"Why are they playing games instead of practicing more martial arts?"

Okay, but seriously seriously - Why Classes End with a Game

(and Why It’s Backed by Brain Science)

If you’ve ever watched one of the Kids classes and thought: 

"Why are they playing games instead of practicing more martial arts?" — 

You’re not alone.

And you’re not wrong to ask! But here’s what most people don’t realize:

At 360 Defense, our end-of-class games aren’t a break from learning — 

They are learning.

Games are one of the most powerful child development tools we use. And when designed intentionally (like ours are), they strengthen the brain, support emotional growth, and create powerful connections between kids, instructors, and peers.

Let’s break down the science behind why we end every class with a game— and how that’s a game-changer for your child’s development.

1. Games Trigger Brain Chemistry for Learning

When children laugh, smile, and connect during a SKILLZ game, their brains release powerful chemicals known as D.O.S.E.:

- Dopamine (motivation & reward) 

- Oxytocin (connection & trust) 

- Serotonin (emotional balance) 

- Endorphins (joy & relaxation)

This “brain cocktail” is the perfect recipe for deep learning and retention. A child who ends class happy is more likely to return excited, engaged, and ready to grow. I know I'm not the only parent who has had to "debate" with their daughter about YES, they are going to class tonight...(especially because I'm mom, not "Coach Kayla" to her!)

2. Games Reset the Nervous System

I'm sure you've needed some time to decompress after work/appointments/meetings/grocery shopping etc. Children (and grown ups!) cannot absorb new information if their nervous system is dysregulated. 

Games help transition kids out of "fight-or-flight" mode and into a calm, connected state of learning.

We intentionally use the end of class to lower stress, regulate emotion, and anchor success — so every student leaves feeling empowered and balanced.

3. Games Build Social & Emotional Skills

Games at 360 Middletown aren't just about movement — they're about relationships.

Whether it’s learning patience while waiting a turn, navigating friendly competition, or practicing good sportsmanship, our games support key life skills like:

- Teamwork 

- Self-regulation 

- Communication 

- Conflict resolution 

These are the skills kids need beyond the mat — and SKILLZ programs helps build them through playful, structured interaction.

4. Games Boost Retention & Application

What’s fun, novel, and emotional is what sticks. That’s neuroscience 101.

By ending class with a positive game experience, our students are more likely to remember and apply the martial arts techniques and life skills they learned earlier in class.

We’re not just teaching punches and kicks. We’re creating memorable, brain-friendly lessons that last. Martial arts is just the way that helps us do that!

5. Games Create Positive Associations with Learning

According to the Peak-End Rule in psychology, people remember the final moments of an experience most vividly. 

That’s why we aim to end every class on a high note.

We want kids to walk out the door feeling:

- Successful & Supported

- Sweaty & Smiling!

- Excited to return 

This fuels long-term motivation, commitment, and passion for learning — both on and off the mat.

Not “Just a Game” — It’s Brain Training Disguised as Fun

Here’s how a few of our favorite games support cognitive growth:

“Four Corners”

Targets Response Inhibition. Kids must listen, move with intention, and stop without being seen — all while staying quiet and focused.

“Pirate Dodgeball” or "Horse-Stance Tag"

Builds Divided Attention by requiring students to track movement and make split-second decisions while navigating the game.

“Speed Ball”

Enhances Visual Processing and Attention Control in fast-paced team dynamics.

That's just a few!

This Is Why the SKILLZ Program Works - and why we are implementing it to improve our Kids Program!

At 360 Defense Middletown, we believe the best learning doesn’t just happen through structure — it happens through connection. When a child ends class smiling, laughing, and feeling seen, that’s not just a good day… it’s good brain development. It’s confidence. It’s belonging. And most of all, it’s the kind of experience that keeps kids coming back, week after week, with a love for learning and a belief in themselves that lasts a lifetime. If you have seen or train in our adult classes, we apply the same principles to that program as well.

Let the fun begin — the science will follow. 💙