Aikido for Children
For ages 8-14, the kids classes are held inside the dojo on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 - 6:00 pm. For teens, ages 13+ there is class on Mondays 4:45 - 5:45 and we suggest watching both a kids class and an adults class to see which might be a more comfortable fit.
Aikido gives children a way to learn about themselves, their bodies, and their environment. Movements and the development of the child are closely related. Aikido is about movement in harmony with oneself, others and the world.
Practicing Aikido supports the total development of your child. Children practice in a friendly, coed atmosphere. Our specially qualified instructors use games, techniques, and tumbling exercises to teach children how to defend themselves without hurting others. It is difficult to describe Aikido in words. The best way to understand it is to visit our dojo, watch a class, and decide for yourself if Aikido would benefit your child. Aikido training improves strength, balance, physical coordination, and flexibility. Aikido offers a good workout, enhances agility, and increases sports ability.
Family Benefits
Aikido offers families a new perspective on fitness, fun, and parental involvement and offers a variety of ways for parents, family, and friends to support and celebrate their child's learning, accomplishments, and promotion.
Social Benefits
Aikido teaches children how to cooperate and succeed. Regular training will help your child develop good learning skills and the kind of follow-through that gives children self-confidence as they grow. Aikido of Berkeley youth programs will help your child learn to:
- make friends and avoid making enemies
- take responsibility and consider others
- relax in stressful situations
- focus and concentrate
- increase mind-body coordination
- develop emotional intelligence
- sit quietly and listen attentively