Master D is amazing with children, even ones with special needs, and he trains his staff well on working with little ones. We stumbled upon the school via the Fairfax County parks program (for my son), liked what we saw, and took the plunge by having him join regular classes. Just went on a gut feeling, but consider it one of my better decisions. My son has been their since he was 5, my daughter started before she was 3. The changes in them, both physically and emotionally, have been extraordinary. My son, who was very shy and passive when he started, now loves sparring and padded weapons (both done with great attention to safety) and has developed into a leader who proudly sets an example of Black Belt attitude (do your best, encourage others, show good physical and behavioral control) for others, even though he is always the youngest in his classes. I really like that Dietrich's emphasizes character development as much as physical development. My whole family goes now, and we have all gained a lot. Master D's skill and detailed knowledge of the art make learning fascinating. Despite having little time for exercise, I move better now, after 9 months, than I did 15 years ago. I usually can only go to my son's classes (it's a youth class, but some parents join in since they cannot participate otherwise), but there is a wide variety of classes, including some that are focused on just getting into shape. And boy, will they get you in shape! The adult class is very small, so you get a lot of individual help. Also, when you join Dietrich's you become part of a family in which everyone works to help everyone else. Ego is not allowed. Sure, it's a business and they are trying to make money, but that they care is readily apparent. No matter what your physical ability (even those with special challenges) they will do their best to work with you to reach your full potential. Everyone is treated with great respect. Great before and after school programs and summer camp. The kids are always well supervised.
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