Our children are growing up in a world full of distractions, and every young child has potential that might be wasted if they do not have proper direction.
Another common problem that might hinder the healthy development of our kids is so-called bullying. One way to deal with this is to teach the little ones to stand up for themselves. Unfortunately, children who are victims of bullying often feel sad and unpopular; they think the kid who bullies them is more powerful than they are.
Thankfully, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) addresses many developmental problems, providing structure for children and making them more confident.
This article explains a few reasons why and how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers so much to your child.
Body Awareness & Cognitive Development
While training in BJJ, children are confronted with numerous challenges. In practicing techniques, they develop exceptional motor and cognitive skills, thus forming solid neuromuscular synapses and increasing their coordination and balance, which can open the path to learning other sports or physical activities.
Discipline & Concentration
Nowadays, children are distracted by everything, and we see an increase in attention-deficit-related diagnoses (ADD/ADHD and dyslexia). It is said, however, that discipline and concentration are like a muscle that can be trained. For example, learning BJJ is fun but has some detailed and challenging movements. By improving their discipline and concentration, children will improve in school and their communication skills.
Self-awareness & Self-esteem
Most martial arts promise better self-confidence, so why choose Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? BJJ has many differences compared to other martial arts, but mainly regarding hands-on experience. By doing controlled sparring, kids learn how to apply specific techniques against a resistant opponent, working on achieving a dominant position or escaping an unpleasant one in a safe, step-by-step approach.
Problem-solving skills develop as the children progress in BJJ; they learn how to break things down, form associations, and measure risks before deciding (initiating a movement or standing still).
Kids will be focused on the process rather than on the outcome, developing patience and, above all, becoming more confident in their capabilities and overcoming their toughest opponent in life, i.e., so-called instant gratification.
Self-defense
Unfortunately, bullying is common in school. In practicing the foundations of BJJ, children not only learn to stand up for themselves but also acquire actual tools for defense, physically, emotionally, and verbally. By using anti-bullying and violence prevention concepts, kids are empowered and can effectively prevent any attempt at harassment.
Communication & Relationships
In a BJJ class, children get to know many new friends with whom they can share everyday experiences. Besides, kids learn to communicate with others and express their ideas, feelings, and problems effectively.
Fitness & Lifestyle
BJJ can be an entertaining but challenging cardiovascular workout – kids love it! Children lose weight, gain strength and flexibility, and have more energy and endurance through movement. The term Jiu-Jitsu Lifestyle describes the routine of many practitioners of the art. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be physically demanding, which is why a healthy day is essential (proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep). All this contributes towards a better quality of training and a better future for our kids.
BJJ for children in Berlin Kreuzberg
Our goal is to ensure that your child will develop positively and harmoniously, preventing bullying, learning to stand up for themself, and improving both physically and mentally.