FAQs

What ages are the Krav Kids and Krav Youth programs?

We offer two age-specific programs:

  • Krav Kids: Ages 5–7

  • Krav Youth: Ages 8–11

Each curriculum is specifically designed for the physical, emotional, and developmental needs of that age group.

My child has never done martial arts before. Is that okay?

Absolutely.

Most of our students begin with no martial arts experience at all. Our instructors teach beginners every day and will help your child learn at a comfortable pace.

Is Krav Maga safe for children?

Yes.

Safety is our highest priority.

Children are taught using age-appropriate instruction, carefully supervised partner drills, and progressive skill development. Students learn control before power, and confidence before contact.

Do kids hit each other?

Not during their first classes.

Students spend much of their training practicing:

  • striking pads

  • movement drills

  • partner exercises

  • games

As students gain experience, they participate in carefully supervised drills appropriate for their age and skill level.

Will my child learn to fight?

No.

Our goal is to help children avoid violence whenever possible.

Students learn:

  • awareness

  • confidence

  • boundary setting

  • verbal de-escalation

  • when to get help

Physical self-defense is taught as a last resort when a child cannot safely escape.

Will this make my child more aggressive?

Research consistently suggests the opposite.

Quality martial arts instruction emphasizes self-control, respect, empathy, and emotional regulation. Students learn that martial arts are for protection—not for showing off or starting fights.

What if my child is shy?

Many of our students begin that way.

Our classes are designed to help children gradually build confidence through small successes, encouragement, and positive coaching.

We never force children into situations they aren’t ready for.

My child has ADHD. Can they still participate?

Usually, yes.

Many children with ADHD thrive in structured martial arts environments.

Classes combine movement, clear expectations, repetition, and positive reinforcement, which many families find beneficial.

If your child has unique learning or behavioral needs, please let us know so we can best support them.

My child is autistic. Can they participate?

Possibly.

Every child is different.

We encourage families to speak with us before enrolling so we can determine whether our program is the right fit and discuss any accommodations that may help your child succeed.

Does my child need to be athletic?

Not at all.

Children develop athleticism by participating.

No previous sports experience is required.

My child isn’t coordinated. Is that okay?

Absolutely.

Coordination is something we teach.

Many children become significantly more coordinated through regular practice.

My child plays other sports. Will Krav Maga help?

Yes.

Martial arts develops:

  • balance

  • agility

  • coordination

  • body awareness

  • focus

  • discipline

These skills often transfer well to other sports and activities.

How long are classes?

Each Krav Kids and Krav Youth class lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Children stay active throughout class while remaining engaged and focused.

How often should my child attend?

We recommend attending at least two classes each week.

Regular attendance helps students build confidence, retain what they learn, and progress alongside their classmates.

This recommendation aligns with the attendance expectations outlined in your student agreements and handbook.

What should my child wear to their first class?

Comfortable athletic clothing is perfect.

Once enrolled, students wear their official KMCD uniform during class.

Does my child have to wear shoes?

No.

Students train barefoot on our padded training mats.

What equipment does my child need?

New students only need comfortable workout clothes and a water bottle.

As students continue training, we’ll let you know if additional equipment is recommended.

Do parents stay and watch class?

Yes.

Parents are welcome to observe classes from our designated viewing area.

Watching allows you to celebrate your child’s progress while allowing instructors to lead class without distraction.

Can parents coach from the sidelines?

We ask parents to let instructors do the coaching during class.

Children learn best when they’re receiving consistent instruction from one voice.

Your encouragement before and after class is incredibly valuable.

What if my child cries?

That’s completely normal.

Starting something new can feel overwhelming.

Our instructors are experienced at helping children become comfortable while allowing them to participate at their own pace.

What if my child doesn’t listen?

Learning to listen is one of the reasons many parents enroll their children.

We use positive coaching, structure, consistency, and clear expectations to help children develop better focus and self-discipline over time.

How do belt promotions work?

Students earn promotions by demonstrating:

  • attendance

  • effort

  • skill development

  • character

  • knowledge

Every child progresses at their own pace.

Will my child receive homework?

Yes—but not the kind you’re thinking of.

Students may receive short weekly “Black Belt Homework” assignments that reinforce class lessons at home. These may include practicing techniques, demonstrating acts of kindness, or discussing topics such as bullying prevention, responsibility, or respect with their families.

Do students learn about bullying?

Yes.

Helping children respond to bullying safely and confidently is an important part of our curriculum.

Students learn how to:

  • recognize bullying

  • use confident body language

  • set boundaries

  • seek help from trusted adults

  • protect themselves only when absolutely necessary

This emphasis aligns with the character-development themes used throughout your community outreach and “Rise Above Bullies” programming.

What values do you teach besides self-protection?

Our program emphasizes:

  • Respect

  • Confidence

  • Self-Discipline

  • Focus

  • Perseverance

  • Responsibility

  • Leadership

  • Kindness

We believe great Krav Maga practitioners should also be great people.

How long does it take to earn a black belt?

A Black Belt is earned over years—not months.

Our goal isn’t to award belts quickly.

Our goal is to help children develop lifelong habits of discipline, perseverance, and resilience.

What happens if we miss class?

Life happens.

If your child misses class because of illness or another unavoidable reason, simply return to the next scheduled class.

Consistent attendance helps students stay on pace with their peers.

Can siblings train together?

Often, yes.

Depending on their ages, siblings may train in the same or different classes.

We’re happy to recommend the best placement for each child.

How many students are in each class?

We intentionally keep classes at a size that allows instructors to provide individual attention while maintaining an energetic group environment.

Who teaches the classes?

Classes are taught by certified Krav Maga instructors who receive ongoing training in teaching children.

Our instructors focus on creating a positive, encouraging, and structured learning environment.

Why choose Krav Maga instead of another martial art?

Every martial art offers valuable lessons.

Krav Maga focuses on practical self-protection while also emphasizing confidence, awareness, fitness, discipline, and character development.

Our goal is to prepare children for real life—not just tournaments.

How do I know if this program is right for my child?

The best way to find out is to experience it.

We invite your family to visit the school, meet our instructors, and let your child participate in a class.

Most children know within their first visit whether they’ve found a place where they feel challenged, supported, and excited to come back.