Kids Need... Self-Esteem
by Sensei Matt Dorsey of Martial Arts America
How a child feels about themselves is one of the most important factors in how they manage themselves in the world. Kids with low self-esteem don't make friends easily, don't raise their hand in class, and don't try out for the school play or sports team. That low self-esteem can stay with them as they grow up.
Parents would do well to assess their child's self-esteem and help them improve it by introducing them to activities and opportunities that can make them feel empowered, worthy, and fulfilled. When a child feels success, acceptance, and encouragement, they are more likely to continue an activity, improve their skills, and gain self-esteem from their accomplishments.
Martial arts training (karate, jujitsu, judo) is a perfect activity for building a child's self-esteem. New students are not expected to perform difficult moves. Instead, they are brought along slowly and carefully carefully guided to learn the correct movements and positions as they develop a foundation for later skills.
Over time, martial arts students are challenged to learn more difficult and complex moves and routines and are awarded a new belt when they achieve their next level. This progression system bolsters a child's self esteem by giving them early successes and tangible rewards. Imagine the self esteem of child who, after 4 - 5 years of martial arts training, ultimately earns their black belt - that child believes, rightly so, that they can accomplish anything to which they set their mind. Self-esteem is the key.
Sensei Matt Dorsey is the owner and head instructor of Martial Arts America.
He’s been training in martial arts for over 45 years and holds a 9th degree black belt in Isshin ryu karate, as well as a 2nd degree black belt in Iaido (Samurai sword) and a 1st degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. He also has experience in jujitsu, kali, tai chi and other martial arts.
His passion for teaching children and adults led him to open his first dojo in 1980 and he’s been a professional martial arts teacher (including teaching our publisher, Debra Ross!) ever since.
This article is part of a series. Follow the links to read Sensei Matt's articles on goals and focus.
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