Missouri Mom defends her decision to allow her children to participate in controversial new sport.

Mom•Logic: How did you and your kids get involved with cage fighting?

Jennifer: My kids have been wrestling for years. This year, they learned about kids' cage fighting and wanted to do it. I had no idea what it was, so I was a little nervous. But my husband said they could do it if they wanted to. We trusted their coach, and we were assured that the kids wear protective gear. There is a weight class so the kids are within 10-15 pounds of each other, and there is an age class so they are within a year of each other.

The cage is two to three feet off the floor, like a boxing ring, and it's protected for safety. The floor has give or bounce. There are springs that pop, giving off a cool and loud noise as the kids hit the floor. The crowd gets excited when the kids hit the floor because it makes an echo sound, and it's awesome.

Mom•Logic: Are you concerned about the safety of your three kids?

Jennifer: I was extremely nervous at first. The kids' first fight was the first one I ever attended, so I didn't really know what to expect. But now that I know what it is and how many precautions are taken, I don't have any safety concerns. At any point, the referee has the discretion to stop the match if a child is in harm's way. I haven't seen any kids get hurt because it's stopped before it becomes a safety issue.

Mom•Logic: How do you feel about daughter doing this?

Jennifer: I like it because it helps her with self-defense. I don't have to worry about her as much now, or when she gets older. If she was on a date and something was to happen, she can defend herself and I don't have to worry.

Mom•Logic: Have you heard criticism from others?

Jennifer: I have heard criticism. I think before people criticize or judge this sport, they should attend a practice or match to see how hard the kids work, train, and how much protective gear they wear. Then they will see the sport from a different point of view, and they will probably come to like it. They'll realize that kids cage fighting is not as dangerous as they think.