5 Ways to Build Strong Character in Kids

Helping children to build a strong character will shape who they are, and who they become. More than simply teaching children street smarts, character development is a core part of early childhood growth that influences values, beliefs, and ultimately, behaviour. 

Martial arts training has long been regarded as one of the best ways to build strong character in kids from as young as 4 years of age. A recent 2021 study by Frontiers in Pediatrics showed that children who took part in regular martial arts practice developed significant improvements in self-control, anger management, and self-esteem.

If you’re looking to build a strong sense of character in children, here are 5 ways in which martial arts training can help. 

1. Character Development System 

Martial art training for children is quite different from training for adults - there’s a greater focus on the teaching of character values such as honesty, respect, and discipline. The culture of martial arts is steeped in personal values, creating an excellent medium for firsthand demonstration. For example, as part of each martial arts session, children are taught to show respect to both their peers and seniors, not just in terms of fellow practitioners, but individuals.

Some martial arts providers take this further to allocate sections of time during training sessions to educate children on the importance of certain character values. At UMF Academy, we are the exclusive provider of the #1 Character Development System, which is proven to help children build strong character and identity.

2. Social Interaction

Children shape their identity and character based on social interactions with others — positive interactions can encourage growth, while negative interactions like bullying can cause children to become more unresponsive to character building.

Martial arts training takes place in groups, offering lots of opportunities for positive social interaction. Instructors foster an encouraging environment where students can build more confidence.

3. Structured Training Sessions 

Parents familiar with the concept of routine know how it can help children develop greater self-control and discipline. Similarly to how home schedules are beneficial for your child, the structured form of martial arts training sessions helps to build character over time as they grow.

4. Challenges and Goals

Character is best built when it is stretched and tested. With martial arts training, children are encouraged to push themselves both physically and mentally toward their goals. Along the way, children may encounter frustration or setbacks, which serve as opportunities to exercise resilience and try again. Instructors carefully design challenges that are achievable with the right amount of effort and guide students along the way toward success.  

This mirrors similar challenges that children will face in future, whether in their studies, relationships, or employment.

5. Learning Together

Parents play a huge role in building strong character in their children — you are their primary role models after all! We encourage parents to get involved with their child’s martial arts training, whether it’s by attending sessions to support from the sidelines or joining a martial arts training program themselves! Sharing an interest in learning the same skill gives you opportunities to bond over common struggles and achievements. 

If you're looking for a way to help your child develop strong character and valuable life skills, martial arts training could be the answer. As Townsville’s best martial arts provider for kids, our programs are designed to go beyond technical training to include character development and personal growth.