Youth Self-Defense and Safety Awareness Classes

Neatly arranged in a row of ten children, a six year old deftly blocks and counters every punch and kick thrown his way. Alongside the boy, another child lets out a proud roar as she calls upon her training to deflect a serious of incoming blows away from herself. Further down the line, the rest of the children are calm and collected, awaiting their turn to demonstrate self-defense techniques that many adults aren’t aware of. The kids exude a confidence and discipline uncommon for children even twice their age.

After school on Tuesday afternoons, children age five to 15 come with families in tow to descend on the Norristown Cedar Club. All of them are students of Kidsafe Youth Programs, coming to take their weekly martial arts classes.

James Furler, one of several certified black-belt instructors that has taught at Kidsafe for 11 years, finishes up the class with a bow and a promises to see everyone the following week.

When class is finished, he explains that the program differs from traditional martial arts schools in that it teaches children more than how to throw a good kick or punch. Students come to learn how to build self-confidence, a sense of discipline as well as a more mature understanding of their peers.

“I wanted a program that could build up students’ self-esteem and teach children the importance of conflict resolution without violence,” said Brian Gourlay, founder of the company that is now in its 23 year. “We operate under the philosophy that teaching children how to handle a dangerous situation is more desirable than attempting to limit their interaction with others.”

To that end, Kidsafe tries to teach students how to recognize potential danger and avoid unnecessary conflict. Likewise, students who are more knowledgeable about conflict situations will act more confidently and with a clear mind to make rational decisions under stressful situations.

In addition, Kidsafe focuses on a number of safety topics including how to deal with strangers, bully awareness, fire safety, home safety, and many other topics that are reinforced in the public school system. Classes are held in sessions ranging from 8 to 13 weeks throughout the school year.

Kidsafe also offers scholarships to families facing financial hardships, and never turns away a child because they may not be able to afford the program. To that end, Kidsafe works all year long to find supporters for its scholarship program.

“I’m very proud that we’re able to offer the classes to children who can’t afford a traditional martial arts school,” said Gourlay. “Getting children off the streets and providing them with a constructive after-school activity is important.” He said that many parents have thanked him and his team for allowing their sons and daughters to participate and learn something productive.

Classes are just $9 per lesson, and parents can pay as the student goes to class each week. There are no contracts.

Registration is ongoing and children can still sign up for classes. For more information, Kidsafe can be reached by phone at (800) 850-0800 or through email by visiting their website at www.kidsafeyouthprograms.com.