It seems that you cannot read a newspaper or watch a television news show without seeing a story about a “responsible” adult being charged with misconduct as it relates to a child. We, as martial arts instructors, are no exception. Recently, a highly thought of martial arts instructor was convicted of just such a crime. This type of incident is devastating to the child, and as martial arts instructors we should do everything in our power to prevent these situations.
As the owner or senior instructor of a martial arts school that teaches children, it is in both your student’s best interest and yours to outline policies to eliminate the likelihood of inappropriate student-instructor contact. This article outlines some “common sense” guidelines generally used by school teachers that might be instituted in a martial arts program.
Be careful who teaches for you…
- Have your instructors get a Child Abuse Clearance and Criminal Background Checks. Each state handles these differently. Prices vary, but are generally reasonable. A good rule of thumb is to require your instructors to have the same clearances as your local school teachers.
Teach your instructors the “do’s” and “don’t” of student interaction…
- A teacher should never be alone with a student. As a teacher, never allow yourself to end up in a private place with a student. Never transport a student in your personal vehicle without a chaperone. Always have a witness to any interaction.
- Limit physical contact. Never make contact with any intimate area. Move a person with a shove not a touch. Use your feet to reposition legs. It's better to be accused of being physically abusive than sexually abusive.
- Be careful of praise. Never personalize your praise. Say, “Your punch is strong”, not “You are strong”. Be careful of a student developing an attachment or fixation (generally known as a “crush”). Watch for the signs and shut it down immediately.
You and your instructors are RESPONSIBLE…
- You and your instructors are classified as teachers. As such, there are certain requirements that are generally accepted practices for teachers. In most states, a teacher is legally required to report suspected child abuse to the local authorities or the Child Abuse Hotline. Check the policies in your state.
- Document any inappropriate behavior by a underage student. Confront the student in the presence of a parent and at least one other adult witness. Document everything in writing.
- Do not coddle an instructor that you suspect of inappropriate behavior. If you suspect something is wrong, privately confront the instructor. State plainly what your suspect. If you are sure there is inappropriate behavior, call the authorities immediately.
Institute safety policies…
- Cultivate parental involvement in your program. Have parents stay and watch classes regularly. The more involved the parents are, the less likely that there will be misconduct.
- Never let a child leave the school without a parent or guardian. Often classes end when it is dark outside. The perfect opportunity for predators. Never let students leave the school to “meet a ride” or “get picked up”. Insist that the parent/guardian come into the school to get the student.
- Know who can pick the child up from the school. Institute an “authorized adult” list. Make sure your instructors know the authorized adults by sight.
While each martial arts program is different and there is never a “one size fits all” solution to abuse issues, these guidelines can help you develop your own school policies. Remember, the ultimate goal is to keep every child safe while in your care.
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