AIKIDO FOR KIDS

What is Aikido?

Aikido is a Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969). He was a powerful man who mastered many martial arts, yet had a firm devotion to peace. He said, “[Aikido] is not a technique to fight with, or to defeat the enemy. It is a way to reconcile the world and make human beings one family.” Aikido is a powerful system of self-defense, but is deeply infused with a set of values and attitudes that seek to deal with conflict in a calm way.

Our Kid’s program is designed for kids ages 7 to 12. Aikido can help children develop physically, mentally and interpersonally. Instruction is initially centered on physical exercises designed to improve motor skills and physical coordination, and to teach how to fall safely. In conjunction with these skills, we introduce the basic martial arts principles of movement and the self-defense techniques of Aikido.

Schedule

Kids Aikido classes are listed on the dojo schedule. Teens (13+) generally practice in the adult classes. Most beginners should start in the beginners classes at 4:15 Monday and Wednesday. If your child is older than 12, please talk to Nathan to decide which class is best to join.

Beginner Aikido Kids classes:

  • Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:15 - 4:55pm

Advanced Aikido Kids classes:

  • Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:00 to 5:45

Advanced Kids class + Weapons:

  • Saturday at 1:15pm will include weapons training (with a jo and bokken) and is for any child who passed their first test.

BENEFITS FOR CHILDREN

  • Kids have the opportunity to develop strength, coordination, and resilient flexibility.

  • Conditioning exercises inspired by animal movements keep thing fun and challenging.

  • Falling and rolling practice promotes self-confidence and safety.

  • Practicing Aikido techniques supports concentration, interpersonal cooperation and coordination.

  • Aikido provides a safe environment for ALL practitioners to learn to establish clear boundaries and to respect the autonomy and consent of others. This can be a uniquely valuable opportunity for siblings.

How is Aikido for kids different from other martial arts programs?

  • Non-competitive. We don’t have tournaments or trophies. We stress cooperation, teamwork and respect among students, and between teachers and students. Aikido techniques are based on blending with your partner’s movements and redirecting them, not confronting force with force. The only competition is with oneself, striving for improvement.

  • Non-profit. We don’t require long-term contracts and we don’t pressure kids into expensive testing or competitions. Our dojo, including the kids classes, is run by dedicated volunteers from the adult program.

Can we observe a class?

Yes, visitors are always welcome! The best class times to observe are 4:30-5:30 Mondays and Wednesdays. The instructor will be happy to answer any questions you have after the class.

INSTRUCTOR

Nathan young - Lead Instructor and Program Administrator

Nathan loves the art of Aikido and finds special satisfaction in conveying it to kids. Nathan has been a member of Multnomah Aikikai since 2015 and has run the kids program since 2019. He’s closely involved in the Birankai community of children’s instructors. He says, “I’ve been so gratified to see how kids evolve through Aikido practice and I’m dedicated to keeping a special fire alive for them all the way until they are adults and beyond.”

 
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