small kid, big distraction

[lordtariel]

Here's a theoretical question for you. Say you're in a dojo and one of the jr students is messing around and then comes and tries to talk to you about random stuff. He's a higher belt than you so you can't really tell him to get back to practicing and he's really interfering with your practicing during the class, following you around when you move. What do you do during the class?

[cathal]

In my dojo it wouldn't really matter if he was of a higher belt level. Just ask to be left alone.

[bushido_man96]

I would just ignore the kid. Tell him/her courtiously that you are focusing on your practice, and would talk after class or something. If the problem continues, talk with the head instructor.

[marie curie]

Tell him "That's cool, but can you tell me about it later" and see if that works. Maybe he isn't so annoying to talk to if you aren't in the middle of doing your training

[cathal]

Tell him "That's cool, but can you tell me about it later" and see if that works. Maybe he isn't so annoying to talk to if you aren't in the middle of doing your training

Good advice

[aefibird]

Ask him to 'help' you with something MA related - that way his attentions will be diverted back to training and not just talking to you.

Promise to talk to him after class - that will show him you're interested and not just give him the brush-off.

If he's still pesteing you during class time then you need to speak to the instructor and get him/her to have a word.

[shotochem]

Here's a theoretical question for you. Say you're in a dojo and one of the jr students is messing around and then comes and tries to talk to you about random stuff. He's a higher belt than you so you can't really tell him to get back to practicing and he's really interfering with your practicing during the class, following you around when you move. What do you do during the class?

Rank is irrelevant. If you don't want to be disturbed just politely say you are working out somthing on your own. Please speak to me later.

In the case of higher ranking children, I do not accept discipline or take orders from children. I am the adult and I deserve respect as an adult.

They can have it in return and I will not disrespect anyone. But, there are limits and athourity role reversal is where I draw the line. If the school or instructors have a problem with this I will gladly go somewhere else. I am after all a paying customer.

You may think of that as an arrogant or unhumble attitude but I have 2 kids and I sure would not take orders from them why would I take them from someone elses?

Yes you may now flame the mean old guy.....

[Shotokan-kez]

I agree with shotochem despite rank a senior should always have respect from a junior. On the other hand i think it's really sweet this little guy is always bugging you lol he must like you. Just ask for the chat later after the class.

[younwhadoug]

just tell the kid to pay attention, he won't cry about it kids are always being told to pay attention

[GOM]

Give him a backhand and tell your instructor that kids and adults shouldn't train together.