Some advice for parents to close out National Bullying Prevention Month

Released October 27, 2010

OAK RIDGE, TN – Think about these facts reported by the National Education Association: over 160,000 children miss school each and every day of the school year due to a fear of bullies. Over 75% of school shootings were a result of bullying, and that bullying can lead to psychological depression and anxiety all the way through adulthood.

This year marks the fifth anniversary of National Bullying Prevention Month that unites communities nationwide to raise awareness of bullying prevention. Progressive Martial Arts Academy would like to close out the month with 4 tips to increase confidence in children and overall, prevent bullying.

Without a doubt, the most effective weapon in bullying prevention is confidence. People that fall victims to bullies usually are targets because they lack confidence to stand up for themselves. Confidence is built when you have a positive attitude, which all begins with the mood you are in each day. If you wake up in a good mood and you feel good about yourself, then your confidence will grow. Here are four things that many people might not recognize can increase confidence:

1.      Sleep – Make sure your child gets at least 8 Hours of sleep per night. If they do not get enough sleep, it will affect their mood negatively the next day.

2.      Eat Healthy - Certain foods will affect your child’s mood, including foods that are high in sugar, caffeine or fat. Keep their diet balanced with plenty of fruits and vegetables. This will also help them stay in shape to feel good about themselves and increase their ability to defend themselves.

3.      Exercise - People that do not exercise regularly tend to have a lower level of energy which in turn will affect their mood negatively.

4.      Participate – Keep your child active in extracurricular sports and activities, such as Martial Arts! They will make new friends, and learn skills which can build their confidence. In a martial arts class they will also learn effective self defense strategies which will help them be more prepared if a bully tries to intimidate them physically.

In closing, talk to your children about bullying. Make it clear to them that it is important for them to communicate with you about bullies. Educate them on what bullying is and make sure they do not become bullies. Remind them that bullying someone even one time could just be the last straw that breaks that child down. Teach them to compliment other kids instead and keep negative comments to themselves.

Progressive Martial Arts Academy (PMA) focuses on self-defense, fitness training and psychological balance and contentment through the study of martial arts. Individualized attention enables attendees to become proficient in all levels of self defense, as well as develop strength and fitness. PMA blends tradition with a fresh approach to training for clients 18 years and older and also offers exclusive youth programs from ages 4 & up.

For more advice on bullying and self defense, you can head to the PMA Blog at www.PMAOakRidge.com, or call the academy at (865) 481-8901.

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