Kids BJJ London: What Parents Can Expect

What parents can expect from kids BJJ London classes

Kids BJJ London classes should feel clear, welcoming and well supervised from the very first visit.

A first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class should feel clear, welcoming and well supervised. Your child does not need experience before they come in. The purpose of an Introduction is to see the environment, meet the team and find out which group is the right fit.

At The Kodokan, we speak with parents before arranging a child’s Introduction. That conversation helps us agree whether Stars or Stripes is the appropriate session.

A calm start matters

Children are welcomed, shown where to leave shoes and given a little time to settle. The coach explains what the group is working on and what is expected on the mats.

The aim is not to put anyone under pressure. It is to help your child listen, move with care and enjoy learning something new.

What happens during a first class?

Classes include movement, simple partner work and technical exercises at a pace appropriate to the group. Coaches demonstrate clearly, then give children time to practise.

A first session is not a test. Your child may find some things easy and some things unfamiliar. Both are completely normal.

Stars and Stripes

The two children’s groups have different session lengths:

• Stars: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 4:30pm–5:15pm.

• Stripes: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 5:30pm–6:30pm.

We agree the appropriate group with you before booking. Please only choose the class discussed with the team so that your child arrives in the right session.

What should my child bring?

For a first class, clean comfortable clothing is fine. A T-shirt with shorts or leggings works well, provided there are no zips, hard buttons or jewellery.

Please also bring:

• a full water bottle;

• flip-flops or sandals for moving on and off the mats; and

• a calm, curious attitude.

Fingernails and toenails should be trimmed before training. If your child has an injury, a health concern or needs specific support, let us know before the class.

Will my child be asked to spar?

Partner work is introduced and supervised by the coach. The class is structured around learning, control and respect for the people around you.

If something does not feel right, your child should tell the coach. We want children to ask questions and to understand that stopping and getting help is always okay.

What happens after the Introduction?

After the session, the team can talk through how your child found it and answer any questions you have. If everyone feels it is a good fit, we will explain the appropriate next step.

There is no need to decide everything before the class. The Introduction is there to help your family make an informed choice.

Arrange a children’s Introduction

If you would like to enquire about a place, visit the Kodokan Kids Academy and complete the children’s enquiry form. We will speak with you first, agree the appropriate group and then arrange the right session.