Kids BJJ Classes
in Montreal.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu builds confidence, discipline, and real self-defense skills in children ages 5 to 12. Here is why thousands of Montreal parents choose BJJ over other martial arts.
Every parent wants their child to grow up confident, focused, and capable of standing up for themselves. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu delivers all of that and more. At Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent in Ville Saint-Laurent, we have seen hundreds of kids transform through BJJ — shy kids become leaders, unfocused kids become straight-A students, and anxious kids become genuinely confident young people.
Why BJJ is different from other kids martial arts
Most kids martial arts programs in Montreal focus on striking — punching and kicking. BJJ takes a completely different approach. It teaches children how to control a situation using leverage and technique rather than aggression or size. This makes it genuinely practical for real-world situations like bullying.
BJJ is also the foundation of modern MMA and has been proven effective in real self-defense situations. But for most kids at our academy in Ville Saint-Laurent, the real benefits show up long before they ever need to use self-defense. They show up in the classroom, on the playground, and at home.
What BJJ does for your child
Parents who enroll their kids at Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent consistently report the same results. Here are the six most common transformations we see:
BJJ gives kids the practical tools to protect themselves without relying on aggression. They learn to stay calm under pressure and de-escalate situations confidently.
Not the kind that disappears when challenged. BJJ builds deep, tested confidence because kids prove to themselves every class that they can handle difficult situations.
BJJ requires full mental presence. Kids who train regularly develop the ability to focus for longer periods, which directly improves their performance at school.
Every BJJ class starts and ends with a bow. Kids learn to respect their training partners, their instructors, and themselves through structured mat etiquette.
BJJ is a full-body workout that builds strength, flexibility, coordination, and cardiovascular fitness in a way kids actually enjoy.
Kids who train BJJ are statistically less likely to be bullied and less likely to bully others. Confidence and composure are the best deterrents to bullying.
Kids BJJ programs at Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent
We offer three structured kids programs at our Ville Saint-Laurent academy, each designed for a specific age group and skill level. Every program follows the proven Gracie Barra curriculum used across 1,000 schools worldwide.
Kids ProgramsMotor skills, body coordination, listening habits, and basic mat etiquette in a fun, energetic environment. Perfect for first-time martial artists.
Fundamental BJJ techniques, positional control, and self-defense awareness. Builds real confidence and discipline through structured training.
Technical development, submission concepts, and competitive preparation for kids ready to take their BJJ to the next level.
The mat is one of the few places where kids face real challenges, work through them, and come out the other side stronger. That experience builds a kind of confidence no trophy or grade can give them.
Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent Coaching TeamWhat parents ask us most
My child is shy and not athletic. Is BJJ still right for them?
Absolutely. BJJ is one of the best activities for shy or less athletic kids precisely because it does not rely on natural ability. Every child starts from zero and progresses at their own pace. Many of our most dedicated students started as the shyest kids in the room.
Is it too rough for my child?
BJJ for kids is very different from adult training. At Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent, our kids programs are specifically designed to be age-appropriate. Drilling and positional work are emphasized. Safety is always the priority, and our certified instructors monitor every interaction on the mat.
Will BJJ make my child more aggressive?
The opposite tends to happen. Kids who train BJJ develop emotional regulation and composure. They learn that their skills carry responsibility. Parents consistently report that their children become calmer, more patient, and less reactive after starting BJJ.
How quickly will I see results?
Most parents notice changes within the first 4 to 6 weeks. Improved listening at home, more confidence in social situations, and better focus at school are the most commonly reported early results. Physical improvements in coordination and fitness typically show within 2 to 3 months.
Kids BJJ class schedule in Ville Saint-Laurent
Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent is located at 2167 Blvd. Marcel-Laurin in Ville Saint-Laurent, Montreal (H4R 1K4), just minutes from Saint-Laurent, Cartierville, and Ahuntsic. You can reach us at 514-243-5455.
| Monday to Thursday | 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Frequently asked questions
What age can kids start BJJ in Montreal?
Children can start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent as young as 5 years old. The Little Champions program (GBK1) is designed for ages 5 to 7, while the Juniors programs (GBK2 and GBK3) cover ages 8 to 12.
Is BJJ safe for kids?
Yes. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the safest martial arts for children. At Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent, kids train in a controlled environment with certified instructors who prioritize safety, technique, and age-appropriate progression.
Does BJJ help kids with bullying?
Yes. BJJ builds genuine confidence and practical self-defense awareness in children. Kids who train regularly develop the composure and physical skills to handle bullying situations without resorting to aggression.
How much do kids BJJ classes cost in Montreal?
Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent offers a free trial class for kids with no commitment required. Contact the academy at 514-243-5455 or visit gbsaintlaurent.ca to book your child's first class.
Where can my child take BJJ classes in Ville Saint-Laurent?
Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent is located at 2167 Blvd. Marcel-Laurin in Ville Saint-Laurent, Montreal. It offers structured BJJ programs for children ages 5 to 12 with classes Monday to Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings.
Will BJJ improve my child's focus and behaviour at school?
Many parents report noticeable improvements in their child's focus, listening skills, and overall behaviour after starting BJJ. The structured nature of martial arts training builds discipline that carries over into school and daily life.
Explore more at Gracie Barra Saint-Laurent
No experience needed. No gear required. Just show up and let your child discover what they are capable of.
Book Your Free Trial Class Or call us at 514-243-5455