Why Kids Need More Movement, Especially Between Ages 7 - 12
Why Kids Need More Movement, Especially Between Ages 7 and 12
Between the ages of 7 and 12, children go through one of the most important stages of physical, emotional, and mental development. Yet for many families today, this is also the age where movement drops off sharply.
Long school days, homework, screens, and busy schedules mean many children simply aren’t moving enough, and it shows.
At Elite Taekwon-Do Academy, working with families in Balbriggan and Lusk, we see first-hand how regular, structured movement can completely change a child’s confidence, focus, behaviour, and overall wellbeing.
Why Ages 7–12 Are a Critical Window
This age range is often called the “golden window” for development.
During these years, children are:
Developing coordination and balance
Building strong bones and muscles
Learning emotional regulation
Forming habits that can last a lifetime
When movement is missing, children don’t just become less fit, they can struggle with confidence, focus, posture, resilience, and self-control.
The Hidden Impact of Too Little Movement
Parents often tell us:
“They can’t sit still.”
“They’re tired but wired.”
“They get frustrated very easily.”
“They’re glued to screens.”
These aren’t behaviour problems, they’re often movement problems.
Lack of regular physical activity can affect:
Concentration at school
Mood and emotional regulation
Sleep quality
Self-esteem
Social confidence
Movement isn’t optional for children, it’s essential.
Why Free Play Alone Isn’t Always Enough
Free play is important, but many children today don’t get enough of it, especially consistent, challenging movement.
What children aged 7–12 really benefit from is structured movement:
Clear routines
Progressive challenges
Supportive instruction
Achievable goals
This is where martial arts can make a powerful difference.
Many parents also notice that when movement drops, children begin to struggle with focus and attention. We explain this in more detail in our guide on why children struggle with focus and how movement can help.
How Martial Arts Supports Healthy Development
Taekwon-Do provides full-body movement that develops:
Strength, balance, and coordination
Focus and listening skills
Discipline and self-control
Every class encourages children to:
Move with purpose
Control their bodies
Challenge themselves safely
Learn resilience when something feels difficult
Parents in Balbriggan and Lusk often notice changes within weeks, not just physically, but emotionally too.
Movement Builds Confidence From the Inside Out
When children move well, they feel capable.
That sense of “I can do this” carries into:
School
Friendships
New challenges
Everyday life
Confidence isn’t taught by talking, it’s built through doing.
A Healthier Alternative to Screen Time
Screens aren’t going away, but balance matters.
Regular training gives children:
A reason to step away from devices
A positive outlet for energy
Real-world social interaction
A sense of belonging
Most importantly, it gives them something they can feel proud of.
Supporting Families in Balbriggan and Lusk
At Elite Taekwon-Do Academy, our mission is simple:
To help children grow stronger, calmer, more confident, and more focused through positive, structured training.
Our classes are designed specifically for children aged 7+, with experienced instructors who understand how children learn and grow.
We also explore how this affects attention and learning in our article on
how movement improves children’s concentration and focus.
A Final Word for Parents
If your child is restless, low in confidence, struggling with focus, or spending too much time sitting still, it may not be a motivation issue.
It may simply be that they need more movement.
And the right kind of movement can change everything.
👉 Book a free trial class with Elite Taekwon-Do Academy in Balbriggan or Lusk and see the difference for yourself.
