IN THEIR WORDS
Families on the APS kids' program.
PARENT FAQ
Questions parents ask.
Honest answers to what families want to know before a first class. Still wondering about something? We are glad to help.
What age groups do you accept for the children's program?
We welcome children ages 7 and up. Classes are tailored to suit different age groups, ensuring appropriate instruction and engagement. Students 16 and older train in our adult program.
Does my child need prior martial arts experience?
No prior experience is necessary. Our program is designed to accommodate beginners and help them build foundational skills.
How many classes can my child attend during the week?
Unlimited. Your child can attend all of the classes we offer, as your schedule allows.
How long is each children's class?
Each class is one hour long, with a few short water breaks depending on the weather.
What should my child wear for the trial class?
Children can wear a white martial arts uniform if they have one (aikido, judo, or karate, for example). If not, they can wear loose-fitting clothes such as a t-shirt and sweatpants. Aikido is practiced barefoot.
Why are kids of different ages mixed in one class?
We do not divide children strictly by age, for a few reasons. In Aikido, the experience of working with partners of different sizes and abilities is valuable. Older kids gain leadership and teaching experience by helping younger or newer students.
And kids build friendships outside their own age group. During class we sometimes group by rank, and we often pair older students with younger ones, which benefits both. We are serious about class discipline and safe practice.
How do I know if Aikido is right for my child?
Aikido is a non-aggressive, non-competitive traditional Japanese martial art. We support non-violent conflict resolution on every level, from emotional to physical, and the natural development of a young martial artist without the unnecessary stress of competing.
What are the benefits for kids and teens?
Aikido is a full-body workout that develops flexibility, balance, coordination, and strength. Children and teens also build confidence and discipline, learn to manage their first impulses and their fight-or-flight response, and develop awareness, timing, and distance. Calming breathing techniques and regular meditation help them self-regulate and handle stress. They also learn ukemi, the art of falling, which teaches safe, non-traumatic falling and rolling and can prevent everyday injuries.
How quickly can my child progress, and how long can they train here?
It usually takes five to six years to progress through the children's ranks: Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple, and Brown. Testing is tied to attendance. After that, students are on the path to adult levels and, ultimately, black belt. When a child progresses to adult-level tests, but no younger than 12, they may choose to join adult classes or stay in the children's program until 17. Aikido is an art your child can begin at 7 and continue for life; we have members still actively practicing in their seventies and eighties.
How does Aikido work for self-defense?
Aikido is unique in that it is not about winning or losing; it is about dealing with and resolving conflict. It gives your child the tools to handle the threat or reality of violence in the safest, most appropriate way. The rigor of training gradually builds confidence and capability. The ultimate goal is to defend yourself and those who need defending while avoiding injury to the attacker whenever possible. As the founder, Morihei Ueshiba, put it: to control aggression without inflicting injury is the Art of Peace.
What if we move away?
Aikido is practiced worldwide. If your family relocates, you can find a USAF-affiliated dojo in most places to continue training, and while traveling you are welcome to practice at other dojos, which is a great way to meet people. There are also seminars, camps, and workshops held around the country and the world.