Building Family Bonds
One of the greatest gifts families can give to one another is spending time together. Quality time strengthens and builds family bonds. It also provides a sense of belonging to everyone in the family. Research has shown that when families enjoy activities together, children not only learn important social skills, they also have higher self-esteem as well as strengthening parent-child communication.
Martial arts has always been a great way to improve focus and discipline in children as well as improving academic performance, and teaching your child how but be a good friend. But, when families participate in classes together those results are magnified.
Parents who are participating in martial arts along with their children are not only learning self-defense and physical skills; they are learning how to help their children reach their own goals. They are gaining the ability to help their children practice at home which becomes another opportunity for your family to connect. And, when your family shares in a learning experience together it strengthens your relationship.
As a parent, you play a key role in cultivating and protecting these family bonds. But, building strong family connections doesn't always happen naturally. In our hectic everyday lives, it can take a conscious effort to carve out time for your family. Martial arts offers an opportunity for your family to take part in an activity that your children will love, and that will offer substantial benefits for you as an adult. In addition, taking part in an activity that involves other families will strengthen your own family bonds and help you see how your family members interact.
Remember that your children and teens learn by example. The best way to set a positive example for them is by placing high value on the family.
When you use an opportunity like martial arts training to set goals as a family together, you are demonstrating not only that you value the family, but that you value them individually as well. There is no greater gift that you can give your family—and no better way to strengthen your family bonds—than by making your family a priority.
-Master Aaron Sailors
