Recently Jedi Jiu-Jitsu has had a growth surge in our kids program. Part of this is due to the new 4-6 year old program we have instituted in addition to some well-placed advertising. We spent several months working with a smaller group of kids in this age range and have had tremendous success so we opened the gates to more kids in this age range. The results thus far have been great. For kids in this age range, we teach focus, discipline, physical fitness and respect in a Jiu-Jitsu atmosphere. Kids will do drills that build muscle memory for later use in more complex moves required for BJJ. They learn the foundation of Jiu-Jitsu, folk-style wrestling as well as Judo unbalancing techniques to allow them to control a bullying situation, get the aggressor safely to the ground and establish a dominant position. They learn basic self-defense skills as well as how to better communicate when dealing with an aggressor. Kids do not learn submissions in the beginning stages of this program. Ages 7-13 continue with the established program from our instructors who have spent over 20 years teaching kids Jiu-Jitsu.
Too often, in today’s media, you see the buzzwords “anti-bullying.” Our instructors have been teaching three generations of kids how to handle bullies. If a child is forced to defend themselves in a school environment, and does so by striking the aggressor, they can also be held liable. In most instances, schools today have a zero tolerance policy – meaning both kids will be suspended and possibly expelled. This can affect a child’s progress in school and slow them down tremendously in terms of missed school and possibly being held back a grade. The child may become wary of defending themselves for fear of being punished. Jiu-Jitsu offers an alternative. It allows a child to defend themselves by clinching, securing a take-down and establishing a dominant position while never throwing a punch. Teaching a child that a zero tolerance policy exists and they are to not fight back – opens the door to becoming a victim of assault. We do not believe this to be an acceptable option and thus teach our methods of defense.
In addition to the obvious self-defense, your child will also gain the following benefits:
Exercise and living a healthier lifestyle. Gym classes in schools are not what they used to be and it is no secret that our children are becoming more sedentary. Jiu-Jitsu provides a great physical activity for kids of all ages and athletic abilities.
Making friends. In today’s world of video games and tablets, children are not developing as many relationships as in the past. Jiu-Jitsu provides a team environment where they socialize in person, learn to work with others and strive to help others. At JJJ we put a strong emphasis on the theory “Helping someone else improve, makes us better”.
Better grades. Studies have shown that kids participating in any Martial Art have improved grades.
Respect. We require kids to show respect to instructors as well as parents/guardians. This becomes habitual and that respect is carried over to also include school teachers and anyone of authority.
Leadership and drive. Having measurable goals whether it be belt rank or competition teaches kids goal-setting and gives them a sense of accomplishment when goals are reached. This provides self-confidence and drive to achieve/attain goals.
Our instructors are the most experienced kids Jiu-Jitsu coaches in Northeastern Oklahoma. Our programs are presented in a fun environment where kids can progress at their individual pace. We can accommodate the kid who needs to get off the couch and be more active, all the way up world class competitors. Come in and try a class and see the difference for yourself.