The greatest gift you can give a child is belief in themselves — and that starts here.
The Tiny Tigers programme at Superior Taekwondo is purpose-built for young children aged 5 and up. We understand that young children are not simply small adults — they have different learning styles, attention spans, and developmental needs. Our Tiny Tigers classes are designed by coaches who understand child development, not just Taekwondo.
Every session blends age-appropriate martial arts instruction with engaging games, movement challenges, and character-building activities. Children learn to listen, focus, follow instructions, and respect others — without ever feeling like they are being lectured. The lessons come through the training itself.
The result? Children who stand taller, look adults in the eye with confidence, take their responsibilities seriously, and approach challenges with a "I'll try again" mindset. These are not just martial arts skills — they are life skills that Taekwondo uniquely delivers.
Tiny Tigers classes run from our Helensville dojang, convenient for families across Kaukapakapa, Waimauku, Huapai, and the wider Rodney District.
What Your Child Will Develop
Confidence
Every breakthrough in class — nailing a new kick, earning a stripe, performing in front of others — builds the self-belief that carries children through challenges outside the dojang.
Focus & Attention
Taekwondo class requires listening and responding to instructions. Young students who train regularly show measurable improvements in classroom attention and task completion.
Coordination & Movement
Kicking, blocking, jumping, and footwork patterns develop whole-body coordination, spatial awareness, and athletic fundamentals that benefit every sport and physical activity.
Respect & Discipline
Bowing in and out, addressing instructors respectfully, waiting patiently for their turn — these rituals build genuine respect and self-discipline without coercion.
Perseverance
Learning a new kick perfectly takes many attempts. The experience of trying, failing, and trying again — and finally succeeding — builds the resilience children will need throughout life.
Stranger Danger Awareness
In age-appropriate language, we teach personal safety awareness: the value of personal space, trusting body instincts, and seeking trusted adults when something feels wrong.
A Typical Tiny Tigers Class
Fun movement games that get hearts pumping and bodies ready for training. Games are chosen to develop agility, coordination, and listening skills simultaneously.
Age-appropriate kicking, blocking, and striking drills. Techniques are introduced with simple language, visual demonstrations, and immediate practice. Repetition builds muscle memory without monotony through varied drill formats.
A short discussion of the weekly character value — discipline, respect, courage, honesty, or perseverance. Concepts are illustrated through stories and relatable examples from the children's own lives.
Introduction and practice of the pattern relevant to each child's belt level. Pattern memorisation develops cognitive skills alongside physical ones.
A structured game that reinforces the session's technique or character focus in a playful, competitive format. This is often a highlight of the class and motivates attendance.
Stretching, breathing, and a formal class closing bow. We end each class by asking students to name one thing they learned or improved today — building reflection habits.
The Junior Belt Journey
The junior colour belt system includes half-belts and stripes that provide more frequent recognition milestones — keeping children motivated through the natural ups and downs of learning.
White
First steps
White-Yellow
Growing foundations
Yellow
Building confidence
Yellow-Green
Developing skills
Green
Expanding technique
Green-Blue
Increasing fluency
Blue
Tactical awareness
Red
Advanced practitioner
What Parents Need to Know
Safety
All drills are non-contact or lightly supervised with protective pads. We maintain a strict positive behaviour policy and provide a safe, structured environment at all times.
Uniform (Dobok)
A white Taekwondo uniform (dobok) is required once your child begins regular training. We can advise on where to purchase one that fits correctly and meets club standards.
Attendance
Consistency is key to progress. We recommend attending at least twice per week where possible. Gradings require a minimum number of classes to ensure the child is genuinely prepared.
Parent Involvement
You are encouraged to observe from the viewing area. For home reinforcement, we can provide guidance on how to practise belt requirements at home with your child.
Club Values
Superior Taekwondo is a community. We expect respectful behaviour from students AND parents. The values we teach in class should be modelled at home — and vice versa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is Tiny Tigers for?
Tiny Tigers is designed for children aged 5 to approximately 10 years old. The class format is tailored specifically for young attention spans, energy levels, and developmental stages.
My child has never done a martial art before — is that okay?
Absolutely. The class is designed for complete beginners. We use games, stations, and age-appropriate drills to introduce concepts gradually in a way that feels fun, not overwhelming.
Will my child be taught to fight?
Taekwondo teaches controlled, purposeful movement — not fighting. The Tiny Tigers programme emphasises self-control, respect, and discipline at all times. Any partner work is non-contact or very lightly supervised contact with protective pads only.
How long are the classes?
Tiny Tigers classes are typically 45–60 minutes — an appropriate duration for young children to stay engaged and absorb learning without fatigue or attention drift.
Do children get belts and belt grades?
Yes. Children progress through the Junior Colour Belt system, which includes half-belt increments (e.g., white-yellow, yellow) to provide more frequent recognition of progress. Gradings are a positive, encouraging experience.
What do parents do during class?
Parents are welcome to observe from a designated viewing area. We encourage you to watch and celebrate your child's progress. Many parents find it inspiring enough to eventually join an adult class themselves!
Give Your Child the Gift of Confidence
Enrol your child in Tiny Tigers today. A few months from now, you will see a different child — more confident, more focused, more themselves.