So, you recently enrolled your child in a Brazilian Jiu Jitu class, and now you’re wondering what kind of support you can provide them.

Whether you’re concerned about how they’ll adjust to their new environment or if they’ll enjoy BJJ for kids, we have listed down some tips to help your child make the most of their experience.

1. Try to exercise together

Find the time to perform simple exercises or physical activities with your little one. That could be outdoor walks, running, or fun ball games at home. See how well they follow your lead and stay focused.

Instructors will provide instructions to follow during BJJ training, so it helps if your child has a similar experience with people around them. Also, part of each class involves paying respect to everyone on the mat, from taking a bow to shaking hands.

Discuss the importance of these polite gestures with your child so that they will learn to take them seriously.

1. Establish healthier habits

Aside from getting active, you’ll also want to look into realistic changes that you can implement at home to train your child.

You can start by reducing their screen time and tucking them into bed early. They will need plenty of rest, particularly once they start with their training, so a decent night’s sleep is crucial.

This will also help them focus and gather strength for their training. Plus, this is even more beneficial if they are taking morning classes. You know that getting children out of bed can be tough, especially if they slept late.

1. Practice empowering statements

Every child learns differently. If your child is already going to a regular school, communicating with them about the progress they made during the day can give them the push they need to work even harder.

Instead of asking whether they have gotten ahead of the class or how they rank compared to other students, focus on their learning. This approach will prove beneficial during BJJ classes. Talk to them about their most fun experience during the day.

BJJ for kids is not about beating others per se, although the students regularly spar with their peers. These conversations will empower your child to confidently express their thoughts, secure in the knowledge that they will not face judgment or ridicule.

This will instead make them more confident and empathic toward others.

1. Always be supportive

It may take some time for your child to adjust to their new environment. At first, they might be confused and struggle to make friends.

During training, they may feel upset if they lose to their opponent. Listen as they share stories, and keep an eye on how they are coping. If they’re having other issues, such as disagreements with other students, guide them so they can handle it carefully.

Emphasise that defeat is part of the experience. As long as they’re giving their best, learning, and having fun, they’re doing great.

Finally, visit and hear from their instructors from time to time

Having a busy schedule as parents is normal. But you’ll want to make time to observe and catch up with your child. Do they find BJJ for kids fun?

Do they want to continue with their classes? BJJ requires consistency, so keep motivating and supporting your child and see how they perform overtime.

Never pressure them. Do not compare them with their peers. And let them learn at their pace. That’s one of the most effective ways you can support them, in BJJ training or any of their endeavors.