It’s important to teach kids life skills that they can carry with them for years to come. Karate has many benefits for people of all ages, especially kids. Children who take martial arts lessons from six to 11 can help them learn to handle bullying, teaches healthy fitness habits, encourages discipline to help develop good study habits, and teaches kids respect and non-violent conflict resolution.
Five Ways Your Child Benefits with Martial Arts
1. Bullying
Bullying is an ever-increasing problem that kids encounter at school every day. More and more children face bullies and must learn a way to cope with the stress associated with bullying. Children that learn martial arts understand the importance of avoiding physical conflict unless it is absolutely necessary. They also will learn the necessary skills so that they have confidence to deal with bullies.
2. Health Benefits
It has become common knowledge that children today are not as active as they once were. With the advent of computers, iPads, and cell phones, most kids prefer to be entertained electronically. Having a physical activity to keep them entertained can help develop a sense of balance between the real world and the cyber world. Karate helps kids stay active and healthy, both physically and mentally.
3. Discipline
It’s important for students to have the needed discipline to focus on homework and skills when they are in school. This critical time period is a great time to introduce a skill like karate. Karate can release energy and be fun for kids, while teaching discipline at the same time. The discipline and focus involved helps students in all aspects of their life, and they learn a sense of balance in all things.
4. Respect
We expect our children to respect us, their teachers and any other adults they may come in contact with. karate, along with discipline, teaches that respect and so much more. It also teaches the respect of one’s self, and property. Learning to respect your surroundings and what you have been given can give a child a sense of gratitude and help them to lead a life of balance and peace.
5. Conflict Resolution
Learning to handle conflict situations in a non-violent manner is a critical skill for young children. Karate emphasizes having total control over one’s body, mind, and spirit. This control helps children to understand patience and be willing to resolve conflict in a peaceful manner. Hopefully, with karate skills, students will feel safe and confident in their own abilities, while at the same time, be capable of controlling their anger.
Keep in Mind
Karate is a great choice for kids as a hobby or extra-curricular activity. They learn many needed life skills and it gives them a sense of well-being and accomplishment. Giving karate a try may just be the first move to a successful, productive life-long pathway for your youngster to walk down.