AIKIDO OF MAINE Image 1764 Shomen Ania and Ryan
AIKIDO DOJO TEACHERS
 

Age appropiate Youth Programs

Sections: Youth Programs |  Dues Policy |  How To Get Started


The goal of our youth program is to provide a safe, positive and non-competitive environment for the practice and study of Aikido. As a martial art, Aikido fosters a healthy outlook, develops respect for self and others, and cultivates flexibility and coordination. The principles of centering and blending our energy with that of our partner are also stressed. We work with parents and welcome their input. Challenge and fun are essential elements to our children's program. Our classes are structured in age breaks to provide the best learning oppertunity.There is some age overlap and children will be placed in the class that is best suited to their needs. Our Youth classes are taught by Gary Small sensei 5th dan. Interested parents are welcome to come and watch class and speak with the other parents about our program.

  • Aiki Play ages 3 and 5YEAR OLD CLASS is ON HOLD RIGHT NOW.
  • Aiki kids ages 5 to 8 years of age

    This is a great age to begin Aikido training. The dojo is a very positive environment for kids. Our classes are highly energetic and at the same we stress focusing, respect and cooperation and building awareness of center. We play games and the kids start to learn Aikido’s techniques and names. Class starts with a seated bow and end with sweating smiling faces. You are welcome to come and watch any class and speak with other parents about our program.We utilize a star promotion system the recognizes and awards respect, focus, awareness and effort as the children develop their motor skills

  • Aikido youth Class 8-12 years of age:

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

    Aikido kids test requirements .
    Kids testing (pdf)
    .

  • Aikido Teen ages 13 to 17 years of age

    This class is structured much like an adult class. The focus is on Aikido principles and technical development. Aikido is practiced in this group at a very high level. Belt level testing is also part of the training for this group and is conducted at the discretion of the teacher It is our hope to help the members of our Teen class achieve a Jr. Black belt no easy task in Aikido. Fitness is built in to all parts of this class and we hope that it is a spring board to healthy lifestyle choices children make as they get older and reflect on when they become adults.

    Aikido Teens test requirements .
    Teens testing (pdf)
    .

Membership Dues Policy

Our dojo uses a third party billing service AAC. We do this to simplify the flow of funds and to separate the student teacher relationship from the financial arrangement. This allows us to deal with dues in a more effective way. It is our experience that this company’s system is easy and convenient for our members. Joining our dojo works as follows, the first month should be paid with a check along with our annual fee and any uniform costs. A completed continuing membership form should be filled out at this time. There are no long term contracts required.

Membership works as a month to month agreement:

  • Aikido teens 12yrs to 17yrs
  • Aikido youth 8yrs to 12yrs
  • Aiki Kids 5yrs to 8yrs
  • Aiki play 3 and 5 year olds / on hold

There is an annual membership fee of $25 for youth students.

We have the option of yearly pre paid dues, if you prefer, with one Free month.

There are Siblings and family discounts

    How to Get Started

    • Come in and see a class

      Children & Youth (and parents) are always welcome to watch any of the regular classes. It would be best to come early so we can connect or to stay a bit after class so we can cover any questions you might have.

    • Sign up

      Our classes run year round and your child can enter at any time. Our membership is monthly With no long term contracts.

    Please check our contact page to sign up or to request more information!