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Martial Arts Proven Beneficial for Individuals with Autism

A recent and growing trend that has provided many benefits for children on the autism spectrum involves their engagement in karate and other martial arts.A 2010 research project conducted by the University of Wisconsin physical therapy department confirmed what parents were already reporting – in the course of learning martial arts, children with autism essentially came out of their shells and grew more socially assertive and cooperative. They exhibited better balance and motor coordination, eye contact improved and play skills were further developed. Greater self-esteem was also reported, with the added bonus of these kids being able to defend themselves, if need be.
Karate and martial arts assist kids on the autism spectrum with the ability to concentrate and focus their attention in a consistent and highly structured environment. Additionally, parents find that new skills carry over into home and at school. The release of energy in a safe and ritualized environment can bring a child to a new sense of calm. Friendships are formed around a shared activity and that sense of belonging can be the greatest reward of all.

If contemplating martial arts for your child, it’s always good to consult with his or her doctor prior to beginning any physical training. Observe the class before committing your child to it. It should be small and solely for children with autism, at least initially. Higher functioning children may be able to integrate into regular classes immediately. Confer with the instructor about your child’s needs and make sure you feel you can successfully partner with them.

Once your child is underway, have them practice at home in a no pressure environment and offer encouragement and reinforcement for the moves they have already learned. A demonstration for siblings or other relatives will also go a long way in building confidence and self-esteem.

Martial arts offers therapeutic rewards and parents will enjoy the fact that their child can participate in activities that other kids take for granted. And with summer fast approaching, it just may be the perfect activity to consider.

Signs your Child is a Victim of Bullying

At Endeavour we pride ourselves in being able to combat bullying and help children grow in self esteem and confidence which in turn will give them the mental tools to become bully-proof. 

Here are the signs to spot as a parent if your child is becoming a victim 

1. Comes home with torn, damaged, or missing pieces of clothing, books, or other belongings.

The less reasonable your child’s explanation, the more likely bullying is involved.

2. Frequent headaches or stomach aches, feeling sick, or faking illness, especially in the mornings.

This could either be to avoid the bullying or as a result of the bullying. Typically, it’s both.

3. Changes in eating habits.

Skipping meals, unable to eat meals, or binge eating. Kids may come home from school hungry because they did not eat lunch.

4. Difficulty sleeping, frequent nightmares, or complaints of headaches.

Processing the abuse can take a toll even when sleep should provide rest and healing.

5. Declining grades, loss of interest in schoolwork, or not wanting to go to school.

Simply put, it’s tough to concentrate on anything else when anxiety is working in the background.

6. Loss of friends or avoidance of social situations.

Victims often lose the few friends they have. Other kids don’t want to be associated with victims or they’re afraid it’s “catching.” Victims seldom become “loners” by choice.

7. Feelings of helplessness or decreased self-esteem.

This may include anxiety-based behavior and self-destructive behaviors such as running away from home, harming themselves, or talking about hurting themselves.

8. Generalized fear.

Your child may seem afraid of going to school, walking to and from school, riding the school bus, or taking part in organized activities with peers (such as clubs).

9. Appears sad.

Not just sad, but moody, teary, or depressed when he or she comes home. A huge part of this is that he or she won’t talk about what’s wrong.

10. Begins to bully other children.

This is a disturbing sign that’s often a natural consequence of being bullied. Victims may begin to take it out on siblings or weaker friends and become aggressive and uncooperative with their parents.

Let’s help make our children confident, proud and focussed Young Champions! Spot the signs and work with us to build your child towards and happy, healthy and awesome lifestyle !!  

 

Fitness for kids.SHAPING THE FUTURE

Why is exercise or physical activity important for my child?
Just like in adults, increased physical activity has been associated with an increased life expectancy and decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. Physical activity produces overall physical, psychological and social benefits.

Inactive children are likely to become inactive adults.
Physical activity helps with:

improved psychological well-being, including gaining more self-confidence and higher self-esteem 

How do I promote physical activity in my child?

Physical activity should be increased by reducing sedentary time (e.g., watching television, playing computer video games or talking on the phone).

Physical activity should be fun for children and adolescents.

Parents should try to be role models for active lifestyles and provide children with opportunities for increased physical activity.

What if my child is uncoordinated or overweight?

All children, even less-coordinated ones, need to be physically active. Activity may be particularly helpful for the physical and psychological well-being of children with a weight problem. 
Why Martial Arts is the best choice for fitness.
It’s fun. No parent wants to drag and unwilling child to a sport or activity. Martial Arts classes are exciting, easy for most kids and with a very extreme cool factor.   
Martial arts is an individual sport with a team atmosphere. No one sits on the bench.
Classes are effective because they are 45 minutes long and increase in intensity so kids will reach a high level of intensity and fitness. Just what doctors are recommending.
The goal setting and awarding of belts for progress makes this a long term activity.
Parents love the benefits of increased self esteem, courage, self protection, patience and courtesy.
Parents can support and watch classes. Other parents may choose to take lessons as well.

Graduation Awesomeness!!

Wow what an amazing and inspiring Graduation & Blackbelt Presentation. We had students from 4years upwards celebrating all their hard and work and success. 

The Diamond Live Lounge was a perfect setting for our graduation with all the students having their time to shine on the stage! 

A huge well done, thank you, you rock & awesome job to every member of the Endeavour Family who helped make the event special; students, parents, families, Blackbelts, instructors !!!