Three Ways We Support Each Child's Learning

Class Information

• Classes meet Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:00 to 6:55 p.m.
• We value proper etiquette, but do not require every child to sit in seiza when it would place undue strain on the knees or body.
• Physical contact is limited to what is necessary for instruction and safety.
• If an injury or illness is suspected, safety takes priority over continuing practice.
• Classes begin with stretching, safe falling, and body movement, followed by practice of four or five Aikido techniques.

Safety, Hygiene, and Safeguarding

• An AED is kept at the dojo, and instructors have completed standard first-aid and lifesaving training through the Nagoya City Fire Department.
• We maintain procedures for emergency care and prompt communication with parents.
• The dojo is cooled or heated before class. On extremely hot days, we begin cooling early and aim for a room temperature of approximately 28°C (82°F) when class begins.
• Bottled water is kept on hand for hydration.
• Adult members, including instructors, are responsible for cleaning the dojo and restrooms. The training area is cleaned after every class with disposable wet sheets, and paper towels are provided in the restrooms.

Concerns about safety or dignity

In addition to the instructors who teach the class, the dojo head serves as a separate point of contact for concerns about instruction, safety, or a child's dignity. Contact information is provided to all parents. Concerns are handled only to the extent necessary and with respect for privacy.

What We Emphasize Through Practice

Making responsible choices

• Developing awareness of posture.
• Recognizing and avoiding unsafe behavior.
• Understanding feedback and adjusting one's actions.

Protecting training partners

• Using appropriate strength and practicing gently with younger students.
• Relying on correct technique rather than force.
• Checking the direction of a throw and the surrounding space.

Respect and cooperation

• Training with partners of different ages and experience levels.
• Helping classmates who are unsure what to do.
• Practicing in a way that supports both partners' learning.

Rank Examinations and Instructors

New students begin without rank and advance to 10th kyu at their first examination. Rank examinations are held twice a year, in June and December. At each examination, parents receive a written training record describing the child's progress over the previous six months.

View sample Mind, Technique & Body reports (opens in a new tab).

The children's class is led by Mizutani (4th dan) and other 4th dan instructors. Instruction is adjusted to each student's age, experience, and condition that day. See Instructors for staff backgrounds and teaching approaches.

Before Joining

Showa Dojo is a small dojo where instructors can closely observe each student. We ask families to support our emphasis on safety, etiquette, consideration for others, attentive listening, and cooperative practice. If a student's behavior or needs are not compatible with safe group practice, we may postpone or decline enrollment or continued participation.

Prospective students normally attend one observation session and three trial classes before deciding whether the dojo is a good fit.

Children's Class Annual Report

Our annual report describes not only the class's activities, but also our approach to safety, children's dignity, peer learning, safeguarding, governance, and accountability to parents.

Estimated Initial Costs

Techniques Practiced Through 1st Kyu