Therapeutic Karate with children aged 5–7

Abstract

Children with poor motor function and/or behaviour problems are “at risk” for learning disabilities. At the Child Development Centre of the Rebecca Sieff Government Hospital in Tzfat, Israel, some children are diagnosed and treated from a very early age. Others with borderline motor or behavioral problems may only be discovered later on in kindergarten. Both of these groups need a supportive therapeutic program to help them bridge the gap successfully into elementary school.

A description of a new therapeutic regimen, using the medium of Karate, is offered, whereby the therapeutic and psychosocial needs of the children are met in an enjoyable and challenging environment. The Karate Model, as well as a case study, are presented.