Martial arts, including Songahm Taekwondo, teaches children respect for authority, adults, and those in advanced positions.
Martial arts is often known for teaching kids how to kick, punch, and defend themselves—but the real transformation happens in the values children develop along the way. The best martial arts programs are built on character first: respectful behavior, self-control, and confidence that comes from consistent effort.
Here are the core values martial arts instills in children—and how those values show up in daily life at home and school.
1) Respect
Respect is usually the first value kids learn in martial arts. It’s taught through simple routines: bowing, listening, waiting their turn, and speaking politely.
What it looks like outside the dojo:
improved manners and tone
better listening to parents and teachers
fewer interruptions and arguments
Respect becomes a habit, not a rule.
2) Discipline
Discipline isn’t about being “perfect.” It’s about doing the right thing consistently—especially when it’s not easy. Martial arts gives kids structure and repetition that builds discipline over time.
Outside the dojo:
finishing homework without as much resistance
following routines (bedtime, chores)
practicing a skill instead of quitting
Kids learn: progress comes from consistency.
3) Confidence
True confidence isn’t bragging—it’s quiet belief in yourself. Martial arts builds confidence through earned progress: skills improve, belts are achieved, and kids experience success from effort.
Outside the dojo:
speaking up more
trying new activities
handling mistakes with less fear
4) Self-Control
Self-control is one of the most valuable life skills a child can develop. In martial arts, children learn to manage their body, their emotions, and their choices in a safe environment.
Outside the dojo:
fewer meltdowns
better frustration tolerance
improved impulse control
Self-control is the foundation for leadership.
5) Perseverance (Grit)
Martial arts teaches kids to keep going when something is hard—because every child eventually meets a challenging form, technique, or test.
Outside the dojo:
sticking with tasks longer
less “I can’t” language
trying again after failure
Kids learn that effort is a superpower.
6) Responsibility
As students grow, they learn responsibility for:
their effort
their attitude
their uniform and gear
their role in class
Outside the dojo:
taking ownership of mistakes
following through on commitments
being more dependable
7) Humility
Martial arts reminds children that there is always something to learn. No matter how skilled they become, there’s another level of growth.
Outside the dojo:
accepting coaching and feedback
being a better teammate
less “showing off”
Humility keeps confidence healthy.
8) Courage
Courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s moving forward anyway. Whether it’s performing in front of others, trying sparring, or testing for a belt, martial arts gives kids safe opportunities to be brave.
Outside the dojo:
better social confidence
improved resilience in new situations
willingness to attempt hard things
9) Kindness and Leadership
In strong schools, older students help younger students. Kids learn leadership by being supportive, encouraging, and setting the example.
Outside the dojo:
helping siblings and classmates
standing up for others
better teamwork and empathy
Leadership becomes “how I behave,” not “a title I have.”
The big takeaway
Martial arts builds children from the inside out. Skills are important—but values are what last. When kids train consistently, they develop respect, discipline, confidence, self-control, perseverance, responsibility, humility, courage, and leadership—values that improve every part of life.
If you’re looking for an activity that strengthens both character and capability, martial arts is one of the most complete options available for children.