2 years ago
01Adult Martial ArtsStriking, clinch, takedowns, ground skills and self-defense in one integrated system.02Confident KidsAges 4–10. Real skills, focus and a strong voice, in a positive class of their own.03Phoenix CombativesHands-on personal safety training for real-world situations.04The 85 MethodAwareness, boundaries and Core Confidence before anything turns physical.
Your first stepMeet Hanshi on the mat.Every new student starts with a personal introduction, not a trial class.Schedule an Introduction →
01The Phoenix WayOur philosophy: rooted in tradition, built to evolve.02About UsHanshi Anthony Codispoti, 8th Dan, and the instructors who teach here.03BlogTraining insights, stories and news from the dojo.
Visit the dojo170 Patterson Ave, Shrewsbury, NJClean, focused mat space near the Grove, with plenty of parking.Get directions →
Confident Kids | Ages 4–10
Strong bodies. Strong minds. Confident kids.
They want their children to develop confidence, focus, discipline, respect, and the ability to stand up for themselves.
At The Phoenix Way, martial arts is the foundation we use to help children discover their potential.
Through structured training, positive encouragement, and age-appropriate challenges, children learn to listen, follow directions, work through frustration, and develop the confidence to use their voices.
We believe confidence isn’t something you simply give a child. It’s something they develop through effort, accomplishment, and learning to overcome challenges.
Our goal is to help every child become stronger, more capable, and more confident, both on and off the mat.
What your child will develop
1. Confidence
Confidence is earned through experience. As children learn new skills, overcome challenges, and recognize their progress, they begin to believe in their own abilities.
2. Focus & Attention
Through listening, observation, repetition, and structured instruction, children develop the ability to concentrate, follow directions, and stay engaged with the task in front of them.
3. Discipline & Responsibility
Children learn that progress requires effort, consistency, and accountability. They develop respect for their instructors, classmates, training equipment, and themselves.
4. Finding Their Voice
One of the most important skills a child can develop is the confidence to speak clearly and stand up for themselves. We help children practice assertive communication, setting boundaries, asking for help, and using their voices with confidence.
5. Resilience & Perseverance
Not every challenge comes easily. Children learn to work through frustration, accept correction, try again, and understand that mistakes are part of learning.
6. Respect & Leadership
Respect begins with how we treat others. Through teamwork, etiquette, encouragement, and responsibility, children learn to support their classmates and lead through their actions.
7. Physical Fitness & Martial Arts Skills
Children develop balance, coordination, strength, flexibility, and body awareness through age-appropriate martial arts training. They learn practical striking, defensive movement, and foundational self-defense skills in a structured and supportive environment.
Bully prevention & personal safety
Through our Confident Kids program, children develop awareness, learn to recognize uncomfortable situations, practice setting boundaries, and build the confidence to speak up when something doesn’t feel right.
We teach children the difference between being passive, aggressive, and assertive. They learn that using a strong, clear voice is not disrespectful. It’s an important part of standing up for themselves.
Students also learn when to create distance, walk away, and seek help from a trusted adult.
When physical skills are necessary, we teach age-appropriate defensive techniques that emphasize protection, control, and getting to safety.
What Children Practice
Awareness: Pay attention, notice uncomfortable situations, and know when to seek help.
A Strong, Authentic Voice: Say no, communicate confidently, and set boundaries.
Boundaries & Distance: Understand personal space and move away when appropriate.
Getting Help: Identify trusted adults and report concerning behavior.
Age-Appropriate Self-Defense: Protective movement, balance, and creating a chance to get away.
Meet the Confident Kids instructors
Our Confident Kids program is led by dedicated instructors who understand that children learn best when they’re encouraged, challenged appropriately, and treated with respect.
Sempai Taylor Papera — Confident Kids Instructor
Taylor’s journey with The Phoenix Way began when she was just seven years old. Having grown up through the program, she understands firsthand how martial arts can shape a child’s confidence, discipline, and character. Today, Taylor brings that experience to the next generation, helping children develop strong fundamentals, find their voices, and discover what they’re capable of.
Sensei Rick Papera — Confident Kids Instructor
Sensei Rick brings dedication, patience, and a commitment to helping young students grow through martial arts. His approach emphasizes strong fundamentals, discipline, respect, and the importance of consistent effort. Working alongside Sempai Taylor, he helps create an environment where children feel supported while learning to challenge themselves and take pride in their progress.
Guided by the Phoenix Way Philosophy
Under the leadership of founder Hanshi Anthony Codispoti, our instructors follow the same standards of discipline, respect, personal growth, and functional martial arts training that define The Phoenix Way.
Your child’s first visit
That’s why your family’s first visit to The Phoenix Way begins with a personal introduction, not a group trial class.
You’ll have an opportunity to visit our dojo, meet Hanshi Anthony Codispoti and our Confident Kids instructors, and learn more about our approach to teaching children.
We’ll take time to get to know your child, understand your goals as a parent, and answer any questions you may have.
Your child will have an opportunity to step onto the mat, become familiar with the environment, and experience a little of how we teach.
There’s no pressure to perform, and no expectation that your child already knows anything about martial arts.
Our goal is to make that first experience positive, personal, and comfortable for both you and your child.
What Parents Can Expect
1. Meet Our Team — Get to know the instructors, see the facility, and learn about Confident Kids.
2. Talk About Your Child — Discuss personality, interests, challenges, and goals.
3. Step Onto the Mat — Experience a brief introduction to our approach.
4. Decide Together — Ask questions and determine the right fit.
Schedule an Introduction
What ages is Confident Kids designed for?
Our Confident Kids program is designed for children ages 4 through 10. Training is age-appropriate, with instruction adjusted to each child’s experience and stage of development.
Does my child need any martial arts experience?
Not at all. Most children begin with no previous experience. We teach the fundamentals step by step, helping each child develop confidence and skills at an appropriate pace.
What if my child is shy or nervous?
That’s perfectly okay. We understand that every child has a different personality. Our instructors help children become comfortable through encouragement, patience, and manageable challenges.
Will my child learn real self-defense?
Yes. Children learn age-appropriate martial arts and foundational self-defense skills, including awareness, boundaries, assertive communication, defensive movement, and when to seek help from a trusted adult.
Do you teach children how to handle bullying?
Yes. Bully prevention is integrated into our program. We focus on awareness, confidence, setting boundaries, using a strong voice, walking away when possible, and getting help. Physical responses are taught responsibly.
Who teaches the Confident Kids classes?
Our Confident Kids program is led by Sempai Taylor Papera and Sensei Rick Papera under the leadership and teaching philosophy of Hanshi Anthony Codispoti.
Can my child try a class before joining?
We begin with a scheduled personal introduction rather than a group trial class. You’ll meet our instructors, see the dojo, discuss your child’s needs, and give your child an opportunity to become familiar with the mat and our teaching approach.
What should my child wear for the first visit?
Comfortable clothing suitable for stepping onto the mat is fine for the initial introduction. We’ll explain the required uniform and equipment before regular training begins.
Schedule a personal introduction, meet our instructors, and discover whether Confident Kids is the right fit for your family.
Schedule an Introduction
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