DO YOU HAVE A SHY KID?
We at Dreadnought BJJ Academy feel that Martial Arts is a good combination of an individual sport and a team sport. When you’re on the mat training you’re working with other people. However when you actually apply what you’ve learned it becomes an individual sport. It’s a good combination of both worlds.
We see kids all the time that come in and we go to give them a high five or ask them what their name is and they will hide behind mom or dad. That’s when we know that they are shy.
All children experience shyness at some point in their life. However, for some children, shyness can be debilitating. It can rob them of the opportunity to have a proper childhood and leave them feeling like outcasts which can lead to even more serious mental health issues.
If your child has a hard time participating in social activities, Martial Arts can help him/her get out of their comfort zone. With lots of practice and plenty of encouragement from you and your child’s instructors/coaches, your shy child will become more open to making new friends and trying new things.
Here’s a couple of tips we like to give parents to help their kids when they’re shy.
Tip#1: Let your child know that it is ok to be shy. Especially when they’re coming into a new environment. Martial Arts is already a bit intimidating.
Tip#2: Set goals. Taking small steps such as trying to make eye contact, when maintaining that eye contact for a couple of seconds. Or a first bump with someone. Little steps like these will help them work their way to becoming less shy.
Another question that we get that accompanies being shy is.. what is a good age to start Martial Arts? Here at Dreadnought BJJ Academy we start kids off at the age of 4. We feel like that is a great age for kids to be able to be in a classroom environment and understand the rules of the class. In this environment they will be able to learn the social skills they need as well as learning what’s expected of them in class.
When you’re looking for a Martial Art or activity, make sure that it’s geared toward their age group. You don’t want your 5 year old with the 12 year olds. They most likely won’t flourish or be outgoing. For example, at our Academy we keep kids within their age groups. Little Squids ages 4-6; Kids BJJ ages 7-14; Teen BJJ ages 15+. This way they’ll flourish and come out of their shell a little easier and maybe even a little quicker.
So, if you feel your child is a little on they shy side, and you’re interested in them trying Martial Arts we’d love to have you come in and check us out and let’s see if Martial Arts can help.
To learn more about our Kids Martial Arts Program call our Academy at 580.699.DBJJ