Brooklyn Aikikai457

My son (almost 6) proclaimed the one-week long Aikido camp he just attended as the best summer camp ever. He has been training at Brooklyn Aikikai since the age of 4. It's an exceptional place, I highly recommend.

My 7-year-old son just loved the week-long camp experience he had (summer 2008). The true foundations of aikido were taught, with a wonderful emphasis on history and culture. Respect is key- the kids are treated with it and learn it as well. Class size is amazing - it is truly limited so the teachers really know the students and the kids get to know each other. I highly recommend.

My son who is now 4 began aikido classes at Brooklyn Aikikai at 3 1/2. He loves it!! The teachers are patient and gently encourage the correct way to execute moves. Since my son began aikido, he has learned to sit for longer periods of time and has become a better listener. The atmosphere is more than welcoming, as the teachers, parents and children, embrace all those that walk through the door.

After looking at several aikido and other martial arts classes, my son -- age 10 -- and I both knew instantly that we had found the right place. Aikido, a "gentle" but effective martial art, is taught in a caring and supportive, yet disciplined atmosphere. The children all seem to enjoy themselves while learning.

I highly recommend this Aikido class for 3-5 year olds. My son (4 years old) has attended the class now regularly for about 3 months. The teacher Kate is exceptional. She finds such a good balance between discipline and humor and keeps the children's attention for the whole 45 minutes. They learn the basic moves ("how do you fall without hurting yourself": forward rolls, back rolls etc.). They also get a sense of respect for others and of self-discipline. This class is not yet listed on their web site. It's from 3:45 to 4:30 on Mondays. There is also a class from 4:30 to 5:30 for older children and a mixed age class from 9-10am on Saturdays. Check it out!!!

My 9 year old son attended the summer camp this year and LOVES aikido. He now attends regular weekly classes. He's not only learning the techniques and craft of the this non-aggressive, defensive martial art, but he's also taken to the dojo's (Japanese for martial arts school) philosophy of discipline, respect for others, and inner calm. (They have classes for adults, too, which I hope to soon be a part of). The Sensei's (teachers) there are compassionate and dedicated practicers of this graceful and confidence building "way of life" that the kids learn and thrive on.

My eight-year-old son is building greater body awareness and gaining experience with the importance of mental focus. Respectful practices that include proper ways to enter/leave the dojo and greet each other are beautiful, gentle daily habits and provide wonderful context for learning Aikido and other aspects of Japanese culture. My son's sensei has a lovely, effective way with the kids. She leads them in all-day summer camp classes which she has structured so that the kids not only practice Aikido, but also experience a variety of other cultural activities and even enjoy sprinkler time in the park. In these hot summer days when the dojo is sometimes just a few degrees below sweltering (thankfully, turbo fans kept it comfortable for the kids), the varied rhythm of the class and different excursions have been important. My son looks forward to every class.