Warriors of Peace |
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Concept of Warriors of Peace
In reality, our children are being bullied and preyed upon by others who have little or no concept of virtue. In some instances, these attacks happen without being reported to parents of proper authorities until it's too late.
Children often regress by doing poorly in school, becoming severely depressed, withdrawing and secluding themselves, or even joining in on the negative activity to avoid retaliation. Often times Children feel like no one can help and the problem will get worse. This program is a self empowerment program designed to build self esteem and a support group for children who are forced to protect themselves.
Bullies often torment kids who unknowingly send messages that make them become targets. "It's in the way they stand, their posture, their lack of eye contact," says Robyn Silverman, PhD, a child development specialist and director of character development at EEMA Fitness and Martial Arts in South Weymouth, MA. In martial arts classes, participants are constantly challenged and then praised for doing their best. That builds confidence, says Silverman. "Kids learn that their bodies and minds are strong, powerful, and worthy of respect," she says. "Once a child discovers this, his whole attitude shifts. He carries himself with an ease and assurance that tells bullies to move on." Kids learn to become stronger, mentally and physically. They learn to look aggressors in the eye, to think through hostile situations calmly, and to take a positive, no-nonsense stance when threatened.
Bullies benefit, too—and not because they learn to fight better. A 2001 study published in Adolescence found that violent behavior decreased among middle school students when they were taking martial arts classes, while their confidence levels rose. "Bullies act the way they do because they have low self-esteem, poor social skills, or little respect for themselves or others," Silverman says. The focus on respect and courtesy within martial arts sends the message that you don't have to be mean to earn a person's respect.
The "Warriors of Peace" Program is designed to help children find peaceful solutions to violent confrontations in the school setting. Children feel lost, helpless and alone when confronted by bullies. The program will help build communication between victims, bullies, teachers and parents. While learning self defense, students are taught how to explore their options in different situations and how to "save face" when choosing not to fight. Students will learn how to support each other and will understand that they have a wide range of people they can talk to who will understand their crises. The program teaches Judo and Jujitsu in a fun and safe atmosphere.
Who is eligible for the W.O.P. Scholarship?
Warriors of Peace students are students referred to Bushido Judo School by Principals,Guidance Counselors, teachers, and parents. These are students who may suffer academically due to low self-esteem or students with behavioral issues.
Each school has the opportunity to refer two students to us under our "Scholarship program", free of charge. the Scholarship last for 3 months for each student, and can reapply upon request of those who refer the student. Students in the Warriors of Peace program will have their progress reports and report cards monitored, as well as behavior, through a communication network of school administrators, parents, and instructors of Bushido Judo School, to ensure that the student is making progress academically, behaviorally and socially.
Students must participate in 90% of the classes, maintain a minimum of a C average and improve behaviorally in the community, at school, and at home. Students must also participate in fund-raiser and community service projects during the scholarship period.
What happens after the 3 month scholarship?
Students have the opportunity to reapply for the scholarship for another 3 months. Eligibility will depend on program participation, and meeting requirements such as maintaining a C average, improved behavior and overall effectiveness of the program. Other students can participate in the program for the regular fee.
Sessions:
The classes operates in 6 week sessions. check the website Calendar of Events for scheduled classes
Cost:
Students not referred through the school system can join the program for the regular fees for Burlington classes.
For information about this program please contact
Sensei Darian Stokes
info@bushidojudo.com