As a parent of three energetic kids—Mackenzi (9), Nolen (7), and Carson (5)—and a martial arts instructor, I know firsthand how important control is for children. Whether it’s managing emotions, staying focused in school, or handling challenges with confidence, self-control is a skill that shapes their future.
What Is Control?
Control is the ability to regulate thoughts, emotions, and actions. It helps kids make good choices, stay calm under pressure, and resist distractions. In martial arts, control allows students to perform techniques with precision, respect their peers, and push through tough training. But beyond the dojo, control is a life skill that sets the foundation for responsibility, discipline, and success.
Why Is Control Important?
- Emotional Regulation – Kids experience big feelings. Learning to pause, take a deep breath, and respond instead of react is crucial in friendships, school, and family life.
- Focus & Discipline – Whether it’s finishing homework, listening in class, or practicing a skill, control helps kids stay on track and build perseverance.
- Impulse Management – From resisting the urge to blurt out answers to making safe choices in everyday life, control helps children think before they act.
- Respect & Relationships – Controlling words and actions teaches kids how to interact with others in a kind, respectful way, strengthening friendships and social confidence.
How Can We Teach Control?
As parents, we can reinforce control in simple yet effective ways:
- Model It – Kids watch how we handle frustration, decision-making, and discipline. Showing control ourselves is the best lesson.
- Set Clear Expectations – Define rules and boundaries, like waiting your turn to speak or finishing a task before moving to the next activity.
- Practice Through Play – Martial arts, sports, and even board games help children practice patience, self-discipline, and emotional regulation.
- Encourage Breathing Techniques – Teaching kids to pause and breathe before reacting gives them a powerful tool for self-control.
- Praise Progress – Celebrate when they show control, whether it’s handling a disappointment well or staying focused on a task.
At Believe Martial Arts, we integrate control into every class, helping kids grow stronger—not just physically but mentally and emotionally. Teaching control now sets them up for a lifetime of success, confidence, and resilience.
What are some ways you encourage control at home? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
