Specialized Training for Improved Body & Mind

The Karate CAN-DO! program benefits children with a variety of challenges through a unique and remarkable program pioneered by Sensei Jeff Kohn. Sensei’s intuitive sense for children and how to help them overcome their individual challenges is certainly a gift, but it is also an expertise gained through over thirty years of teaching specially challenged children. Sensei Kohn expects his students to do their best and utilizes a “tough love” approach, not allowing for excuses or minimum effort. It can also be said that the Karate CAN-DO! program is a blend of art and science, combining the innate talents of an inspired teacher with techniques incorporated from other disciplines such as occupation, physical and speech therapy.

The program begins with basic balance exercises and strength training. The program is tightly structured and students learn the sequence of skills that are expected of them each day. As students progress, they are taught “katas” – each a series of movements that are a central part of traditional Shotokan karate training. Even children displaying great challenges can learn these movements that help them with balance, memory, control, cognition – and most importantly, their sense of accomplishment!

Sensei Kohn has over thirty years of experience working with and training children with challenges such as:

• Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorder Fragile X Syndrome
• Down Syndrome Physical Challenges
• Behavioral/Social Disorders Tourette’s Syndrome
• ADD/ADHD Cerebral Palsy
• Learning Disabilities
• Cognitive Delays
• Dyspraxia or Developmental Coordination Disorder
• Sensory Integration Disorder/Modulation Disorders

Students learn to regulate sensory input and modulate disruptive behavior through individualized training methods and specialized equipment. Students with language or social challenges are able to improve communication and social skills through interaction with teachers and other students. The highly structured routine and discipline of the Karate CAN-DO! program is helpful to many students and fosters development of their ability to regulate their own behavior and to focus for on-task learning.

The Karate CAN-DO! program draws on a board range of strategies that help children who may be challenged by sensory processing, integration and/or regulation;  sensory motor or apraxia; short attention spans or difficulty with focus, attention, concentration, staying on task; low tone and/or poorer core strength, coordination, gross motor ability; behavioral concerns; learning disabilities; and learning differences / cognitive delays.

Karate CAN-DO! Strategies Employed:

• Consistent routines and repetitive instruction are given in a familiar environment

• Verbal/visual/kinesthetic are cues used to assist memory

• Clear consistent expectations, specific directions, limits

• Information is presented in small steps until the skill is integrated into the muscle-memory

• Slow and progressive use of tactile objects, visual and auditory stimuli assist in regulating sensory input

• Neuromuscular connections are developed through the physical movements and cognitive challenge of karate; developing and strengthening neuromuscular coordination improves:

  • Focus

  • Attention

  • Socialization

  • Learning and academics

  • Athletic and recreational ability

Karate CAN-DO! Enhances Ongoing Therapy

Many of the children participating in our program are also undergoing speech, occupational and physical therapy. Parents and therapists find that the Karate CAN-DO! Program enhances the effectiveness of these therapies and many families and professionals see dramatic improvement in their child’s progress.

Testimonial: