Black Belt Parenting

Karate is often a misunderstood art. More than breaking blocks of wood and mastering the high kicks of self defense, it's about discipline. And one cannot understand discipline without becoming somewhat adept at self-discipline. If we want our children to grow up embracing the virtues of self-control, respect and confidence in themselves, then it's we as parents who have to demonstrate those same qualities to our children, and do so from about the age that they begin to walk. This is the message of author Solomon Brenner's book Black Belt Parenting, and it's a worthy lesson for all parents of children of all ages. The author holds the distinction of having attained a 6th degree black belt in Kenpo Karate, and has been teaching martial arts to children and adults alike for years. He was only 20 tears old when he opened his first martial arts school in the 1990s, but instead of focusing just on the techniques of martial arts, he went out into his community and held numerous seminars on topics such as building self-esteem in kids and teenagers, behavior and discipline, goal-setting, effective parenting, and of course, in self defense. He has spoken to a wide range of groups, including primary schools, women's groups, civic associations and corporate seminars. It was these experiences that gave him the background for this interesting and inspirational book for parents. Instilling self-discipline in children is no easy task, as any parent knows, and empowerment is a large part of that. Children who are of elementary school age yearn for the trust of their parents, and empowerment is all about trust. Parents can guide their children to earn their trust through the responsibilities that have been given to them, starting from doing simple chores to being sure that their homework is done. It's the duty of the parents to help guide children in making good choices, along with helping them to understand the consequences of poor choices. Does this sound like the karate that we've come to know from television? No, but that's what being a black belt parent is all about. As a parent I found karate to be an excellent learning tool for fathers and mothers, as well as their children; for the teachers as well as the students. I met author Brenner when my son was in kindergarten and became enrolled in his classes for younger children, prior to the publication of his book. I observed many positive things being taught to the budding karate students and parents alike, and these values are there on the pages of this book. We no longer have any connection with the author or his karate instructions. My son stayed with the martial arts program there for a few years, and finally left when his regular school and personal time schedule became too much to handle. But the lessons of trust, self-discipline, confidence and respect that he and I both learned while he was a student are reflective in his school work and home life today. This book is loaded with motivational q

Raising children today can be a bigger challenge than in years gone by. Mr. Brenner hits a strong note with his book Black Belt Parenting. I have read, re-read and re-enforce many of the techniques he recommends in his book with great success. It takes time and patience to learn to use these techniques. Do they work everytime? No. Is it a silver bullet for fool proof parenting? There is no such book or source. Every child is different. My recommendation is to read it and adopt to your child and parenting style. And always remember, every child is different and they are still children. Enjoy

As a martial arts instructor, I'm always looking for ideas and methods to improve the delivery of information to my students. This was an excellent reference on how to motivate your students and guide them in the right direction as people. I've recommended the book to parents who are struggling to get their teens to understand the value of getting good grades, having good work habits, and to pitch in with chores around the house. They are ecstatic with the results they've gotten by applying the ideas outlined in this book.