Is Your Child Considering Martial Arts? Select The Right School
When deciding to select a martial arts school for a child several things should be considered
. Why are you entering the child in martial arts? Do you want exercise for the child? Does the child enjoy sports and this is another extension of that enjoyment? Do you want your child to learn self-defense?
These are questions that should be answered prior to participating in a martial art program for a child. Entering children in martial arts schools should be done because the child wants to participate, not because you as a parent want them to. If they are a willing participant they will receive from the martial art program what is intended and purposeful for them. Do not live vicariously through your children.
When reviewing what is available in your community for schools, ask if your child had a particular style of martial art in mind. At this time the more well-liked and admired methods include Judo, Jiu Jitsu and Tae Kwon Do. This will help in making certain they will have an interest if they choose what method of martial art they would like to be in.
Its a terrific idea to view some classes. Children may have in mind what the activity is. However, the actual visual aspect of the martial art class provides them with the reality of the activity. Most good schools have observation and will allow you to view classes. Ask if you can visit with the instructor, after all, this person will be instructing your child.
Ask prepared questions of the instructor. What is the ratio of instructors to students?
It is critical that you and your child are willing to invest the time and costs involved in this pursuit. Reaching a Black Belt status, even for children, can take up to 5 years.