While learning the martial arts is beneficial of all age groups, the most dramatic results are almost always visible in children. Confidence development begins during the early years, when a child begins to develop a sense of self. The more time invested into cultivating a positive self-image, the greater the success. Even a very shy child can learn to become confident in his ability to tackle new situations both in the dojo and in everyday life.
Learning the martial arts will help develop self-discipline and socialization skills. In fact, many parents whose children have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) report great success with these programs because self-control and concentration are exactly the skills that are underdeveloped in ADHD kids.
The kids learn respect, whether from bowing or from standing still and waiting for the next command. This can be the most important benefit of martial arts for your kids. Research shows that it often carries over into school, helping to improve behavior and even academic performance.