Aikido teaches students to defend themselves by not fighting. Instead of using potentially crippling kicks or punches, students of aikido learn to apply various wrist locks, arm pins and throws. These neutralize attacks without serious injury to the attacker. Aikido is ideal for children because the techniques do not depend on superior size or strength. Girls and boys can practice together and participate equally in training.

Our Children’s Program is designed to teach kids between the ages of 5 and 17 to basics of aikido. Children’s classes for all ages are held on Saturdays and Sundays. We also offer an After School Program for middle school and high school students Monday through Thursday. Our head instructor -- Josef Birdsong -- and senior students under his supervision teach the classes. Adult students (and parents) also help with the program. (Children ages 5 to 7 must be accompanied by a parent.)

Our Children’s Program provides:

• An opportunity to try out the most modern of all the martial arts in a safe, supportive setting.
• Active learning situations that will increase self-confidence while teaching the value of self-discipline.
• An emphasis on respecting other people, cooperation and resolving conflicts without fighting.
• An enhanced ability to pay attention, focus and work with others.
• Excellent conditioning, flexibility and agility training.

Aikido of Austin will not be participating in the Physical Education Waiver Program for the 2008-2009 school year. We will re-evaluate the program for the next year.