There is a girl in one of my classes at scool she is one of the greatest people I know, but she has down syndrome. When she found out I take karate she was very interested and wants to take it as well. I am just worried about her because she becomes very depressed when she can not succed at something ( there is not much that she can't do but participating in gym is real hard for her), almost suicidal. I don't want to make her unhappy. I have heard about people with special needs suceeding in karate. I just don't want to hurt her. Should I encourage her to take it or suggest she find another activity she is interested in.
she is 15
her parents don't care as long as she is happy- should i consult one of her paras
2007-12-31 10:27:00 · 7 answers · asked by rolling_thunder 6 in Sports ➔ Martial Arts
encourage her to do it if she is having trouble with something in the dojo help her to learn the technique and if she says "im not good at it" completely disagree with her and give her complements and say she should stick with it
2007-12-31 11:45:16 · answer #1 · answered by random 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I know one guy who has down syndrome. I first introduced him to Karate, he got beat up real bad and he was scared rather than depressed. He was beaten up so easily and so quick that he had no time to feel depressed during sparring. So anyways, I heard his down syndrome is getting better and he's thanking Karate. It works for some people but I'm not too sure about your friend. But hey, you can suggest her all you want but since she's still 15, her parents would decide what's best for her.
2008-01-01 03:40:10 · answer #2 · answered by Reaper 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I teach a boy with down syndrome. I don't treat him any different from the others. He is a great kid.
The characteristics you described are found in many kids. The "syndrome" has nothing to do with it. It sounds more like "conditionment" than the result of her syndrome.
She has to be addressed according to her conditioning. If the teacher is willing, it will be a very rewarding task.
I also have a cousin who is down syndrome. She is very cool.
2008-01-01 00:17:26 · answer #3 · answered by Darth Scandalous 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If other people/kids with health problems can do it, there's no reason why your friend shouldn't give it a try. Just be supportive and encouraging especially if she starts to get depspondent.
You are obviously a good friend, good luck!
2007-12-31 21:01:32 · answer #4 · answered by Mushin 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
The Special Olympics has a judo program available, and I have read of Karate practitioners in the Special Olympics organization. My stepson has Downs and we were going to sign him up before we moved. Perhaps they can get her started on the right path. Keep up the positive reinforcement. It will never hurt in the end.
2007-12-31 20:58:17 · answer #5 · answered by Gary W 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Let her do it, maybe she can take some private lessons with the instructor also. Found a girl here on you tube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VSF49CSlt4
and here is a another site about it http://olympia.fortunecity.com/michaels/904/
2007-12-31 18:49:19 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
If this makes her happy then let her do it. Just motivate her along the way. Karate is not easy nor is any form of Martial Arts but the values and lessons you learn are excellent.
2007-12-31 18:39:13 · answer #7 · answered by trev 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋