What age can children start martial arts?
A quick answer to that question is that
martial arts is a suitable activity for children as young as three years of
age. Can Do Martial Arts offers KickStart, a specially created class designed
to positively develop children's confidence along with their physical
coordination, strength and agility, and help improve mental focus and
discipline.
Exploring the science of children’s brains
There is a theory that for a child to find
a love of an activity, such as reading or sport, they need to be exposed to it
and enjoy it before the age of six. This is because of the way the brain
develops.
‘From age three, a child’s brain begins a
phase called ‘synaptic pruning’. This is a period in a child’s life where the
brain becomes more efficient and more complex through refining the networks
that were formed during the first two years. Connections that are least
relevant to the child’s environment are lost, while those that are important
grow more efficient and complex.’ Save
The Children
It stands to reason then, that this is a
fantastic age to introduce new concepts, through play.
Martial arts for children under eight years
We say, ‘through play’ because it should be
understood that the type of movements and physical stress older children and
adults can safely put on their bodies is not suitable for a child under eight.
A child’s body between three and seven
years of age is still developing and changing in shape as the skeleton grows –
a right or left-handed preference isn’t even decided until around four or five!
But a three old’s physicality and energy is
such that they want to use their bodies, explore new activities and often
appear ‘fearless’ when it comes to meeting new people and trying new things.
And at three years old, Save The Children
says, ‘A strong relationship with a parent or carer gives a young child the
confidence to explore the world.’
‘I can really highly recommend in
particular the KickStart class that both my children have attended since they
were 3. The Sensei’s work really hard with the children and take the time to
focus on each child. I’ve seen both of my children’s confidence grow through
their participation.’ V Glanney
KickStart martial arts for 3 to 6-year-olds
Many martial arts clubs accept children
from five years, some from eight, but Can Do Martial Arts understands the
benefit of introducing the arts as young as three.
In KickStart classes students wear the
black Gi and a martial arts belt, and we do activities such as mini obstacle
courses and circuits using rope ladders on the floor, balance pads and small
balls. We also have a lot of fun using our bodies in different ways to travel
across the mats. See more in the KickStart video.
If you’d like to introduce your child to
martial arts through KickStart get in touch to arrange a free trial class. We
look to welcoming you into the Can Do family.