6 Benefits of Martial Arts for Kids with ADHD
If you’re a parent of a child with ADHD, you may be looking for ways to help them focus and stay on track. One option that you should consider is martial arts. Martial arts can provide many benefits for kids with ADHD, including improved focus, discipline, and self-confidence.
First of all, let’s start with getting a better understanding of what ADHD is and how it affects those who have it.
ADHD stands for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and is one of the most common mental disorders in children and adolescents. Symptoms include difficulty staying focused and paying attention, difficulty controlling behaviour, and hyperactivity (over-activity).
People with ADHD often find it difficult to do things that other people find easy. They may be described as forgetful, fidgety, restless, or disorganised. In addition, they may also have difficulty getting along with others or following rules at home or school. They might also be easily distracted by external stimuli such as sounds around them.
Other symptoms may include sleep problems, short temper and irritability, poor social skills, and low self-esteem. Although these symptoms are normal behaviorally, they are more severe than usual.
The exact cause is unknown but it is thought that genetics may play a role as ADHD tends to run in families. Brain chemistry and the environment (such as smoking or drinking during pregnancy) may also contribute to symptoms. It can sometimes be triggered by events such as head injury, birth complications, neglect, abuse, or other major stresses.
According to neeuro, it is estimated that 10 million Indian children are diagnosed with ADHD annually. ADHD may be associated with other difficulties such as conduct problems and learning disabilities, which can have a detrimental impact on social development and relationships. It usually continues into adulthood where relationships or work can suffer without appropriate treatment.
Diagnosis of ADHD is based on observations of your child’s behaviour patterns through reports from parents and teachers. Some children with ADHD can pay attention and may appear not to have any problems at all. Others may be easily distracted or impulsive, making it difficult for them to cope in school or other social settings.
If your kid is diagnosed with ADHD, he or she will need to follow a treatment plan that might include medication, psychotherapy (to help you deal with behaviour, anger, and emotions), counselling (if low self-esteem or relationships are affected), and coping skills training.
Here are 6 benefits of martial arts for kids with ADHD:
1. Improves focus and concentration
The first benefit of martial arts is that it helps your child to improve their focus as well as their ability to concentrate. This is because children in a martial arts class are encouraged to pay attention during the practice sessions. If they do not, they will not receive any rewards from their instructor or coaches. In addition, people with ADHD also have a difficult time sitting still. With this in mind, try finding a discipline that involves movement.
Martial arts involve kicking and punching, which will help your child burn off excess energy while improving coordination at the same time!
2. Increases self-esteem and builds character
Martial arts can help your child to gain self-respect and appreciation for others. Our sense of ‘self’ affects our relationships and how we interact with others, through elements such as; trust, respect, and fairness. Martial arts schools are places where children can develop these important qualities in an environment that is safe both physically and emotionally.
3. Self-control
Parents have reported that their kids tend to be more obedient after participating in martial arts classes. This is because they have become better at listening closely during instruction which will help them follow rules both inside the dojo (training hall) as well as outside of class!
4. Healthy Nutrition
Many parents and teachers have said that children who practice martial arts often eat more healthily and maintain a healthy weight. This is because they are encouraged to stay away from sugary snacks and drinks while learning the importance of eating right for good sports performance.
5. Social Benefits
Martial arts particularly help children with ADHD to develop their focus, self-discipline, and coordination out in the real world such as on the playground or the streets. They also learn how to effectively interact with others, thus enhancing socialisation skills which will be useful when playing games at school or with friends. Finally, martial arts schools usually require students to wear a uniform so they can easily make new friends just by wearing a common outfit!
6. Confidence Building
Lastly, if your child is shy and has trouble making friends, martial arts can help to boost their confidence. This is because they will learn how to push themselves when practising new moves or challenging themselves in a sparring session. In addition, your child’s instructor should also know what techniques work best for children with ADHD – especially if your child takes medication- so make sure to communicate the situation when signing up for classes!
In conclusion…
Kids with ADHD could have a difficult time in life dealing with their focus and impulses. Martial arts schools provide a good outlet where they can take advantage of several benefits that will improve both these conditions while teaching them valuable skills such as self-discipline and respect. Since martial arts schools are places that encourage healthy lifestyles, kids will also learn about the importance of good nutrition and how to cope with bullying. Finally, schools provide a social space where kids can make new friends while also building confidence which will allow them to do well in school.
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Knots & Collar is a fitness and martial arts studio for children and adults that teaches self-defense and improves focus, as well as discipline, through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. If you want to know more about our classes or have any questions, feel free to connect with us via our Contact Us Page!