Welcome to Gracie Barra West Jordan! I’m Prof. Seidler Rodrigo, and I firmly believe that Jiu-Jitsu is a powerful tool to unlock this potential, fostering growth in confidence, focus, and resilience. It’s immensely rewarding to see our students transform through this journey. I’m excited to share this interview with Chad Pham, the father of one of our GB Kids students, Camillo. It beautifully illustrates the profound impact that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has on a child’s life.
What initially motivated you to enroll your child in Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra, and what were your expectations?
Chad: “Originally, I enrolled my son into Jiu-Jitsu to help with self-esteem, confidence, discipline, and just to see if he likes and keep him active and off the electronics. I honestly did not know what to expect as I’ve never done this and it was new for me as well.”
Prof. Seidler Rodrigo:
“Many parents share similar goals when they bring their children to us. It’s so rewarding to see those initial hopes evolve into tangible growth as the kids find joy and confidence on the mats.”
How has Jiu-Jitsu helped your child improve in areas like focus, discipline, or self-confidence?
Chad: “My son started when he was 3 so self-confidence is something he didn’t know about or what it is. However, he is 4 now turning to 5 and he loves being the leader of the exercises, he loves demonstrating positions and that did help his self-confidence even if he doesn’t realize it yet. Additionally, when he first started my son was off the walls! At home and at Jiu-Jitsu. Of course, from a young age it’s what to expect. But all the professors at Gracie Barra West Jordan knew what they were doing and handled it extremely well! Fast forward to today my son’s focus has excelled tremendously and I couldn’t be more happy with the progress. As for discipline, my son didn’t want to go to BJJ at first. As parents, we need to help them with that. But now, my son begs us to go and even when he’s tired he knows that he has class and will come to us to get ready.”
Prof. Seidler Rodrigo:
“It’s amazing to see transformations like this. Our classes are thoughtfully structured to guide kids toward developing focus and discipline, and it’s always inspiring to watch them flourish into confident, capable individuals.”
Has your child experienced bullying, and if so, how has Jiu-Jitsu helped them manage or prevent those situations?
Chad: “My son loves to go to parks and playgrounds. I witnessed my son get pushed by another kid. Again they are just kids and don’t know what they are doing. But I saw my son get pushed a couple of times and he pushed them back and ran away to tell me what happened. Although he didn’t say ‘stop leave me alone,’ I know he knew how to get away and tell an adult because of his self-defense classes.”
Prof. Seidler Rodrigo:
“Teaching kids to navigate tricky situations with confidence and composure is a cornerstone of our program. It’s not just about self-defense—it’s about giving them the tools to face life’s challenges with resilience.”
How has the supportive environment at Gracie Barra impacted your child’s growth, both on and off the mat?
Chad: “We love Gracie Barra! On and off the mats it’s something we always talk about as a family. My son listens to us better, he helps others on the mats and at school. At home, he always role plays as he’s a professor and my daughter is the student. He is developing leadership skills!”
Prof. Seidler Rodrigo:
“Our mission extends beyond the mats. We aim to create a community where kids feel valued and supported. Seeing these values reflected in their everyday lives is incredibly fulfilling for us as educators.”
In what ways has Jiu-Jitsu improved your child’s interactions with others, both in school and in everyday life?
Chad: “My son is very friendly. He loves everyone and he could be friends with all the other kids. But it wasn’t always like that. Being around his friends in Jiu-Jitsu made him more open to other children and easier for him to make friends. He is friends with everyone in BJJ and everyone at school loves him as well, including the kids’ parents!”
Prof. Seidler Rodrigo:
“Jiu-Jitsu has a wonderful way of fostering friendships and a sense of community. It’s always heartwarming to see our students thrive socially and develop meaningful connections with their peers.”
What would you say to other parents who are considering Jiu-Jitsu for their kids, but are unsure if it’s the right fit?
Chad: “I would say just try it! And give it time. Most kids like my own are not comfortable in those environments at first. I was unsure if my son should stay or not as well. But professor Rodrigo told me it’s normal and he will get better with time. He was definitely right! It’s worth it for your kids to be more sociable, learn self-defense, build confidence, build discipline, and they have so much fun. Just keep your kids there past the awkward phase and they will be the ones begging you to take them! Super grateful for them and their team!”
Prof. Seidler Rodrigo:
“Starting something new can feel uncertain, but Jiu-Jitsu is a journey worth embarking on. We’re here to guide and support your child every step of the way. Watching them grow and thrive is the greatest privilege we have.”
Conclusion by Prof. Seidler Rodrigo About Jiu-Jitsu for kids
At Gracie Barra West Jordan, we’re passionate about helping kids unlock their full potential, both on and off the mats. This story is just one example of the incredible impact Jiu-Jitsu can have on children’s life. We’d love for you to join our family and experience it for yourself! Book a free trial class for your kids and watch them blossom!
