Ohio Budōkan offers instruction in Nippon Karate-dō Genwakai for children, ages 8 years and older. The purpose of the kid's karate class is to develop the whole child. The instruction is centered on development of the four key areas: physical, mental, social, and emotional. The instruction is dedicated to character development rather than competition. Children are taught and evaluated based on their own individual progression. They are taught the traditional qualities of self-respect, self-discipline, self-motivation, respect for others, respect for authority, initiative, and achievement. Classes are structured to promote these qualities in a safe and secure environment. Classes begin with stretching and strengthening exercises prior to a period of reinforcement of basic techniques.

Groups are then formed by rank and instructors focus on improving established techniques and teaching new techniques or prearranged sets of movements. Genwakai Karate is a style that can be mastered by the average student within a relatively short period of time depending on attendance, ability, and effort.

Class Times:

Saturdays - 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Tuesday Evenings from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

1 free Uniform is provided at enrollment.

Kid's Karate FAQ
Frequently asked Questions:

1. What if my child is not 8 years old but wants to attend Kids Karate classes?

A: In some cases, children as young as 7 years old (but no younger) have been accepted based on an instructor's evaluation and in conference with the parents. If your 7 year old wants to attend they will need to participate in 1 trial class.

2. Does Ohio Budokan use contracts with the students?

A: No, Ohio Budokan does not believe in commercial contracts.

3. What are the class costs for Kids Karate?

A: For information - call Ohio Budokan at (937)-443-0800 or email Bill Bryant - jabe1(at)earthlink(dot)net

4. How do I go about enrolling my child in Kid's Karate classes?

A: Each child is allowed one free class. Make arrangements to attend and participate in a free trial class.

5. How much are the Kid's Karate uniforms?

A: 1 free Dogi (uniform) is provided at enrollment. As your child grows, a new uniform costs approximately $25 - $35 (depending on discounts available, etc.)

6. Is there anything else I need for the Kid's Karate class?

A: No - there are no other special equipment or uniform requirements.

 

Kid's Karate Demo

The students of the Kid's Genwakai Karate class and their instructors worked hard and prepared a public demo to present for their families and friends. Below are pictures that help to highlight the hard work and excellence of these young men and women.

 

The students all begin with warm ups followed by basic technique exercises. As the students move on to more advanced techniques, the lower ranking students wait patiently for their next instruction.

Sensei leads class as the students work on basic kicking techniques on their right and left side.

After the basics, the students move on to Kata. Kata or 'forms' are a series of pre-arranged techniques done in a specific order and pattern.
Kata test a student's mental and physical abilities. Being able to perform them correctly requires self discipline and hard work.

 

As students display mastery of their basic requirements, they advance in rank earning additional knowledge and new kata to master.

 

The core of the Genwakai Kid's Karate program is discipline and respect for themselves and others. Students begin and end every class with formal reshiki (etiquette). Students are expected to be polite and respectful and to display self discipline both in and out of the Dojo.
These values help children to succeed in all aspects of their home, school, and Dojo life.

 

In Japan, a rei (bow) is the western equivalent of shaking hands, it is a sign of respect. Having successfully completed their demonstration, the students bow deeply to their Sensei and parents in a show of thanks and respect.

Congratulations are in order for the students and instructors of the Genwakai Kid's Karate program. The hard
work and discipline that went into the demo was evident throughout the display. Thanks to all who participated.