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