We all worry about the safety of our children in an uncertain world where danger lurks around every corner and we may feel inadequate to provide them with the necessary training for self defense. The question is how can I help my child to develop the skills and the judgment they need for adequate self defense and safety?
The first challenge is to help your child learn to distinguish the difference between situations that require simple safety measures and those requiring skills in self defense. The following are a few tips for helping them to know the difference:
- Teach your child to believe in their own instincts, or “knowing” about any situation. If something doesn’t feel safe then assume that it isn’t and act accordingly.
- Help them to learn to be aware of their surroundings and the people around them at all times. If you don’t know what’s going on around you it’s not possible to make clear decisions about how to stay safe or to defend yourself when necessary.
- Provide them with the opportunity to develop the skills and the physical strength they need to feel, act and be confident in their ability to physically defend themselves if necessary.
Martial arts training is a good way to help your child to develop all of these skills and attitudes about personal safety and self defense.
The classes and progressive training are all designed to teach them to memorize behaviors and information they need to promote safety. To be alert, to be confident, and to properly use the self defense techniques they might need to fight back to protect themselves when necessary.