The recent bullying incident at Sengkang Green Primary School in Singapore, where a Primary 3 student was persistently targeted for nearly six months and her mother later received chilling death threats, has cast a spotlight on the urgent need for proactive tools like martial arts for kids to support children’s well-being.
A Timeline Of Escalating Bullying
The Ministry of Education’s timeline reveals that the affected pupil had reported repeated bullying from classmates over several months. The situation escalated dramatically when the student’s mother began receiving threatening messages; one voice chillingly threatened, “dissect her… end her life in school,” leading to police involvement and the immediate suspension of three Primary 3 boys. The school instituted a safety plan and disciplinary measures, including the possibility of caning.
Why Disciplinary Measures Alone Aren’t Enough
Singapore’s response combined disciplinary action with restorative and safety-focused measures. However, traditional methods like suspension and caning, while sometimes used, may not address the deeper emotional aspects of bullying or give children the skills to prevent and cope with it effectively.
How Martial Arts Complements School Discipline
That being said, parents should consider alternatives that address the root of bullying, whether a child is on the receiving end or displaying bullying behavior. Martial arts is one of the most effective tools to complement school discipline, and some of the benefits include:
1) Building Self-Confidence And Presence
Martial arts cultivate a poised and confident bearing; children learn to walk, speak, and even breathe with conviction, making them less likely to appear as easy targets. They internalize goal-setting (e.g., belt progression), which builds self-esteem and the courage to stand firm.
2) Instilling Discipline, Empathy & Respect
Training emphasizes punctuality, respect for instructors and peers, and adherence to dojo rules. These values often transfer to classrooms and homes, fostering empathy and discouraging bullying behaviors in both victims and perpetrators.
3) Enhancing Social Skills & Support Networks
Through partner drills and group activities, children boost social confidence, make friends, and develop a support system. A child with a strong peer network is statistically less likely to be bullied.
4) Sharpening Focus & Emotional Control
Martial arts training demands concentration and disciplined focus on technique, an exercise that doubles as a meditative practice. Children gain better emotional regulation, enabling them to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively in high-stress situations.
5) Preparing for De-Escalation, Not Conflict
Contrary to stereotypes, martial arts teach children to avoid conflict escalation. They learn to rely on body language, calm assertiveness, and non-violent conflict resolution, skills that are especially valuable in navigating delicate peer dynamics or retaliatory situations.
Why Martial Arts Is More Than Just Self-Defense
Linking back to the Sengkang Green case: while the school has proactively disciplined the bullies, the absence of earlier interventions highlights a gap. Children, both those targeted and the aggressors, need tools that go beyond punishment. Martial arts provides that foundation by fostering internal strength, respect, and emotional maturity. This equips kids to better handle threats, seek help, and support peers before conflicts escalate into bullying or trauma.
Bullyproof Your Child Today!
The Sengkang Green incident underscores the power of early intervention and emotional support. When combined with school discipline, martial arts can transform how children manage fear, conflict, and peer pressure. It’s not about fighting back; it’s about standing stronger, thinking clearly, and building a community where every child feels safe, respected, and resilient.
At Evolve MMA, we believe no child should have to face bullying alone. Our Children’s program is designed to build confidence, resilience, and respect, equipping children with the life skills they need to stand tall in and out of school. Give your child the chance to experience these benefits firsthand with a complimentary trial class at Evolve MMA. Sign up today and help your child grow stronger, safer, and more confident for the future!
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If you have any other questions regarding Evolve MMA and the programs we offer, you can get in touch with our membership executives at the following locations:
Evolve MMA (Orchard Central)
181 Orchard Road
#06-01 Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Phone: (65) 6536 4556
Evolve MMA (KINEX)
11 Tanjong Katong Road
#02-52 KINEX
Singapore 437157
Phone: (65) 6288 2293
Evolve MMA (Star Vista)
1 Vista Exchange Green
#02-26A The Star Vista
Singapore 138617
Phone: (65) 6539 9590
