Conflict resolution training helps develop the skills, attitudes, processes and techniques vital to resolving the conflicts in our daily lives. These are the building blocks for a more peaceful society and a more peaceful home.

Some themes covered in conflict resolution trainings include:

• Affirmation of self and others -- valuing ourselves and others creates motivation and commitment to resolve conflict non-violently.
• Cooperation -- the recognition that we exist in this world together and that we will survive together or be destroyed together is central to finding solutions that benefit both sides.
• Communication skills -- listening skills and clear, assertive statements are essential to the non-violent resolution of problems with others.
• Problem solving -- learning practical techniques as well as having appropriate attitudes and approaches to conflict are crucial to resolving our disputes.

Armed with these tools, individuals can live the principles of non-violent conflict management, and also teach or assist others to find peaceful reconciliation to situations of conflict wherever they might occur.

In other words, do you think that somehow a young person has the sophisticated skills and presence of mind to understand and avoid conflict and the ability to use clever verbal skills as a means of self-protection (what I would call "Martial Art Mental Self-Defense") to resolve conflict peacefully if they only practice defending themselves physically? Generally this is not the case. Physical self-defense is just that—and can be employed only when it becomes a physical confrontation. That is not to say that physical skills are not important. On the contrary, they are very important because they give the student the foundation of confidence not to react unnecessarily to a fight or flight situation, to then have the presence of mind to use their first two "lines of defense"—to avoid and resolve conflict by nonphysical means. But physical self-defense is by itself only one small part of a martial art. The first two "lines of defense" need to be learned and practiced equally along with the physical.

Conflict Education!  This complete range of martial arts mental and physical self-defense skills gives students the right tools to cope with conflict successfully—a very needed ability in today's world!

I know that as a parent this is what I would want for my children as all parents naturally want for their children. We want them to be safe and the intelligent way to ensure that safety is to teach them to protect themselves in ways that are non-threatening, leaving as the last resort physical means.

Learn the "3P's" which means:

Prevent a fight from happening by avoiding it.

Prepare to use your brain instead of your fists to resolve it.

Protect yourself by learning how to defend yourself so you don't have to.