In a few days, children will be heading back to school. Many parents will be looking for after school activities for their children and teenagers. Since an updated version of the Karate Kid movie came out this summer, chances are a lot of them will be considering a martial arts program. The following are some suggestions on what to look for to insure these parents pick a good martial arts program:

• Look for a program that doesn’t require a long term contract, just in case your child or teenager decides martial arts is not their cup of tea.

• In addition to the monthly dues or fees for instruction, find out what additional costs are required in order to participate in the program, including equipment and rank certifications.

• Verify that the instructor is properly certified through a highly reputable martial arts organization, such as the North American Self-Defense Association, which has an ongoing focus on positive character traits like compassion, courage, commitment, honor, humility and honestly.

• Make certain you take the time to observe a couple of classes, so you know the instructor treats all youth in a friendly but firm manner, so that all of them have a positive and safe learning experience.

• Make certain that any type of martial arts weapons instruction is limited to those students 18 years of age or older. These weapons have been designed to maim or kill other human beings and could easily take your child or teenager down the wrong path for conflict resolution.

• Source: Jim Curtis, North American Self-Defense Association; To learn more about the association, visit www.nas-da.com.