youth

waka [young] mono [person]

Overview

Our Youth Traditional Martial Arts Class is rooted in the ancient warrior traditions of Ninpo (the art of the ninja) and Samurai Jujutsu, offering a deep and enriching martial path far removed from the modern focus on points and trophies. These arts were developed for real-life application—survival, discipline, and self-mastery—not for competition. In our dojo, young students step into a legacy that emphasizes focus, respect, and personal growth over victory in sport.

Unlike competitive martial arts that center on winning medals and scoring points, our training fosters inner strength, mental discipline, and traditional values. Students learn techniques passed down through centuries, including evasion, balance, throws, escapes, awareness, and non-aggressive conflict resolution—skills that serve both in martial practice and everyday life.

Benefits of Training Young:

  • Focus & Self-Discipline: Children learn to calm the mind and concentrate, improving behavior and academic performance.

  • Respect & Humility: Rooted in ancient warrior codes, students practice respect for others, themselves, and their environment.

  • Confidence & Self-Defense: Kids gain confidence through competence, knowing they can protect themselves if necessary.

  • Resilience & Patience: Training instills perseverance, as progress is earned—not given.

  • Non-Competitive Growth: Without the pressure of tournaments, students grow at their own pace, guided by tradition and principle rather than rank or accolades.

This class is ideal for families seeking a meaningful, values-driven martial arts experience that helps youth develop strong character, a sense of heritage, and a lifelong foundation of physical and mental strength.

What You Will Learn

  • How to escape from arm, wrist and body grabs

  • Punching, kicking, and blocking

  • Ground defense

  • Throwing

  • Small and large joint manipulation

  • Awareness and distance management

  • Use of force

  • Understanding predatory mindset and how to avoid danger

  • Proper manners and etiquette

ages

  • Youth class starts from age 5 to 11. After 12 years old the student may join adult classes.

STUDENT REQUIREMENTS

Potty Trained Requirement

All children must be fully potty trained to attend class. We are not staffed or equipped to change diapers or assist with restroom accidents. Students should be able to use the restroom independently.

Behavior Expectations on the Mat

We expect all students to:

  • Show respect to instructors and classmates at all times.

  • Keep hands and feet to themselves unless practicing with permission.

  • Listen and follow directions promptly.

  • Maintain a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

  • Avoid excessive talking or disruptive behavior during class.

If a child is repeatedly disruptive, parents may be asked to remove the child from class that day. Continued behavior issues may result in temporary or permanent dismissal.

PARENT POLICIES

Supervision & Drop-Off/Pick-Up

  • Parents must ensure their child arrives and is picked up on time.

  • Students should not be dropped off more than 10 minutes before class starts.

  • Parents are expected to pick up their child no later than 10 minutes after class ends.

Observation & Participation

Parents are welcome to observe class from the designated waiting/viewing area. Please avoid interrupting the class or speaking to your child during instruction time. If your child is having difficulty adjusting, we may request a private conversation before the next class.

Illness Policy

Please do not bring your child to class if they are sick or have had a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea within the past 24 hours. If your child becomes ill during class, you will be contacted for immediate pick-up.

COMMUNICATION & CONTACT

All important updates, class cancellations, and schedule changes will be communicated via the private Umineko Dojo Student Group Facebook page. Please keep your contact information up to date.