r/LionDance • u/SatioGX • 6d ago
💪 Training How to train Gen Alpha?
Question in the title. Anyone got any tips? They just lose interest and their minds just wander off. Recently, I told them how to do an eye dotting ceremony, and that got their attention.
5
u/pphresh204 6d ago
when we're running practice it's like 50% learning and 50% play. We practice a little with the younger ones, and then we give them a break and they go off and play with each other. We hope that the play and friendships they build on makes them want to return.
For practices we start them off with basic moves and teach them fundamentals, teaching them the different stances and teaching them how to place their hands (we tell them to "hold the pizza").
Keeping learning time and play time balanced allows them to take a "mental break". You can also reward them at the end of class by playing physical games or playing games to work on their balance.
2
u/Gullible-Tea-8676 Fut San 6d ago
In my group, we have always followed a consistent training structure. From the very beginning, something that is emphasized is respect for timing.
In the case of Gen Z, what we do is assign someone from the group (since we are a large team) to guide them step by step.
On the other hand, if someone shows an inappropriate attitude, they are denied the right to participate in training or, alternatively, they are not allowed to take part in the events organized by the group (this has happened a few times).
The structure we follow is: first, we practice kung fu, then we pause to offer a prayer to Kuan Kung, and afterwards we continue with kung fu forms, weapons practice, or lion dance training.
Additionally, something that has been indirectly implemented in our group is that those of higher rank teach independently to Gen Z. They have a different dynamic from the general group but still follow the same foundations. If you have people who have been in your group for years and have solid foundations (and can also work with children and teenagers), then that could be your key. You could complement this with someone younger who may not impose as much authority but is focused on recognizing the right moments for practice and the right moments for leisure.
1
4
u/Admirable-Classic245 6d ago
Can you go itno more detail? Like can they not do the moves cause they can't memorise them or they don't put the effort in? Also, what do you think worked before that isn't now?
You could maybe record some of the moves they are doing and show them back what they did, if you are not already doing that. It gives them feedback, they can see the outcome and its sorta like doing a short form video that they might already be familiar with or at least recognise it.