Children's Wing Chun Kung Fu
There are many reasons and documented benefits for young children to begin training in Martial Arts. Sifu Lou provides a Fun & Safe training environment where their efforts are rewarded and they have opportunities to make new friends. Below are some of the known benefits and information for parents who may be trying to decide if Wing Chun is right for their children.
Training Benefits For Children
1. Fostering Self-Discipline – One of the central tenets of all forms of the martial arts is an absolute focus on self-discipline. Today’s children are accustomed to receiving instant gratification. Lessons in self-restraint and discipline aren’t always easy to come by. However, children with a martial arts background are continually reminded of how essential self-discipline is.
2. Boosting Socialization Skills – Children who don’t thrive in social environments may find it easier to make new friends when they’re in a room with peers who share a common interest. The kids on the playground may not always have much common ground, but devotees to the martial arts are able to get to know one another through shared pursuits. Partner-driven forms using Chi Sao and Kung Fu drills can also foster camaraderie, as they force kids to pair off and build their skills together.
3. Encouraging Physical Activity – Limiting screen time is a great idea when it comes to getting kids off the couch and encouraging them to be more active, but it only goes so far. Enrolling inactive children in such a physically demanding pastime not only discourages a sedentary lifestyle but also gives them an enjoyable activity that inspires them to keep moving.
4. Increased Self-Esteem – Confidence comes with achievement, so your child’s self-esteem level will get a boost with every new move they master and every belt they earn. Children 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.
5. Instilling a Sense of Respect – Learning any martial arts style will require your child to show their instructor unflinching respect. Today’s culture doesn’t always include respect for authority, adults or those in advanced positions. When children go to their martial arts class, they will receive constant reinforcement of acceptable behavior, respect and self-discipline.
6. Encouraging 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.
7. Improving Listening Skills – In order to master their Kung Fu skills and advance through the belt ranks, your child will have to use superior listening skills. Kids who aren’t always adept when it comes to paying attention to what they’re told can benefit from the verbal instruction and one-on-one work in their school.
8. Improvement in Other Areas of Life – The benefits of martial arts training don’t end in the school. The boost in confidence, increased fitness level and new cooperation skills will also help children navigate the academic and social aspects of school, affect their behavior at home and have an all-around good influence on them as they develop into adulthood.
