Kids Competing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Building Confidence, Discipline, and Lifelong Skills

Competition offers more than just a chance to test your child’s skills in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. It fosters growth in areas that extend far beyond the sport, shaping children into confident, disciplined, and socially aware individuals. For parents considering competition for their child, certain requirements must be met at Gracie Barra Kirkland.

• Get approval from our coaches, specifically Profs. Joshua and Solange. You can do that by sending an email to [email protected], calling or texting Joshua (561-294-0974) or pulling coaches aside during classes.
• After you get approval, your child must attend 3-plus classes per week, including Friday’s 4 p.m. competition class.
• Know the rules – as a parent you can help prepare your child by watching videos pertaining to that competition. For example, the Revolution follows IBJJF rules, and a good breakdown of those rules is here. For Grappling Industries, a good breakdown is here. We also attend a sub-only tournament, where matches are only won by submissions. Each tournament should have a set of rules on its website and we encourage you to brush up on those rules.
• After registering, check your child’s division! It is up to you to make sure your child is in the correct division. Are they in the right belt division? What about weight? Age? You are in charge of this aspect. Solange will send out registration info ahead of a tournament, but do not sign up until you get approval to do so.
• On the day of the tournament, your child should have a hearty breakfast with protein. You should be at the tournament at least one hour ahead of his/her match time, check in with tournament organizers to check weight, etc., find the coaches and start warming up – most tournaments have a warm-up area for kids and our coaches lead them sometimes. We have a WhatsApp group for parents whose kids compete to communicate better. If your child is enrolled in competition, let Solange know and she will add you to the group.
• If your child is about to compete and a coach is not with them, tell the referee to wait until a coach comes. Sometimes we have too many competitors and cannot be everywhere at once. Referees should wait, but sometimes they don’t.

The Physical Benefits of BJJ Competitions for Kids

In a competition setting, your child’s physical skills are tested in a real-world scenario. Kids learn to move dynamically, defend against an opponent’s attacks, and execute submissions or sweeps under pressure. These experiences teach them about their own capabilities and foster resilience.

Mental Toughness and Problem-Solving

Competing also encourages mental toughness. Children may face more experienced opponents, lose matches, or make mistakes, all of which can feel disappointing. However, BJJ emphasizes the importance of learning from failures, encouraging kids to improve and refine their technique. These lessons in perseverance and handling setbacks are essential for personal growth, both on and off the mats.

Building Confidence Through Achievement

One of the most impactful aspects of BJJ competition is the boost in self-confidence that children experience. Winning a match or achieving a goal, like applying a technique they’ve been practicing, gives children a sense of accomplishment. Even in defeat, stepping onto the competition mat is a victory in itself because it takes courage to face an opponent in front of an audience.

This newfound confidence often spills over into other areas of life. Kids who compete in BJJ often show increased self-esteem and a better ability to tackle challenges at school or in social situations. They understand that effort leads to progress, and they begin to see themselves as capable and strong individuals.

Developing Discipline and Respect

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is steeped in tradition and respect. From the first day of training, children are taught to respect their coaches, teammates, and opponents. This respect extends into competitions, where sportsmanship is emphasized. Whether they win or lose, kids learn to shake hands with their opponent and accept the outcome gracefully.

The discipline needed to compete at a high level also transfers to other areas of life. Kids learn the importance of consistent practice, following rules, and pushing through difficult moments. These habits foster responsibility and self-discipline, qualities that will benefit them for years to come.

Socialization and Community

BJJ competitions provide children with an opportunity to interact with peers who share similar interests. This community fosters friendships that extend beyond the mats. The camaraderie between competitors, even from different schools, highlights the inclusive and supportive nature of the sport.

At tournaments, kids also see older competitors and black belts, offering them role models to look up to. This exposure to higher levels of skill and professionalism can motivate young practitioners to set goals and work towards earning their own higher ranks.

Preparing for Competition: A Safe and Supportive Environment

For parents concerned about their child’s safety, it’s important to note that BJJ competitions for kids are highly regulated. Matches are categorized by age, weight, and skill level to ensure fair play. Additionally, strict rules are in place to prevent dangerous techniques, such as joint locks targeting the legs or neck. Referees closely monitor the matches to ensure the safety of all competitors.

The lead-up to competition also plays a significant role in making the experience positive. Coaches and teammates prepare the children, not just physically but mentally, by teaching them about sportsmanship, setting realistic expectations, and emphasizing that the focus should be on doing their best rather than just winning.

The Long-Term Impact of Competing in BJJ

Whether a child continues with BJJ into adulthood or pursues other passions, the skills they gain from competing will serve them for life. The confidence, discipline, and mental fortitude that come from facing challenges head-on are invaluable tools. Many children who start competing in BJJ develop a lifelong love for the sport and a passion for staying active, healthy, and resilient.