No parent wants to hear their child say they’re being picked on at school. If you’re in Coffs Harbour and looking for a way to help your child feel safer and more confident, our kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self-defence classes at Jetty Village include anti-bullying training for ages 4 to 13 – and your child’s first class is free.

What anti-bullying training at Life BJJ is (and isn’t)

Anti-bullying training isn’t about teaching kids to fight back. It’s about giving them the confidence, words and skills to handle a bully calmly – and the knowledge that they can keep themselves safe if they ever really need to.

In our classes, children learn a simple order of steps:

• Stand tall and use their voice. Confident body language, eye contact and a firm “Stop, I don’t like that” – practised out loud until it feels natural.
• Walk away and tell an adult. We teach kids that telling a teacher or parent is the strong thing to do, not “dobbing”.
• Keep a safe distance. Footwork and awareness so they don’t get cornered.
• Stay safe if someone grabs them. Only as a last resort: escaping grabs, headlocks and being pushed to the ground, and controlling a situation without punching or kicking.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu suits this perfectly because it’s built on control, not strikes. Kids learn they can keep themselves safe without hurting anyone – and that a smaller child can handle a bigger one with good technique.

Why confidence is the best protection against bullying

Bullies often look for kids who seem unsure of themselves. When a child walks into the playground standing a little taller and knowing they can handle pressure, they’re far less likely to be picked on – and far more likely to speak up when something isn’t right.

That confidence is built week by week on the mats:

• Real progress they can see – earning stripes and belts for effort and skill.
• Staying calm under pressure – being held down in a safe, controlled drill and learning to breathe, think and escape.
• Belonging to a team – a group of friends outside school who look out for each other.
• Leadership – kids can earn a place on our Life BJJ Leadership Team and get picked to lead the push-ups and sit-ups in front of the whole class. (Read more: Building confident young leaders.)

Just as importantly, kids who train learn respect and self-control. They understand that with skill comes responsibility – they’re taught never to be the bully themselves.

Kids anti-bullying and self-defence class times – Coffs Harbour

Classes run every Monday to Thursday afternoon at Jetty Village, split by age so children train with kids their own size and level.

Teens from 14 can join our Teens & Adults classes. See the full Coffs Harbour BJJ timetable.

Safe, experienced coaches

Life BJJ Coffs Harbour is led by Sensei Bernardo, a 5th-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with a Physical Education degree and more than 30 years of experience. Every one of our coaches holds a NSW Working With Children Check. Classes are structured, supervised and fun, and complete beginners are always welcome.

Parents of girls may also like to read why BJJ and self-defence classes are important for girls in Coffs Harbour.

If your child is being bullied right now

Martial arts can make a big difference, but it works best alongside the people around your child. Talk to your child’s teacher or school, keep listening at home, and let your child know it’s never their fault. If you’re worried about their safety or wellbeing, Kids Helpline is available 24/7 on 1800 55 1800.

Book a free anti-bullying trial class

The best way to see if it’s right for your child is to come and try. Your child’s first class is free – just bring comfortable sports clothes, a water bottle and a positive attitude. No gi or experience needed.

Life BJJ Coffs Harbour – Shop G5, Jetty Village, 361 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450.

Book your child’s free trial class or call us on 0404 544 509.