In a culture that seems to glorify violence in everything from music to video games and television shows, the idea of enrolling your child in martial arts may seem like something you would not want to do. While martial arts-centered action films seem to be filled to the brim with violent behavior and gory injuries, you may be surprised to learn that martial arts training is highly beneficial to kids. Every program is different, and you need to do your research for the right school for your family. Here are 10 reasons why you may want to consider martial arts training for your kids.
- Fostering Self-Control – One of the tenets of all forms of martial arts is an absolute focus on self-control. Today’s kids are so accustomed to receiving instant gratification that lessons in self-restraint and discipline aren’t always easy to come by. Kids with a martial arts background, however are continually reminded of how essential self-discipline is and they’ve seen the benefits of having it.
- Boosting Socialization Skills – Kids who don’t always thrive in highly social environments may find it easier to get to know people and make new friends when they’re in a room filled with peers who share a common interest. The kids on the playground may not always have much common ground, but martial arts kids are able to get to know one another through shared pursuits. Partner-driven exercises foster camaraderie where “courtesy” is the guideline.
- Encouraging Physical Activity – Limiting screen time is a great idea when it comes to getting kids off the couch and encouraging them to be more active, but it only goes so far. Enrolling an inactive child in such a physically demanding pastime not only discourages the sedentary lifestyle but also provides an enjoyable activity that inspires kids to keep moving.
- Learning to Set and Achieve Goals – Most forms of martial arts are based around an accomplishment system of colored belts that signify the wearer’s degree of skill. When your child strives toward each new belt, he/she is learning valuable lessons about setting and reaching goals.
- Increased Self-Esteem – Confidence comes with achievement, so your child’s self-esteem level will get a boost with every new move mastered and every new belt earned. Kids who struggle with a low sense of self-worth usually become more confident as time progresses while they’re enrolled in a martial arts class. One of my adult students said recently that kids need to develop self-compassion. They are so hard on themselves sometimes. She is right. Martial arts is based on positive reinforcement.
- Instilling a Sense of Respect – Learning any martial arts style will require your child to show unflinching respect. Today’s kid culture doesn’t always include respect for authority, adults or those in advanced positions. When they go to martial arts class, kids learn about respect for themselves and others.
- Encouraging Non-Violent Conflict Resolution – Thinking that martial arts instruction promotes violent behavior is justified if your only experience with the activity comes from television or movies. In fact, many defensive styles teach kids peaceful, non-violent conflict resolution skills and emphasize the importance of avoiding a physical altercation.
- Improving Listening Skills – To master the skills being taught and advance through the belt ranks, your child will have to exercise superior listening skills. Kids who aren’t always adept when it comes to paying attention to what they’re told can benefit from the verbal instruction and one-on-one work in martial arts class.
- Developing Teamwork Skills – Whether breaking boards to get a new belt or sparring in a practice setting to master a new maneuver, there are few things that your child does in his/her martial arts classes that will be done on his/her own. Working together to learn new things and accomplish goals is an important life lesson for kids to learn. Instruction in martial arts can help your child learn that lesson.
- Improvement in Other Areas of Life – The benefits of martial arts training don’t end in the dojang. The boost in confidence, increased fitness level, and new cooperation skills will also help your child navigate the academic and social aspects of school, affect their behavior at home and have an all-around good influence on them as they develop into an adult.
If you’re still concerned about encouraging violent tendencies or teaching your child to fight, it may be helpful to visit a few dojangs/gyms in your area. Speak with the instructors, administrators, and other parents to get an idea of how things operate. You may even find that training is the perfect activity for your entire family to do together!