KIDS & YOUTH
PROGRAM
Developing the next generation of grapplers and problem solvers — structured, task-focused training for ages 4–13.
TRAIN WITH
PURPOSE.
The Ann Arbor BJJ Kids & Youth Program develops legitimate grapplers who can problem-solve. We use the Constraints-Led Approach and Ecological Dynamics to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — kids learn by solving live movement problems with partners.
Movement solutions emerge through interaction with the partner, the task, and the environment. The result is adaptable, functional Jiu-Jitsu that holds up under pressure. Classes are engaging and structured, with tasks scaled to meet each child at their level. All training is No-Gi.
KIDS BJJ
AGES 4–6.
Our youngest age group, and a great window to introduce Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Classes use structured tasks and guided challenges to develop movement, coordination, and early problem-solving.
At this stage, the goal is learning how to move, explore, solve simple problems, and participate in a group setting — foundations that everything else builds on.
- Develop early problem-solving skills
- Build focus through engaging movement tasks
- Improve confidence and basic communication
- Develop coordination, balance, and body control
- Introduce foundational Jiu-Jitsu movements and problem-solving
KIDS BJJ
AGES 7–9.
Builds on the foundations from the younger group with increased task complexity and expectations. Students work through more challenging movement problems — encouraging decision-making, creativity, and collaboration.
Higher task demand, longer class time, and more involved challenges. Structure comes from the tasks themselves — students learn by doing, scaled to where they are.
- Strengthen problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Improve physical awareness, balance, and coordination
- Build confidence through successful task completion
- Encourage focus and effort through engaging challenges
- Develop foundational No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu skills
- Build communication and teamwork
YOUTH BJJ
AGES 10–13.
Designed for older kids ready for increased structure. Youth students begin transitioning into our main training framework with age-appropriate guidance and expectations.
Training is consistent, focused, and direct — the same constraints-led, task-focused framework adults use, calibrated for this age group. Suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to more experienced students.
Youth 10–13 train in the dedicated youth class plus the adult evening and weekend classes — up to 7 days a week.
- Bridge from kids program into the main training framework
- Build adaptable Jiu-Jitsu skill through live problem-solving
- Develop timing, perception, and decision-making under pressure
- Increase task complexity with age-appropriate guidance
- Prepare for the transition to adult-level training
SKILL OVER
RANK.
Kids and youth at Ann Arbor BJJ earn belts as they progress through the IBJJF system. But the focus is always real skill — the kind that shows up when they're rolling and competing. Belts come when the skill is there.
TRAIN WITH
PURPOSE.
Developing legitimate grapplers and problem solvers — under clear instruction, structured tasks, and a system built for long-term progress.
Downtown Ann Arbor · Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Ages 4–13