Our tots program is built around two priorities: athletic development and fun.
At this age, the goal isn't to memorize a long list of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques. Young children are still developing coordination, balance, confidence, and the ability to follow direction. Class time goes toward movement, listening, and enjoying training, not adult-style drilling.
Not every child who starts in tots will stay in BJJ long term, and that's okay. If a child leaves stronger, more coordinated, more balanced, and more comfortable in their body, the program did its job. Those benefits carry into Youth, other sports, school, and everyday life.
Who it is for: ages 4–6.
What Happens in Class
For very young students, balance, timing, coordination, body awareness, and enjoyment matter more than learning submissions or long technique sequences.
We still introduce BJJ-related movement: posture, basic positions, and safe ways to fall and move with a partner. We teach through games and short, playful activities kids can engage with. The point isn't to train tots like older students — it's to help them enjoy movement, listen to coaches, work with partners, and build habits that make later training easier.
Learning Through Play
Play is how young children learn best.
In tots class, games aren't filler. They're the lesson. Through movement games, students work on agility, reaction, taking turns, following rules, and staying engaged without the class feeling too serious or overwhelming.
A good game can teach escaping, holding a position, reacting to a partner, or simply trying hard while keeping a good attitude. It should feel fun on the surface and still build real skills underneath.
A Healthy Attitude Toward Challenge
We want children to enjoy trying hard, not to feel pressure to "win" every game.
At this age, that means learning to follow rules, respect partners, handle small setbacks, and keep going when something is hard. Mistakes are part of learning. Losing a game doesn't mean they failed.
We're not trying to create tiny competitors. We're trying to help children feel brave, resilient, and proud of effort, while keeping class light and age-appropriate.
For Parents
Parents are welcome to watch class. If your child is 5 or older, you may optionally drop them off instead. There's a waiting area for parents who stay on site.
If you're unsure what works best for your child on a first visit, talk to a coach before or after class.
Class Schedule
Tots runs on a set weekly schedule. For the latest days and times, see the schedule page.
Moving Up to Youth
When students are ready for more structured training, they can move into our Youth program (ages 7–14). There's no rush. Extra time in tots is often a good thing if it builds confidence and comfort on the mats.
Our Goal
The tots program isn't about pushing kids toward competition or advanced technique as fast as possible.
We want young children to build a positive relationship with movement, coaches, teammates, and healthy challenge. They should have fun, feel proud of themselves, and learn to try hard, follow direction, and treat partners with respect.
If they continue in BJJ, they'll have a stronger foundation for Youth. If they move on to another sport or activity, they'll still take coordination, confidence, and good habits with them.
Considering a first visit? Read Your First Week at KIN, then book a free trial when you're ready.