The All Japan Judo Federation has held coach training at the Kodokan on how to structure judo activities around children’s physical development. About 80 coaches took part, with the course starting from children’s movement and learning needs rather than simply reducing adult techniques.
The programme introduced JSPO-ACP＠柔道場, a judo adaptation of the Active Child Program. Activities combine movement, body control and ukemi in a safe and enjoyable setting, allowing beginners to build coordination and physical confidence before progressing to more formal judo techniques.
The approach is a useful reminder that children’s judo is not adult training made smaller. Teaching should respond to age, development and individual differences while keeping safety, enjoyment and long-term learning at the centre.
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