Can your child protect themselves?
As parents, the thought of your child being hurt by a predator is unpleasant and frightening. It is crucial that your child is taught how to protect themselves against child predators. This is just as important as everyday safety measures like wearing their seatbelt. By teaching your child how to avoid possible dangers and threatening situations, you will be empowering them to protect themselves in any circumstances that you are not there to protect them. Kids’ karate classes in Sydney at Pollet’s could be the key to unlocking their confidence and ability to stand up for themselves.
Information and statistics on bullying and stranger danger
Martial arts is one of the best choices a parent can make to prevent their child from becoming a victim of bullying. One in four school children in Australia are victims of bullying according to research conducted by the Australian Federal Government. Bullies often pick victims who they think are easy targets because they appear unsure of themselves, weaker or easily scared. Children who are bullied are three times more likely to show depressive symptoms, says the Centre for Adolescent Health.
Bullying should not be accepted as ‘a normal part of growing up’, it can be damaging and have long term consequences. All children have the right to feel happy and safe. Unfortunately bullying is the fourth most common reason young people seek support from children’s help services.Further research shows that children as young as three can become victims of bullying.
Research conducted by South Australia and Victoria State Governments’ specifies that bullies often target:
- The small and young who cannot easily defend themselves
- Those who react quickly by getting upset and crying
- Children who are not ‘sporty’ and do not perform well at school
- Those who are socially anxious or shy.
