TO DECIDE which discipline would suit your child, visit several different classes. High-contact disciplines such as judo are unlikely to suit shy children. Karate is good for the very young as they can progress quite fast, which boosts motivation. Joe Ellis, the chairman of The National Association of Karate and Martial Arts Schools, recommends sticking to one of the eight traditional disciplines which have been around for hundreds of years: judo, karate, jiu jitsu, tae kwon do, aikido, kung fu, tang soo do, and kendo. He also advises that children should not be trained in actual combat, and that parents should avoid classes which offer to do this.

When you have decided on a discipline, make sure that the instructor is properly qualified and insured: ask to see certificates of competence and insurance (the latter must relate to the specific venue and include third-party insurance).

Watch a class to see how the instructor gets on with children — do they seem to be enjoying it? Trust your instincts. If you are not allowed to sit in, be suspicious.

Once your child has started, wait for four weeks to assess their progress before you/they decide whether to continue. Children can start as young as four, depending on insurance, although some instructors prefer to take them at about seven, when they can concentrate better.

Contact the National Association of Karate and Martial Arts Schools website www.nakmas.co.uk for descriptions of the different disciplines; tel 01227 370055 for classes in your area.
www.kidscape.org.uk has a section on self-protection

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