Julie D.
Yelp
Updated - 2/2/13
I should have written this years ago. My son started at Twin Dragon when he was 10 yrs. old and he's been there a wonderful 5 years. I'm going to try to let you know what to expect.... hang on, this is a long review!
Instructors: Most of the instructors have come up from within the school as students. The few exceptions are already skilled in martial arts and are required to excel at the forms taught here before they can teach them. While all are serious about this art, there is a kindness to students here that is really wonderful. Sifu can be loud, but he is also fair and truly cares about his students. Over the years, when my son's interest diminished, Sifu would talk to him about why, and make changes to his instruction. Also, they never allow a child to take a belt test until they know the child will succeed.
In addition to Kung-Fu; morality, honesty, and self-respect are taught. When one student left a bullying note for another student, the student was reprimanded, and the class was stopped while Sifu explained that this was not acceptable, that this Dojo was a safe place for all, and that he expected better from his students. Sifu expects good grades, and will work with parents on encouraging this, as well as allowing the students to earn an "Academic Achievement" patch for their uniform.
Classes: Check out their website. I can't speak to the Peewee classes, since my son began at the ripe old age of 10 ;-), but for the same monthly price, he can take a regular class every Tues. & Thurs. and on Sat. if he wishes. There are also extra classes he can do when interest & homework allow. There have been times over the years when it seems like he lives there! At the moment he is a green belt, and a Junior Instructor, so he's helping to teach 2 Mon. classes.
What's that I hear you saying? "5 years and he's only a Green belt?"
Yes. And proud of it. In some schools, belts are given out regularly. Here, belts are given when the material for each belt has been mastered. Yes, it takes some time - but they're getting exercise, focus, self confidence, and having fun as they work towards their next belt. My son has especially enjoyed sparring and re-directions, and isn't concerned with getting his next belt.
Extras:
Every year, Twin Dragon has a family picnic in a near by park, marches in the San Carlos Hometown Days Parade, and camps when school is out. They always offer special classes for Mother's and Father's Day to include parents who are game to try something new.
Once or twice a month, they offer a "Kids night out". There is a fee for this but it's less than a sitter :-)
OK - whew! Just one more thing... if you want to chat, parent to parent, send me a message. Yelp has filtered my review, but I'm a real Twin Dragon parent, and would be happy to chat.