1017 Davis St, Evanston, Evanston. Illinois 60201 United States

Gracie Barra Kids

Introduce your child to Jiu-Jitsu and help them build confidence, discipline, respect, focus, physical ability, and essential self-defence skills - all in a safe and supportive environment. By practicing Jiu-Jitsu, children learn valuable skills they wouldn’t develop from other sports.

Empowering Kids Through Jiu-Jitsu

At Gracie Barra, Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art - it’s a path to confidence, resilience, and respect. Through structured training, kids learn focus, discipline, and how to overcome challenges.

In a safe, supportive environment, our certified instructors help students build strength, coordination, and essential life skills. Surrounded by a strong sense of team and belonging, they become part of a global family - growing on and off the mats.

By practising Jiu-Jitsu, children learn valuable skills they wouldn’t develop from other sports - like staying calm under pressure, using technique over strength, and solving problems with focus and confidence.

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Class Benefits

  • Builds confidence, discipline, and respect in young students.
  • Develops motor skills, coordination, and physical fitness.
  • It focuses on self-defence, takedowns, and ground techniques in a fun and engaging environment.
  • Our curriculum is structured around their age group and level of the students.

What to bring in your kid’s first class?

Water Bottle

Please pack a water bottle so your child can stay hydrated during class.

Comfortable Clothing

Children should wear comfy activewear like shorts, leggings, and a t-shirt that allows them to move freely. A Gracie Barra Gi and rashguard will be provided for their first class.

Slip-on Shoes

Easy-to-remove shoes like flip-flops or sandals help keep our mats clean and make it easier for kids to get ready before and after class.

Positive Attitude

Encourage your child to come with an open mind and a positive attitude, ready to learn and have fun.

Begin your Jiu-Jitsu Journey with Gracie Barra

Book Your Free Class

Reviews

  • Amazing school! My 6yo loves going to his classes twice a week. The instructors are amazing, the structure of the classes is well suited for this group age and flexibility in schedule great for a busy family. Highly recommend!
  • Life changing experience. Son joined here and has been nothing but a welcoming environment for him. All staff are very helpful and have gone to great lengths to encourage the improvements of skills and training for him.
  • Amazing class! I have never ever trained before and I found my self doing a really good job thanks to the excellent support I got from all the staff! Highly recommend!
  • This place is honestly, a life changing experience. All for the better! The people, the environment it's just great! They're not just some people fighting, its a family and you feel right at home right when you walk in the door. I highly recommend this place to anyone! Especially anyone dealing with bullying or abuse this would be the perfect place to go!
  • I’ve been training at Gracie Barra for about 8 months, and it’s been great. The instructors are skilled and supportive, alongside the welcoming community of low and high belts alike. I’ve grown in both technique and enjoyment as I continue to go, I highly recommend GB for anyone interested in BJJ.

FAQs

  • At what age can my child start Jiu-Jitsu?
    Children as young as 3.5 years old can start training in the GBK Program, which is tailored to their age and developmental stage.
  • Is Jiu-Jitsu safe for kids?
    Yes! Safety is a top priority. Our structured curriculum emphasizes safety, uses controlled movements, and respectful partner interaction to ensure a safe, positive environment.
  • How often should my child train?
    We recommend 2 times per week for steady progress, but training frequency depends on your child's schedule and goals.
  • What if my child is shy or nervous?
    That’s completely normal! Our instructors are experienced with first-timers and will help your child feel welcome and supported. Progress happens at their own pace.

Instructors

Certified Gracie Barra instructors have been trained in the methods outlined by our founder, Master Carlos Gracie Jr. himself. The Gracie Barra Instructor Certification Program connects our instructors to the inspiring, time-tested methods, and proven strategies of Master Carlos Gracie Jr., while giving access to an unparalleled collection of ideas, information, and lessons to provide Gracie Barra students with an exceptional training experience. This is the legacy of our founder, and it is the same legacy we instill into each and every one of our students today.

Gracie Barra Online

Enhance your training beyond the mats! Access GB Online for exclusive video instruction, techniques, and training resources anytime, anywhere.

Gracie Barra Online

Enhance your training beyond the mats! Access GB Online for exclusive video instruction, techniques, and training resources anytime, anywhere.

  • Integrity
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  • Brotherhood
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  • Brotherhood
  • Integrity
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Evanston
1017 Davis St, Evanston, Evanston. Illinois 60201 United States
School Hours
Monday
11:30am-1:30pm 2:30 - 8:30pm
Tuesday
2:30 - 9pm
Wednesday
11:30am-1:30pm 2:30 - 8:30pm
Thursday
2:30 - 9pm
Friday
8:30-10:30am
Saturday
8:30am - 12:30pm
Sunday
Closed
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