Teen Safety throughout the Seasons

Winter is upon us, and the slide show is ready to begin. This is no ordinary Christmas Party, the event is very exciting for the Taekwondo students and their families. Everyone is anxiously awaiting the demonstrations, the food, the entertainment, and finally the slide show. There will be board breaking and nunchakus weapons twirling by several age groups. However, the teens especially look forward to the advanced demonstrations by the Master and Grandmaster on this special evening. Many awards will be handed out to students for their dedication throughout the year. The children will soon watch their year of 2008 unfold on the yearly slide show. They will recognize themselves and see how they have grown in size and confidence. The chance to look back on the many events of each season reminds them that they are building important bonds and memories of a lifetime.
Slides of the annual springtime events will come up first. At that time, the grass was green and soft for "Taekwondo in the Park." Practicing self-defense in the grass was an adventure. There were races and competitions for all ages. The fresh air and the bright sunshine felt good. The teens were especially loud with their kihaps (yells) so passers-by would look! They were building a foundation of good spirit and confidence to carry into their future. A picnic and grilling burgers came next! Then the giant cake arrived to help celebrate the spring get-together.

Next, the slides reveal some summer events. Confidence and leadership camp is cool, with lots of crafts, exercise, even learning Korean. However, another series of events captures the crowd's attention. This type of event took place in the evening, when the sky was clear, the air was warm, and the stars loomed overhead. You could hear a movie playing quite clearly outside! You could smell popcorn. Everyone had their blankets, pillows, or lawn chairs. It was like the drive-in, but no cars! In the dark and empty parking lot of the Taekwondo Academy you could hear someone saying, "Shhh, shhh." You could definitely hear a giggle or two. The movie was being shown on a white sheet stretched out on the brick wall. A simple backdrop for a teen activity, where they can be comfortable, safe, and have fun.

Finally, the slides of the fall festival come up. It was there that you could smell caramel and fresh apples! The dojang (Korean for school) was bustling with activity. The teens dressed up and made their choice. They could play games or help supervise the games for the smaller children. Dr. Mouse, who was really their head coach, was dressed up like a Doctor, but with huge Mickey Mouse hands. Usually, things are more serious with Coach. However, the children worked hard throughout the year, both body and mind, graduating from one belt to another, so now it was time to relax. They now had the opportunity to laugh at her, and with her, as she chased them around the room with her giant hands, tiny reflex hammer and stethoscope. The annual jailhouse was the most fun for the teens as they have their friends arrested and brought into a special room. Then, at last, they captured Master Kunkel! It took several of them to capture her, but they did it! They played hard, they were rowdy, but they were safe in a room full of excitement!

The slide show comes to an end, focusing on all the members wearing Santa hats. You can tell these photos were taken last, just before the Party. The audience always gets quiet during this portion, winding down from all the excitement, and realizing how important their new friendships and mentors have become. As an adult, I look around the room and enjoy seeing families who have strengthened their bonds, teens that have renewed their respect for themselves and others. There is a sea of wonderful faces of boys and girls in an extraordinary atmosphere. They are all looking in the same direction with the light upon their faces. It is at this time that I simply make a wish that I make every year. I wish that every boy and girl could have a chance to learn and grow up in such a safe environment.

Learn more:
Teen Activities at
Academy of Life and Leadership Taekwondo
Hosted by Olympian Barb Kunkel
1915 Jamboree Drive, #115
Ph# 719-260-4700

http://www.alltkd.com/
http://family-taekwondo.com/