Martial arts classes give an excellent environment for children in learning essential life lessons, including valuable social skills. Kids work on getting along with each other, building relationships, and understanding one another.
Here are four social skills that children develop through martial arts:
1. Respect Kids learn to be kind and respect everyone who shows up for class. A few of the simple ways kids show respect in their classes are waiting for their turn, being polite and considerate of others, and being patient.
2. Teamwork Each student learns as an individual in a martial arts class but he or she is still part of a team. Children practice working with their instructor or a partner and should figure out how to interact in a positive way with others. Promoting teamwork through building social skills also includes encouraging and supporting other students in doing their best.
3. Accept Feedback Another valuable social skill kids learn through martial arts is the ability to accept feedback from people who are there to help. Kids must continue practicing to improve as they learn more skills with the help of their instructors, who are there in facilitating this process. But to children who are not used to getting feedback, this may sound like criticising to them at first. However, to a child who recognises that the intention behind the feedback is to help, he or she is more likely to benefit.
4. Focus Children learn martial arts skills through a small group environment where they need to stay on task and focus. They work on following the directions of their instructors and paying attention to get along with their fellow students and to learn effectively. Everyone has a chance to learn and to listen together by following along with the rest of the class. Combined Martial Arts offers a variety of martial arts programs and classes for all ages. To learn more about how to get started, contact us today.