MERIDEN – Recently, about 15 children came to the Meriden Public Library’s temporary home on the Meriden Mall to explore an introductory martial arts course with Efrain Valentin Jr., owner of Valentin Karate.
The free introductory class gave participants the opportunity to learn the Korean martial art of Tang Soo Do. They practiced their punches and kicks and also learned discipline, the pillar of the martial art.
“We explain to them how they can take (the discipline) back and use it at home,” Valentin said, adding that not everyone who practices karate becomes a black belt, but they all learn skills that help them become “someone.” good.”
Wednesday’s interactive session allowed Valentin to teach the children martial arts techniques, such as hammer fists. The children also practiced traditional karate rhythms.
Although their parents were close, Valentin said that at first some of the children seemed nervous or hesitant to try martial arts.
“Finally, you could see they came out of their shell,” he said.
Amalia Delgado, of Meriden, attended with her 7-year-old son, who had previously participated in other karate courses and was interested in the library class. He “loved” the Wednesday class, she said.
Sakina Raitalo, of Meriden, attended the class with her two daughters and niece, who hope to learn karate. Raitalo explained that she usually brings it to the library during the summer and one of her daughters already takes karate classes. Seeing children learning martial arts prompted her to consider attending classes for adults, Raitalo said.
Meriden resident Daisha Chatman, who attended with her 6- and 12-year-old daughters, said she “loved” the listening, focus and teamwork skills the children learned.
A Meriden Public Library effort
Prescott Hazeltine, library clerk, said that during the summer the staff schedules a variety of interactive as well as educational activities. It happened with the Wednesday program because the kids learned more than karate.
Valentin said his business tries to give back to the community as much as possible.
“For things like dance and martial arts, you need disposable income. If you don’t have that disposable income, that’s where it’s up to us in the business to give back to the community,” he said.
He added that parents are grateful that the city offers opportunities such as free karate lessons.
To learn more about Valentin Karate, visit valentinkarate.net. For more information about library programs, visit meridenlibrary.org.
ksantos@record-journal.com203-317-2364Twitter: @KarlaSantosNews
