(604) 302-7945Book a trial

Programs

Book a trial class Call (604) 302-7945

ADHD and autism

Martial arts for kids with ADHD and autism

Sensei Troy has ADHD himself. He knows what it’s like to be the kid who can’t sit still, and how much the dojo can help. Here, structure and patience help every child find their place.

Find a class to try Talk to Sensei Troy
A young girl in a white uniform holding a strong karate stance

Why it works

What makes karate a good fit for so many neurodivergent kids

  • The same routine, every class

    Bow in, warm up, learn, practise, play, bow out. Kids know what comes next, and that predictability makes it easier to relax and join in.

  • Movement with a purpose

    Kids who need to move get to move: kicks, jumps and pads. They learn to channel that energy instead of being told to sit still.

  • Short, clear instructions

    One thing at a time, shown before it’s explained. Drills are short, so attention doesn’t have to stretch too far.

  • Goals you can see

    Stripes and belts turn progress into something kids can hold. Every class has a win in it.

  • Practising self-control

    Stopping on command, holding a stance, waiting for a turn: self-regulation, practised in a safe and encouraging place.

  • Social rules that are clear

    Bowing, partner roles and “Yes, Sensei” give kids a simple script for getting along, which takes a lot of the guesswork out of group activities.

Sensei Troy kneeling to talk with young students

Why we care

From someone who’s been there

Troy Parker started martial arts at four. The dojo was where his restless energy turned into focus, and where being different felt like a strength. He wasn’t diagnosed with ADHD until he was an adult, and the diagnosis made sense of everything karate had already given him.

He runs Safeguard with his wife Kirsten, who works with neurodiverse youth and knows ADHD and autism from her own life too. Between them, they’ve built a dojo where clear structure and real patience help every student succeed.

Read Sensei Troy’s story

The first class

How we help your child settle in

  1. 1

    Tell us about your child

    Before the first class, call (604) 302-7945 or email us. What helps, what’s hard, what they love. It all helps us help them.

  2. 2

    Come a little early

    Arrive 10 minutes before class to see the room, meet Sensei Troy and settle in before it gets busy.

  3. 3

    Stay close

    Parents watch from the viewing area, which looks right onto the mat. You’re never far away.

  4. 4

    Go at their pace

    The trial is there to find out, with no pressure. Some kids jump right in; some take a few classes to warm up. Both are fine.

From parents

In their words

5.0 from 76 reviews on Google

Read them all on Google

  • ★★★★★

    An amazing Dojo with excellent instructors. Safeguard was initially recommended to me for my oldest who has ADHD and struggles with impulse control and going here has helped him so much. Both of my boys love Sensei Troy. He is patient and kind and always makes it fun for them.

    Carrie H. · February 2023

  • ★★★★★

    Our daughter started a few months ago with Safeguard and she loves it. She really likes her Senseis and earning new belts. We have seen other children she goes to school with also grow in the classes and have begun to find ways to channel their excess energy better.

    Paul D. · February 2023

Questions

What parents ask us

Are there separate classes for kids with ADHD or autism?

No. Kids join our regular classes for their age, and we adapt how we teach so every child can take part. Many families tell us that being part of a regular class is a big part of what helps.

What if my child needs a break during class?

That’s okay. Kids can step to the side of the mat to reset, and you’re right there in the viewing area. Tell us what usually helps your child and we’ll work with you.

Is martial arts a replacement for therapy or other supports?

No. We’re martial arts instructors, not clinicians. Many families use karate alongside occupational therapy, counselling or other supports, and we’re happy to work with what your child’s team recommends.

Which class should we start with?

Choose by age: Tiger TOTS for 3 and 4, Junior Karate for 5 to 7 and 8 to 12. Kids 8 to 12 who need lots of movement often love Youth Kickboxing too. Not sure? Call Sensei Troy and talk it through.

Find a class to try

Who’s training?
CallBook a trial