Can Martial Arts Help a Child Who Is Being Bullied?

Finding out your child is being bullied is painful. Many parents look into martial arts, hoping it will help their child feel stronger and safer. It can, but probably not in the way most people imagine. The biggest benefit usually isn't fighting back. It's confidence.

If your child is being bullied, martial arts should be one part of the plan, not the whole plan. Talk to your child's school, document what's happening, and get support from a counselor if your child is struggling.

• Confidence and body language. Kids who stand tall, make eye contact and speak clearly are less likely to be targeted. Martial arts practices all three in every class.
• Using their voice. Many programs teach kids to set boundaries loudly and firmly: "Stop. Leave me alone."
• Staying calm under pressure. Training regularly in a controlled setting helps kids stay calmer when something stressful happens.
• Real escape skills. Kids learn how to get out of grabs, holds and being pushed down, and how to get away and find an adult.
• A new group of friends. A supportive class can be a safe place where your child feels they belong.

Grappling arts like Brazilian jiu-jitsu and judo are often recommended for bullying because they teach kids how to control a situation and escape without punching anyone, which also keeps kids out of trouble at school. Many karate and taekwondo schools run strong anti-bullying programs too. Ask any school how they teach bullying prevention. Read Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Good for Kids?

• Avoiding and walking away from conflict first
• Using words and a strong voice to set boundaries
• Getting help from a trusted adult
• Physical self-defense only as a last resort to get safe
• Never using martial arts to bully someone else

Be cautious of any school that encourages kids to "teach the bully a lesson." That can get your child hurt or suspended.

Some kids feel more confident after just a few weeks. Real self-defense skill takes longer, often months of regular practice. Two classes a week is a good start.

• Keep notes on dates, what happened and who was involved
• Contact your child's teacher, counselor or principal
• Ask the school about its bullying policy and safety plan
• Watch for changes in sleep, mood, appetite or school performance
• Reach out to a counselor or your pediatrician if your child seems anxious or withdrawn

Ready to start looking? Browse kids' martial arts schools by city in Colorado, Nebraska and Texas, then book a trial class at two or three schools near you.