Building Character Through Judo’s Values

This week’s featured book, “Jigoro Kano and the Moral Code” from Koka Kids, is essential for young judoka looking to understand the philosophy of judo. This engaging guide introduces children to judo’s founder, Jigoro Kano, and the moral values that guide all judoka.

Written specifically for young readers, this book explores how the eight core values of judo’s moral code, courtesy, courage, honesty, honor, modesty, respect, self-control, and friendship,apply both on and off the mat.

With simple explanations, this book helps children understand how these principles can guide young judoka’s behavior in the dojo, improving their self-control and developing focus and direction.

The Moral Code Explained

Throughout he book, children will learn that judo is not just about throws and holds, but about developing character and becoming better people. The book begins with a short story of the life of Jigoro Kano, how he overcame bullying as a child, and went on to bring judo to millions around the world.

The book explains each of the concepts. Getting the child thinking about what each value actually means to them, bringing these values into every day life.

Available in Multiple Languages

“Jigoro Kano and the Moral Code” is now available in French and Spanish editions as well as English, making these valuable lessons accessible to even more young judoka around the world. These translations maintain the same vibrant illustrations and child-friendly approach that make the original so effective.

What Children Will Learn

• The life and legacy of judo founder Jigoro Kano
• All eight values of the judo moral code
• How to apply these values in the dojo
• Ways to incorporate judo principles in everyday life
• The importance of character development in martial arts

Perfect Companion Resources

There is a supporting downloadable judo moral code resource including posters with every-day examples of the eight values that parents or coaches can download and print up to go with the reading of the book.

These materials are perfect for coaches looking to incorporate character education into their judo instruction. Want to see how St Albans Judo Club have created a Moral Code Challenge around the Koka Kids resources? >>

Available on Amazon

Ready to help your young judoka develop not just physical skills but moral character?

“Jigoro Kano and the Moral Code” is available now on Koka Kids Amazon in paperback and ebook formats, in English, French, and Spanish editions.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

Remember: The values taught in judo extend beyond the dojo and help shape children into respectful, confident, and compassionate individuals. This book serves as an excellent tool for parents and coaches to initiate important conversations about character development.

Published: June 23, 2025

The Challenge: Reducing Judo Dropout Rates Among Young Practitioners

Judo offers children incredible benefits: physical fitness, discipline, respect, confidence, and social skills. However, many judo clubs face a common challenge: keeping young judoka engaged and committed to over the long term.

Judo Dropout Rates

Statistics show that martial arts, including judo, experience significant dropout rates among children and adolescents, particularly during transitional periods like moving from primary to secondary school. This dropout phenomenon often occurs when children:

• Feel they’ve plateaued in their learning
• Lose interest due to repetitive training
• Don’t see clear progress in their skills
• Face competing interests from other activities
• Lack tangible goals beyond grading examinations

The Solution: Creating Pathways for Continuous Learning and Achievement

The key to maintaining children’s interest in judo and reducing Judo Dropout Rates lies in creating an environment of continuous learning, visible progress, and regular achievement. When young judoka can see their development and receive recognition for their efforts, motivation naturally follows.

The Power of Self-Progression

Research in sports psychology consistently shows that children who develop a sense of autonomy and competence in their activities are more likely to maintain long-term engagement. This is where self-progression becomes crucial.

Judo offers every child the opportunity to progress at their own pace. By emphasizing personal growth rather than comparison with others, we can create a more sustainable motivation system.

Practical Solutions: Tools and Resources for Sustained Engagement

1. Structured Learning Resources: Koka Kids Judo Books

Koka Kids books provide structured, child-friendly learning paths that complement dojo training. These resources:

• Break down complex techniques into manageable steps
• Use engaging visuals that appeal to young learners
• Provide children with materials they can review outside of class
• Create a sense of ownership over their judo journey

Books like “Learn Groundwork, Master 20 Turnovers” give children specific techniques to practice and master, creating clear milestones beyond the traditional grading system.

2. Regular Recognition: Certificates of Achievement

Recognition doesn’t need to wait for belt grading and examinations. A simple Certificate of Achievement like available through KK+ provides:

• Recognition for mastering specific techniques (like this month’s Leg Lift)
• More frequent positive reinforcement than belt promotions alone
• Tangible evidence of progress that children can display
• Motivation to focus on technique quality rather than just quantity

These certificates create “mini-milestones” between gradings, maintaining momentum and enthusiasm throughout the year.

Join the KK+ Programme and begin to download all types of certificates right now!

3. Engagement Through Challenges: Competitions and Community

Creating opportunities for children to demonstrate their skills in a supportive environment builds confidence and community connection.

Koka Kids has held many prize competitions like this over the years, with children entering their artwork to win prizes like judogi, t-shirts and books. We are going to bring these prize competitions back as a regular monthly slot.

June 2025 KOKA KIDS PRIZE: The Judo Turnover Challenge

🥋 JUDO PRIZE COMPETITION: WIN A KOKA KIDS BOOK! 🥋

As we wrap up this month of groundwork mastery, we’re excited to announce a special prize competition!

One lucky judoka will win a copy of the Koka Kids book “Learn Groundwork, Master 20 Turnovers” – and it could be YOU!

📱 To enter:

1. Follow @kokakidsjudobooks on Instagram
2. Post a 15-60 second video showing your best groundwork turnover technique
3. Include #JudoTurnoverChallenge in your post
4. Tag @kokakidsjudobooks
5. Mention your judo club name

Bonus points for featuring the Leg Lift technique or any Koka Kids resources!

⏰ Entries close 7/7/2025
👶 Under 18s: Videos must be posted from parent’s or club’s account with permission

Please share the challenge with your judoka!

This challenge helps by

• Providing a specific skill focus (groundwork turnovers)
• Creating community through shared hashtags
• Offering recognition and rewards for participation
• Connecting the dojo experience to home practice

For Coaches and Clubs:

• Incorporate Koka Kids resources into your teaching curriculum
• Implement regular skill challenges with visible recognition
• Use certificates to acknowledge technique mastery between gradings
• Create a culture that celebrates personal progress

For Parents:

• Supplement dojo training with appropriate resources like Koka Kids books
• Help document and celebrate your child’s judo journey
• Participate in challenges and competitions as appropriate
• Recognize and reinforce progress at home

Reducing Drop Out Rates

By implementing ongoing learning, regular recognition, and clear progression paths, we can significantly reduce Judo Dropout Rates and help develop lifelong judoka.

The combination of quality resources (like Koka Kids books), regular recognition (through certificates and challenges), and community engagement (through competitions and shared experiences) creates a sustainable motivation system that carries children through the inevitable ups and downs of their judo journey.

Start today by encouraging your young judoka to participate in the current (ends 7/7/2025) Turnover Challenge!

How do you keep your young judoka engaged?

Judo Education for Kids: Get activity sheets to accompany the Koka Kids Books

Hi, it’s Nik Fairbrother here from Koka Kids Judo, and this week we turn the spotlight onto one of the Koka Kids Books: 10 Judo Holds & 10 Groundwork Challenges – with a printable activity sheet to help kids get the most out of this book.

📥 Below, you can download the activity sheet to accompany the book to encourage children to read the book, and answer the questions and complete the fun puzzles.

Supporting Your Child’s Early Steps on the Mat

As a parent, watching your child discover a new passion is one of life’s true joys. If your young one has recently shown interest in judo, you’re witnessing the beginning of a journey that can build confidence, discipline, and physical literacy that lasts a lifetime.

The activity sheet we’ve created transforms learning essential judo hold-downs into an engaging experience through:

• Fun puzzles that reinforce technical understanding
• Question-based learning to improve retention
• Visual aids that make techniques easier to comprehend
• Challenges that encourage practice and application

Why Groundwork Matters in Judo Education

This month over on Koka Kids+, we’re focusing on improving groundwork—a fundamental aspect of judo that teaches children balance, coordination, and strategic thinking. Groundwork (or “newaza” in Japanese) is often where beginners can find early success, as it doesn’t require the same timing and throwing skills as standing techniques.

Judo Book of The Week: The “10 Judo Holds & 10 Groundwork Challenges” book breaks down these important skills into digestible lessons that children can actually enjoy learning.

This is a good book for beginners and children just starting their judo journeys and is available to buy on Amazon.

How You Can Support Your Child’s Judo Journey

As a parent, you play a crucial role in your child’s development in judo. Here’s how you can help:

1. Reinforce dojo lessons at home using resources like our activity sheet
2. Create a consistent practice routine that builds muscle memory
3. Celebrate small victories as your child masters new skills
4. Learn alongside them to show your interest and support

Resources That Make a Difference

Koka Kids resources are being used globally by hundreds of coaches to support visual teaching and speed up learning. Our materials are specifically designed for children, with clear illustrations and age-appropriate explanations.

For parents looking to provide additional support, we offer two membership options:

• Free Resources: Basic materials to supplement dojo training
• Koka Kids+: Premium access to our complete library, technical resources, and monthly new techniques

Over on Koka Kids+, we provide resources like posters and worksheets to support learning.

Further Resources for Judo Parents

Looking to continue supporting your child’s judo development? Check out our guide “7 Judo Exercises to Do at Home with Kids” for simple, effective activities that reinforce judo skills without requiring special equipment or large spaces. Perfect for rainy days or between classes! And if you’re still getting to grips with all the Japanese terminology used in judo, our comprehensive “Judo Terminology: A Parent’s Guide” breaks down the essential phrases, technique names, and dojo etiquette terms you’ll hear during your child’s training. Understanding these terms will help you better follow your child’s progress and engage more meaningfully in their judo journey.

Ready to Enhance Your Child’s Judo Learning?

Download the activity sheet today to help your child learn judo hold-downs in a fun, engaging way. This simple addition to your home practice routine can make a significant difference in how quickly your child progresses and how much they enjoy the learning process.

Remember, judo is more than just a sport, it’s an educational system that builds character, confidence, and coordination. By supporting your child’s interest now, you’re helping them develop skills that extend far beyond the mat.

Download the activity sheet and explore the “10 Judo Holds & 10 Groundwork Challenges” book to start your child’s judo education today!

Mastering the Foundations of Groundwork Skills in Judo

For young judoka looking to strengthen their groundwork skills, this week’s featured book is an essential addition to any judo library. “10 Judo Hold Downs & 10 Challenges” from Koka Kids provides clear, child-friendly instruction on one of judo’s most fundamental skills.

Written with beginners in mind, this engaging guide breaks down the ten essential hold downs (Osae-komi) in judo with step-by-step instructions and helpful illustrations. What makes this book particularly special is the inclusion of ten fun groundwork challenges created by world champion Nik Fairbrother, designed to help children practice and perfect their new skills.

Essential Holds Explained

The book expertly details crucial holds like Kesa-gatame (scarf hold), and Yoko-shiho-gatame (side four-corner hold), which teaches important judo principles. Children who master these fundamental holds develop not just technical skills but also core strength, and an understanding of balance and control.

Learning these specific holds early is particularly valuable for young judoka as they form the building blocks for more advanced groundwork. Kesa-gatame, for instance, teaches children how to control an opponent using their body weight rather than strength alone- a principle that serves them well throughout their judo journey. The book’s clear breakdown of these techniques helps children understand the positions needed for effective control.

What You’ll Learn

• Master all ten official judo hold downs
• Develop critical groundwork techniques
• Learn effective escapes from holds
• Improve transitions between different holds
• Build confidence in newaza (groundwork) competitions

The book uses clear language and colorful illustrations that make complex judo concepts accessible to young practitioners. Parents and coaches appreciate how the book presents technical information in a way that captivates children’s attention while teaching proper technique from the start.

Perfect for Young Judoka

Whether your child is just beginning their judo journey or looking to strengthen their groundwork game, this book provides the perfect foundation. The challenges included make practice fun and engaging, turning learning into play.

Available on Amazon

Ready to help your young judoka master the art of hold downs?

“10 Judo Hold Downs & 10 Challenges” is available now on Koka Kids Amazon in both paperback and ebook formats. It makes an excellent gift for any child interested in judo or a valuable resource for coaches working with beginners.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

Remember: While this book provides excellent instruction, all judo practice should be conducted in a dojo under professional supervision, or at home only with proper safety equipment and adult supervision.

Judo at Home: 7 Fun Exercises to Practice with Your Child 

Judo is a journey of physical and mental development that parents and children can embark on together. While proper judo technique training must take place only in a dojo under qualified instruction, practicing certain judo related exercises at home can reinforce skills, build confidence, and create wonderful bonding opportunities between you and your child.  

The Benefits of Practicing Judo Exercises at Home

Home practice offers several advantages for young judoka:

• Reinforces movement skills
• Develops consistency and discipline
• Creates special parent-child bonding time
• Improves body awareness
• Builds confidence

Remember, these judo exercise do to at home, are  meant to supplement, never replace, formal training under qualified instructors in a proper judo facility.

 Safety First: Setting Up a Safe Practice Area

Before beginning any judo activities at home, safety is priority:

• Clear a spacious area free of furniture, toys, and other obstacles
• Use proper judo mats or thick exercise mats (never practice on hard surfaces)
• Ensure the mats don’t slide on your floor
• Establish clear boundaries and rules before starting
• Wear appropriate clothing (judogi if possible, or comfortable sportswear)
• Remove jewelry, watches, and other potential hazards
• Always warm up properly before any exercises

 IMPORTANT: Home practice should focus on motor skills, movement, and fitness. Do NOT attempt any throwing techniques, as these require proper supervision and safety measures only available in a dojo environment.

Exercise 1: Shadow Uchi-komi (Throw Entries)

Shadow uchi-komi allows children to practice the entry movements for throws without actually performing the throw. It is an exercise that is done alone without a partner. Your partner is your imaginary “shadow”.

How to do it:

1. Have your child stand in natural posture
2. Guide them through the entry position of basic throws they’ve learned in the dojo or use one of the Koka Kids Books. 
3. Focus on proper foot placement, balance, and body position
4. Practice slow, controlled movements with emphasis on form
5. Use a countdown: “3, 2, 1, Hajime!” to make it engaging

 Safety tip: Ensure there’s enough space around your child as they practice the movements. No throwing – just turn-in and turn-out.

Exercise 2: Balance Challenges

 Balance is fundamental to judo success, and these exercises develop this crucial skill.

 How to do it:

1. Single-leg stands: Stand on one foot while maintaining good posture. Can balance be maintained with one eye shut?
2. Tiptoe walking: Walk forward, backward, and sideways on tiptoes
3. Balance beam: Use a line of tape on the mat as a “balance beam”
4. Freeze tag: Move around until you say “freeze,” then hold the position
5. Stepping stones: Place small targets on the mat to step on while maintaining balance

Safety tip: Stay close to younger children during balance exercises to catch them if needed.

 Exercise 3: Grip Strength Games

Strong grips are essential in judo, and these fun activities build hand and forearm strength.

 How to do it:

1. Judogi tug-of-war: Hold opposite ends of a rolled-up towel, or belt or judogi jacket and gently pull
2. Hanging challenge: From laying on the ground in-between your legs, how long can they hang from holding onto your hands? Or if you can wear a judogi jacket and see how long they can hang from holding the collars of the jacket.
3. Stress ball squeezes: Squeeze and release a soft stress ball

Safety tip: Ensure grip activities are age-appropriate and don’t strain young hands.

 Exercise 4: Flexibility Exercises

Flexibility improves performance and reduces injury risk in judo.

 How to do it:

1. Butterfly stretch: Sitting with soles of feet together, gently press knees toward the floor
2. Forward fold: Seated with legs extended, reach toward toes
3. Hip rotations: Standing, rotate hips in circles in both directions
4. Shoulder rolls: Roll shoulders forward and backward
5. Animal walks: Move like different animals (crab, bear, snake) to develop flexibility

Safety tip: Never force stretches—emphasize slow, gentle movement without bouncing.

 Exercise 5: Judo-inspired Fitness Circuit

This circuit builds the specific fitness needed for judo in a fun, engaging way. You can add in different stations as you like:

 How to do it:
Create stations with 30 seconds at each:

1. Judo jumps: Small jumps with feet together over a small soft object
2. Shrimping: If they have learnt “Shrimping” at judo, this is a great drill to practice at home.
3. Bear crawls forward and backward
4. Foot sweeps: Using a bean bag, sweep the bean bag around an obstacle course using the sole of your foot like you would for a Kouchi-gari or De-ashi-barai

Safety tip: Adjust repetitions and difficulty based on your child’s age and fitness level.

 Exercise 6: Solo Ukemi Practice

Ukemi (breakfalls) are crucial for judo safety, but at home, focus only on basic movements. For help use this book: Learning How to Breakfall

How to do it:

1. Practice only seated or lying breakfalls on proper mats
2. Focus on proper arm position and how you must slap the mat with an open palm (never a fist)
3. Practice “rocking chair” motion to develop rolling momentum
4. Use games like “freeze” during rolls to check position

Safety tip: Be very aware of space around the practice area, and movement of the child’s head which should be tucked in tightly throughout the whole movement; their chin tucked in towards their chest.

 Exercise 7: Visualization Techniques

Mental practice is powerful for skill development and focus.

How to do it:

1. Have your child close their eyes and visualize doing a technique like Seoi-Nage perfectly
2. Watch judo videos like these ones by Fighting Films together and discuss the movements
3. Use the “technique step-by-step cards” with drawings and notes
4. Go to the I-Dojo and watch animations of judo throws like this one!

Safety tip: This safe exercise can be done anywhere, even without mats!

 Tips for Making Home Practice Engaging and Consistent

• Keep sessions short (15-30 minutes) and fun
• Use games and challenges rather than strict drills
• Let your child lead sometimes—ask which exercises they want to do
• Join in yourself—children love when parents participate!

Home Practice compliments Dojo Training

Always remember that home practice complements but never replaces dojo training. Here’s how to connect the two:

• Ask your child’s coach which specific elements would be beneficial to practice at home
• Discuss with your child how home practice connects to what they’re learning in the dojo
• Reinforce the values taught in the dojo: respect, discipline, and perseverance

For additional structured practice ideas, the Koka Kids Book “Dojo Drills” offers excellent exercises that safely build on dojo learning. This resource provides illustrated guidance for parents wanting to support their child’s judo journey at home.

Home judo practice offers a wonderful opportunity to bond with your child while reinforcing their skills. and you’ll help your young judoka develop confidence, fitness, and a deeper connection to this beautiful sport.

Enjoy the journey with your child!  

Always consult with your child’s judo instructor before beginning any home practice routine to ensure it complements their formal training appropriately.

 For more articles like this to help Judo Parents check out this one: Judo Terminology: A Parent’s Guide