Aikido Center of Dover

What's different

What's different about our Kids Aikido classes?  Our Aikido kids don't just "take a class"; they are valued members of our warm and welcoming dojo community and the broader Aikido community.  They learn to respect themselves, each other, their instructors,and their dojo by working together during class, maintaining the dojo after class and by participating in monthly - generally free - outdoor group activities.  And, they have FUN!

Aikido's techniques, based on non-resistance or basically, "going with the flow", help kids by improving self control, social skills, cooperation, focus, balance and fitness.  It is effective, non-aggressive self-defense which prevents bullying and gives kids confidence even in non-physical conflicts.

Instructor

Kids classes are taught by Janice Taitel, MD.  In addition to extensive experience teaching Aikido to children, she is a pediatrician and former gymnastics coach. 

All instructors at the Aikido Center of Dover have completed full background checks.

Classes:

Training with Tots 

This class is open to parents and children from birth to 5 yo.

Parents and children will learn Aikido basics together in a fun and relaxed yet traditional Japanese dojo setting. Babies will be accommodated safely and flexibly and are welcome to play while parents train.

Kids Class for 5 - 12 years old

A traditional, fun class with basic falling, throws, escapes and Aikido-based games to develop focus, balance, fitness, confidence and social skills.

Teen/Adult class

Kids 12 and up (and serious younger students by invitation) learn traditional Aikido according to USAF standards. 

Our Kids Policy

Aikido is a vibrant, dynamic art not meant to be practiced in isolation, but to be applied in the world.  Children are a wonderful, inspiring and joyful part of our world and are always welcome in the dojo.  Parents are responsible for their children at all times.

Children with memberships may practice with their parent in any class, provided that safety and decorum are maintained.  Member children may join adult class without a parent by invitation.

Kids class is open to children from 5 - 12 years old.  Adult members are encouraged to assist in kids class.  This can be a valuable adjunct to your training.

Parents are welcome to observe kids class at any time.  The doors are always open.

Green Stripe Activities

Study how water flows in a valley stream, smoothly and freely between the rocks. Also learn from holy books and wise people. Everything - even mountains, rivers, plants and trees - should be your teacher.  Morihei Ueshiba

In this spirit, we offer a monthly outdoor activity for our students.  Students earn a green stripe for participating, which is required for promotion.

Blue-Stripe Word of the Month

The Blue-Stripe Word of the Month is a concept for the kids to understand and LIVE.  If they do, and they also demonstrate consistent Aiki spirit at home, at school and in the dojo, they will get a blue stripe, which is required for promotion.  See Events page for this month's word. 

Birthday Parties

Why not have your birthday party at the Aikido Center of Dover?  Kids will enjoy a visit to a traditional Japanese dojo and participate in an introductory class with Japanese etiquette, simple rolls, escapes and throwing LIVE grownups.  Then, they settle down to all-American pizza and cake.  Adults can watch, participate, or relax in our lounge.  Goodie bags available, too. 

Safe, easy.  No prior experience necessary.  And classes can be adapted for all ages.  Call for pricing.