Once upon a time, in the sunny, palm-studded state of Florida, there lived a group of extraordinary kids. These weren't just your everyday, run-of-the-mill, ice-cream-chasing, videogame-loving kids. Oh no, these youngsters were different. They were Aikido wizards. Aikido, my dear friends, is not a dish served with sushi, but a fascinating martial art that combines mind, body, and spirit. It's like yoga, but with a little more action, like a ninja turtle doing the downward dog. These Florida Aikido kids were led by their hilarious and loved sensei, none other than Captain Gator - a six-foot tall, green-skinned, black-belt-holding alligator with a sunshine-yellow surfboard under his arm. Captain Gator was so cool, he could make a snowman in the middle of a Florida summer. His motto? “No gator ever won by biting faster, but by being smarter!” Our Aikido kids trained under the glorious Florida sun, amidst the scent of orange blossoms, and the occasional, not-so-welcome visit from a curious seagull. Their agility was like that of frolicking dolphins, their movements as graceful as the herons in flight, and their focus as sharp as the eagle's gaze. Every roll, pivot, and pin was a sight to see, and quite often, a cause for belly laughs if Captain Gator got his tail tangled. The Florida Aikido kids didn't just learn martial arts, but also the art of being kind, respectful, and mindful. Here, in this Sunshine State, they learned to shine, not just under the sun, but under the moon and the stars, and within their own little hearts. And they lived, rolled, and laughed, happily ever after.
Read morebest aikido programs in Miami, FL
Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
, Gold Coast Aikikai has been a leader in martial arts instruction in South Florida for over 20 years. Parents looking for martial arts instruction in South Florida should consider Gold Coast Aikikai Miami. With over 20 years of experience, this martial arts school offers Aikido and Tai Chi classes to help students develop strength, balance, and flexibility. As a member of the United States Aikido Federation (USAF) since 1997, Gold Coast Aikikai has established itself as a leader in martial arts instruction in the South Florida area. Gold Coast Aikikai Miami offers martial arts classes for students of all ages. From children to adults, all students benefit from the physical and mental training that comes with Aikido and Tai Chi instruction. The classes teach strength, balance, and flexibility, while also providing skill development for self-defense. Gold Coast Aikikai’s instructors have years of experience and are certified members of the United States Aikido Federation (USAF). With over 20 years of experience, Gold Coast Aikikai Miami is an excellent choice for parents looking for martial arts instruction in South Florida. The school offers Aikido and Tai Chi classes and is a leader in the field. Certified instructors offer skill development and physical and mental training to students of all ages. Gold Coast Aikikai’s membership with the United States Aikido Federation (USAF) since 1997 is a testament to the quality of the instruction it provides.
In 1978, Nelson Andujar, 7th dan, Shihan, founded the Miami Aikikai. He was a direct student of Yoshimitsu Yamada, 8th Dan, Shihan, so the school has a strong foundation in traditional aikido. Andujar Sensei moved to Texas in 1996, but his influence still resonates at the dojo. The instructors at Miami Aikikai are all certified through the United States Aikido Federation (USAF) and Hombu Dojo in Japan. Through their teaching, they focus on both the martial applications and the philosophy of blending and harmony that is integral to aikido.
At South Miami Martial Arts, we strive to create a safe, family-friendly environment for everyone. We offer a free trial period and unlimited classes so you can get a feel for the school before committing. We believe martial arts can be a powerful tool for self-improvement and self-defense, and our instructors are here to help you build the skills and confidence you need to succeed. Our martial arts school is focused on much more than just the physical aspects of martial arts. We strive to help our students find their inner strength and self-discipline, to learn how to control their fear and to live a more fulfilling life. We understand the importance of building a strong foundation and that's why we offer a free trial and unlimited classes, so our students can have the opportunity to really get to know the school and its instructors before committing.
At Aikikai International, Inc., we strive to honor the vision of O'Sensei, the founder of Aikido. O'Sensei believed that peace was preferable to war and that love was superior to hate. We invite all people, regardless of their gender or background, to join us in our mission to seek internal peace and promote peace throughout the world. We believe that this journey should be enjoyable, and it is a gift that O'Sensei has given us. At Aikikai International, Inc., we have a number of connections to the Aikikai Hombu Dojo, the World Headquarters of the largest Aikido organization based in Tokyo, Japan. Takashi Ishikawa Sensei, 6th dan, of the Misasagi-Kai Aikido Federation based in Osaka, Japan, is the direct supervisor of Aikikai International, Inc. Additionally, Aikikai International, Inc. is a member of the California Aikido Association, Division I, that was founded by Morihiro Saito Sensei, a 9th degree black belt. Today, Pat Hendricks Sensei, 7th dan, a senior student of Saito Sensei, leads Division I. At Aikikai International, Inc., we are dedicated to fostering a peaceful and loving environment. Our mission is to bring peace to the world, and we strive to do this through having fun on the mat and developing life-long friendships. We believe that this is an incredible gift from O'Sensei, and we are proud to do our part to honor his vision.