martial arts classes - good idea? And if so, which?

[sphil]

DS1 (not dx with anything, but has AS and dyspraxic traits) is keen to do a martial arts class. I'm keen as well - if it will help his self-confidence, balance, coordination etc. could anyone give me advice about which would be best for him - karate or judo? They seem to be the two classes on offer for his age (6) round here though I could look around further for Tae-Kwon-Do etc if recommended.
Thanks

ds(nt) did karate . It is very strict on dicipline. but then most are.

I don't think DS1 would mind the discipline - he's quite conformist. I wonder whther he'd prefer the 'non-contact' element of karate to the more hands-on judo.

I would ask if you can go along to a class so that ds1 can see what the class is like. Try a couple of different disciplines as they can vary a great deal. Some forms of karate involve a fair bit of sparring. Others focus more on kata/patterns. I think my ds1 would prefer the latter but obviously your ds1 might want something else. Also ask about the club's ethos. Some are very big on encouraging students to take part in tournaments. Others will prefer to avoid them.