Build Confidence with Kids Martial Arts in Riverdale

The Top Kids Martial Arts Classes in Riverdale

Give your child the gift of lifelong skills at Thiago Alves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Our kids martial arts program develops confidence, discipline, and self-defense in a fun, safe environment.

Kids martial arts student

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Why Kids Love Our Program

Benefits That Last a Lifetime

Martial arts training gives children far more than physical skills. At Thiago Alves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, your child will develop essential life skills that carry into school, friendships, and everything in between.

Discipline

They're amazing kids, but it feels like they never listen. Sometimes you have to ask them a hundred times before anything gets done.

Focus

They're smart and capable, but staying focused can be a challenge, whether it's at home, in school, or during important moments.

Confidence

Or maybe they're just shy and need a boost in confidence and self-esteem to truly shine and reach their full potential.

Parenting Challenges Can Feel Never-Ending

Luckily, There's a Simple and Effective Solution

There's a natural, safe, and effective way to transform your child's life. No medicine, therapy, or tough measures needed. It's all about teaching self-discipline, confidence, respect, and perseverance while promoting health and fitness, all at once.

Sounds too good to be true? It's real. That's the power of martial arts.

Kids martial arts class at Thiago Alves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Growth Every Class

Your Child Will Grow with Every Class

Kids are like sponges. They pick things up quickly, much faster than adults. Parents often notice a positive change after just one class, and with every session, their growth only gets better.

Martial arts isn't just about getting stronger. It's about learning self-discipline and respect. Enrolling your child gives them far more than physical skills. It gives them the chance to truly thrive.

Child building confidence in martial arts

Building Character and Life Skills That Last

It's not just everyday friends influencing your kids anymore. The internet also plays a major role in shaping their character and development.

The real value of our classes lies in the life skills your kids gain through training. From technique mastery to instructor guidance and supportive classmates, your kids will build skills that serve them for life.

Fitness in Disguise

Let's be honest, between junk food and screen time, most kids aren't getting enough exercise. Our classes are a full workout disguised as pure fun, packed with games, drills, and activities that keep training exciting.

Regular exercise keeps kids healthy, improves sleep, and strengthens their minds and bodies. Even better, our classes build healthy habits early, setting the foundation for a fit and active future.

Kids martial arts discipline and focus
Kids getting fit and active through martial arts

Protection from Bullies and Dangers

No parent wants their kids to face dangerous situations, but we all want them prepared. Our classes teach practical self-defense skills to handle anything, from schoolyard bullies to real-world dangers.

Self-defense isn't just about fighting. Our training teaches respect, self-control, and how to defuse conflicts calmly, while ensuring your child knows when action is the only option.

Thiago Alves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Reviews

See What Our Members Say

See what our members are saying! Browse through the reviews to get a glimpse of the Thiago Alves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience straight from our community. From parents of young students to adult martial artists, our members love training at the best martial arts school in Riverdale.

Angelina Burleigh
★★★★★

"If you’re looking for a place where your kids can learn discipline, confidence, and real jiu jitsu skills in a positive environment, this is it. The coaches here are incredible with kids… patient, knowledgeable, and truly invested in their growth both on and off the mats. I have..."

- Angelina Burleigh

Talulah Espinosa
★★★★★

"Highly recommend this gym! The coach is knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely cares about helping you improve. Everyone has been super welcoming since my first class, which made starting BJJ as a beginner feel really comfortable. It’s a positive, supportive environment with a..."

- Talulah Espinosa

Grant Glover
★★★★★

"My son loves Jiu Jitsu and we do too! Thiago is a great coach and keeps it fun for the kids. Thiago not only teaches them self defense but also discipline and listening skills. My son is 6 and started about 4 months ago. In 4 months he’s improved on the mats, at home, and at..."

- Grant Glover

Madison Mcdonald
★★★★★

"Thiago, Lucas, and Enzo have been incredibly patient and welcoming to our kids as they start to learn BJJ. Classes keep the kids engaged and they're always excited for the next one. You instantly feel a sense of community when entering the gym. The extra care they take to make..."

- Madison Mcdonald

Travis Soderquist
★★★★★

"Fantastic classes and instructor!! This has been a great opportunity for our son who needed a focused sport. The teacher and instructors have really helped our son find a love of Brazilian ju jitsu. It’s a great community to be part of an has gotten our son to be excited about..."

- Travis Soderquist

Morgan Bybee
★★★★★

"We have had an incredible experience at Team Link. My sons confidence has skyrocketed and the coaching is 10/10. Thiago and his boys are amazing at teaching not only Jujitsu, but so many other amazing skills. This is the best jujitsu gym hands down!"

- Morgan Bybee

Samuel Barbieto
★★★★★

"Training at team link riverdale has been absolutely outstanding. After a 10 year hiatus from any Training, Thiago and his entire gym turned what was originally a very nerve wracking first day back on the mats into a renewed love for jiu jitsu, not just for me, but for my 4 year..."

- Samuel Barbieto

Piper Taylor
★★★★★

"The gym is a great place for families to go have fun and learn. It’s clean, organized and there is a playroom to keep your little ones busy. The community they have Is welcoming, kind, and so fun. Dedicated coaches who are committed to not only teaching their students but also..."

- Piper Taylor

Online exclusive offer

View our schedule & claim a free session

Secure your spot & get started today with our EXCLUSIVE online offer!

By opting into the web form above you are providing consent for Thiago Alves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to send you periodic text messages. Standard rates may apply. You may opt-out anytime by replying STOP.

So Much F-U-N !!

Kids deserve to have fun! We can't speak for their school teachers, but we CAN promise your child will love every second of our martial arts classes.

Our classes keep kids engaged in learning respect, discipline, and focus while always having a blast. Packed with activities, games, and fresh ideas, it's also the perfect place to make friends in a positive, happy environment.

Safe and welcoming kids martial arts environment

More Than Just Martial Arts

Skills That Go Beyond the Mat

Martial arts training at Thiago Alves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu reaches far beyond kicks and punches. Your child will develop essential skills that shape who they become, at school, at home, and in every area of life.

Self-Assertion

Martial arts teaches kids to assert themselves with confidence and strength.

Physical Fitness

Classes help kids get active and discover what their bodies can really do.

Memory & Focus

Our program trains kids to remember and perform sequences, a skill that boosts their learning in school.

Access Our Schedule &

Claim Your Free Session

Secure your spot & get started today with our EXCLUSIVE online offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions About Our Kids Martial Arts Program

Have questions about getting your child started in martial arts at Thiago Alves Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? We have answers. Browse the most common questions below, or contact us directly for anything else.

Children can begin martial arts training as early as age 5. Our kids program is designed for ages 5-12, with age-appropriate instruction that builds coordination, confidence, and discipline in a fun, supportive environment.

No prior experience is needed. Our kids program is designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to children with some martial arts background. Our instructors will guide your child every step of the way.

For the first class, comfortable athletic clothing such as a t-shirt and sweatpants or shorts is perfect. No shoes are required on the mats.

We recommend attending classes at least two times per week for consistent progress. Regular attendance helps build muscle memory, discipline, and confidence. Many of our dedicated students attend three or more times per week.

Safety is our top priority. Our certified instructors maintain a structured, supervised environment with age-appropriate techniques and proper protective equipment. We focus on controlled practice to minimize the risk of injury.

Yes! We offer a free trial session so your child can experience our classes firsthand. Fill out the form on this page to claim your free session and see our schedule.