Bullying is an epidemic that impacts children of all ages across the UK, with 40% of Year 10 pupils admitting to being bullied regularly. With most bullying occurring in schools – contrary to the popular belief that cyber-bullying is most common – it is more important than ever that your child can feel safe in their place of learning.
There are various forms of bullying that all lead to decreased self-esteem, anxiety and a decline in academic performance – these are verbal, physical and emotional. Verbal bullying is the most reported form of bullying in schools, with name calling a regular concern; two thirds of students who are verbally bullied believe it is caused by their appearance. Year 10 pupils often report being excluded from social groups which is a form of emotional bullying. Physical violence is most likely to occur in schools yet go unreported, and a quarter of children with special educational needs (SEN) experience real or threatened violence far too regularly. Shockingly, 33% of children who have been, or still are being, bullied described themselves as having suicidal thoughts due to the abuse.
With the bullying statistics at a never ending high, it is essential that your child is protected and confident in themselves both in and out of the classroom. Teaching resilience and building self-esteem will help children better cope with bullying situations.
Martial arts teach kids more than just self-defence – it develops discipline, focus and self confidence that helps them navigate difficult social situations like bullying. Enrolling your child in a martial arts class, such as karate, is an excellent way to divert your child’s attention, encourage self-esteem and release anger, all while making great friends.
Karate is compiled of traditional Japanese self-defence techniques that you can learn alongside a belt system to track your progression. New techniques and gradings allow you to earn new belts. These small, achievable goals are a great confidence boost and reminder that hard work pays off – it can really help improve a child’s self-worth. With improved confidence children will appear bolder and are less likely to be targeted by bullies at school, making them more likely to stand up for themselves.
Karate instils discipline and self-control, teaching children to remain calm in stressful situations. Many people misinterpret karate as an aggressive sport, but really it teaches you to think before reacting. Self-control is an essential part of diffusing situations, and karate can teach that critical life skill with regular practice. Martial arts also help children learn patience and perseverance – something that is needed in all areas of life.
Despite being a martial art, those who practise karate are quite the opposite of physically aggressive and are taught to always be in full control of themselves. Controlling reactions and movements, as well as regulating emotions in high-pressure situations is essential to avoid unnecessary aggression. The goal of all karateka is to de-escalate a situation verbally and to walk away, when necessary, but to also have the knowledge and skill to physically defend yourself if necessary. Understanding how other people’s body language can give away their next move allows you to manage bullying calmly, assertively, and safely.
Karate provides children with practical self-defence techniques that can be used to protect themselves in threatening situations. The skills taught are effective against all sorts of attacks, so if your child is being physically bullied, they stand a better chance at defending themself. The skills include methods of escaping grasps and chokeholds, blocks, and simple strikes to debilitate an opponent. It is important to know that all students, no matter their age, are instructed not to use these techniques unless necessary – they are encouraged to resolve conflict in non-violent and safe ways whenever possible. The phrase ‘karate ni sentanashi’ is regularly spoken in karate, especially at Simon Coope Karate School. This translates to ‘there is no first attack in karate’; it reminds students that no matter how angry they are, they should not make a physical advance on an opponent first.
Karate is made up of complex techniques and forms, called kata, which require immense focus and determination to memorise. Simon Coope karate School teaches traditional Wado-Ryu karate where there are a total of fifteen kata. The focus required to learn these kata and other techniques builds mental and emotional resilience with regular training. Consistent karate practice will see your child better equipped to handle stress, fear and anxiety as a result of bullying.
Martial arts schools create a community of like-minded people which creates a support system that can help children feel less isolated. As a number of children report feeling left out from social groups at school, a karate club is the ideal place for them to fit in and form quality friendships. At Simon Coope Karate School, all the classes are mixed age and ability so children can form friendships with children older and younger than them, as well as have the safety of adults and mentors who can function as role models for them. The importance of respect and kindness is widely encouraged in class, and you and your children are guaranteed to feel welcome from the day you step foot in the dojo.
Encouraging your child to try new things and socialise outside of school can be difficult as it is, but with a child who is experiencing bullying it is that much harder to convince them to come out of their shell. We recommend that you find a renowned martial arts club local to you that focuses on holistic development – mental, emotional, and physical. If you’re Leicestershire based, Simon Coope Karate School has numerous karate classes that are teaching children basic life skills as well as quality self-defence; see which class is near you! As well as this, Simon Coope Karate School offers family classes so you can join in alongside your child.
With bullying, it is important to create a safe and open line of communication to discuss the situation at hand. Encourage your child to share their experiences (good and bad), thoughts, fears and concerns with you and their instructor. They may take a while to open up themselves, but it is helpful for your instructor if you pass on your concerns as a parent too. The team of professional instructors at Simon Coope Karate School really care about their students’ well-being and are happy to offer emotional support to children and their parents in the event of bullying or other distressing situations.
As parents, you play a massive role in your child’s karate journey outside of the dojo. Reinforce the importance of respect, confidence and discipline at home and you will begin to see their self-esteem grow.
Being present as a parent is so important, and it is for your child’s karate journey too. Attend lessons as often as possible and consider joining in with them for a start if it eases their nerves. Watch their belt gradings and celebrate their progression regularly, even with learning new techniques and kata. Everyone’s karate journey is different, and pupils will progress at different rates – be patient and supportive of your child’s achievements no matter how big or small. Remember that the benefits of karate for kids come with time and consistent practice.
At Simon Coope Karate School, we offer a one-month free trial that gives children a fun introduction to
martial arts leicestershire. Our experienced instructors specialise in teaching kids, helping them build confidence while learning essential karate skills. With easy-to-follow lessons suitable for all ages, your child is guaranteed an enriching and enjoyable experience.
Simon Coope Karate School welcomes parents to get involved! Whether it’s through family karate classes or supporting your child, making martial arts a family activity can be a great way to bond while staying active. All the classes at Simon Coope Karate School are mixed age and ability, so you can start your karate journey alongside your child and progress through the ranks together. We offer generous family discounts following your free trial too!
At Simon Coope Karate Schools we strongly encourage kids and adults of all ages to take up karate. Our Martial arts Leicestershire classes are a powerful way to empower your child to stand up to bullies and build resilience. They’ll learn not only the physical skills for self-defense but also develop the mental and emotional strength to face stressful situations confidently—whether in school, exams, or future challenges. Give your child the tools to handle life’s ups and downs with confidence. Simon Coope Karate School offer a one-month FREE karate trial to all new members so you can come along and try it out without making any commitments.
If you’re ready to help your child grow in confidence, fitness, and focus, contact Simon Coope Karate School today to book a free trial!
FAQs for Starting Your Child’s Martial Arts Journey
Yes, karate teaches children to avoid fighting and use their skills only when self-defence is necessary. They are regularly reminded in class that there is no first attack in karate and to focus on confidence and de-escalation as opposed to aggression.
Many children experience a boost in confidence after just a few weeks of training. As they learn basic techniques and begin earning belts, their confidence will soar. It is important to remember, however, that everyone’s journey is different, and it may take your child a little bit longer to feel the benefits of karate.
Karate is a very safe sport for young children. When looking for a club, check their insurance policy and make sure all instructors have the relevant DBS, safeguarding and first aid qualifications. At Simon Coope Karate School, we have zero-contact sparring, and all of our classes are well-supervised to minimise the risk of injury.
Simon Coope Karate School offers childrens karate near me and adult karate classes at several convenient locations, including:
With multiple venues, it’s easy to find a class near you that suits your schedule. Book a free karate trial now!
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