GMA Little Lions

Child Development | Special Needs Children | Leadership Programs
Little Lions: Ages 3 to 6 Years Old

For many years, GMATC schools have assisted in the growth of children. The list of student achievements and successes continues to grow at a phenomenal rate as GMA and KwanJangNim Spillmann’s branch schools all over the United States and international locations throughout the world continue to administer the long-standing, proven techniques. The successes and achievements are not limited to careers alone; the leadership skills, confidence and superior role model qualities of GMA students are apparent within each of their corresponding communities. This is evidenced by the numerous testaments of fellow community members which can be found in written and oral form at events, at the locations, in the media and throughout organizations. GMA’s child development principles are time-tested and the methods have been proven as effective, time and time again.

The child development methods practiced at GMA are based on the “whole child” principle. The method has always been part of the GMATC curriculum for over 20 Years but was refined during the expansion and growth of the organization in the new millennium. With the addition of Master Spillmann, the already strong program was given a renewed and more refined perspective. Master Spillmann holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Child Development and has an extensive comprehension of the issues facing today’s youths as they grow and learn in an adverse society. She incorporates her understanding and skills into the GMA Whole Child Program which has grown to be an even stronger, more effective method of emotional, intellectual, social and physical growth assistance.

The physical development of a student is but one part of the healthy development of a future leader. The negative social issues facing our young students grow in number every year. The effects of artificial foods and over-medication continue to have a damaging effect on the day-to-day functioning of young people. The everyday growing problems including bullying, differences, confidence and academics are magnified by the internal cerebral struggles. Addressing these struggles through counseling, parental support and the reward of success, has been shown as a superior alternative to medicating our youth. Emotional needs must be addressed and resolved; social needs cannot be ignored as our society becomes more and more collectively complicated.

At GMA, we have always taken academics seriously. Report cards are checked before testings and are included in a child’s readiness to attain the next belt level. Grades are assessed individually by student. Improvements are counted as heavily as actual score. What comes easily to one student may be a struggle for another, so no child is ever compared to another. Instead, the academic accomplishments of each scholar are evaluated and addressed in an appropriate manner for that specific student. By the time a student reaches black belt levels, top grades are expected.

Physical exercise leads to a confident feeling, a healthier lifestyle and keeps the mind sharp. While developing the mind and practicing how to defend themselves, GMA students are taught to workout in a well-rounded manner. Students, work on cardio and strength aspects while developing flexibility and endurance. That way when they are confronted by someone who may mean them harm mentally or physically, they are ready for almost anything.

GMA’s time honored “Talk away, walk away, run away” method is first and foremost in our self-defense classes. The student is taught to respect and value the rights of others while learning to defend themselves should the situation arise. Leadership is developed by teaching the student how to persuade others to do the right thing before implementing the techniques that may hurt another while protecting themselves. Although the rights of bullies and other potential troublemakers are taught, students are reminded that a respect for oneself and own well-being must be maintained at the same time. There will be times where “talk away, walk away, run away” is just not a viable option and the student must take self-defensive action.

GMA has also developed and applied the long standing Children with Special Needs Program. Countless young people with Aspergers, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, ADHD, ADD, Downs Syndrome, wheelchairs and other special needs have practiced martial arts and many have attained black belt levels. Master Joanne Spillmann has worked with children with special needs since she was 12 and has extensive knowledge and experience. After joining the GMA family, Master Spillmann incorporated her skills into the existing special needs program which has continued to grow and flourish ever since. The goal in martial arts training is to integrate all children into the mainstream, increasing the ability to function in mainstream society. Parent and student counseling and consistent communication between instructors, academic teachers and parents are an integral part of the training. GMA does not condone the use of “behavior control” medications and tirelessly works to find alternatives to these sometimes mind-altering drugs. Many times, students have been able to function “normally” without the assistance of these drugs.

For decades, GMA and its instructors have dedicated their instruction to assisting in the growth of well-rounded students who will make a constructive impact on society and be pillars in their own communities. Many students over the years have become leaders in their communities, doctors, lawyers, engineers and confident, influential adults. GMA’s Little Lions program is a time-tested, successful program in assisting “The Whole Child Development” of each student. Our GMA family welcomes all those who wish to work toward success and strive for the best. We welcome those hands-on parents who are looking for the best for their future leader.