Hi, my name is Ana Fernandes. My husband, Junior, is the owner and main instructor at Athlas Training Team Ft. Lauderdale. I’ve been working in martial arts academies for over 12 years. During that time, I’ve seen a lot of kids come and go. I’ve also seen many stay and grow into confident, respectful, and disciplined young adults.
Of course, a child’s interest in martial arts—especially in kids jiu jitsu—has a big impact on whether or not they stick with it. But as a mother of two kids (ages 6 and 8), I’ve also learned that parents play a much bigger role than we often realize. Our involvement, encouragement, and the environment we create at home can make all the difference.
These days, many people are quick to blame the younger generation: “Kids today don’t have discipline,” or “They don’t know how to push through hard things.” But we forget one important truth—kids don’t raise themselves. If we want them to have strong values and good habits, we have to lead by example and take responsibility for the environment we’re creating.
So instead of pointing fingers, let’s ask ourselves: what can we do as parents to help our children succeed in **kids jiu jitsu** and other areas of life? Below are our top three tips, based on years of experience working with families in martial arts.
TIP 1: Turn off the TV and tablets before class
It might seem like a small thing, but screen time before class can make a huge difference in your child’s energy and attitude. Studies show that watching TV or using tablets before physical activity can actually lower a child’s motivation to participate. The stimulation from screens makes kids feel sluggish and passive, rather than energized and ready to move.
We know it’s tempting—after a long day of work and school, it feels easier to relax in front of a screen. But if you want your child to have a positive experience in **kids jiu jitsu**, create a “pre-class routine” that sets the right tone. Turn off devices at least 30 minutes before training. Use that time to talk, get ready, have a healthy snack, or stretch together. The difference in your child’s mindset will surprise you.
TIP 2: Don’t confuse discipline with punishment
Sometimes kids cry before class, say they’re tired, or ask to skip. That doesn’t always mean something is wrong. In fact, it often means they’re facing a moment of challenge—and our job is to help them push through it, not give up.
Think about it: adults don’t always feel like going to work or to the gym either. But we know the value of showing up. Kids need to learn that lesson too. If every time they complain we say, “Okay, you can skip,” we’re teaching them that discomfort means stop. Instead, show compassion, but stay firm. Say something like, “I know you’re tired, but let’s go and try. You can rest after class.”
Discipline is about consistency, not punishment. Encouraging follow-through helps children build resilience—a skill that will serve them in all areas of life.
TIP 3: Connect practice to purpose
Some kids love watching tournaments or seeing their teammates compete. But when it comes to the day-to-day training, their motivation fades. This is where parents can help connect the dots.
Make sure your child understands: matches are earned, not given. Practice is what builds the foundation for success. No practice means no matches—it’s that simple.
This concept might seem tough, but it teaches an essential life lesson. In school, in sports, and later in their careers, they’ll need to understand that effort precedes reward. The earlier they learn that, the better equipped they’ll be for the future.
We Can’t Just Blame the Generation
It’s easy to say “kids these days don’t listen” or “they’re not tough like we used to be.” But here’s the truth: every generation reflects the one that raised them.
If kids today are struggling with motivation, attention, or respect, we have to look at the environment we’ve created. Are we holding them accountable? Are we consistent with our expectations? Are we setting examples through our own actions?
Too often, we pass the blame and miss the opportunity to lead. As parents, our influence is greater than we think. Let’s stop asking, “What’s wrong with this generation?” and start asking, “What can I do to help my child succeed?”
At Athlas Training Team, we’ve helped hundreds of families use **kids jiu jitsu** as a tool for growth. But it doesn’t happen on the mats alone—it starts at home. When parents are involved, supportive, and committed to the process, kids thrive.
Bonus Tips for Long-Term Success in Kids Jiu Jitsu
– Celebrate small wins. Your child doesn’t need to win tournaments to feel proud. Recognize improvements in attitude, effort, or technique.
– Be consistent. Skipping too many classes breaks the routine. Treat training like school—it’s a commitment.
– Ask for help. Talk to your child’s coach if you’re unsure how to support them. We’re here for both kids and parents.
– Get involved. Stay and watch classes, ask about techniques, or train yourself. Kids are more inspired when they see you care.
Why Kids Quit Martial Arts — And What Parents Can Do About It
Sticking with **kids jiu jitsu** is not just about whether a child “likes it” or not—it’s about developing habits that shape their future. The discipline, respect, and confidence they build now will carry over into every area of their lives.
So let’s do our part. Let’s show up, be consistent, and take responsibility. When we lead the way, our kids will follow—and we’ll all be better for it.
