Creative Discipline: Martial Arts Programs for Children

Images of the martial arts in popular culture from books to movies to competitive sports help drive children's imaginations. Introducing children to the study of martial arts can provide an exciting way to instill the values of discipline, goal setting and self-defense in a safe, controlled environment.

There are a wide variety of martial arts practices from karate to taekwondo. It's important to visit the school and observe the classes: the instructors and class format are much more important than the individual techniques that children are taught.

One important aspect of martial arts is the physical training required. Some schools require a high level of intensity, while others are more relaxed; make sure that the level of fitness required is compatible with the type of class that your child is interested in. Make sure that proper safety is practiced at every level of engagement both to limit any small injuries and to teach important lessons. No matter what level of intensity, you should look for a studio that puts self-defense first and teaches composure over aggression.

Any individual sport is competitive, and the martial arts are no exception. Children earn colored belts as they progress to higher and higher levels of learning. When you children begins, he or she will be a white belt. A professional studio will utilize higher belts as mentors to beginners, developing a healthy source of cooperation across age groups and skill levels. To ensure you child gets the most out of the programs, you'll want them to be able to progress at their own pace. Belt progression can provide a sense of accomplishment and mastery, and allow your child to decide whether they will chose to approach the sport as a source of recreation or advance to competitive martial arts.

When you child is starting out, try to find a martial arts studio that teaches multiple forms so that they can find the methods they enjoy most. Taekwondo largely focuses on forms and techniques, developing tactical skill and muscle memory, while karate focuses on self-defense techniques and Judo focuses on competitive sparring. Children often develop an interest in multiple forms of martial arts, which can reinforce each other and developer a broader understanding of the underlying methods. Martial arts can provide a creative way for children to learn both self-discipline and develop a sense of pride in their level of physical fitness.