I think they are a great idea. Some folks think "martial arts" and believe it is all about fighting. Rather, it is about learning how to not fight - meaning, being aware of the body language you are presenting as well as the body language of others and their intent, being aware of your surroundings so you do not put yourself in a compromising position, and most importantly giving the student a sense of pride, true sincere respect for one's self and others, true inner self esteem, and physical and mental discipline.

I definitely plan to enroll my children when they are at an appropriate age (I have one currently in preschool and a younger child as well).

Honestly, in regards to having activities in "troubled spots" of town - activities that truly enrich children and keep them physcially occupied and their minds filled with possibilities and hope? Sounds great to me!

My 13 y.o. son is a second degree black belt and I have always felt that the classes were a good thing. When he first started with TKD, when he was 6, his first instructor (who was a 5', 90 pound woman) was awesome. She instilled in him to really try is best and that perfection is important. Not only that, even though she was VERY small, she was a force to be reckoned with!

My current complaint is that his latest instructor is not as tough on him as he should be (isn't that awful!). He doesn't stress the perfection like I wish he would. In turn, my son has gotten kinda lazy about the whole thing. Frustrating to watch now.

Martial arts are a great way to improve a kid's self-confidence. All traditional martial arts are excellent for children. Having your child participate in the martial arts can be one of the best decisions in their development.