God has created all of us to be unique individuals! Wow, is that a mouthful!

As children grow, they tend to be labeled as "good kids" or "troublemakers". As teachers, it is very important that we resist the temptation to only work with the "good kids" because they are easier and more responsive. In fact, it is the other group of kids that really need our support because they already know they are different and trying to figure out how they fit in. Of course, I am talking about kids that have ADD or ADHD.

Growing up, I seemed to always have someone in one of my classes that could never focus or was always fidgeting around. Their attention span was really short, like they were bored out of their mind. Of course, I do remember some teachers in my middle school and high school that seemed to specialize in making you want to take a nap!

Today, that same child who bores easily and doesn't pay attention is usually diagnosed with ADD or ADHD. I don't know if it is our environment or not, but ADD and ADHD appear to be growing at an alarming rate! I see more families with one or more of their children having to deal with this issue. And this issue is not just for boys either. Girls are being diagnosed as well. Many of these children have a severe enough case that they are medicated. As teachers, we need to help them channel their seemingly boundless energy into a positive way that helps them build their confidence and self esteem.

One of the activities that can help a child suffering from ADD or ADHD is the martial arts. Yes, karate is a wonderful activity for these children. The nature of this sport involves a cardio and strength workout which burns a lot of calories and more importantly, burns a lot of energy that these kids usually have - particularly when they have had to sit through school all day.

But unlike other sports, the martial arts is more than just getting fit. It is about building character and discipline - the kind of discipline that requires focus and tuning out distractions. Of course, good discipline is just one segment of building character. Our students are expected to be loyal, honest, hard working and respectful.

I have personally worked with many children who have ADD or ADHD and it is important that they understand there are rules and certain expectations for behavior. However, rules and behavior expectations don't mean children can't be excited in class or not allowed to have fun! What makes the martial arts interesting is having the ability to learn how to kick and punch with power and accuracy, develop good blocking techniques for self defense and yes, have fun competing with other students to "do your best"!

In fact, many of my students that have ADHD tend to be more effective martial artists. They have an intensity that allows them to excel. Occasionally, they lose focus, but it doesn't take much to bring them back - usually 10 push ups will help them focus. But instead of feeling like they are being punished, I remind them that they are not only building a strong mind, but a strong body as well. Of course, it helps to compliment them when they do their push ups well!

So, next time you are wondering what you can do to help your child deal with ADD or ADHD, please consider the martial arts and the many benefits that it has to offer. Just be sure to find an instructor that is caring and passionate about your child; with the ultimate goal of helping your child be a success inside and outside the dojo!

Remember, we are all unique individuals! Wow!

Samurai Karate Studio is located at 2000 Clemson Road, Suite 9, Columbia, SC 29229.  You may find out more about us by visiting our website at www.samuraikaratestudio.net.