Newsletter 3/2013 ITF Kids Courses In Italy & Netherlands
On the weekend of 15th and 16th June, the ITF Kids Committee presented two 1 day courses hosted by FITAE and ITF Netherlands.
On Saturday 15th June 62 members of FITAE and ITF Ireland attended the 4th ITF Kids course in Rome Italy and on Sunday 16th June 50 members of ITF Netherlands, ITF Germany, ITF Denmark and ITF Belgium attended the 5th ITF Kids course in Utrecht, Netherlands.
Each day the course, which focused on the 3-5yrs age range, started with some fun games according to the tenets of Taekwon-Do, these games help the children to understand the tenets and the principles behind them whilst being engaged in fun and enjoyment. One of the key parts of the day was explaining about the core principles of the course, this is what really separates this program from any other kids course as it’s to do with how the instructor teaches this age range to get the best out of the children. All the activities in the ITF Kids Course have an underlining message and a specific reason for doing them, instead of just doing a game for the sake of it.
The course is focused on Taekwon-Do and is driven by the way we teach TKD rather than focusing on themes that are unrelated to ITF TKD. There is a supplementary part that teaches about Danger Awareness specifically for this age range at a very basic level and there is also the introduction of the Kids Folder that they use to complete tasks at home, in the TKD Class and also at their School where their teacher will sign when they are working well. This encourages the children to work in a positive way in all areas of their lives.
The participants followed many fun games and also took part in some excellent interactive elements of the course where they worked in groups.
The courses were a big success with many people asking for more time to learn all of the new and interesting information. The next one day ITF Kids course will take place on Saturday 31st August in Livingston, Scotland. From 2014 the course will be run over two days incorporating the 5-7yrs age range.
The ITF Kids course has been created for all ITF members, this means the course belongs to the members and is a choice for members to follow. Instructors will however find the teaching principles are relevant to all ages and by following the course an instructor can improve the listening behaviours in their classes, raise the standards and increase retention of students.
The ITF Kids Committee consists of three members, Chairman Master Donato Nardizzi, Members Mr Fabian Izquierdo and Mr Philip Lear.
Feedback from the courses
I believe that the opportunity to increase the number of inscriptions and the diffusion of TKD is very high with this course. It is a very good strategy that ITF decided to use to expand in the world.
Stefano Minotti - FITAE
I have been teaching ITF KIDS for 2 years. This course has made it easier for me to teach it.
Rodney Connolly – ITF Ireland
Innovative and "funny" course, useful to teach with joy and empathy with the children.
Alfredo Villani - FITAE
Thanks for the effort in developing such an interesting and useful teaching method. As soon as possible I will share with you ideas and experiences.
Children = Future.
Andrea Albe - FITAE
A real valid method dedicated to young children often forgotten by other sports or physical activities.
Massimo Feriozzi - FITAE
Clear explanations, explained enthusiastically and a lots of energy.
New games. Good and thoughtful construction of the whole ITF Kids program in levels through 9th gup. With many games also Taekwon-Do techniques, and don’t forget the themes.
Master James Tjin-A-Ton – ITF Netherlands
Good addition and motivation to deal with children from 3 years. It is as an instructor extremely rewarding to be part of their education in a responsible manner. Good motivating.
Pollefeyt Yves – ITF Belgium
Really enjoyed the day and energy, thanks a lot for opening the mind to another level. Sabum Carlo v de Braak Cong Do Kwan – ITF Netherlands
The ITF Kids Course and program is a brilliant adaptation of the ITF principles to the specific age group. Being flexible in materials makes it ideal for many cultures.
Thomas Brandt – ITF Denmark
