In 2004 we recognized a program for children with special needs. The M.A.S.S.T.E.R® (Martial Arts Social Skills Training for Excellence in Relationships) Program was started to build social skills using martial arts as a format.

Children love martial arts because it is empowering and because they get to work directly with an adult midnight blue (black) belt, who to them is a Superhero.
So they listen intently and learn.

The M.A.S.S.T.E.R® program is designed to address social skills issues to teach children what behavior is expected of them; to show why it is so very important; and to train them to use these skills so they can live a more normal social live.

Children aged 7-12 living with autistic spectrum disorders, Asperger's, social skills or communication deficits, chronic emotional, physical or developmental disabilities and who are high functioning and mobile are candidates for this program.

The program is taught by Master Jillian Alvas, a licensed ESE teacher and Master Level Instructor in our school; and is overseen by a licensed family therapist, Dr. Gerald Gluck, Ph.D. The results have frequently been spectacular.

“My son is autistic. I put him into one program after another to try to help him relate to others. The MAASTER program has been far more effective than anything else I tried, and I tried them all. Matthew is now getting ready to test for his midnight blue (black) belt.”
- Catherine Mulinari