As martial arts parent, I’ve seen firsthand the positive impact martial arts can have on children.
But nothing has taught me that more than watching my own daughter’s journey.
My daughter has been training at My Martial Arts for over 10 years. She was diagnosed with both Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD, and like many parents, I spent a lot of time searching for activities that would genuinely help her build confidence, resilience, and life skills.
What we found through martial arts has been nothing short of incredible.
When she first started, she was a shy little girl who often struggled with focus, emotional regulation, and social situations. Like many children with ASD and ADHD, she found some environments overwhelming and found it difficult to connect with her peers.
Martial arts gave her something different.
It provided structure.
It provided routine.
It provided clear expectations.
Most importantly, it provided a place where she could succeed.
Over the years, she has learned far more than punches, kicks, and self-defence techniques. She has learned discipline, perseverance, teamwork, respect, confidence, and how to keep trying even when things feel difficult.
There have been challenges along the way. There have been moments where she wanted to give up, moments where she struggled with confidence, and moments where she felt different from those around her.
But every challenge became an opportunity to grow.
Today, she proudly wears her Warrior Black Belt.
For our family, that black belt represents so much more than a martial arts achievement. It represents years of dedication, overcoming obstacles, building resilience, and believing in herself.
Even more exciting, she is now part of the Leadership Program and is working towards becoming a Junior Instructor.
Watching her help younger students, encourage others, and step into leadership roles has been one of the proudest experiences of my life.
The little girl who once struggled to find her place now stands at the front of classes helping other children build confidence in themselves.
That transformation didn’t happen overnight.
It happened through thousands of small moments.
One class at a time.
One lesson at a time.
One challenge overcome at a time.
People often ask whether martial arts is suitable for children with ASD or ADHD.
Every child is different, but for our daughter, the answer has been a resounding yes.
The combination of routine, physical activity, goal setting, positive role models, and a supportive community has helped her grow into an amazing young person.
Martial arts hasn’t changed who she is.
It has helped her become the very best version of herself.
If you’re a parent of a child with ASD, ADHD, anxiety, confidence challenges, or simply a child who needs a positive outlet, I encourage you to explore martial arts.
The skills they learn on the mats often become the skills that help them succeed in life.
And sometimes, what starts as a martial arts class becomes a journey that changes everything. 🥋❤️
From a very proud Mum.
Kristy Fiechtner
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Thanks for the share Kristy!
For us, martial arts has never just been about kicking and punching. It’s been about confidence, resilience, friendships, leadership, and believing in yourself.
This is why we do what we do. 🥋” 💙💛❤️
If you have any inspiring, funny or emotional stories to share about your child and their martial arts journey, we would love to hear them! Please send them to myjourney@mymaa.com.au
