Aikido is a traditional Japanese martial art. It has a unique and loving philosophy. Not only do we need to take care of ourselves, we need to take care of others, too. This philosophy makes it an excellent art for children's physical and personal development.

Sensei Steve Kaufmann, Sensei Sarah Kaneko & Aiki Intro class

Open Sky Aikido School Year Schedule

Our school year includes a Fall and Spring semester. there is a 4-week early summer session in June . In summer we offer two one-week camps that are half days, 9 a.m.-12. Camp activies include two Aikido classes, an Asian art class, snack, and other activities.

Parents will appreciate the etiquette of the dojo, which instills quiet respectful sitting as an integral part of active learning.

Children's Aikido classes offered at Open Sky Aikido are specific to the needs of different age groups.

• Aiki Intro, 5 thru 7 year olds get involved in safe, enjoyable, coordination building activities. For young beginners to Aikido techniques.

• Ages 8 thru 12 work together and practice basic aikido techniques, offered three days a week.

• Basic Aikido Sword  Age 10 and up or permission of the instructor. Class uses Aikido bamboo sword. Excellent for refinement of technique. Starts Fall 2008, Mondays.

• Home Schoolers Aikido Mixed Ages, 7 & up. Wednesdays 10-11a.m.

First Day of Aikido Class Instructions
New students should come 15 minutes early and wear a

t-shirt and sweatpants to the first classes. Parents must sign a release form and pay fees before class. Children need to be on the mat, dressed and ready, five minutes before all classes.

AIKIDO INTRO

Tuesdays, 4:00-4:45p.m., ages 5-7

An age appropriate Aikido class that will engage this delightful age group.

Teachers work with these children so that they can go from fast action to stillness quickly and respectfully when they “sit like a rock” or “stand like a tree.”

The 45-minute class focuses on gross motor skills, peaceful principles of cooperative coexistence, and of course, having fun.

View the kids picture page for many new picture of this active class!

KIDS AIKIDO CLASS

Monday & Wednesday 4:00 to 5:00 p.m., Ages 8-13

Saturday Mixed level  9:30-10:30 a.m.

Saturday 10:30-11:30 a.m. Advanced kids Techniques

Price includes up to 3 classes per week.

Children learn to get in a safe place, remain calm, blend with the attacker's energy, and not rely on kicking or punching to stay safe. Aikido controls attacks with throws, pins, and centrifugal force. We roll safely away from harm.

Children become self confident through practices that develop balance, footwork, coordination, safe falling and rolling. They learn to engage their whole body to stay alert and safe.

Basic Aikido Sword

                               Mondays 5:10 to 5:40 p.m.

                          Orange belt and up with instructor's permission.        

Aikido sword

Weapons practice consists of solo kata with bamboo shinai (bamboo sword). This class must be in addition to regular children's classes.

Children constructing Aikido swords from bamboo

Aikido weapons instructor, Andy Wood

WEEKEND

Saturday

Beginning & Mixed Level

 Aikido Techniques class

ages 8-13

Orange belt & permission of teacher.

9:30-10:30 a.m.

10:30-11:30 a.m.

WEEKDAYS

Monday

Mixed Level Aikido

Basic Sword  (starts September)

ages 8-13

orange belt &  needs permission

4 to 5 p.m.

5:10-5:45

Tuesday

Aikido Intro, section I

Basic Aikido Movement Class

ages 5-8

4-4:45