In Children’s classes students learn the principles of mind and body coordination. This helps them direct their energy more positively and effectively, and gain self-confidence. Ki and Aikido training are combined in a non-competitive environment to teach children how to utilise their full potential.
This training promotes tangible benefits such as good mental and physical health. By applying Ki principles, children improve their performance in activities such as schoolwork, sports, music, and art. More importantly, they gain the intangible benefits of having a positive attitude, respect, always doing one’s best, being able to calm one’s mind, concentration, and self-discipline. The art of non-dissension applies to leading and following in the dojo. It also applies directly to being able to get along with family, siblings, peers and schoolmates.
These benefits are the result of fundamental applications of Ki and Aikido training. Good learning skills — listening, concentrating on tasks, and following through to completion — are naturally developed. Children gain confidence in their abilities, and as they grow, the tools and direction of Ki training provide something for them to rely on. A disciplined, cooperative environment helps them learn to work and grow with others.
The support of a child’s parent and/or other responsible adult is important to the child’s success. This involvement helps to direct and encourage the child to use Universal Ki Principles in daily life.
Most UK dojos offer children’s classes, and teach youngsters from 4 years upwards, check with your nearest dojo to see what classes they offer.
We appreciate that parents/guardians make as much of a commitment to the children’s program as the teachers and children. One important avenue for parental involvement is an understanding of Ki Principles. Parents can reinforce our lessons in the child’s daily life, thus greatly increasing the impact of training. We encourage our parents/guardians to participate in introductory lessons for adults available at all dojos. Communicate with your child’s teacher about his or her progress and difficulties on or off the mat. This provides valuable insight for the instructor to use in helping your child.
The UK Ki Federation has been successfully conducting children’s classes for many years. All our instructors are certified by Ki Society HQ and participate in ongoing instructor training programs to maintain their certification. The children’s program instructors are among the most experienced of the UK Ki Federation.