What to ask before your child's first martial arts class.

Who will actually teach my child?

Ask who leads the kids' classes day to day, not just who owns the school. Ask how long they've taught children, and whether assistant instructors are trained and supervised.

A good school answers this easily and is happy for you to meet the instructor before the first class.

How are brand-new kids introduced?

Some schools put beginners straight into the main class; others start with a short intro period. Either can work. What matters is that someone is paying attention to your child in the first few weeks, so they don't feel lost.

Ask: "What will my child do in their first class, and who will be helping them?"

How big are the classes, and are they split by age?

A 4-year-old and a 10-year-old need very different classes. Look for programs grouped by age and attention span, with enough instructors on the floor for the group size.

What does safety look like here?

Ask about contact rules for kids, how sparring is introduced (and when), mat cleaning, and who is trained in first aid. Ask how pickup and drop-off work, too.

What does it cost after the intro?

Intro offers are great for trying a school. Before you commit, ask about monthly tuition, contract length, uniform and testing fees, and how cancellation works. A good school will put it in writing.

Then watch one class

The best test is simple: watch a class. Are the kids engaged? Do instructors know their names? Does your child want to go back? Trust what you see.