San Diego Toddler Jiu Jitsu at Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego A Safe, Positive First Step Into Martial Arts for Your Little One
Our toddler classes are built for movement, laughter, and growth. Designed specifically for children ages 3.5 to 5, we create a safe and welcoming space where kids can explore their energy, build coordination, and start learning discipline—all while having fun. Parents love the structure and support. Kids love the play-based learning and friendly coaches. It’s more than martial arts—it’s the start of something special.
Your trial is more than an introduction. It's your chance to experience our world-class coaching, supportive community, and proven training system firsthand.
Whether you're brand new or have experience, you'll see why families and individuals trust Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego for safe, structured, and high-quality training.
See How Jiu Jitsu Supports Your Toddler’s Growth—On and Off the Mats
Our toddler classes help little ones gain control of their bodies through playful movement and clear instruction. They’ll improve balance, coordination, and spatial awareness—all in a way that feels natural and fun.
Structure helps kids thrive. With consistent class routines and encouraging coaches, your child builds early confidence and learns to follow directions—all while feeling proud of their progress.
Toddlers learn through connection. In every class, they practice patience, sharing, and teamwork—building strong social skills while making new friends in a safe, positive space.
Building Focus, Confidence, and Coordination—One Class at a Time
Toddlers are full of energy—and our classes give that energy a place to go. Through age-appropriate drills, games, and movement-based learning, your child begins developing focus, body control, and early social skills. Each class is carefully led by experienced instructors who understand how to work with this age group and create a fun, structured environment.
At Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego, we use martial arts as a tool to help your child grow. Whether it’s learning to follow instructions, take turns, or try something new, you’ll see real progress—on the mats and at home.
Why Local Parents Trust Us With Their Little Ones
We know your schedule’s full. That’s why our toddler classes are offered at convenient times and in a central San Diego location. Parking’s simple, the process is smooth, and getting to class is one less thing to stress about.
Our facility is designed with families in mind—spacious mats, new equipment, and a welcoming environment. Every class is supervised by instructors who are not only qualified, but patient, caring, and great with young kids.
Even at this young age, your child begins learning important habits—like listening, following directions, and showing respect. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about building the foundation for confidence and character that will grow over time.
How Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego Compares for Preschool-Aged Kids
Not all activities for toddlers are created equal. While traditional sports and recreation programs can offer fun and exercise, our toddler martial arts program goes beyond that—supporting early development, social skills, and confidence in a way that’s structured, age-appropriate, and consistent. Here’s how we stack up.
Focus is mostly on running, movement, or play. Emotional and social growth varies by coach and program.
More confident kids often get more attention. Shy or slower-paced kids can fade into the background.
Varies widely. Some instructors are more like referees than teachers.
Many programs focus on playtime but may overlook early development of listening, patience, and respectful behavior—key skills for success in group settings.
Every class blends movement, social skills, and basic discipline—taught through fun, structured activities.
Every toddler is supported equally. No teams, no pressure—just positive reinforcement and small-group attention.
Coaches are hands-on, experienced with preschoolers, and highly engaged with each student every class.
We build in listening, taking turns, and following instructions—at the pace toddlers are ready for.
Martial Arts Improves Body Awareness and Coordination
At Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego, toddlers begin learning how to move with intention. Every drill and game is designed to help them understand their bodies—how to balance, stay centered, and move safely. Through repeated practice, they begin to improve coordination, develop motor skills, and gain control over their actions.
This kind of structured movement isn’t just helpful on the mats—it translates to better behavior at home, fewer accidents during play, and a stronger foundation for all future physical activity. Most importantly, they’re learning in an environment that’s fun, supportive, and built just for their age.
Martial Arts Strengthens Mental Focus
Getting toddlers to concentrate isn’t easy—but in the right environment, it happens. At Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego, our structured classes help young children learn how to pause, listen, and follow simple directions. Every drill is age-appropriate and designed to build short bursts of focus that grow over time.
Through repetition and encouragement, students start to understand that paying attention helps them succeed. That mindset often carries into daily life—helping with routines at home, improving cooperation in preschool settings, and laying the groundwork for strong classroom habits in the future.
Martial Arts Builds Patience and Perseverance
Toddlers can struggle when things don’t go their way—it’s a normal part of growing up. At Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego, we help young students begin to understand frustration and how to move through it. Whether it’s trying a new movement, waiting their turn, or working toward a stripe or belt, they start to learn that progress takes time and effort.
Our classes are designed to support this learning in a positive, age-appropriate way. Physical activity gives kids a healthy outlet for stress, while our structured lessons reinforce patience, emotional regulation, and the value of not giving up—even when something feels hard.
Martial Arts Teaches Grace and Team Spirit
At Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego, toddlers begin learning how to handle both success and setbacks. While no one likes to lose, we help students understand that mistakes and missed attempts are part of learning—and part of life. We focus on effort over outcome, encouraging kids to keep trying, cheer for others, and be proud of their progress.
Even though Jiu Jitsu is an individual activity, our classes are built on shared support. From the very first class, children are taught to encourage their teammates, wait their turn, and show respect—on the mat and off. These early lessons in sportsmanship help shape how they treat others everywhere they go.
Real Feedback From Our Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego Community
Parents trust us with their toddlers because they see real changes—in confidence, focus, and behavior. These reviews come from families right here in San Diego who’ve experienced the impact of our program firsthand. Their words say more than any ad ever could.
We were searching for a sport to get my son in to. Tried a couple different team sports and none of them seemed to fit. Ended up Signing him up for an intro class in March of 2023 and he immediately loved it.
My middle daughter was hesitant and wanted to continue pursuing gymnastics. After some persuasion we got her into an intro class as well and she loves it too! She decided to forego gymnastics.
Fast forward to August, and I signed up as well my youngest daughter.
The professors, coaches, and staff world class! Extremely friendly and encouraging you along the way. They always have a good ratio of students to staff to help guide you through your BJJ journey. I’ve never been to a more welcoming establishment.
The schedule is super flexible, and they offer an assortment of classes for all levels throughout the day. From early in the morning, to morning, lunch, early evening, and later evening. It works for any schedule
Even when my Dad was visiting and wanted to watch the kids one day, he complimented and said “everyone there is so friendly!” And it’s not just the staff, it’s the Alliance JJ community. Everyone makes you feel welcome, and those of higher belts work as your training partners, giving tips and techniques as you go.
Alliance JJ of San Diego is hands down top tier and I would recommend it to anyone of any fitness level. They will work with you to accomplish whatever goals you have in mind, whether it be to compete, have fun, or to make some new friends. 10 out of 10!
Great instructors and fantastic teammates.
The best Jiu jitsu academy in San Diego, come to check it out. Ossss
Absolutely love this place! The vibe is always great and the training and instruction is second to none!
House full of killers ❤️🔥. Johnny Faria and his team are the best in the business
I have been coming to Alliance since August of ‘24. I can tell you that nothing has ever felt more like home. The entire gym, from staff to students has been friendly and welcoming, making this journey that much easier. If you haven’t come in and check this place out, they are great!
If you’re in the San Diego area and haven’t tried out Alliance San Diego you’re missing out. As a woman transferring into a new gym I was nervous, but those were quickly smashed by the welcoming environment, amazing teammates, and world class coaches. If you’re a woman this gym is a must with the largest women’s program in the nation. Top it off with a world championship team of coaches no other gym compares.
My two kids started their Jiu-Jitsu journey here and I couldn't be happier. Every single person that works here is kind and professional. They teach from as young as 3 to adults and even all women classes. They also have Muay Thai classes. The area is always super clean and it is very spacious. My kids are having a blast learning Jiu-Jitsu from multiple times Gold champion Professors. The Professors are patient with children but also instill discipline and respect in them. They treat the children as if they are their own. I am motivated to possibly take some classes here myself in the future! This Jiu-Jitsu school offers a free private lesson and a week of classes for FREE! You literally have nothing to lose to just try it out. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.
We absolutely love this gym! All of the Professors are incredibly knowledgeable, talented, and kind. Our whole family trains here and we absolutely love it for them and us. All of their classes are top tier. The atmosphere on the gym is a warm and welcoming environment. If you want to start Jiu Jitsu, getting back into it, or putting your kids in martial arts look no further. This is the best gym in San Diego, hands down!!!
Hands down the most welcoming bjj school in SD! There are high level athletes, the gym is spacious, clean, there are so many women to train with! The programs are structured, the instructors are well experienced with our safety in mind. Schedule is so packed! Alliance offers the most classes in SD throughout the day, 7 days a week. There’s a gym area, a private class area, a lounge area. Always parking available! Definitely it is a place to join and be part of such an amazing community!
This review is far overdue. My 5 year old has been at this gym for a little over a year and half and its been the greatest experience! The coaches and professors are amazing with the kids and the over all community they built within has been so open and welcoming. We are so happy to be part of the Alliance SD team!
I cannot recommend Alliance Jiu Jitsu enough! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed by the amazing staff and the strong sense of community. The coaches are not only incredibly experienced but also genuinely kind and approachable, always making sure each student, regardless of skill level, feels supported and challenged. It’s truly a place where you can grow. I’m so grateful to be a part of the Alliance community!
I have trained with Alliance for the past 4 years now and there are so many amazing things about this gym. The facilities are clean, the staff are very friendly and helpful, the instructors are world class and the community is welcoming and fulfilling especially to women. I can’t recommend the gym enough for those looking to learn a new sport, or those looking for a new home in the jujitsu community!
Our family loves this gym and has been a member for over 3 years now. Every professor is connecting with their student and highly professional. Above all family oriented gym and the place we can trust with our kids where they can learn skill and discipline while having fun. Highly recommend to check out
Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego has been an exceptional place for my three children to learn and grow in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The coaches and professors are not only highly skilled but also deeply committed to fostering a supportive and disciplined environment. Their dedication ensures that each student receives personalized attention, promoting both skill development and personal growth.
The facility is consistently clean and well-maintained, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all members. With a convenient class schedule, it’s easy to find sessions that fit our family’s busy lifestyle. The friendly and inclusive community at Alliance Jiu Jitsu makes it a pleasure for my kids to attend, and I’ve noticed significant improvements in their confidence, discipline, and physical fitness since joining.
I highly recommend Alliance Jiu Jitsu to any family looking for a top-notch martial arts academy that prioritizes quality instruction, a clean environment, and a positive, community-oriented atmosphere.
You want to learn any mixed martial art. This is the meca of mma go check them out. Guaranteed you wont regret it
I love Training at Alliance professors Johny and Elias are true role models.
My boys are loving it! All the instructors and staff are awesome. Gym has a super-positive vibe. This no doubt starts at the top with Professor Faria-- one of the coolest dudes I've ever met. I highly recommend Alliance to anyone interested in learning Brazilian Jujitsu.
Your trial is more than an introduction. It's your chance to experience our world-class coaching, supportive community, and proven training system firsthand.
Whether you're brand new or have experience, you'll see why families and individuals trust Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego for safe, structured, and high-quality training.
FAQs
Our toddler classes help children build body awareness, focus, and confidence through movement-based learning. In a structured, supportive setting, they develop coordination, early listening skills, and social habits like sharing and taking turns—all while having fun.
Yes. Safety is at the core of every class we teach. Our instructors are experienced in working with young children and keep all drills and activities age-appropriate. Classes are run in a clean, padded space with close supervision at all times.
They’ll participate in simple movements, basic martial arts drills, and group games that are designed to teach focus, balance, and self-control. Everything is introduced at a pace that suits their age and ability, keeping things fun and engaging.
Definitely. Our program reinforces habits like listening, following directions, and being patient—skills that help toddlers thrive in daily routines and classroom settings. Many parents notice better cooperation and emotional control after just a few weeks.
Cheer them on, talk about what they’ve learned, and help them stick to a consistent class routine. You don’t need martial arts experience—just showing interest, celebrating their progress, and helping them feel proud goes a long way.
Extra Perks That Make a Real Difference
In today’s world, it’s easy for toddlers to spend too much time on devices. Our classes give them meaningful, active time away from screens—focused on movement, imagination, and connection.
Regular physical activity helps toddlers burn off energy in a healthy way, often leading to improved nighttime routines and more restful sleep.
A consistent weekly schedule helps young kids feel secure. Attending class regularly provides rhythm and routine—important during a time when kids are learning how the world works.
While your child is on the mat, you’ll meet other local parents with similar values. Many families build friendships here that extend beyond the academy walls.
Your trial is more than an introduction. It's your chance to experience our world-class coaching, supportive community, and proven training system firsthand.
Whether you're brand new or have experience, you'll see why families and individuals trust Alliance Jiu Jitsu San Diego for safe, structured, and high-quality training.