I've been reading through the Wayfair stuff from the past day or two & am reminded of why I initially got my son into taekwando. I recommend it for everyone. They'll learn self defense skills for sure, but the best thing they can learn is to yell when someone grabs them.
Many times kids do not say a word because they're too trusting of an adult that approaches them confidently. At our academy, each class has a section that teaches them how to yell and how to break grip. These two things might just save their lives and save you a lot of heartache.
I'm in with him! Have lost 50 lbs in a year and gained plenty of strength. Our academy in particular focuses on taekwando but mixes in boxing and BJJ, since the owner of the academy has spent time doing both of those as well. His philosophy is to learn multiple fighting styles to account for weaknesses.