So often in my line of work I get asked by prospective parents questions about their concerns for their child. It is natural to worry about our children, and have goals for them to achieve. We all agree that we want our children to succeed, but we differ on how to get there.

The biggest point of contention that we share is what I call, the "what if my child?" question. Most of all parents want to know "what if my child doesn't want to continue the martial arts half way through, or if they lose interest at some point and want to quit." If you are a parent that has asked this very question, and maybe not just about martial arts but about a multitude of sports and activities, then please allow me to ask you a question?

What if your child came home one day and said they were done with school? There isn't a pressing bully issue or problem with the teacher, they are just done. Obviously, your answer wouldn't be, "okay honey, you don't have to go." Here is another example, your child decides in middle of some household chore that they no longer want to finsh and say to you, "I'm over this...not going to do this anymore." If you are like me, you would never stand for this behavior and you would attempt to correct your child and guide them down a better path.

Some parents give into this behavior because maybe their child throws a tantrum or a crying fit when it is time for the activity. Over time a parent feels worn down and caves to their child thinking that some how the child's psyche may be hurt. In fact we need to realize that this is a form of bullying, child to parent. We wouldn't allow our child to bully others, so why allow them to bully us when they want to get their way? One suggestion to remedy this situation is to pull out your smartphone or video camera and let your child know that this behavior is unacceptable and if they want to continue it, then you will videotape it and show it to someone that is important to that child, maybe a grandparent. Usually the child does not want their bullying to be exposed to the outside world and they will relinquish that form of bullying. 

If you would like more information about this form of discipline and how we conduct classes at Sun Belt Martial Arts Center, then please feel free to contact me at 904-260-0678 or email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Until next time, stay strong and consistent,

Mr. Khakpour

Owner/ Chief Instructor 

Sun Belt Martial Arts Center, Inc.

10501-1 San Jose Blvd.

Jacksonville, Fl 32257

904-260-0678