Yes, parents/guardians are expected to stay and watch classes their children are doing. This is for several reasons, and once laid out, I'm sure most everyone can agree how important it is for parents/guardians to watch classes.

First, being a kids-only dojo, all of our students are minors. This means parents/guardians need to be present to ensure a necessary level of supervision. Even though instructors are present and in charge of classes, there may be situations that could require a child's custodian such as an emergency. Though we're thankful we've never had to deal with emergencies/injuries that require outside help like an ambulance, we know in sports, there's always a potential for this.

More likely, minor boo-boos can happen that require washing and/or treating with band aids or ice packs. Children will definitely want their parent/guardian around for this support.

Then, there's a need for parents/guardians to ensure children do not leave the building unsupervised before or after classes. My other instructor, my son Sensei Ronin, and I are often talking before and after classes with families. This means every child needs to be supervised because our attention could be diverted.

Another common issue that we have requiring a parent/guardian to be present is to do with bathroom time.

Even though we stress to take care of this before class, there are times when children need to go to the restroom during class, or in the case of our preschoolers, need a diaper change.

Our older students, ages 4-12, are better equipped to handle their restroom needs 'solo' but there are many who need adult assistance with cleaning up, putting their shoes on after leaving the mats and then removing them before returning (a hygiene requirement), and other things.

Instructors are busy instructing and can't stop class, leave the other students on the mat alone, and then assist with bathroom needs for one. This has actually happened once where one of us had to leave the mat to help a student with bathroom needs because the parent had left, and I'm sure everyone can understand how disruptive this is.

Besides all of these issues that make it necessary for parents/guardians to be on-site with their children, there's another thing to consider that is just as important in my experience as a martial arts kids instructor.

Children benefit both emotionally and in their martial arts progress by having their parents/guardians watching on the sidelines. Parents may not realize just how needed their presence is.

Let me be clear: children thrive having their parent/guardian support. Parents/guardians watching and cheering them along is irreplaceable. Children internalize that support.

It's also helpful because watching instruction means parents/guardians are better able to help their children practice at home- because they know what's being taught.

Therefore, for safety, practical issues, children's emotional well-being, and best learning/training practices, it's necessary for parents/guardians to stay and watch their children at Karate classes.