Teach Your Children to Finish What They Start

Martial arts training builds character. Self-confidence, esteem, and perseverance are benefits that are connected with learning the arts. To receive the benefits of training, you or your child must participate in classes regularly.

Keep in mind that the good habits your child develops now, tend to stick with them as adults. So, if your child learns to overcome obstacles, and finish what they start now, chances are they’ll do the same as adults.

Here are some tips you can use to help teach your child to finish what they start:

1. Talk to your child about the value of achieving something that they work hard for and not giving up when the going gets tough.

2. Motivate your child by complimenting them on what they do correctly rather than what they do wrong. Focus on the positive.

3. Remind your child about a time in their life that was tough, where they stuck it out and succeeded in the end. Tell them you have  faith in them.

4. Communicate with your child’s instructor often about how your child is doing, and let them know if you see any lack of motivation. The instructor can team up with you to re-motivate your child.

5. Make up games and give a reward to mark progress. For example: Each time your child can demonstrate something they learned in class at home, give them a point. Once they earn 20 points, give them a prize or reward such as getting to stay up late, or seeing a movie. 

New activities are always exciting but enthusiasm can subside when things get tough. That’s when children want to give up and quit. Help your child ride out the tough spots and model perseverance. Teaching your child that success is up to him/her early in life is a powerful lesson that will help them a lifetime.