Back to school Checklist - Bully Prevention

The number one reason for enrollment in the past few years has been a growing
problem with bullying in the schools. This has been brought to our attention by
the parents that are actually aware. We are sure there are parents that do not
even know it is happening.  Why is there an increase in bullying occurring?  For a number of reasons, and today is our first step in making sure of
two things. First, that the bullying stops, and second that if a child is ever
faced with this type of situation, he or she will know how to react!

When we look at the type of children that tend to be bullies it is
very clear that they are children who lack self-confidence. Hence, they take
their anger and frustrations out on someone else. This not only happens to
children at school, it happens in relationships, work and sports, as well. The
reason it happens is because these individuals lack self- control. Every one
has a bad day, or goes through a bad stretch in life, but those who have self
control, are able to channel their anger. Maybe you are reading this and
saying, “I am angry. I am not releasing my frustration on an activity like
martial arts. I’m releasing it on my family or friends.” Well, if that is the
case then you should be talking to an instructor today about getting involved
in one of our programs.   There are many people around me who have gained self-control and self-confidence from training in the martial arts, as well. By building a high level of self confidence, one is able to prevent bullying. This is done through individual accomplishments.  When a student makes it through Black Belt
Testing, it should be a transformation. For some it is a life changing
experience. After finishing any test, they knew they could do anything. 
Also, after going through the sparring part of the evaluation, they feel confident in their ability to defend themselves if needed.  I noticed changes in situations or confrontations with others, they are not nervous; or loud, they have a cool, calm, and collected approach to resolving the situation.

What are we going to do to prevent this behavior amongst members of
the school and the community?  We as a martial arts school, will continue to offer programs that address bullying and help our members take
care of these challenges with bullies, in a cool, calm, and collected manner.
Self- defense will be a last resort.  But first, we must start with self-confidence;this is the single most important attribute of defense!

When your children go to high school, unfortunately it is even more
difficult. Bullying, peer pressure, and social activities can become major
obstacles for them. And one thing that I have noticed is the children who make
the martial arts a life long commitment and train from a young age all the way
through high school, have far less challenges than children who stop training. The
point is that in order to reap the benefits of the martial arts, one must keep
active. Bullying will continue, until we reach a level of self-confidence
where bullies will avoid us. There is no quick karate or martial arts move that
can stop it. It is a life commitment of confidence, self-control, and self-defense
training that can take years to develop. So start now the most important move
is taking the first step. Visit our web and set yourself or your child up for success! cervizzis@aol.com  -  www.cervizzismartialarts.com - Sensei Janice Corkhum