Madison's Premier
Kids Self-Defense Program
Give Your Child Real Self-Defense Skills and Unshakeable Confidence to Handle Bullies, Stay Safe, and Protect Themselves - Without Teaching Them Violence
Why Parents Choose
Journey BJJ for Kids Self-Defense
Real results from Madison families - see why we're the trusted choice for parents who want their children to develop real safety skills, confidence, and anti-bullying abilities.
A message from the Owner:
Dear Parents & Friends:
I'm Alex Andreev Owner here at Journey Academy and I'm happy you found us.
More important than the martial arts skills kids develop… are the personal skills they master and apply in real life.
That's why kids jiu jitsu classes are so much more than just kicking and punching or earning a belt.
I look forward to meeting you in person,
Coach Alex
Age-Appropriate Programs
Self-Defense Training That Actually Works
We teach real-world safety skills through proven Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques. Your child learns to handle threats without becoming the aggressor, building confidence while staying safe.
Your child learns to escape grabs, break free from holds, and create distance from threats - all without throwing punches or kicks. These are the same techniques police and military use to control situations safely.
We teach your child to recognize danger before it happens, trust their instincts, and make smart decisions. This mental training is just as important as the physical skills for staying safe.
Every class builds your child's confidence through progressive skill mastery. They learn respect, discipline, and how to stand up for themselves and others without becoming a bully themselves.
Class Schedule
Self-defense skills training for kids ages 6+ on the following days. Classes focus on practical safety techniques and confidence building.
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Parent Questions
Kids Self-Defense FAQ - Madison WI
Get answers to the most common questions parents ask about self-defense training, safety concerns, and what to expect from our program
What makes Journey BJJ Academy different for kids?
Kids of all levels and athletic abilities thrive at Journey BJJ Academy. We've found the perfect balance of letting kids have fun, but be disciplined when it counts. We have a super clean facility, huge mat-space, and convenient class times M-F.
Who are Journey Kids Jiu Jitsu classes perfect for?
Our kids classes are perfect for kids who struggle to focus or need an outlet for excess energy, kids who are being bullied in school or lack the confidence to stand up for themselves, kids with limited physical activity or who need to get in shape, and shy kids who struggle with team sports.
What if my child doesn't want to participate?
Some kids who come to us are resistant at first, but we know that kids need to have fun to stick with something. That's why we play mini-games at the end of many of our classes. After a few weeks of classes, our kids are usually pumped to come to classes regularly.
Where is your schedule of kids Jiu Jitsu classes?
You can find our complete kids class schedule on our schedule page - just make sure you filter for "Kids Classes"
How much do kids classes cost?
We charge $25 per class for drop-ins. We also have multiple programs including our Kids Intro Program. Pricing varies depending on the child's experience level, #of weekly classes, and program type/length.
Who are Kids Jiu Jitsu classes not right for?
Our kids classes may not be the best fit for kids under the age of 6 years old or aggressive/violent kids with severe behavioral problems. They may not be the best fit for you if you're only able to train once per week.
Why should I pick your kids martial arts academy over others?
Here are just a few reasons: We teach practical and age appropriate self defense techniques. Most fights go to the ground. We specialize in ground grappling because that's what happens in real fights. Kids classes are built on LIVE TRAINING - where kids are learning to use these techniques against resistance. This forces kids to use proper technique and make it automatic. Our classes are actually fun for kids – they will not think it's a chore. We are a family-friendly, beginner-friendly, inclusive environment. We have a satisfaction guarantee. Your child's goals and results are more important to us than money.
Does my child need any prior martial arts experience?
No, they do not. Most kids here had no prior background before they got started.
My child doesn't do well with sports - will martial arts be any different?
Some kids who come to us are resistant at first, but we know that kids need to have fun to stick with something. That's why we play mini-games at the end of many of our classes. After a few weeks of classes, our kids are usually pumped to come to classes regularly.
Will martial arts make my child violent?
Absolutely not! We don't teach kids how to kick and punch – jiu jitsu isn't about that.
Instead, we teach kids self-defense as a tool for personal growth and development.
Kids learn to treat others as they want to be treated. They learn to respect all living things – from their parents to pets.
Often, kids who had violent tendencies before they joined our class changed, and became more respectful of other people's space. So no, martial arts won't make your child violent!
Can No-Gi training help with MMA or self-defense?
Yes! No-Gi is excellent preparation for MMA and real-world situations where people aren't wearing jackets. The takedowns, ground control, and submissions translate directly to practical applications.
Why is jiu jitsu self defense better than other popular martial arts?
Most martial arts don't teach anything about ground grappling, yet most fights end up on the ground and stay there according to FBI statistics. Jiu Jitsu specializes on ground fighting, especially fighting from bottom position.
Getting Started is Easy
Your Child's Path to Confidence and Safety
We make it simple to get your child started with our proven 3-step process that helps both kids and parents feel comfortable and confident about beginning self-defense training.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Click 'Get Started Now' to fill out our secure contact form. We'll organize a time to meet and discuss your child's specific needs and safety concerns.
Meet Our Instructors & Tour the Facility
Visit our Madison location at 3214 Kingsley Way. Meet our certified instructors, see our safety protocols, and let your child observe a class to get comfortable with the environment.
Start Your Child's Self-Defense Journey
Choose the program that fits your child's age and goals. No pushy sales - just expert guidance to help your child build confidence, learn safety skills, and have fun while staying safe.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Click 'Get Started Now' to fill out our secure contact form. We'll organize a time to meet and discuss your child's specific needs and safety concerns.
Meet Our Instructors & Tour the Facility
Visit our Madison location at 3214 Kingsley Way. Meet our certified instructors, see our safety protocols, and let your child observe a class to get comfortable with the environment.
Start Your Child's Self-Defense Journey
Choose the program that fits your child's age and goals. No pushy sales - just expert guidance to help your child build confidence, learn safety skills, and have fun while staying safe.
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