Beast Blog

Kung Fu for Kids in El Cerrito

We normally don't cover El Cerrito, but this submission sent to idea@beastblog.com was too good to pass up:

Parents need an after school program that picks the children up from school, a program that has a generous and flexible pick-up time, provides homework assistance, has leadership/teamwork training, offer fun activities sure to keep the kids smiling and a daily Kung-Fu lesson.  Yes, you heard right, Kung Fu  . . . you know, martial arts?

Parents can find all this at Kung Fu USA Afterschool Program, located at 10557 San Pablo Ave. in El Cerrito, this program opens its doors to local kids from 5 years and up, Monday through Friday from 2 to 6PM.  The program is run by Sifu Toshgian (Tosh) Stone, Owner and Head Instructor of Kung Fu USA.

“They don’t just do Kung-Fu here, they have lots of fun activities that keep my kids excited,” states Rosalind Welch, mother of three children ages 10, 7 and 5 currently enrolled in the program, “In fact, my kids insist that they can’t miss one day.  They have no problem missing a day of school, but start kicking and screaming if you even suggest missing one session of this after school program. It’s amazing.”

“We’re their extended family,” Sifu Tosh says in response, “their second home.  Children should be delighted to come home each day.  We make sure that this is what they experience here.”

The program . . .

Students are picked up from the local public and private schools in Richmond/El Cerrito area, upon arrival the children reverently bow at the entrance of the studio, they change into their traditional Chinese Kung Fu Uniforms and quietly greet Sifu Tosh Stone and Sifu Tenoch Cebreros respectfully before beginning homework. After homework is completed, the children embark on several exercises that develop leadership and teamwork skills.  Lastly, they are given a full Kung-Fu lesson. Before dismissal the children are given respectful words of encouragement from Sifu Tosh.

The instructors Sifu Tosh (awarded East Bay Guardian’s Best Martial Arts Instructor in 2003) and his assistant Sufi Tenoch Cebreros (a trained child-care professional), emphasizes teamwork, discipline, control and respect in a safe, nurturing yet challenging environment.

“We are not here to house kids, hold them or store them until the parents get off work.” Sifu Tosh Stone emphasizes, “This program is a conscious effort to make kids better people through discipline, physical movement, thoughtful contemplation and achievement.  It’s exciting to see young personalities grow into confident young people as they overcome the challenges in learning the “art” of Kung Fu.

The details . . .

Kung Fu USA emphasizes 8-Step Mantis Style Kung-Fu, an ancient Northern Chinese style of martial arts.  Students receive internationally recognized grading and certification. The studio is located in El Cerrito at 10557 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito, half a block from the end of Moeser Lane.  Children are transported from their school to the facility by “A Car 4 Kids” a local business in partnership with Kung Fu USA.

Kung Fu USA also provides classes for adults, teen, and kids.  They also provide private lessons.
Parents are encouraged to call and inquire about this unique program; there are still a few slots open in the after-school program.  Pricing schedules and family discounts are available. Parents interested in more information or wish to enroll their children in the after school program, should contact Sifu Tosh Stone at (510) 558-9528.