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Our young adult daughter with Autism has been working with Master Eric Ribeiro for about a year and a half now. I cannot say enough positive things about Master Eric. He is simply gifted at working with individuals who are neurodiverse. It is not just his ability to teach her Taekwondo, it is also how he speaks to her, interacts with her, and teaches her other skills like patience and focus. Our family is thrilled we found Resilient Martial Arts.
I can’t say enough good things about Resilient Martial Arts. My son has been with them for 2 years now. Master Ribeiro and Master Fracker are phenomenal with the kids. We pass several other martial arts places to go to this one, and are so happy with our decision to join. Couldn’t recommend this establishment more.
I learned about Resilient Martial Arts through the Autism Society of Central Virginia. Master Eric has consistently supported ASCV, including offering free sessions to members. I participated in several of these, and both of us enjoyed working with Master Eric, whose goal is to make participation available to all. My grandson loved these sessions so much that he started taking lessons. In the past two years he has moved up to green belt in a supportive environment that allows him to interact with other children. And the Christmas parties are a blast!
Our son has been attending Resilient Martial Arts since 2020 and we could not praise the instructors enough! We have seen a difference in his confidence and self-control over the last 2 years. The instructors are attentive and dedicated to improving the student's discipline in learning and mastering the various techniques and forms while also learning life skills.
We love master Ribeiro and the early skills class at Resilient martial arts! My son is almost 4 and we were looking for a class that would increase his self confidence, allow him to work on his gross motor skills and socialize with friends. He loves earning stripes as he works on various skills like kicking, punching, crawling, rolling, or catching. I love seeing him work toward something. Master Ribeiro is warm but also expects students to show respect. He is a great role model for our son. We are excited for our child to continue learning at Resilient Martial Arts and would highly recommend it to other families.
Highly recommend Resilient Martial Arts to every one! My children have learned respect, control, and so many other positive qualities and habits. The instructors are fabulous. They are amazing with the kids, patient, knowledgeable, friendly, and I can’t say enough great things about them. Resilient Martial Arts is like a second home and the relationships the kids make with other students and the instructors is unmatched.
My daughter started there exactly two weeks before her 3rd birthday... Now she is five! She loves that place! The instructors, especially Master Ribeiro, are really nice and know how to deal with kids. What I like the most is how they try to install great values in the kids by teaching them at an early stage about anti bullying, respect, discipline and kindness. My daughter also loves the parents night out activities organized there.
Masters Fracker and Rebeiro take such good care of the kids in their school. They are encouraging and kind, while instilling discipline, focus, and technique. My son has grown so much.
The confidence, skills, and fun Jacob has is wonderful. These are teachers of heart and we appreciate all they do for our family.
I can’t explain just how amazing this place is! My daughter was born at just 23 weeks, 1lb. She just turned 3, and is doing well but had a long bumpy road. With said, she has some visual impairments, mild cerebral palsy, and severe anxiety issues. We are four classes in now, and although my daughter cries each time we get to the school, the instructors (every single one) ALWAYS treat her like their own and take their time with her. She comes out of class so happy and oh so proud of herself! They do not treat her differently because of her impairments, they are all patient and kind, and above all understanding. We are BEYOND pleased with GEMA, and the staff to include the wonderful families we have met. Thank you GEMA for creating a better world for my daughter!
An awesome martial arts school that truly cares.
I have had a blast. I look forward to continuing to learn each form.
We love the instructors and family atmosphere! Thank you!
I've tried a bunch of martial arts over the years, but it wasn't until I got to Gentle East that I realized that the art itself doesn't matter so much--it's the attitude of its practitioners. These people aren't learning and teaching how to kill, but how to live. How to live despite trauma and illness, and to keep practicing their art even if it's just in their hearts. The tenets are courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit, and they mean every word. They teach the kids that other dojangs won't. Autistic, physically challenged, special needs, you name it. They're fully engaged with the messy business of life. A whole lot of families are glad that Master Barbara Robinson followed her vision. Ours is one.
Love, love, love this place! The staff is incredibly kind and supportive, and the family atmosphere is palpable the moment you walk in the door! I am so impressed with the work being done with autism spectrum kids, as well as other kids with physical challenges. No one is made to feel like they don't belong here! I even joined the mommy class and my toddlers are allowed to run around us while we work out. I've lost a few pounds, and gained some amazing (non-judgemental) mom-friends! An oasis of kindness and support in the middle of what is often a 'keep up with the Jones's " area of town.
For busy parents of children who want their kids to speak up, try new things, and bounce back, the hardest part is knowing when to step in and when to step back. Many families end up stuck between protecting a child from disappointment and pushing so hard that mistakes feel unsafe. Child self-confidence and building […]
When most people think about self-defense, they picture physical techniques — punches, kicks, or learning to fight back. But for parents who want their children to grow up confident, respectful, and emotionally strong, real self-defense starts long before anything physical ever happens. True self-defense isn’t about violence. It’s about awareness, boundaries, and confidence — the skills that help kids recognize danger, stand up […]
Parents often wonder when the right time is for their child to begin martial arts. Some worry their child might be too young, while others think they’ve missed the window by waiting until their child is older. The truth is that martial arts is a highly adaptable practice that can benefit children at almost any […]
In the realm of entrepreneurship, the journey to success is often complex and demanding. It requires a blend of numerous qualities, some of which are not immediately apparent. Interestingly, martial arts emerges as an unexpected yet potent tool in shaping these attributes. This article shared by Resilient Martial Arts delves into how the principles and […]
In today’s digital age, cultivating focus and concentration in children is increasingly challenging. At Resilient Martial Arts in Midlothian, VA, we leverage the structured discipline of martial arts to enhance these crucial skills in young learners. If you’re searching for preschool martial arts or martial arts lessons, our dojo provides an engaging, inclusive environment where […]
In today’s fast-paced world, mental resilience is as crucial as physical fitness. At Resilient Martial Arts in Midlothian, VA, we believe that martial arts is not just about learning self-defense techniques but also about building an unbreakable mind. Whether you’re searching for martial arts lessons, or looking for the best martial art class for your […]
Martial arts have captivated people for centuries, evolving from ancient practices into modern disciplines that promote fitness, self-discipline, and personal growth. At Resilient Martial Arts in Midlothian, VA, we integrate these ancient philosophies to offer comprehensive martial arts lessons that cater to everyone—from preschoolers to adults. If you’re searching for martial arts lessons or karate, […]
As parents, we want what’s best for our children, and we also want our children to give their best when they participate in extra-curricular sports and activities. The problem is, that we sometimes get caught up in our desire to see our children perform well and we speak up at the wrong times. With that […]
“Mommy, it’s okay to have big feelings.” These were the words a six-year-old ever so calmly and wisely whispered to his mother as he gently climbed up upon his stool to wipe away the tears from her cheeks. You see, just a day prior, the family lost a dear loved one. The pain was fresh, […]
Teaching With Purpose Exploring the Role of the Adult in the SKILLZ Learning Environment Take a few moments to pause and reflect. Let your mind return to the carefree days of your youth. Perhaps the rustling of autumn leaves crunching beneath your feet as you smell the crisp, cool air stirs your soul. Or maybe […]
Have you ever taken a moment to truly admire the incredible beauty of watching a child at play? Their fully engaged spirit, drive, imagination, and passion are all completely engaged in the mission of the moment. Whether it’s tinkering with their next greatest creation or saving the day as their favorite superhero, children demonstrate freely […]
Over the last year, sports programs have had shorter seasons, if any at all. Because of that, training time for athletes of all ages has dropped significantly. Now, with sports returning to a more normal duration, young athletes are working hard to regain lost skills and recondition their bodies. The problem, however, is that lengthy […]
Summer break is typically viewed as a time for relaxation, fun, and no schedules. However, considering the dramatic change in our lives over the past year and seeing communities begin opening back up in a full capacity now, this summer would be the perfect time to get children back on track. As unfortunate as it […]
Closures of schools and businesses have led to major disruptions in the daily routines of families. Children are trying to adjust to doing school at home and parents are trying to balance their work from home life with their role as teachers to their children. To cope, it’s important for families to implement daily routines […]
Let’s face it, conflict is hard and is bound to happen. Whether it’s on the playground or right in our own homes, children will clash. And while it can be challenging situations, it is a normal event that occurs between children and a learning opportunity for them. This is why conflict resolution is an essential […]
On any given day, we may experience moments of high emotion in reaction to an event, or we find ourselves trying to control everyone and everything around us. Either way, our mental well-being is in danger, especially if we find ourselves stuck in either scenario for long. It can be difficult for children to get […]
In today’s world competition is everywhere and it often starts at a young age. It begins as a fun, skill-developing event but quickly becomes time-consuming and competitive. While some parents want their children pushed to help them learn the hard lessons of life, others want to protect their children from the disappointment that can come […]
Every child is born with their own unique way of interacting with the world. Some are flexible with change while others may experience stress when presented with new situations or a change in schedule. This is what is referred to as temperament. And while some temperaments are easier to handle than others, it is important […]
These it seems that children are only interested in their video games, smartphones, and social media platforms. Parents may be frustrated with their children’s lack of motivation for and attention to other activities and could be at a loss about what to do. Usually, parents respond by taking devices away and punishing their children. And […]
The development of a child is one of the most fascinating things to watch. From infants mirroring the movements that they see to toddlers and older children mastering high-level developmental skills, the growth they experience in a short time is astounding. And while it’s important for children to master many skills, bilateral coordination is important […]
When we think of human behavior, we often first focus on the problems or deficits that people have and how this affects their achievements, or lack thereof. Rarely is the first thought of what motivates someone and how to utilize that to help them grow and develop. Abraham Maslow’s development of the “Hierarchy of Needs” […]
Most kids are not naturally self-motivated. When your child’s mindset is not in the right place, even the most fun activities can be a struggle to get to. With that said, here are some strategies to help you work around a lack of motivation when trying to get your kid to class. 1. Be attentive […]
Good behavior is a learning process for children, and we are their roadmap. Children usually behave based on their own emotions and impulses. At the same time, being a parent is also a learning process and sometimes we rely on our own emotions and impulses to teach. Usually, that means we often resort to punishments […]
There are numerous benefits of martial arts for kids, including improved physical health and a boost in self-confidence. Martial arts can also teach children self-defense skills that can help them ward off bullies and protect themselves from violent attacks. More importantly than fighting off others, however, martial arts teaches kids how to become masters of […]
Is It Rude, Is It Mean, Is It Bullying? Some people say kids will be kids. And yes, children and teens can be unkind to their peers and, feelings can get hurt. The problem is when these behaviors become common and target the same person repeatedly, it crosses the line and becomes bullying. And while […]
