Junior children (age 4-6)

For younger children, parents are often interested in benefits such as physical fitness, self-regulation, perseverance, and greater self-confidence. Many also value the way martial arts can help children develop resilience, self-awareness, and a sense of self-protection.

In our Junior Kids (age 4-6) program, students practice focusing attention, managing various stimuli, working with partners and groups, and becoming more comfortable and capable in their bodies. As you will see when observing class, we are a traditional Japanese martial arts dojo, and we aim to nurture both body and mind through that foundation.

What the Class is About

With any activity, perseverance matters. It is normal for children (and adults) to feel excited at first, then become bored, hesitant, or discouraged after a few sessions. When a child joins aikido, they face unfamiliar people, movements, and routines, so some anxiety or hesitation is natural and does not predict how they will feel after several classes.

A first important step is simply trying: trying to copy the teacher, follow the other kids, and work through emotions (hesitation, impatience, anxiety). Teachers and classmates encourage this, but children are never forced.

Because aikido is physical, students also gradually develop body awareness and movement skills. They learn by observing the teacher and other students, then practicing what they see.

Through practice, students become more adaptable, coordinated, and confident in controlling their bodies. Partner exercises also help students stay calm and focused instead of reacting with fear or surprise.

Another important aspect is practicing in pairs. Students become comfortable with appropriate physical contact while developing respect, gentleness, and control with others. Working with partners also builds problem-solving and awareness.

Enrolling

When deciding to join, please make sure you have observed at least one full class. Initial enrollment will be for one calendar month (up to about 8 classes of twice per week classes).

The process of joining:

Sign the new student form (Google form) and we ask that you sign the paper waiver in the dojo as well.
Confirm uniform size and expectations of parents about the uniform.
Confirm understanding about attendance and tardiness.
Complete payment before starting class. (See below about tuition.)

In the case of new children, we request that parents communicate with the instructor as early as possible about expectations, time, concerns, etc; and also to share about issues sooner rather than later. (It's an obstacle if the parents don't come and create an opportunity to communicate.)

Tuition

Newly joining adult students, instructor will discuss with you about expectations and check in during the beginning part of your time here.

If you believe your initial commitment will be a concern (e.g., how frequently you expect to attend), please discuss with the instructor.

Monthly adult dues: $110 ($114 by Paypal).

Monthly children's dues: $100 ($104 by Paypal).

Monthly auto-pay page here. Auto-pay by Zelle also welcome.

For month-by-month, please use Venmo, Zelle, or cash.

Venmo is @daniel-nishina (9676)