Spring 2025 Kids Aikido Session - Starts April 26th - Registration Now Open!

Our 9-week Spring mini-session for children aged 7-12 begins Saturday, April 26th, 2025.

Spaces are limited and filling quickly! Click here to register for the Spring 2025 session

Traditional Aikido in Longueuil

Welcome to Montérégie Aikikai's Kids' Aikido Program, where children ages 7-12 explore the principles of Aikido in a dedicated, traditional dojo environment. Aikido is a fascinating martial art with deep principles that children can learn and grow with. Below, you'll find a quick introduction to Aikido, followed by a deeper look into its philosophy and practice for those wanting more detail. 

What is Aikido?

Aikido is a Japanese martial art that focuses on movement and control instead of force. It was founded by Morihei Ueshiba in the early 20th century and comes from traditional martial forms.

Aikido emphasizes technique over strength. It teaches how to avoid, redirect, or neutralize an attack using the opponent's own movement. The goal is to resolve conflict without unnecessary force.

Training in Aikido develops coordination of mind, body, and spirit. It is a lifelong study that improves awareness, balance, and discipline through practice. For a more detailed explanation of Aikido's philosophy and techniques, read on.

A Deeper Look

Aikido (合氣道, aikidō) is a dynamic and evolving non-competitive, non-brutal martial art from Japan, blending centuries-old techniques with a philosophy of harmony. Founded by Morihei Ueshiba early in the 20th century and derived from traditional martial forms, Aikido is characterized by movements that are flexible, rational, and efficient.

Its goal is not to overpower, but to resolve conflict without unnecessary force, seeking a peaceful outcome through the skillful application of technique.

Instead of direct opposition, Aikido teaches to transform the energy of an attack using fluid movement and precise control. Practitioners learn to skillfully evade, redirect, or neutralize incoming force, often turning the opponent's own momentum and energy against them.

The study of Aikido aims to coordinate and develop the mind, body, and spirit, offering practitioners a path to personal growth and self-improvement. This lifelong journey provides opportunities for children and adults alike to develop deeper awareness, balance, and discipline through consistent practice.

Our Approach to Aikido for Kids

The Principles of Aikido

Aikido emphasizes movement, internal power, and non-opposition of force. Instead of clashing, Aikido teaches how to redirect energy effectively and maintain balance. Our kids' classes blend fun with structured learning, led by skilled instructors passionate about sharing this traditional Japanese art.

Skill Development Through Practice

In our classes, children learn by doing. They practice core Aikido movements, focusing on body mechanics, agility, and awareness. They practice ukemi (falling techniques), avoiding attacks, and applying safe, controlled techniques, including throws with partners. Alongside the physical techniques, we emphasize discipline, focus, and martial etiquette. Our approach encourages self-reliance and active engagement, teaching students to adapt to challenges and persevere.

Learning Together

We foster a positive, non-competitive atmosphere where children learn collaboratively. The focus is on personal growth, mutual respect, and helping each other improve. Aikido isn't about winning or losing; it's about challenging yourself and working together. Through this enjoyable and profound practice, we aim to equip your child with lasting confidence, adaptability, and the inner determination needed to face life's challenges with composure and grace.

How Aikido Benefits Children

While every child's journey is unique, here are some key benefits parents often observe:

• Physical Fitness: Aikido practice helps develop coordination, balance, and overall physical fitness in a non-competitive environment.

• Focus: The structured nature of practice requires paying attention to instructions and movements, helping children develop concentration and attentiveness.

• Respect and Discipline: Students learn respect for instructors, peers, and the art itself. Focused practice and attention to dojo etiquette also help develop discipline.

• Developing Composure: Aikido teaches ways to blend with and redirect energy, which can foster calmer, more composed responses when facing challenges.

• Confidence: Learning techniques and overcoming challenges in Aikido practice nurtures self-confidence.

• Teamwork: Working cooperatively and safely with partners is essential in Aikido. This partner practice helps children develop valuable teamwork and cooperation skills.

• Mentorship: The structure of our mixed-age classes encourages older students to serve as positive role models, naturally mentoring younger ones and creating an enriching experience for all.

These benefits develop gradually through consistent practice, creating a foundation that serves children well both on and off the mat.

Ready to see if Aikido at Montérégie Aikikai is the right fit for your child? Here are the next steps you can take:

• Register for Spring 2025: Secure your child's place in our 9-week session starting Saturday, April 26th. Spaces are limited and fill quickly! Click Here to Register for Spring 2025.

• Arrange to Observe a Class: Interested parents are welcome to observe a class to see Aikido in action. Contact Us to Arrange a Visit.

• Ask Us Anything: Have questions about the schedule, what to expect, or anything else? We're here to help. Ask Your Questions Here.

Here's what one parent has to say:

"My daughters have been practicing Aikido at this dojo for 2 years, and they grow from each session. The instructors are passionate and have a wonderful energy." ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Safety and Training Commitment

At Montérégie Aikikai, child safety is our paramount concern. Our kids' Aikido program is conducted within a structured, supervised training environment designed to promote safe learning. Our dojo is a large and child-friendly place, featuring 84 square meters of tatami mats on a sprung wooden floor, providing an ideal surface for practicing falls and techniques. We maintain a strict instructor-to-student ratio, and all instruction includes age-appropriate technique modifications, emphasizing cooperative practice and safe ukemi (falling skills).

About Montérégie Aikikai

"A supportive environment where training builds both skill and character."

Montérégie Aikikai proudly serves the Montérégie region, Montréal's South Shore, and beyond. We offer a dedicated, traditional dojo environment and expert instruction in Aikido. Whether you're a complete beginner or have prior experience, you'll find that our dojo is home to a welcoming and supportive community built on mutual respect. We emphasize rigorous training, personal development, and the cultivation of both physical and mental discipline. The spirit of Aikido is one of connection, and Montérégie Aikikai welcomes individuals of all backgrounds to join us on the mat, united by a shared commitment to learning and growth.

Led by Chief Instructor Joshua Layton, 6th Dan, our dedicated team has been teaching traditional Aikido on the South Shore since 2011. We are affiliated with the United States Aikido Federation and the Aikikai Foundation (Aikido World Headquarters) in Japan. 

What to Bring

1. A bottle of water.

2. Your child, clean and fresh! No perfume or nail polish.

3. An open, kind spirit.

Registration

You must submit a registration form for each child enrolled. A confirmation will be sent by email (please allow a few days). The number of participants in our program is strictly limited. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding registration.

Regarding Teenagers

Teens generally switch to the general program (teens and adults) at or around the age of 13. This can vary depending on the individual. Click here for more information.

Complementary Activities

In addition to Aikido for kids, our dojo also offers classes in the complementary arts of Iaido (the traditional martial art of Japanese swordsmanship, with meditation, solo practice) and weapons (wooden sword and stick, partner practice). Click here for more information.