As one of Manhattan’s most elite and comprehensive martial arts schools, East Side Tae Kwon Do develops confident artists and people. Because separating children by age expands their learning curves, the school has distinct classes for younger participants: for ages 3-4, 5-7 and 8-12. East Side Tae Kwon Do has even just begun a Pre-TKD class for kids 18 months-3 years, starting September 4, 2007. This class is the only one in the city that provides Tae Kwon Do instruction to children of this age group. In all of these small classes taught by skilled, non-intimidating instructors— all certified black belts— kids amass physical and mental prowess such as control, concentration and courage. Kids in the 8-12 group begin learning a traditional martial arts curriculum that advances in the teenage class. The end result are physically-fit martial artists with profound focus, discipline and self-confidence. The school also specializes in teaching children with special needs. Instructors have worked with leading occupational therapists and learning specialists to develop a curriculum and teaching style appropriate for kids with SI issues, ADD/ADHD or high functioning forms of autism. While a class specifically-designed for special needs children is available for preschoolers, instructors can tailor a program to integrate a special needs child into the mainstream group classes. Call to learn more about the special needs and birthday party offerings.