Aikido for Kids

Aikido, a noncompetitive martial art, invites children to participate in the joy of movement, develop self-confidence and body-centered awareness.

The Training combines a dynamic physical practice and technique of self defense with the inner practice of centering and focusing one's attention. Young people find that Aikido training helps them resolve conflict non-violently, improve physical coordination and develop a positive approach to life's challenges....while having fun.

Parent's appreciate the emphasis on safety, good manners, focus and kindness.  The skills that children learn in Aikido practice assist them in dealing effectively with the joys and challenges of daily life.

"It's not that I don't loose my center, I just get it back so fast no one knows I lost it."

-O Sensei   

Two Cranes Aikido
Children and Teen Program
Schedule and Class Description

Children's Class Descriptions

Mini - Cranes Class for 4 - 6 year old students:

This class uses focused play to introduce Aikido movement and awareness skills to young children.  We work on spatial awareness, rolling, falling, and basic Aikido techniques.  Cooperation and respect for each other is stressed and learned through various movement practices and games in a safe and fun environment. This class prepares your child to transition into our children’s classes.

Basics Class for 6 - 12 year old students:

This is an introductory class emphasizing the fundamental movement skills in Aikido; rolling, knee-walking, centering, blending and extending energy.  Basic self-defense technique, stance, posture and creative solutions to conflict (centering) are highlighted, along with games that embody Aikido principles.  In addition, students begin to learn the basic techniques of Aikido and their Japanese names.  Colored belts are awarded at the discretion of the instructor for progress made in training.  The testing process is designed to enhance confidence and self-esteem.  Each child is given personal attention in this process.  All levels are welcome to train in this class.

General Class for 6 – 12 year old students:

This class builds on the skills taught in the Basics Class.  This class offers children more formal techniques that reflect Aikido principles.  Variations of basic techniques are taught, as well as continuing to develop skills in self-defense, energy and spatial awareness.  There is always time for non-competitive games.  Students from both levels are welcome to attend.

Intermediate Class for 8 – 12 year old students:

This class is designed for those children who have a yellow belt or higher and demonstrate a focused attitude in training.  Variations of basic techniques continue to be taught with the emphasis on understanding the underlying principles of Aikido.  Emphasis is placed on how students create safety and cultivate respect for self and others in daily life.  Energy awareness, leadership skills and fun are accentuated.  This class is open to students who have a yellow belt or higher with instructor approval.

6 – 12 year old students are encouraged to attend 2 classes per week in order to develop a sense of practice and to develop their skills.  Tuition covers 2 classes per week.

Teen Class Descriptions

These classes are designed for students to experience the fundamental techniques and philosophy of Aikido.  We introduce the cooperative aspects of the practice, focusing on blending, entering and grounding skills.  Introductory as well as more advanced techniques, partner practice, rolls, falls and knee-walking are emphasized.  Cooperation, focused attention and conflict resolution strategies are emphasized.  Playing non-competitive games is part of the learning process. This is a potential bridge for students moving from our children’s to our teen’s classes. 

Tuition covers two classes per week.  Students attending this class have the choice of also taking the Wednesday teen class, Thursday intermediate children’s class, or the Saturday teen class as their second class of the week.  If the Monday class is cancelled due to a holiday students are encouraged to make it up in any of those classes.

General Classes for 12 – 18 year old students:

We offer teenagers an introduction to Aikido. Emphasis on falling and blending skills invites students to experience the win-win aspect of Aikido. The conflict resolution focus encourages students to handle stress under pressure in a calm and controlled manner.  We include training with swords and staff to increase awareness and sensitivity to oncoming energy. As students skills increase so does their ability to handle the responsibility of the more advanced techniques. Experienced students are challenged by complex movement patterns and multiple attack drills.

Advanced Classes for 12 – 18 year old students

Teens who have trained for six months or have permission from the instructor are welcome to attend this class.  This class focuses on more complex techniques, advanced falling practice and weapons training.  This class also addresses the conflict resolution aspect of the art and how we can relax under pressure; both on and off the mat.

Teachers will guide students to attend appropriate classes for their skill level and experience. 

Kids Test Requirements