951-742-5733
Book FREE trial

Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Classes in Riverside

Build Your Child’s Confidence Through Martial Arts

Our Kids BJJ program helps children develop confidence, focus, respect, and resilience through age-specific Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training. Whether your child is shy, energetic, or somewhere in between, our classes help them thrive — physically, mentally, and emotionally — in a fun and structured environment.

Download FREE Starter Kit

Our Age-Specific Kids BJJ Programs

group of mma children training with multicolored plastic balls

Tiny Tigers BJJ (Ages 3–4)

Children in this program will:

  • Improve balance and coordination
  • Learn to listen and follow directions
  • Build early confidence and focus
Our Tiny Tigers classes introduce preschoolers to the fundamentals of movement, balance, and teamwork through fun, safe martial arts drills. 

We use playful learning methods that keep young students engaged while developing the foundation for lifelong martial arts success.
group of young mma students in training

Little Tigers BJJ (Ages 5–7)

Students learn how to:

  • Practice self-control and respect
  • Improve focus and attention span
  • Build strength, coordination, and balance
The Little Tigers program focuses on building discipline, respect, and focus — while teaching the basics of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in an age-appropriate way.

Each class emphasizes character development — helping kids succeed both on the mats and in school.
young mma students in a kneeling stance

Beginner BJJ (Ages 7–13)

Through consistent training, students will:

  • Develop confidence and perseverance
  • Learn practical, non-aggressive self-defense
  • Set and achieve goals through belt progressions
Our Beginner BJJ program is designed for kids ready to take their training to the next level. Students learn real self-defense skills and techniques in a safe, supportive setting.

Instructors reinforce the importance of using skills responsibly — emphasizing safety, respect, and good judgment at all times.

How Kids Benefit from Our Martial Arts Program

Confidence & Discipline

We instill self-confidence and discipline, helping kids develop focus and respect both inside and outside the academy.

Self-Defense Skills

Your child will learn effective techniques to protect themselves in real-world situations while also understanding the importance of de-escalation.

Social Skills & Teamwork

Children train alongside their peers, improving their ability to communicate, cooperate, and build lasting friendships.

Training Blocks That Shape Strong, Confident Kids

Character Training & Development

Block #1: Good Attitude - The goal of this segment is to teach the value of having a good attitude. 

Block #2: Good Habits - The goal of this segment is to teach the value of having good habits. Good habits are hard to make, but easy to live with. Bad habits are easy to make, but hard to live with.

Block #3: Good Self-Control - The goal of this segment is to teach practical ways to handle emotions. 

Block #4: Good Manners - The goal of this segment is to teach the importance of courtesy and respect. 

School Safe / Street Safe Awareness

Block #1: ABCs of Conflict Avoidance - The goal of this segment is to learn how to avoid confrontation and conflict.

Block #2: Stranger Alert - The goal of this segment is to learn how
to identify a lure and what to do if it happens to you.

Block #3: Rules of Safety - The goal of this segment is to learn what
to do if confronted and how to resolve the situation peacefully.

Block #4: Trust Your Intuition - The goal of this segment is to learn
practical techniques to fine-tune the student’s awareness and intuition.

Why Parents Love Our Kids Martial Arts Program

Our martial arts program for kids is designed to work hand-in-hand with a child’s education, developing self-discipline, mental focus, and goal-setting skills. Parents often see improvements in their children’s motivation, behavior, and academic performance as they apply what they learn on the mats to everyday challenges.

Goal Setting

Children are encouraged to set and achieve long-term goals through consistent effort and perseverance. Our belt promotion standards teach patience, focus, and the value of hard work — lessons that prepare them for success in every area of life.

Proper Use of Skills

Students are taught that martial arts should always be used responsibly. We emphasize respect, humility, and self-control, ensuring that their skills are applied only for self-defense and never in an aggressive or harmful way.

Emphasis on Schoolwork

We believe academic excellence and martial arts discipline go hand-in-hand. Students who show dedication in school are recognized for their achievements, reinforcing that focus, persistence, and respect lead to success both in the classroom and on the mats.

Parent Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

What martial arts classes do you offer?

We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, and Self-Defense classes designed for all ages and skill levels. Our programs focus on practical self-defense rather than sport-based training.

Who teaches the classes at Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy?

All classes are taught by Sam Marcellini, a black belt under Royce Gracie and a certified instructor under Rob Kaman. Sam has been training and teaching martial arts since 2000 and brings extensive experience in both grappling and striking arts.

Is your program suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! Our program is designed for everyone, regardless of age, size, or fitness level. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced martial artist, we provide a safe and supportive environment for learning.

How does your self-defense training differ from sport Jiu-Jitsu?

We focus on real-world self-defense applications rather than competition-based techniques. Our training prepares students to handle altercations effectively, both in striking range and on the ground, with an emphasis on de-escalation and personal safety.

Do you offer children’s martial arts programs?

Yes! We have a dedicated children’s program that not only teaches martial arts skills but also emphasizes character development, discipline, and confidence-building.

What makes Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy unique?

Our academy stands out due to Sam Marcellini’s unique blend of striking and grappling arts, his direct training lineage under martial arts legends, and our strong emphasis on self-defense. We provide an authentic and effective training experience for all students.

Start Your Child's Martial Arts Journey Today

Help your child grow more confident, focused, and disciplined — while learning life-changing skills.

Download Starter KitAccess Promo & Schedule