THANK YOU FOR BEING A WAH LUM MEMBER!
Welcome to the Wah Lum family! Our Little Mantis program is designed to build your child’s confidence, focus, respect, and coordination in a fun and structured environment. To ensure every child gets the most out of their martial arts journey, please review our school guidelines below.
Bookmark or print: LITTLE MANTIS HANDBOOK
SCHOOL RULES AND EXPECTATIONS
Uniforms:
- To promote unity and discipline, the full uniform (Wah Lum issued shirt, shoes, pants, and sash) must be worn to participate in class. Please do not alter the uniform.
- Bring your sash to your first class! Your instructor will happily teach you how to tie it.
Class Expectations:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes prior to class to settle in, and please CHECK IN on the iPad or laptop in the Temple.
- Students will bow before entering the training area and before leaving the Temple as a traditional sign of respect.
- We practice active listening with Sifu and all assistant instructors (Si-Jye and Si-Hings).
- Treat all Little Mantis brothers and sisters with respect and patience. (No inappropriate language is allowed).
- For safety, students should not touch weapons, drums, lions, or other equipment without permission.
- If special assistance is required for the bathroom, parents must stay on the premises and notify our team.
- All tuition and memberships must be current to participate.
Fostering Independent Focus (Parent Observation Policy):
- To help our Little Mantises build independence and maximize their focus, we ask that parents wait outside the training area. This allows us to have their undivided attention, giving your child the best possible training experience!
- Parent Observation Days: We love showing off their hard work! On occasion, we will schedule special parent observation days or host small in-house performances.
Photo / Video / Social Media:
- While photography isn’t permitted during class to minimize distractions, we encourage you to snap photos of your child in uniform before or after class!
- You may post PHOTOS ONLY and TAG us at @wahlumtemple on Instagram or Facebook.
- To protect the privacy of our students and the traditional Wah Lum system, any videos taken at the Temple may not be shared publicly (Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, etc.) without permission.
- Please refrain from videotaping forms and posting them online. Great Grandmaster Chan has worked hard to keep the system traditional and ensure students learn only from certified Sifus.
Drop Off, Pick Up & Parking:
- Please drop off no earlier than 10 minutes before class and pick up no later than 5 minutes after.
- Class Times: M, W, F: 5:15 pm – 6:05 pm | SAT 11:00 am – 11:50 am
- Enjoy our waiting area by the fish pond! To minimize distractions, please do not “spy” on active classes.
- Clean Air Rule: Because students often train outdoors, we need to keep the air clear. If you wait in your car near a training zone, you must turn the engine off. If you want to keep the AC running, please park further away by the Wah Lum Cultural Center or the grass area.
- Extended Care: Available for $10 per 15 minutes (before or after classes). Please notify the office if you plan to utilize this.
Testing & Progression:
- We will excitedly inform you via email when your child is ready to test!
- Review the Q&A with your Little Mantis to help them prepare.
Communications & Updates:
- A short, informative weekly newsletter will be sent with important schedule updates. Please read it to stay in the loop! (Your info is never shared).
- Please notify the office immediately of any changes to your email, contact info, or bank account.
Temple Safety:
- For their safety, please keep children away from the plum flower poles and garden areas.
- Kids must not play near the edges of the cement slabs on the left and right patios, as there is a 12-inch drop-off.
- Please have your kids wait on the porch for pick up, as the parking lot is busy.
- Please enjoy the beauty of our plants and fruits with your eyes only; do not disturb or eat them.
Setting Your Child Up For Success (First Month Evaluation):
- Every child matures differently. We consider the first month a trial period to ensure the group class environment is the best fit for your child’s current learning style.
- During this time, we will track their progress and observe how they thrive in the class.
- We encourage parents to voice any concerns with a Sifu during this period.
- If a student needs a little more 1-on-1 attention, or if the group environment isn’t the right fit just yet, we will happily work with you to discuss alternative options, such as private lessons.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Isn’t my child too young to be learning martial arts?
Our program exposes children to an early martial arts education. We are convinced that this learning experience builds focus, coordination, and confidence that will be beneficial throughout their entire childhood and into adult life. - How much kung fu can they learn at this age?
Children develop essential kung fu skills through basic exercises, building a proper foundation for their future in the Kids Program (which begins at 8 years old). - When will my child graduate to the kids class?
Children are evaluated based on their age, skill level, and individual progress. Ultimately, our Sifus will determine when your child is fully ready to graduate. - How do I know if my child is ready for the Kids class?
Children must pass their final Mantis test prior to graduation. Parents will receive an official email notifying you of your child’s status, complete with graduation dates, new class schedules, and next steps. - Am I allowed to observe class?
To help students maximize their focus, we ask that parents do not observe focus groups. They learn much more effectively when we have their undivided attention! You are welcome to remain on the premises in one of our beautiful outdoor waiting areas.
Any updates and new policies will be posted on: www.wahlum.com/member