Toddlers can now learn martial arts and other techniques in Saturday morning classes designed specifically for them.

Jiketsu Martial Productions is behind the programme which offers lessons in martial arts, callisthenics, yoga, stretching and simple meditation to children, five years old and younger.

"Our youth karate class has been very successful over the last seven years and many parents and guardians have expressed an interest in a tot's class," said director Reuben Bean.

"Also, [there are many that now] recognise that this is a very crucial stage of development for children. Many refer to it as 'The Terrible Twos', but this so far from the truth. Nothing is terrible about tiny tots particularly when they are just beginning to understand how to explore, communicate and make decisions for themselves.

"So if one harnesses this interest, many benefits are possible physically, mentally and emotionally."

The aim, he said, is to get them into exercise at an early age.

"Many things are done by habit, so if they are educated to appreciate why they are taught specific life skills and how those skills can benefit them, they become accustomed to [them], and want to continue utilising [them] through life.

"This is another reason why the class does not focus solely on the physical external movements of martial arts. Children will also learn how to breathe efficiently, stretch correctly to avoid injury and to harmonise their minds through simple meditation."

Mr. Bean the youth karate classes he introduced in 2002 have been well received by hundreds of students.

"Some are still training with us today while others have moved on to other sporting and extra curricular interests. However, one thing that remains constant is that whether or not the student trains with us for three months or three years, they will leave with enhanced motor coordination, a deeper understanding and appreciation for their bodies and minds, and moreover have an instinct to always perfect themselves while displaying discipline, confidence, awareness, respect and humility.

"These same essentials apply to the tiny tots class as well. A careful approach is embraced ensuring incremental development of their bodies and minds at an elementary level. Because most children are very explorative and pure at this age, we are able yoke this energy and interest to condition their minds to work as a unit, merging the creative/intuitive and logical/analytical as one.

"Through our structured syllabus, this whole brain thinking approach hastens the development of the child in all areas of their life. By the time they enter the youth programme, they are positively conditioned to embrace and aspire to even higher greater challenges and opportunities."

Mr. Bean said the aim was to teach the basics of a range of techniques in a fun and interactive way.

So far, he has had more than 30 parents sign up, and is anticipating more before the registration period is over.

"It is as wide and as diverse culturally, as Bermuda has become so to are the reasons for parents wanting to register their children.

"Parents would like to see everything from discipline to developing confidence, increasing motor skill conditioning and athleticism, increasing attention and burning their child's seemingly endless stock pile of energy reserves.

"We are proud that our programme tackles these aspects and more over a period of time."

Lessons are $225 a term and parents can register at anytime throughout the year. For more information telephone 799-7541 or e-mail jiketsu@northrock.bm.