CHOOSING A SELF DEFENSE / MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL: A PARENTS GUIDE“Daddy, I want to take Karate!” “Mommy, Jimmy on
bus hit me again today”
There are many reasons why parents want to sign their children up for Self Defense or Martial Arts classes. Once you have made decision, now you are faced with many different options and questions. What style? How much does it cost? Is my child to young?
Martial Arts and Self Defense Styles
There are as many different styles of Martial Arts as there are religions in world. You have probably heard of Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Jujitsu, and even Aikido, but there are still numerous styles and offshoots of Major styles.
So what Style is Best and what style should I choose?
In reality, it is this author’s opinion that style of Martial Arts your child will learn is not that important. What is important is method of teaching and training that your child will undergo. With Martial Arts training your child should learn self-discipline, self-respect, and self-esteem, along with confidence and ability to defend themselves.
The Instructor, (or Sensei) is key. I suggest that all parents visit several locations with there children to observe Instructor at work. Make sure you visit a beginner’s class as well as an upper level class. The beginner’s class is where your child will start.
Does instructor’s personality and philosophy match your morals and ideals? Does class participate in any “Eastern Religious” practice that doesn’t match your faith? Do you want your child viewing this instructor as a role model? Most children will look up to their Martial Arts & Self Defense Instructors as role models and will be in awe of their skills and abilities. Make sure that this person who will be dealing with your children matches your values.
It is also important to view an upper level class. The beginner classes are usually very tame, and teaching philosophy is tailored to a younger audience. However, older student is, “real” teaching and training methods are put into effect. You may feel comfortable with how instructor “teaches” younger beginning students, but may not be comfortable with how they handle older students.
Cost The majority of Martial Arts & Self Defense Locations (or Dojo’s) run their business on a membership basis. Customers must sign contracts, where they are obligated to pay for a certain time period to participate. The locations are run like a gym membership, you pay for a certain length of time and may participate as often as you desire.
