- Discipline and Self-Control
With our increasing reliance with modern devices (phones, tablets. Xbox, etc.), children have a lot more opportunities for distraction. I know of one personal instance where a 6 year old had 2 tablets and a smartphone and was waiting on a replacement. What in the world does a child need with all of that? With so many diversions, it’s easy to understand why so many children are diagnosed with mental conditions, and are generally anxious and or agitated. Taekwondo training gives children a chance to cultivate focus in mind and fitness in body; to remember how to be in their body and settle and gather their mind.Taekwondo training also instills a sharp sense of discipline both personally and socially.
- Confidence and Self-Respect
Bullying is a social concern for all of us to be aware of and deal with openly and honestly. Many times, bullies and the kids they bully are both lacking in confidence and self-respect. Usually the bully builds his or her confidence by damaging others. Usually the bullied child is too lacking in self-respect to stand up for themselves or alert an adult.With Taekwondo training, students are challenged to come out of their shell, given praise when earned and accomplished, and taught to treat others like they would like to be treated; with respect and courtesy.
- Fitness of Body and Mind
You are probably sitting down reading this right now. We sit around too much. Kids sit around even more, wrapped up in various games and devices. There are more app requests and hours logged on Facebook than spent outside moving and breathing.If we were only concerned about physical fitness, any children’s sport would be sufficient. However, we strive to improve body and mind.This is where Taekwondo training is uniquely suited to help young children grow into well rounded great people.
- Strength in Adversity
Eventually everyone is challenged mentally or maybe even physically sometime in their lives. Some of our defining moments usually follow these events. Do I back down and just quit or do I fight through and solve the problem, finish the job, etc.With Taekwondo training, especially Taekwondo sparring, students are directly challenged and must learn to face adversity without quitting.The trick here is they are challenged in a safe and controlled environment where they have room to grow, even if they don’t get it the first time, second time, etc.
- Respect for Others
The last piece on this list is one of the most important qualities to learn. Martial arts are a great way to learn about life in a smaller and more controlled environment. Sometimes your child will make friends in class. Sometimes your child will find someone they don’t like training with. Sometimes you child will say or do something helpful or hurtful.This social interaction and the events that follow (praise and/or discipline) teach them basic interaction and social skills.These are the important life lessons that they will keep long after they outgrow their dobok.
Of all the things a child may take home from Taekwondo (a good time, a new belt, shiny medals, etc.) these 5 things are what matter most. Ultimately martial arts are a wonderful method for what we all strive to do; become better people.