FOSTER SELF-DISCIPLINE

One of the central tenets of all forms of martial arts is an absolute focus on self-discipline. Today's kids are so accustomed to instant gratification that lessons in self-restraint and discipline aren't always easy. However, kids with a martial arts background are continually reminded of the importance of self-discipline.

Ara is a shy turtle. Before joining the Panda classes, he usually just stayed in his shell. Now, he is making new friends and loves to do his forms nice and slow. His favorite move is a knife-hand strike.

BOOST SOCIALIZATION SKILLS

Kids who don't always thrive in highly social environments may find it easier to get to know people and make new friends in a room filled with peers who share a common interest. The kids on the playground may not always have much common ground, but devotees to martial arts can get to know one another through shared pursuits. Partner-driven training can foster camaraderie, forcing kids to pair off and build their skills.

Baeoh is the funniest tiger ever. He has a big heart and loves to laugh. He is everyone's friend but sometimes lacks confidence. His favorite move is a side kick.

ENCOURAGE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Limiting screen time is a great idea for getting kids off the couch and encouraging them to be more active, but it only goes so far. Enrolling an inactive child in such a physically demanding pastime not only discourages the sedentary lifestyle they're used to but also gives them an enjoyable activity that inspires them to keep moving.

Cheeri is the hardest worker in the class. Even though she always makes straight A's, she always tries hard to get better, maybe too hard. Her favorite move is a round kick.

LEARN TO SET AND ACHIEVE GOALS

Most forms of martial arts are based around an accomplishment system of colored belts that signify the wearer's degree of skill. When your child strives toward each new belt, they learn valuable lessons about setting and reaching goals.

Raon is the biggest one in his Pandas class. He is very strong and a great athlete. Although he always means well, and sometimes he leaps before he looks. His favorite move is the reverse punch.

INCREASED SELF-ESTEEM

Confidence comes with achievement, so your child's self-esteem will get a boost with every new move they master and every belt they earn. Kids who struggle with a low sense of self-worth usually become more confident as time progresses while they're enrolled in a martial arts class.

Suri comes from a big family of big eagles. He is small for his age and sometimes tries to act bigger than he really is. He always goes too fast but is working on slowing down. His favorite move is a jump front kick.

INSTILL A SENSE OF RESPECT

Learning Songahm Taekwondo will require your child to show their instructor unflinching respect. Today's kid culture doesn't always include respect for authority, adults, or those in advanced positions. When they go to their Songahm Taekwondo class, though, your child will be learning lessons in respect along with new moves.

Choa is a rare phoenix. She is very pretty and likes it when the other animals do things for her. She is learning to do things for herself, and when she does, she is awesome. Her favorite move is a double knife hand block.

ENCOURAGE NON-VIOLENT CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Thinking that martial arts instruction promotes violent behavior is justified if your only experience with the activity comes from television or movies. In fact, many defensive styles teach kids peaceful, non-violent conflict resolution skills and emphasize the importance of avoiding a physical altercation.

Mir is a super smart dragon. He might not be the most coordinated, but he tries really hard. He is learning to control his strength. His favorite move is a spinning hook kick.

IMPROVE LISTENING SKILLS

Your child will have to exercise superior listening skills to master the skills they are being taught and advance through the belt ranks. Kids who aren't always adept at paying attention to what they're told can benefit from verbal instruction and one-on-one work in the classroom.

Narsha is the nicest cobra you ever wanted to meet. Even though she doesn't have any arms or legs, she is one of the best Pandas in the class. She always works hard but keeps a smile on her face. Her favorite move is a tail strike.

DEVELOP TEAMWORK SKILLS

Whether they're breaking boards to get a new belt or sparring in a practice setting to master a new maneuver, there are few things that your child does in martial arts classes that they will do on their own. Working together to learn new things and accomplish goals is an important life lesson for kids, and martial arts instruction can help your child understand that lesson.

Baron is the highest rank in his Pandas class. He is a great leader; he just doesn't know it yet. He is always willing to help, and his favorite move is a palm strike.