Children's Aikido Info and Parents Guidelines

Aikido is based on a responsible, non-aggressive, non-violent yet strong, peaceful philosophy...

Our Aikido Classes for Children are open to boys and girls ages 5 thru 12. Boys and girls practice together in the same classes.

Aikido is an effective yet non-violent, non-aggressive way of self defense where strength and size do not matter so it is especially suited for children. Because Aikido is based on circular principles of absorption and redirection children learn to blend with attacks and redirect the attack safely away. Children gain the ability to defend both themselves and others easily and effectively without the use of violent or aggressive behavior.

Aikido builds street-wise awareness and self confidence and a sense of social and community responsibility. There are no tournaments, contests or competitions. The atmosphere is one of friendship, cooperation and mutual respect. Aikido for children is effective, safe, and most importantly-fun.

With our Aikido program children learn how to:

- have confidence and overcome shyness. - handle bullies and how not to become one. - relax in stressful situations. - focus and concentrate. - coordinate their minds and bodies. - defend themselves effectively. - refrain from kicking, punching or striking. - calm their minds. - listen attentively. - take responsibility. - have fun-yet be ready to focus instantly. - respect themselves and others. - cooperate with others and help one another. - use their natural instincts and intuition. - be disciplined and have fun at the same time. - interact appropriately with others. - develop leadership skills. - remain in balance physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. - escape from an attacker. - fall and roll safely. - sit quietly. - walk and move silently. - use all their senses. - and much more!

We recommend that you and your child watch at least one children's class in its entirety. In this way you can determine if Aikido is right for your child and your child can determine if they would like to join the class.
No appointment is needed, just come visit any of the classes listed on the other side. While visiting feel free to speak any of our staff, and/or any of the other parents. We'll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

In order to better help guide your child, and better understand Aikido, parents may want to consider purchasing The Aikido Student Handbook ($11.95) which is available at each ACNJ dojo. Parents may also ask for and receive a free copy of the ACNJ Supplement booklet.

Before you make the commitment to sign-up your child for Aikido here are some basic parental responsibilities you should be aware of...

Parent's Guidelines

Dressing rooms
Dressing rooms are for the purpose of changing into or out of practice uniforms (gis). Siblings are not allowed in dressing rooms unless supervised by a parent.

Shoes
Shoes are not allowed on the mat or past the dojo desk. This is to prevent dirt and debris from being tracked into areas where members are barefoot.
Shoes can be removed and placed on the shoe racks at the dojo entrances.

Why at least 5 or 6 yrs. old to start?
Children reaching the age of 5 or 6 are:
    - physically able to practice Aikido and
    - they are acquiring the attention span needed for our Aikido class.
At 5 or 6 years old they are also at the age where they want to get on the mat and join the class. This is important because their desire to join the class, and the concentration that comes with that desire, contributes greatly to what they get out of our Children's Aikido classes.

Paying your child's monthly dues

Paying dues in any traditional dojo such as ours is an honor-based responsibility. The dojo does not send out invoices or reminders. Therefore it is up to parents to remember to pay their child's monthly dues on time-meaning on or before the 1st of each month.

A $10 late fee is charged on any dues paid after the 5th of the month. After your child's 1st month you may wish to submit dues via Auto-Pay (see other side).

Family Discounts

- Discounts are available for adults and children of the same household.
- Discounts are on membership dues only.
- 2nd family member receives 10% off their dues. 3rd or more receive 20% off their dues.
- Additional discounts are available with our Auto-Pay membership option.

We appreciate your understanding and help in these matters in order to make sure your child receives all the benefits of our Aikido program.

Children's Aikido Costs and Classes for East Hanover and Newton*
To sign up your child: $80 - includes first month dues ($50) and uniform ($30)
Child's Monthly Dues: $50
(after your child's 1st month their dues can be reduced to $45/month - see Auto-Pay below)

Family Discounts (for multiple children in the same family) First Child: Full Rate - $50/month Second Child: 10% off - $45/month Third Child: 20% off - $40/month

Children's Class Times:

Children can attend any and all classes above.
Also - when your child is a member you are always welcome, and encouraged, to stay to watch them in class and enjoy their progress.

Auto-Pay is our best savings option. Your child's discounted dues are automatically debited from your Visa or MasterCard at the beginning of each month. There's no hassle of remembering to submit your child's dues every month, the time it takes in paying them with cash, check or credit card, and no worries about late fees.
Ask for an Auto-Pay form at the dojo desk.

*for Manasquan costs and further info call 732 309 0822