O&E Media

Midwest Tae Kwon Do has added a specialized tae kwon do class for children who have autism or Asperger syndrome. Students, ages 6-12 and 13-18, will learn patterned movements and develop coordination, balance and timing in a highly consistent and structured environment.

Tanya Panizzo, a fifth-degree black belt and partner at the studio, is teaching the class.

“It can be challenging for parents of children with special needs to find a program geared toward their abilities and potential,” Panizzo said. “We feel that all children deserve the opportunity to experience the higher self-esteem, positive outlook and self-control that tae kwon do training provides.”

In recent years, Panizzo pointed out, studies have shown martial arts to be beneficial to children who are on the autism spectrum. A research project conducted by the University of Wisconsin in 2010 reported that children with autism become more confident and cooperative socially when learning martial arts. They also exhibit better balance, motor coordination and improved eye contact as a result.

For many years, Panizzo has worked closely with children who have special needs and has witnessed first-hand the positive effects that quality tae kwon do training can have in all students’ lives. She has held private lessons for students with special needs and coordinated a Special Olympics tournament with her partner, Russell Gale, at Midwest Tae Kwon Do in August 2013.

“We wanted to reach out to the community to offer a class on a larger scale for children who usually do not have the opportunity to study tae kwon do,” Panizzo said. “If we can make a positive change in children’s lives by doing what we love and are passionate about, why wouldn’t we?”

Midwest Tae Kwon Do, located in Plymouth, is an empowerment-based organization. Instructors teach discipline and accountability as the pathway to achievement with integrity. Panizzo said that, regardless of skill or physical ability, students “who work hard, take personal responsibility and strive toward being the best they can be are supported, encouraged and rewarded.”

For more information about classes, contact Midwest Tae Kwon Do at 734-459-4183 or by email at jessica@midwesttaekwondo.com.