If you are an ICP certified instructor, then you will have read the course on GBK. However, in 2023, we conducted community research on what instructors were requesting support in. One of the top areas was working with kids and understanding strategies to teach our young students.

The GB Institute team dove deep into our community and found experts that could help instructors to understand kids better.  Understanding the stages of child development is the foundation of teaching Jiu-Jitsu to kids. Let's break down the key stages and how they impact your teaching approach:

At this stage, children are taking their first steps in social skills and cognitive development. They're just starting to grasp concepts like sharing and cooperation. Instructors working with these tiny champions must create a positive and engaging learning environment. Keep your technique demonstrations short and sweet, lasting no longer than the age of the students (3-4 minutes), and make sure to incorporate energetic games to keep their attention.

As children transition into formal schooling, they're developing foundational skills in reading, writing, and basic math. Instructors should maintain a structured yet positive environment, use visual cues, and encourage quick social interactions. Remember to be kind and flexible with your expectations, as they are still learning these essential skills.

During this stage, children become more independent and capable of critical thinking. They can process verbal information more accurately and require less repetition. Encourage curiosity and problem-solving abilities, and be prepared to support various learning styles. Provide opportunities for teamwork and communication skills, which can solidify their learning.

Children in this stage are preparing for the transition to middle school, and they can handle more complex techniques. Challenge their thinking and problem-solving abilities by introducing higher-level techniques. Instructors can also start teaching discipline more directly. Provide meaningful feedback to help them develop their skills further.

At this stage, students undergo significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Instructors should create a supportive and inclusive environment, challenge them physically and mentally, and accommodate varying learning abilities.

Before we move forward, it's essential to define some terms related to child development:

• Milestones: These are specific skills or abilities that individuals typically acquire at certain ages or stages of development. They serve as markers for tracking progress.
• Cognitive development: This involves the growth of intellectual abilities, including thinking, problem-solving, memory, and language development.
• Language development: It encompasses the acquisition and progression of language skills, both receptive (understanding) and expressive (communication).
• Physical development: This refers to the growth of the body and its parts, including muscle and motor development.
• Social Development: This is the acquisition of social skills, relationships with peers, and understanding of social norms and roles.
• Emotional Development: It involves the development of emotional awareness, regulation, and expression.

To further enhance your understanding of how kids learn and how to work with them effectively, we've enlisted the help of two experts: Lena Kazaryan and Amanda Grummon.

Lena Kazaryan, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), shared insights into creating a positive learning environment and understanding different teaching models and their applications. There is the “I Do” model where the instructor demonstrates, which GB does well and with every class according to the GB Method. Then, an instructor releases the students for the “You Do” model, where the students try the technique themselves, with the instructor walking around and giving feedback. Lena then describes the “We Do” model, which we do not typically use in a class but can benefit students who need extra support. This teaching model allows instructors to connect with struggling students as they learn a skill, an invaluable tool for junior or assistant instructors.

Amanda Grummon, a GB Black Belt and BCBA focuses her work on behavior management. She emphasizes that behaviors aren't inherently good or bad but can be challenging based on when they occur. Amanda provides strategies to address challenging behaviors in students effectively. One of which was to get a better understanding of the function of the behavior to understand why a student behaves in that way.
If you are an instructor and want to learn more about how to teach to kids, then check out the ICP 2024. We have a wealth of resources that will help you develop that skill set.

In conclusion, understanding the stages of development for school-age students is crucial for instructors and families to align expectations with what a student is capable of doing. By adapting teaching strategies and parental expectations to accommodate differences in learning abilities, a conducive learning environment is created that promotes Jiu-Jitsu growth, social development, and overall well-being in students.

Remember, teaching Jiu-Jitsu to kids is not just about techniques; it's about understanding the unique journey of each child and guiding them on their path to empowerment and success.

 So, whether you're already a parent, student, or instructor, or considering taking on this rewarding role, equip yourself with the knowledge and insights shared in this blog. Your journey to inspire and empower the next generation of Jiu-Jitsu practitioners starts here.