Exercise is great for every kid. But children with learning and attention issues can have a hard time finding a sport or physical activity that suits them - they may not have the social or physical skills to participate on a team; they may not have the coordination for activities like skating or ballet; they may find it too hard to follow rules; or they may be bullied or left out.
Many families discover that martial arts are an excellent option. Read on to learn about what martial arts are and why they can be a good fit for kids with learning and attention issues.
Martial arts are an ancient practice from Asia. They were originally meant for self-defense. Today, lots of people practice martial arts as a way to build physical and mental strength. There are many different forms of martial arts. Some, like Tang Soo Do, karate and tae kwon do, focus on striking and blocking. Others, like judo and jiu-jitsu, focus on wrestling and grappling. All use deliberate and repetitive motions and emphasise the connection between mind and body. Many parents believe the benefits of martial arts are more than just physical for their kids. They say martial arts can help to improve kids’ self-control, attention and other executive functioning skills. There is some research supporting this, however, most studies have been done on schoolchildren in the general population - Few have focused on children with learning and attention issues. There’s also no solid evidence showing that martial arts can be a substitute for medication and other treatments for learning and attention issues.
What Martial Arts Can Offer Children With Learning and Attention Issues
There are lots of reasons martial arts can be a good match for kids with learning and attention issues. Here are nine potential benefits:
They focus on individual growth, not on team competition. Many kids struggle with the pressure of having to compete with other kids. So traditional sports may not appeal to them. However, in martial arts, the focus is on self-improvement. There’s no “letting down the team.”
They offer concrete, attainable goals. Some kids may feel like they never “win” at anything. In martial arts, kids work at their own pace. They’re awarded a different colored belt every time they reach a new skill level. This can boost self-esteem and keep them motivated.
Routines are broken down into manageable chunks. A technique or form in martial arts can have dozens of different movements, but kids learn gradually, repeating and adding steps as they go. They learn to anticipate which step comes next and eventually put everything together into fluid movements. All of this gives working memory a workout, but in a way that kids may find manageable.
They emphasise self-control and concentration. Attention is central to martial arts. Kids must stay focused to learn and to perform. When a child’s focus drifts, instructors will often ask them to take the “ready stance.” This position allows them to reset and ready themselves for what’s next.
They can help with coordination. The deliberate, repetitive movements of martial arts can help kids develop a better feel for their body in space, which can be useful to kids who struggle with motor skills. This may also help some kids understand the power of the mind over the body, which some find to be valuable for kids with ADHD.
They provide structure and clear expectations for behavior. Good martial arts instructors have clear rules and constantly reinforce them. They also emphasise good behavior in and out of class. Some even send kids home with behaviour charts or workbooks that their parents must sign.
They can provide a safe outlet for excess energy. Contrary to what some might expect, martial arts don’t encourage violent behavior. In fact, instructors often emphasise that fighting is a last resort. At the same time, kicking and striking can allow kids to work out frustration or anger, while also practicing self-control.
The environment is accepting and communal. Respect is a core value in martial arts. Students are expected to show it for their instructor and their peers. Negativity is generally not tolerated in class, and students are encouraged to support each other.
They’re just plain cool! Kids can often feel awkward or socially out of the loop. But lots of kids think martial arts are cool. It’s hard not to feel special when you’re wearing martial arts gear and breaking boards in half.
What to Look For in a Martial Arts Class
Your neighbourhood may have classes for many different kinds of martial arts. Before you sign on, meet with the head of the club. Be honest about your child’s challenges. Explain what you’re hoping they can get out of the class. We believe, for the best experience, the school you choose should:
Take a traditional approach that focuses on character development.
Provide a pre-evaluation so the instructor can assess your child’s strengths and challenges. You can also see if your child and the instructor are a good fit.
Have a good student-to-teacher ratio If there are too many students, your child will not get the individualised attention they need.
Have experience teaching kids with learning and attention issues.While it’s important for instructors to push students, they should also be supportive and understanding about your child’s challenges.
Martial arts provide a great opportunity for your child to develop higher self-esteem, find community and experience success.
Key Takeaways
Martial arts focus on engaging the mind as well as the body. They emphasise respect, self-control, focus and individual achievement. The type of martial art you choose for your child is not as important as a club's approach to instruction.
(Original article published on the understood.org website)