Martial Arts Meets Child Development. Welcome to the Ikigai System.
At Molalla Striking Arts, we don’t just teach martial arts — we develop purpose-driven, confident, resilient kids ages 5–13.
What is Ikigai?
What if martial arts could do more than teach kicks & punches?
The Ikigai Child Development System goes beyond belts and forms. We use martial arts as a framework to build your child’s confidence, focus, physical health, emotional regulation, and sense of purpose — all while having a blast.
Each program is age-specific, rotating through physical, emotional, and life skills every 4 months to support whole-child growth.
Our Programs
Ikigai After School (k-5th)
Structured, Holistic Child Development After School
Inspire! Ages 5-6
Building Foundations in Focus, Respect, and Movement
Encourage! Ages 7-9
Shaping Confidence, Grit, and Responsibility
Thrive! Ages 10-13
Developing Leadership, Discipline, and Purpose
Why Parents Love It
⭐ More Than Martial Arts
Real-life skills your child brings home.
🧠 Emotionally Intelligent Training
Confidence, respect, and emotional regulation.
🎯 Clear Structure and Growth
4-month rotating curriculum = visible progress.
What Parents Are Saying
“Thanks so much for the update! We really appreciate the time and heart you put into working with Deacon. He lives for class—talks about it all week—and every stripe is like winning the lottery in his world.”
— Dusty A., Parent
“Thank you for being a safe space, an encourager, and there for our kiddo every step!”
— Andy F., Parent
“When he told this man, who he has looked up to for years, what he was going to do and before he could even finish he was given the opportunity to sport his uniform. Walking into school Connor walked tall and even spoke to adults that approached him and did it with confidence. I had to put my sunglasses on . Superhero’s don’t just wear capes-they can wear a black belt too!”
— Kira E., Parent
“…I just saw the picture today. I’m so damn proud of this kid for his hard work and determination. Thanx to Jimmy Thompson for being a great Sensei. And thanks to Amber and Starlord as well.”
— Ian T., Parent
“I am feeling so, so grateful to have a space where my KID is learning, growing, making friends, and challenging himself. Also, to have a space to feel a huge community for parents to do the same! Thanks Molalla Striking Arts for finding ways to bring us all together as one!”
— Sam F., Parent
“3 years ago today Turner joined Molalla Striking Arts and I could not be more thankful that our paths crossed with Jimmy Thompson. This man doesn’t just teach martial arts. He invests in your kids and teaches them life skills all while making them laugh or cry at times, if times call for it. He pushes kids to be better and becomes their biggest supporter. He has always been there to step in and help us whenever we needed more guidance with Turner and he has become apart of our family. I am floored at the difference between Turner from day 1 of his class to now. Turner got bullied, would look at the ground when walking and avoid people. Today, Turner is a leader. He has confidence that I never thought I’d ever see in him. He believes in himself and I owe that to Mr. Thompson. Thank you so much for not only teaching him martial arts and life skills.. but for loving him. We appreciate you so very much. There’s no one else I’d trust to teach my son.”
— Ashley K., Parent
