I stopped listening to my parents advice. A pinch of salt with everything.
I said leave him alone, your older than me, picking on someone half your age!
So the coward came back with a small troupe. They just pushed me on the grass verge. And pushed me around.
So I knew martial arts did not "bully proof" young kids.
But its much more than just self defence. Confidence is there lets get that one out of the way. Sense of achievement as you progress to next level. Mental fitness as well as physical shape. Respect for others and discipline.