Children’s Program

Children’s Program Suspended for Summer 2024

“Aikido…is the marvelous path of endless creativity…Aikido ties emptiness and form together with love, completely transforming and elevating our spirits to the highest level.”

– O-sensei, Founder of Aikido

Kyle

The instructor, Kyle Matthews is a writer, teacher and father.  Over thirteen years of studying Aikido, he has found the principles and experiences gathered throughout his training to be joy-bringing, profound and deeply healing. He is inspired to transmit and teach this phenomenal martial art to children.

  • At Rising Sun Aikido, the Children’s Program is designed for ages 7-12.
  • Each class will be structured in three parts: Warm-ups, Practice and Aikido Games.
  • Classes are on Wednesday from 4:30pm – 5:30pm.
  • The program is $60 per month. Pay Kyle Sensei at the dojo.
  • Uniforms (gis) are required once a student is training full time. They will not be provided, but can be ordered online or through the dojo.                                   
  • The first class is free!

Children’s Program Description

Aikido, often translated as “the way of harmonizing energies”, is a nonviolent, Japanese Martial Art that uses flow, throws and redirects to protect the practitioner and, if possible, the attacker as well.  Beyond the natural delight and joy to be gained from rolling around on the mat, here are some skills your child will learn from studying Aikido:

  • Falling safely and skillfully, even when faced with intense or forceful falls.
  • Unification of mind, body, spirit and soul; experiencing moments of wholeness.
  • The ability to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence or reactivity.
  • Respectful behavior, good conduct, good manners.
  • Improved powers of concentration and increased attention span.
  • Access to a holistic, body-based approach to learning, rather than the head-centric studies of academia.                              
  • Greater self-confidence and self-respect; the ability to stand up to bullying on one’s own and others’ behalf.
  • Improved physical and emotional balance, capability and coordination. An appreciation and experience of one’s own physical, psychological and energy bodies.