LEWISTON — The YWCA of Central Maine has announced registration is open for its children’s karate program. The classes begin Saturday, Aug. 1, and will take place every Saturday morning from 9 to 10 a.m. in the YWCA Wade Center.

The program is taught by black belt instructor Sosai Donna Harris of Phoenix Karate Academy and will include one additional class each week at the Phoenix Karate Dojo in Auburn.

The program is designed for kids ages five to 12. The six-week curriculum focuses on providing tools for class participants to grow into strong role models. The children are taught that karate starts and ends in self-defense and should never be used to harm others. They are also taught the importance of leading by example, building their self-confidence and the self-confidence of others.

Phoenix Karate Academy are the Founders of Pinan-Do Karate which translates to “peaceful way.” They believe that karate should not be used as a way to cause harm to others but rather as a way to unlock hidden strengths and weaknesses and use these lessons to discover individual purpose.

The cost of the six-week program is $90 for YWCA members and $100 for non-members, plus an additional uniform fee. Space is limited. FMI: 207-795-4050.