Aikido classes for children

Aikido instruction at Aikido of Scranton provides an excellent way for children to learn self-defense techniques and have fun learning at the same time! 

All classes involve stretching and breathing exercises, and practice in rolling and falling techniques to protect oneself if struck, pushed/pulled, grabbed, or choked.  Learning how to preserve and protect one’s life from harmful or dangerous situations is a very important part of life. 

Aikido training improves a child’s ability to concentrate, enhances self-respect and respect for others, and instills discipline, patience, and self-control.  Self-esteem begins to take shape, and the child’s confidence  expands outside the training hall as well, as the lessons of the dojo are practiced in everyday life.  Breathing and centering exercises provide the child with a calm sense of balance, even in stressful situations.  Repetitive practice of techniques with partners imbue the student with an understanding of how to use the body as a means of self-defense, and to react without thinking to provide the crucial edge.

Sensei’s approach towards teaching children is simple – allow them to be themselves, have fun, and grow at their own pace, and slowly they will gain a deep and fundamental grasp of the principles that he was taught.

 

Benefits of Aikido for Children

Aikido training at Aikido of Scranton provides many benefits for kids –

• An opportunity to try out the most modern of all the Martial Arts in a safe, supportive setting
• Active learning situations which will increase self-confidenc while teaching the value of self-discipline
• An emphasis on respecting others, cooperation, and resolving conflicts without fighting
• Enhanced ability to pay attention, focus efforts, and work in harmony with others.
• Excellent conditioning, flexibility, and agility training

Aikido teaches students to defend themselves… by not fighting.  Instead of relying on potentially crippling kicks or punches, the student of Aikido learns to apply various wrist locks, arm pins, and unbalancing throws.  These neutralize attacks without serious injury to the attacker.

Aikido is ideal for children because the self-defense techniques which it teaches do not depend on superior size or strength.  Boys and girls of all ages can practice together and participate equally in the training hall.