 | The first IDS instructor is Melody Johnson, who has over 25 years of experience researching childhood development as it relates to sports, coaching, and parenting. Her groundbreaking contributions began with the creation of the Little Ninja Preschool martial arts program, which has been implemented in thousands of schools worldwide.
Stages of Development for Children Preschool through Middle School Unlock the Key to Understanding and Inspiring Young Students
This course is your guide to understanding what children need most at every stage of their development. By exploring their physical, intellectual, emotional, and social growth from preschool to middle school, you’ll gain the tools to set realistic expectations and implement effective strategies to manage behavior—creating a positive learning environment that fosters growth by desire, not fear.
What You’ll Learn:
Developmental Stages: Gain a deep understanding of what to expect (and what not to expect) from children at different grade levels across the four key areas of growth: physical, intellectual, emotional, and social. Behavior Management Strategies: Learn how to inspire children through motivation, positive reinforcement, and skill-building, rather than fear-based tactics.
Why This Course Matters: Boost Enrollments-By understanding the unique needs of each developmental stage, you’ll create age-appropriate classes that resonate with parents and children alike, making your school the go-to choice in your community. Increase Retention-Knowing how to meet children where they are ensures they feel supported, challenged, and motivated—encouraging long-term engagement and loyalty to your program. Build More Value-Position yourself as an expert in child development by offering personalized solutions to families, adding depth and professionalism to your school’s services.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is ideal for: School Owners looking to refine their programs and grow their schools. Instructors eager to improve their teaching techniques and foster stronger connections with students. Program Directors wanting to understand the programs better and manage teams with a developmental focus.
By completing this course, you’ll not only elevate the quality of your classes but also create a culture where children thrive, parents are impressed, and your school’s reputation grows |
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|  | Over the years, Melody has revolutionized the children’s martial arts market with her innovative age-specific curriculums and drills known as SKILLZ. These curriculums are currently utilized in over 1,000 martial arts schools across more than two dozen countries, setting a global standard for excellence in child development through martial arts.
In addition to her contributions to curriculum design, Melody is a sought-after consultant and speaker on topics related to child development, teaching, and parenting. Her expertise is showcased through platforms like SKILLZ University, the Certified Pediatric Ninja Specialist program, and dynamic seminar presentations. Her work has empowered educators, coaches, and parents to create impactful and supportive environments for children.
Melody began her martial arts journey in 1987. She holds a 7th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo under Grandmaster (Super) Dan Anderson, a 5th Degree Black Belt in the ATA, and an ATA World Champion title in forms. She currently resides in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her family and her son, who inspires her daily commitment to helping children thrive. |
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| | Mastery in Motion: Elevating Technique &
Equipping Instructorswith Kenny Gallacher & Jason Wilcox |
| Join Kenny Gallacher and Jason Wilcox for an exclusive 90-minute Instructor Development Seminar (IDS) at the UFAF International Training Conference!
This hands-on session will not only teach you key Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques from the brand-new UFAF BJJ Curriculum, but will also provide you with valuable insights on how to effectively present these techniques to your students. Learn advanced teaching strategies like angle management, segment breakdowns, and expert error correction to elevate your instruction.
Whether you're looking to sharpen your own skills on the mat or improve your teaching methods, this seminar is exactly what you need. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance both your personal and professional growth! |
|  | Kenny’s martial art journey began as a young boy. His dedication and unwavering focus culminated with him earning his Black Belt in CNS in 1992, under our very own legend, Grand Master Ken Gallacher.. Over the years, Kenny's passion and commitment to lifelong learning saw him delve into the fascinating realm of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in 2008. In 2022 he was promoted to Black Belt in UFAF BJJ. |
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|  | Jason Wilcox is a lifelong martial artist with over 40 years of experience. Holding a 6th Degree Black Belt in the Chuck Norris System and a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Jason combines his deep knowledge of traditional and modern martial arts with a unique ability to teach and develop effective curricula.
His background in higher education and curriculum development allows him to break down complex techniques into practical, real-world self-defense applications. |
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| Jason, having received specialized training in teaching methodology and presentation from the Gracie Family, has played a pivotal role in running Jiu-Jitsu schools and shaping teaching strategies. Today, he is integral to the growth of UFAF BJJ, excited to help cultivate a new chapter in the art. Jason is committed to deepening the roots of his UFAF family, as they embark on a Jiu-Jitsu journey unlike any other. |
| | Be the UFAF Krav Maga Reality-Based Self-Defense Expert in Your Community |
| Learn how to: Professionally and effectively start and market your UFAF Krav Maga Program to new members, students, and your community. (Quickly fill up your UFAF KM classes!)
Teach new members seeking reality-based self-defense skills for self-protection, as well as develop and instruct intermediate and advanced members/students in effective UFAF Krav Maga techniques and principles to enhance their self-defense arsenal and effectively execute RBSD skills in their CNS black belt test.
Receive and learn how to implement the UFAF Krav Maga “PROTECT” manual, which includes both Hard and Soft Skills curriculum, training drills, and RBSD teaching methods to keep your UFAF KM program energized and thriving for months.
Conduct UFAF KM specialized training workshops, boot camps, and RBSD seminars at your school/location and/or in your community, generating more members, excitement, and revenue.
IDS Instructors: Stephen Hammersley (Master H.): UFAF Krav Maga “International Training Director” / 9th degree Black Belt CNS Brandon Davis: UFAF Krav Maga “Chief Training Officer” |
|  | | Open Doorswith Chelsea Clark |
| Chelsea Clark, a 2nd Degree Black Belt in the Chuck Norris System and a 5th Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, is a product of Grandmaster Norris's Kickstart Kids Program. She is the Kickstart Kids Instructor at Meyerland Middle School and has promoted over 30 black belts.
In 2019, she founded the world's first Special Olympics Unified Karate Team, embodying her mission to advance the Inclusion Revolution by empowering martial arts schools to welcome individuals with Autism, Down Syndrome, and other needs.
Ms. Clark's seminar is titled "OPEN DOORS." It will focus on creating inclusive environments in martial arts through effective teaching strategies. Participants will learn practical tools for engaging students with diverse needs while improving their own joint health and flexibility. Chelsea will model these strategies during hands-on exercises, combining her passion for inclusion with her expertise in mobility and stretching techniques. This seminar is perfect for martial artists and instructors who want to foster inclusivity and maintain lifelong joint health. |
|  | | ITC 2025Registration Now OpenJoin us at the Rio in Las Vegas, NVJuly 17-20, 2025 |
| Register now for the ITC 2025 and secure your spot in this remarkable journey. Don't miss the chance to be part of something extraordinary. Mark your calendars and start the year stronger, bolder, and wiser!
See you at the ITC 2025! |
| | ITC Registration isNOW OPEN |
| |  | ROOMS ARE FILLING QUICKLY AT OUR NEW ITC Venue - The RIO HOTEL AND CASINODon’t Delay - Book Your Room Now!
To reserve your room click HERE. |
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| We have a block of rooms at a great discount and we don't want you to miss out on it! July 17-20 may be months away, but our room block is smaller this year and will probably fill up! After that, there is no guarantee that you will get our discounted rate!! To reserve your room click HERE. Not only is The Rio historical but EVERYTHING is fully remodeled! This iconic Vegas destination has been reborn. Critics and online reviewers agree, “The Rio Hotel in Las Vegas is BACK!” |
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Here are some highlights we think you’ll love! |
| | Rooms: · EVERY ROOM has a MINI-FRIDGE! · FULLY REMODELED! · Since The Rio was the first-ever all-suite resort in the Las Vegas Valley, every room is spacious. · The suites are 582 square feet in size, with a state-of-the-art 65-inch flat-screen TV, walk-in shower, sofa with a queen-size pull-out bed, floor-to-ceiling windows, (and as we mentioned before…a mini-fridge!). You can choose between a double queen bedroom (sleeps 6 people with the pull-out couch) or a king bedroom (sleeps 4 people with the pull-out couch). · Also, did we mention that every room has a mini fridge? |
Pool: The beautiful Pool at Rio is open daily. You have the option to use reserved seating, daybeds, and cabanas (all cabana reservations also include food and water!), or you can simply enjoy a regular pool day without all the bells and whistles. |
Entertainment: Every show featured at the Rio has won several awards. There are several stage shows (including the famous Penn & Teller magic show), but “WOW—The Vegas Spectacular” is truly a must-see. Here are some of the highlights you might like. · For ages 4+ (totally family friendly!) · Over 30 performers that “fly, flip, dance, and defy the imagination.” · 180-degree stage with 3-D projections, holograms, and a 1,000-square-foot “liquid centerpiece.” (What the heck is a “liquid centerpiece” for a stage show? You’ll just have to wait and see for yourself!). · Winner of several “Best in Las Vegas” awards, including: - “Best Production Show”
- “Best New Show”
- “Best Family Friendly Show”
- “Best Value Show"
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Food: The Rio has so many amazing and different food options, including but not limited to American, Chinese, Mexican, Vietnamese, Japanese, and Indian. The Rio’s got something for every budget. Feeling fancy? The Rio can do that. Feeling like a quick bite? The Rio’s got it. Somewhere in between? The Rio has it all! Here is a quick breakdown of the food and price ranges. · $: Wetzel’s Pretzels, Starbucks, Smashburger (all classic favorites), and Sports Deli. |
· $$: Luckley Tavern and Grill, Guy Fieri’s El Burro Borracho (yes, the Guy Fieri!), Hash House A Go Go, Attaboy Burger, Nama Nama, Tender Crush, Tony Luke’s, Shogun Ramen, Southland Burrito Co., KJ Dim Sum, Kang’s Kitchen, and Royal India Buffet. |
· $$$: Voodoo Steak (50 stories high!) and The Wine Cellar Tasting Room. |
Attractions and Experiences: · KISS by Monster Mini Golf - Glow in the Dark
- Live DJ playing lots of music from the band KISS
· Arcade · One-of-a-kind rock museum, with the world's largest public collection of KISS memorabilia! · Shopping at Shops in Rio |
**With The Rio's already low prices and our highly discounted resort fees, our group rate for the rooms this year will be lower than ever! That means you’ll have to act fast when registration becomes available. Once the room block is filled up, we can’t guarantee the same low prices! UFAF participants will also receive the following perks! · Discounted Resort Fee · Access to the Fitness Center · 2 for 1 Beverages (select outlets on property) · On property show tickets at a 50% Discount (max 2 tickets) We are so excited about this new chapter of UFAF ITC. We can’t wait to see you all again, July 17-20, 2025…at The Rio Hotel and Casino! P.S. The Rio is one of the only Vegas hotels that still has FREE PARKING! |
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