The Smart Way to Teach Kids Self-Defense—And They’ll Love It!

You…

…you’re the one who stands between your family and the wolves of the world. You’re the warrior, the sheepdog, protecting them.

You understand the importance of self defense. After all you’re reading Fight or Flight.

But, how do you pass that knowledge on to your kids without turning them into paranoid little sheep, always looking over their shoulders?

That’s what we’re going to be exploring this week…

Self Defense is important for your kids to learn, because…well…as much as you want to be…you can’t always be there.

So. How do we do it?

Start with the Basics—Make it Fun

Remember when you were a kid?

The world was one big playground, and that’s where we begin!

Self-defense training doesn't have to start with grim scenarios and serious drills. No, no, no. It starts with games.

Think obstacle courses, but with a twist—ducking under imaginary lasers, hopping over "hot lava," and sprinting to safety.

Or how about a good old game of tag? But this time, you add in a little self-defense twist.

Every time your kid gets tagged, they have to shout, "No!" while striking in a strong stance.

See where I'm going with this?

By integrating these movements into play, your kids learn the basics without even realizing they’re learning. They’ll be having too much fun to notice!

Emphasize Confidence Over Fear

Now, here's the thing—kids pick up on everything, especially your tone and attitude…If you’re fearful, so will they be too!

So, when you’re teaching them self-defense, make sure the focus is on how strong and capable they are.

Positive reinforcement is your secret weapon here.

When they nail a move, or stand tall with confidence, celebrate it. Make them feel like a superhero who just saved the day.

Self-defense is about making sure they know they can handle themselves—not about making them afraid of what’s lurking in the shadows.

Age-Appropriate Conversations

Alright, let’s talk about the tricky part—explaining why self-defense is necessary without scaring the daylights out of them.

Here’s where you need to be smart.

Be sure to tailor your message to fit their age. For younger kids, it might be as simple as, “Sometimes, people don’t listen when you say ‘No,’ so you have to show them you mean it.”

Keep it light, but firm. They don’t need the whole spiel about the world's dangers—just enough to understand why standing tall is important.

And please, for the love of all things good, don’t overload them with worst-case scenarios. Keep it cool. Remember, we’re building confidence here, not anxiety.

Role Modeling and Family Involvement

Here’s where you really drive it home. Kids are like little sponges—they’ll soak up everything you do.

So, lead by example. Let them see you practicing what you preach. 

Make it a family thing—because nothing says “we’re in this together” like a family self-defense session.

And hey, while you're at it, weave in those core family values. Talk about how self-defense is about protecting the people we love, staying safe, and looking out for one another. Make it a point of pride in your household.

Wrapping It Up—The Sheepdog’s Role

Your role as the family sheepdog isn't just to protect but to guide. To teach your kids that they have the power to protect themselves, without making them afraid of every shadow.

Now, go ahead and get started.

Turn self-defense into a game, a family activity, and most importantly, a way to build your kids’ confidence.

Because at the end of the day, that’s what being a sheepdog is all about—keeping the flock safe, happy, and ready for anything.

Until Next Time,

Paul Simoes