At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our youth classes are a place for learning, growth, and fun. Parents play a crucial role in this process, but often in ways that differ from traditional sports environments. In Jiu Jitsu, parent participation is essential, but it takes on a unique form—one that emphasizes silent support over direct cheering.

A Different Approach to Encouragement

In many sports, parents are often encouraged to cheer from the sidelines, shouting out words of encouragement or advice. However, in the world of Jiu Jitsu, the focus is on fostering independence, mental clarity, and resilience in young students. This is where the concept of “no direct cheering” comes into play.

When a parent is constantly shouting instructions or encouragement, it can actually add pressure and distract their child from the task at hand. In Jiu Jitsu, where focus and adaptability are key, children need the space to think critically, make decisions, and learn from both success and failure. Silent support allows them to do just that. It helps them build confidence in their own abilities, without feeling the need to perform for others.

We value coaching, and giving important feedback to athletes at the right time. We want parents to understand the difference between cheering and coaching and understand the various support systems that exist in the development of a young athlete and martial artist.

The Value of Silent Support

Silent support doesn’t mean parents take a passive role. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It means parents are present, attentive, and engaged in their child’s journey, without directly influencing their experience on the mat. Here’s how parents can offer silent support during Jiu Jitsu classes:

1. Be Present: Simply being there for your child shows them that you care and that their progress matters. Your quiet presence on the sidelines allows them to know they’re supported without the need for constant verbal reinforcement.
2. Celebrate Milestones, Not Every Moment: Jiu Jitsu is a long journey filled with ups and downs. Rather than celebrating every move, wait for those bigger milestones—whether it’s mastering a new technique, earning a stripe, or simply persevering through a tough session. This teaches patience and the value of persistence.
3. Encourage Reflection: After class, take the time to talk with your child about what they learned or what challenges they faced. This helps them process their experience and gives you an opportunity to provide positive reinforcement away from the immediate pressure of performance.
4. Support the Process, Not Just the Result: One of the core lessons of Jiu Jitsu is that progress often comes through small, incremental improvements. Parents can reinforce this by praising effort, determination, and focus, rather than just outcomes.

Building Confidence on the Mat

By refraining from direct cheering, we give our youth students the room to grow into confident, self-reliant individuals. They learn to trust themselves and rely on their own problem-solving abilities. The absence of vocal instructions from the sidelines also helps them stay in the moment, developing the awareness and adaptability needed for success in Jiu Jitsu.

Join Us in Cultivating Independence and Growth

At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage parents to actively participate in their child’s journey, but in ways that cultivate independence and personal growth. Our approach to parent participation and silent support creates an environment where young students can thrive off the mats.

We invite you to visit our Peewee, Kids, and Juniors classes to see this philosophy in action. With the right balance of guidance and quiet encouragement, your child will develop the skills, confidence, and character to succeed in Jiu Jitsu—and in life.