Why Kids Need Martial Arts

Ernie and I have been teaching Ju Jitsu for almost 5 years now. I enjoy teaching kids, it's fun to watch them learn and enjoy what they are doing.  There are moments when you see the techniques just "click", it's like a light switch goes on and they just get it. Those are my favorite moments. Another great moment is watching my students compete and do well in their fights. Even if they don't win, it's a great moment when they achieve something and the work we've put into them pays off.

There are so many things about martial arts that are great for kids. It's too bad that a lot of parents don't like to put their kids in it because they believe it promotes violence. That is very unfortunate because that's not what martial arts is about.  There are so many great life lessons that can be taught on the mats other than how to "beat people up".  

I know for myself and all the instructors that I know, we do not promote violence and bullying.  A few times a year, we have a talk with our students about Ju Jitsu and that it is not to be used to bully others.  We encourage our kids if faced with a fight provoking situation, they need to walk away. That being said, if they are stuck in a situation they cannot walk away from, then they should use their skills for self defence only! I never want to hear about someone getting into a fight because Tommy called them a name at recess; but if Tommy threw the first punch and they couldn't get away, then I hope that person can defend.  Bullying is a real and rampant problem for kids. I've read that one in three kids are bullied, that makes me sad.  I can't help but think that if more kids took martial arts, maybe it would help. Speaking from personal experience, if a person has the ability to stand up for themselves, then it gives them more confidence when confronted by a bully. It doesn't mean they will fight, but it's good insurance if they need to, they have it.  

One thing I hear about martial arts from my Ju Jitsu parents is they love the discipline.  I freely admit that I am a strict Sensei and so are the other Sensei's I know who teach kids.  The way I see it, I am teaching a form of combat. It is not something to be taken lightly and goof around about. I have high expectations for respect and discipline and I hold my students to those standards.  In today's world of free range, lack of discipline parenting, it is so important that  kids learn appropriate manners from somewhere. If the students are being disrespectful or not listening, there are consequences.  As a Sensei, I am there to teach, I'm not their buddy, I am their teacher.  I am to guide them and I take my role seriously.  I demand attention and respect at all times during class.  I read an article on martial arts and kids with ADHD.  The article discussed that the level of strict discipline in martial arts is beneficial and I agree. I expect the same respect and listening from one kid as I would another; ADHD or not.  

As kids are taught to respect me as a teacher, they are also taught to respect other students.  When working with others I encourage them to work together. They are all learning and from personal experience, it's very frustrating when you want to learn and your partner is being a noodle head.  I tell my students to act for their partner the same way they would want their partner to act for them.  

Not only is martial arts about behaving and respect, but it's also about working on ones self. It's an individual sport rather than a team sport where the student has to push themselves to succeed. Team sports are very important for kids to learn dynamics of working with others. However individual sports like martial arts are also beneficial for kids who need to learn how to self motivate.  If they slack off and don't practice, then they hurt themselves and no one is there to help them. I can teach kids and talk all I want, but if they don't put in the work, then they don't succeed.  However, for those kids who do put in the work and try their best, they will get a boost of confidence and satisfaction.  Whether it's getting their next rank or a medal at a tournament, it teaches them if they work for something, they can achieve it and do great things. 

Martial arts is great for kids. It should be started at an age where a child can handle a one hour class; six seems to be a good age. It teaches hard work, discipline and respect. It's a life long sport that can be carried on as they get older. 

     This one made me laugh!