#1 Mistake the TEACHING a New Technique to Kids

One of the most frequent mistakes we notice among kids' BJJ instructors is diving right into the details of a technique without first showing the technique. This initial demonstration is not just a formality; it’s a foundational step that sets the stage for effective learning.

Why Showing the Technique First Matters

• Visualization and Excitement: When students see a technique executed at full speed, it not only grabs their attention but also stirs excitement about learning something practical and dynamic.

• Context and Relevance: Demonstrating a move before breaking it down helps students understand what they’re aiming for and why it’s important, making the learning process more intuitive and meaningful.

Step 1: S = SHOW the Technique Here's how you can transform your teaching approach to make an impactful difference:

• Real-Time Demonstration: Always start by demonstrating the technique at real-time speed. This gives students a clear idea of how it should look and feel in actual practice.

• Pre-Framing for Impact: Use pre-framing techniques to build anticipation and focus. Let them know what they’re going to learn and why it’s crucial, potentially increasing their engagement.

• Incorporate Storytelling: Connect the technique to a story or real-life scenario, like a personal anecdote from a competition. This method helps students see the real-world application and can make the technique more relatable.

Example in Action Imagine sharing a story about how a specific sweep was pivotal in winning a key match. This not only illustrates the technique’s effectiveness but also sparks inspiration and a deeper connection to the learning material.

Reflective Questions for Instructors

• Are you taking the time to demonstrate techniques before explaining them?

• How can you incorporate more dynamic demonstrations to capture and retain your students' interest?

Next Steps for BJJ Instructors

• Review your current approach to introducing new techniques. Start integrating full-speed demonstrations into every class.

• Gather feedback from students about this method to refine and perfect your delivery.

By prioritizing the demonstration of techniques, you empower your students with a clearer, more engaging learning experience right from the start. Remember, seeing is believing, and in BJJ, a well-executed demonstration is worth a thousand words. Let’s make every technique showcase a mini-masterclass in action!