Most parents are deeply concerned about their children's safety, which is why many now consider enrolling children in self defense classes. However, some parents feel that self defense classes may create unforeseen problems for their children. Children who take classes might worry more than is necessary or feel unsafe or distrustful of others after taking self defense classes. The key is to find self defense classes that create a healthy balance between teaching a child how to be safe without scaring the child. When a child should take self defense classes varies with the individual child.

Some parents find that they prefer to teach preliminary self defense classes themselves. These should include teaching a child what to do if separated from a parent in public, teaching them not to approach people in cars, and not to talk to unknown adults, among many other subjects. Unless a parent is a martial arts instructor with a very calm personality, teaching a child how to fight off an attacker is not going to be simple.

Many child safety experts recommend that children somewhere between the age of 6-12 take self defense classes. Older children, over 12, should also take one again for a refresher and for more practice. Realistically, a theory-based class can only take one so far. Practicing moves to fight off an attacker increases the chances that one will remember what to do if one is attacked.

To increase parents’ comfort in the material presented in self defense classes, instructors are usually able to give parents time in advance to review the material. Some classes are even offered for entire families. This can be a great way for a family to be more aware of risky behaviors and child safety in general.

One should be wary of self defense classes where material is not easily available or where an instructor won’t answer questions regarding the course. Any person with some knowledge about protecting children knows that you shouldn't allow an unknown person to instruct your children. Self defense instructors should be particularly aware of this. Parents also might want to get recommendations from schools, from local police stations or from other parents about which self defense classes they endorse or recommend. This can help you wade through the many self defense classes offered to children in order to pick the best ones.

If your child is enrolled in a self defense class for kids only, consider taking a refresher course yourself. A single self defense course is not a shield from attacks, or a guarantee a child won’t be approached by a harmful person. Learning, and practicing in front of your children can be an excellent model for your kids. Further, discussions of self defense should be ongoing, instead of a one-time event covered by self defense classes.

If parents feel their children are not yet ready to participate in self defense courses, there are numerous ways to teach a child basic safety. These come in the form of kid friendly videos, or pamphlets provided freely by many child protection organizations. Parents can easily gain access to self defense information that will help them begin conversations with their children regarding safe behavior.