"Martial arts, especially those styles that originated in Japan and Okinawa, are based on the premise of respect and 'do no harm,'" says Joyce Roberson, a martial arts expert and author of the "Karate for Kids" column. "Contrary to the visual perception of karate being a violent sport, the premiere dictate of this sport is nonviolence above all else."

Martial arts in the movies may not offer a true indication of what the "sport" teaches children and adults as well. Allowing your child to receive martial arts training is not opening up a door to violence, it is opening a door to building a solid foundation of self-esteem and confidence. "Students learn that respect for others, as a priority, naturally leads to a respect for self," says Roberson. "This wonderful philosophy is often at odds to what our young people learn here in the United States. We have become obsessed with the 'me first' mentality which often leads to emotionally unhealthy young people."

Shotokan, with its wide sweeping blocks and kicks, provides nicely for these age-appropriate deficits. The very young can quickly and easily master the basic moves of this sport, which in turn increases their motivation to continue." Sports participation, regardless of the sport, is one way children can learn valuable lessons with life-long benefits. Karate, as a sport, teaches self-discipline, builds self-esteem and a level of commitment, which may otherwise not be there. Maybe those turtles are on to something. "Karate, more than any other sport, is a life-long process. When kids click with this sport, it will follow them into adulthood. It can become a way of life, as these kids continually challenge themselves.
Joyce Roberson author of the "Karate for Kids.

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