Teaching self defense in middle school?

Question

Do you think it would be appropriate to teach middle school children self defense during gym period?We teach our children not to speak with strangers we teach them to scream when a stranger approaches them or touches them.Would it be appropriate to teach them how to defend themselves because sometimes screaming just isn't effective or enough?

M.G

Answer 1

Perhaps; the question is whether all middle school students are mature enough to understand that the self defense techniques are only appropriate to fend off attackers, NOT to use to bully other kids or torture little siblings...

Could you imagine what would happen if some jerk 7th grader put a choke hold on his little sister, or kicked a classmate in the knee, destroying the kid's lifelong dream of being a runner? (Can you say lawsuit???)

I agree with Tawaeen's statement about martial arts, but I don't think there'd be time to teach a full gamete of "martial arts" in P.E. -- it'd be more "just the basics" -- so you get the combat without the discipline or mental training, which could be a dangerous combo!

Answer 2

Wow, that would be cool.

I had to pay for lessons, when I wanted them. Martial arts should also teach them self-respect, responsibility and self-control. I think it's a great idea!

Answer 3

Certainly.