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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.
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, […]
“Dear Proud Parent, On my hard days, remember I am small. When tears run down my cheeks and I don’t even know why remember I need you to grab a tissue and dry my teary eyes. When something happens that I didn’t expect and I yell, scream and fuss, remember even in my anger, confusion, […]
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 […]
