Youth Program

The goal of our Kids Program is to provide a safe, positive environment where young people can explore and practice the art of Aikido.

The program focuses on developing the fundamental movements and skills of Aikido, such as rolling, knee-walking, centering, basic self-defense techniques, stance, posture, and presence. Creative approaches to conflict resolution, especially through centering, are also emphasized. We help students build strength, connection, and coordination in the body while fostering a joyful spirit through Aikido-themed games and activities.

Through their practice, your child will:

Develop strength, balance, and coordination
Gain self-awareness, confidence, and focus
Have fun while learning a non-competitive martial art

Aikido is a unique Japanese martial art that teaches children self-defense in a non-violent, non-aggressive way. There are no competitive tournaments or sparring. Students train cooperatively, learning to respond to conflict with calm, confidence, and integrity.

Program Details
Children ages five and up are welcome. Classes are held twice a week: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5:00 to 5:50 PM. Enrollment is open year-round.

Monthly dues: $100
Additional siblings receive $20 off their monthly dues
Payment methods: cash, check, or ACH withdrawal

Progress & Testing
We hold frequent testing sessions where children earn colored stripes to mark their progress. After earning stripes, students present their skills to the class as they move toward the next belt level. Belt promotions are awarded at the instructor’s discretion, with student input. This testing process is designed to build confidence, self-esteem, and goal-setting skills, for both the child and the family. Each student receives personal attention and guidance throughout.

Aikido Dojo Manners for Kids

Learning Aikido is not just about physical techniques. It’s about respect, focus, and personal growth.

What We Believe

Aikido helps your heart, body, and spirit grow stronger.
When we bow, we’re not doing anything religious, it’s a way to show respect to the dojo, the teachers, and each other.
The claps at the start of class mean we’re working together as one team.

The Right Way to Bow

At the beginning and end of every class, we bow to say thank you and show respect.
Bow when you enter or leave the mat.
When class starts, students and teachers say “Onegai shimasu” (please teach me). At the end, say “Domo arigato gozaimashita” (thank you very much).

Getting Ready for Class

Keep your uniform (dogi) clean and neat.
Use only your own uniform and weapons.
Keep fingernails and toenails short, and feet clean.
No food, gum, drinks, or jewelry on the mat.

Before Class

Arrive a little early, warm up, and sit quietly in meditation to calm your mind and prepare.

If You’re Late

Sit quietly beside the mat and wait for the teacher to invite you in.
Bow before stepping onto the mat and join class quietly.

How to Sit

Sit in seiza (kneeling position) during class.
If your knees hurt, sit cross-legged, but don’t lie down, stretch out, or lean on walls.

During Class

When the teacher demonstrates a move, sit still and watch carefully.
Bow to the teacher and your partner before and after practicing.
Stop immediately when the teacher signals, bow, and line up quickly.
Always be practicing or sitting quietly, never standing around.

Questions and Talking

If you have a question, walk to the teacher, bow, and ask politely.
Don’t yell across the mat or talk unnecessarily, learn by watching and doing.

Training with Others

Be gentle and respectful with everyone.
Help newer students, but don’t act as the teacher unless asked to.
Show respect to both more and less experienced students.

Watching Class

You may sit and watch class anytime, but:

Sit properly (no feet on chairs or lying down).
Don’t talk while class is happening.
Stay quiet during bowing and demonstrations.

Extra Rules

No eating, drinking, gum, or alcohol in uniform.
No jewelry on the mat — it can cause injury.
Never wear shoes on the mat.

Remember

These rules keep you safe, make training better, and show respect for everyone. It’s okay to make mistakes, just learn and try your best.