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

Logo for IKIGAI Child Development System featuring a stylized blue flower with black and white accents, and Japanese characters above the English text.

Ikigai After School (k-5th)

Structured, Holistic Child Development After School

A martial arts instructor and young student shaking hands inside a martial arts studio with a blue wall and white writing, showing the student wearing a yellow belt.

Inspire! Ages 5-6

Building Foundations in Focus, Respect, and Movement

Children practicing martial arts in a dojo with instructor helping a young boy put on a belt. Other children seated on the floor, some with belts, and instructors or students practicing in the background.

Encourage! Ages 7-9

Shaping Confidence, Grit, and Responsibility

A woman breaking concrete blocks with her hand outside a building with a lion logo and the letters S and A. Two children are sitting nearby, and people are taking photos in the background.

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

Upcoming Events

Click on the picture to register!