A real estate professional in California, Michael Younessi came to the United States from Iran when he was very young and went on to a varied entrepreneurial career. Michael Younessi now lives in Orange County with his family, and enjoys karate, a practice he has been involved in since he was 10 years old.
Practicing martial arts can be highly beneficial for children. In addition to providing physical benefits, classes usually encourage respect, organization, and discipline. Students must bow to the teacher at the beginning and end of every class, and progress is measured regularly, usually every three months or so, through the colored belt system that helps kids set goals and achieve them.
Some kids with ADD or ADHD might also find that the hard physical work and concentration of martial arts practices can help them develop the skills to focus and channel their energy in a safe and productive way. Kids who bully can learn to practice peace, and kids who experience bullying can learn to defend themselves, which can help them gain self-confidence.
