Self-defense classes can be beneficial for children’s safety, but finding a balance between teaching safety without scaring them is important. Parents can teach preliminary self-defense, and experts recommend classes for children aged 6-12. Instructors should be vetted, and parents should take refresher courses. Child-friendly resources are also available.
Most parents are deeply concerned about their children’s safety which is why many are now considering enrolling their children in self-defense classes. However, some parents feel that these classes can create unforeseen problems for their children. Children attending classes may worry more than necessary or feel insecure or distrustful of others. The key is to find classes that strike a healthy balance between teaching a child how to be safe without scaring them. When a child should get one varies with the individual child.
Some parents find that they prefer to teach preliminary self-defense to their children. This should include teaching a child what to do if separated from a parent in public and teaching them not to approach people in cars and not to talk to unfamiliar adults, among many other subjects. Unless a parent is a martial arts instructor with a very calm personality, teaching a child how to fight an attacker isn’t going to be easy.
Many child safety experts recommend that children between the ages of 6 and 12 take classes. Even older kids, above 12, should get a new one for a refresher and for more practice. Realistically, a theory-based lesson can only take a child so far. Practicing the moves for fighting an attacker increases the chances that he will remember what to do if attacked.
To increase parental comfort in the material presented, instructors are usually able to allow parents time in advance to review the material. Some classes are even offered for whole families, which can be a great way for a family to be more aware of risky behaviors and children’s safety in general.
Be wary of self-defense classes where material isn’t readily available or when an instructor won’t answer questions regarding the course. Anyone with some knowledge of child protection knows that you shouldn’t allow an unknown person to educate your children, and teachers should be especially aware of this. Parents may also want to get advice from schools, local police stations or other parents. This can help them explore the many options children have to choose the best ones.
If your child is enrolled in a kids-only self-defense class, consider taking a refresher class yourself. A single course is not a shield from attacks or a guarantee that a child will not be approached by a harmful person. Learning and practicing in front of your kids can be a great role model for your kids. Also, discussions about security issues should be ongoing, instead of a one-time event.
There are many ways to teach a child basic safety if he or she isn’t ready to join a class. These come in the form of child-friendly videos or brochures provided free of charge by many child protection organizations. This can help you start conversations with your kids about safe behavior.
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