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Fighting Back
Children in Martial Arts Save Lives
By Tenna Perry
These were not random occurrences or isolated events. The threat of abduction, molestation, rape and death are very real threats to all children in every part of the country, and parents need to remember that both male and female children are at risk. As a parent, it is our responsibility to provide protection for our children, but regardless of how vigilant we may be, there are always times when we aren't going to be close at hand.
So what can a parent do to help protect their child when they are at the mall, out walking with a friend or waiting for the school bus? Simple, encourage them to enroll in a martial arts program and learn at least the basics of self-defense. Of course, a major issue in this is finding the right martial arts program for both you and your child.
When asked for advice on choosing a martial arts school for children, Grand Master Sandy Tomaselli (8th degree black belt) of Dragon's Den Karate in Humble, Texas, who is also a member of the Harris County Precinct 3 Constable's office, gave these tips:
- Call and find schools that are willing to give students a few free lessons. This will give an opportunity for both the parent and the child to observe the martial arts style and the teaching methods of the instructors.
- Attend various styles in this manner. There are hundreds of different martial arts styles, and no one style is suited for every possible student.
- Avoid schools that require
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