Krav Maga Birthday Party

BEFORE THE PARTY

Special Invitations – Design your own special Krav Maga invitations. They should have a military "look" and you might want to include a flag of Israel or a combat soldier. You can order these or simply make your own.

Special Decorations

Basically any military stuff will do fine. Maybe have green napkins for example.

THE PARTY

The instructor should be dressed in a military style uniform.

Special Language – We explain to them that for this lesson they will be speaking a new language; Hebrew. They will learn a few simple Hebrew terms, like "Shalom (Hello, goodbye, peace) and "Todah" (Thank you).

Special Outfit

It is not necessary for everyone to have a Krav Maga outfit, but, depending on your budget you might buy them special T shirts or headbands. Special headbands are only a couple of dollars a piece and it makes the kids feel like real Krav Kids".

History – Story Telling

The instructor will begin with a brief history of the art of krav maga, they will learn about its origins and uniqueness. They will learn a little about the history and culture of Israel.Maybe even tell a story about some heroic battle.

Moral lesson – The students will learn "Rule number one" from "The Karate Kid" movie; "Karate for self defense only." Then they will learn rule number two, "Make sure you know rule number one". These rules apply to all martial arts, especially Krav Maga which is for self protection.

Their parents will be impressed when the kids get home.

Rubber knives and guns

One the unique aspects of Krav Maga training are the use of rubber knives and guns. I have found that kids of all ages (even adults) love to play with guns and knives. The instructor should of course only bring the safest replica weapons available.

The students should learn some simple techniques that they can have some safe fun with.

Kicking and Punching

Demonstrate and teach a few simple techniques. Keep it simple so no one stands up as being untalented and not being able to do it. The goal here is not to actually learn something but just to have fun. Keep everyone happy.

If you have only one or two punching shields, you hold them (maybe the parent holds one and the teacher holds one) and the kids will line up to do their kicks and punches.

Missions, Drills

One popular activity that I always do is "real life scenarios" or something out of the movies. One kid is surrounded by three people holding different size shields, the kid has to "escape" by kicking or punching each of the three bad guys; he hits them and runs to safety.

Buddy Drills – you can also teach teamwork, two buddies are walking home from school and are approached by three thugs, they must kick and punch and escape.

Military Discipline – The kids should be told that are now in "Krav Maga Basic Training" and should listen to orders. Improvise, find a command word.

Obstacle Course – Design a military style obstacle course; have them jump over "walls" made of pillows or punching shields.

Capture the Flag – is an excellent game of military strategy and will fit in well with the Krav Maga theme.

Movie

If there is time you might screen a martial arts movie or just some interesting training clips.

Party Favors

Have them go home happy, talking about what a great party it was! They can keep their "Krav Kid" headbands, or that special T shirt. You can also buy special karate key chains for very little, you can explain that a krav student is responsible and keeps his keys safe. Many inexpensive karate items are available for purchase. (Century, AWMA)

Just don't forget the birthday cake and ice cream!