Let me be blunt: most kids classes don’t struggle because of the kids.
They struggle because the instructors aren’t prepared, the systems aren’t tight, and the standard isn’t clear.
You can’t “wing” world-class instruction. Not in today’s market. If you want to keep students longer, upgrade more often, and build a reputation that drives referrals—you need structure.
Below is the exact 10-Step Framework we use inside KBJJME to train elite kids instructors. It’s not theory. It’s what works on the mat, every single day.
1. Before Class: Own the Pre-Shift
If you want to win the class, you’ve got to win the 10 minutes before it.
Here’s what your team should be doing:
- Mindset reset – Personal energy check. If you’re scattered, they’ll be scattered.
- Team huddle – Walk through the plan. Assign specific roles (e.g., who’s watching behavior, who’s spotlighting drills).
- Lesson plan review – No guessing. Every instructor knows the technique, the drill, and the game plan.
- Gear prep – Get out equipment in advance so there’s no dead air.
Too many teams treat the start of class like a surprise party. It should feel like a championship game.
2. Start of Class: Set the Tone Immediately
This is your first impression—every time.
- Line them up by rank (creates clarity and pride).
- Greet every child personally—use names, eye contact, fist bumps.
- Start with a smile. Energy is contagious.
- Take attendance out loud so names are reinforced and engagement stays high.
- Bow in with intention. This is where respect starts.
When parents watch this moment, they decide if they made the right investment. Don’t fumble it.
3. Warm-Up: Match Their Age, Skill, and Size
Warm-ups should never feel random. They should:
- Match the intensity of the lesson.
- Reflect the energy you want to sustain.
- Include age-appropriate movement patterns.
You’re not just killing time—you’re setting a neurological tone for the rest of class. Tight warm-ups = tight transitions = tight behavior.
4. Lesson (P1): STEDEYE Part 1
STEDEYE is the best instructional framework I’ve ever used. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Show: Quick demo. Keep it tight.
- Teach: Explain the key details in under 60 seconds.
- Errors: Show common mistakes. Kids need to know what not to do.
- Dissect: Break the move into chunks. Drill 1 piece at a time.
- Engage: Ask questions. “Why do we do this?” “Who remembers the grip?”
When instructors follow this method, kids understand the why behind the move—not just the how.
5. Pairing Up: The Art of Matching
This part matters more than people think.
Don’t just yell “grab a partner.” Instead, pair students intentionally based on:
- Size
- Skill level
- Personality
- Behavioral compatibility
If there’s a kid no one wants to train with—move them around. Share the wealth.
Your STORM team should help manage pairings and model behavior. Reminder: STORM isn’t your assistant—they’re students developing leadership.
6. Lesson (P2): STEDEYE Part 2
Now you:
- Walk the class through the move 3x together.
- Run partner drills for 2–3 minutes with a timer.
- End with takeaways. Highlight 1–2 groups showing solid execution.
This is where the magic happens. Reps = retention. Don’t cut this short.
7. Drill: From Technique to Application
This is where the lesson meets the mat.
Your drills should follow this arc:
- Flow: Light reps, low resistance.
- Resistance: Add pressure.
- Live: Full movement and reaction.
Use large group drills to reinforce culture and coordination. And set clear expectations for kids who are watching—it’s still class, not recess.
8. Game: Only If Earned
Games are powerful—but only when they’re used strategically.
- Keep it 4–5 minutes max.
- Use games that reinforce skills or behavior.
- Require effort and discipline to earn it.
Games are the dessert. Don’t let them become the meal.
9. Mat Chat: This is Leadership Development
The mat chat is your closing argument.
- Recap what they learned.
- Spotlight great behavior or technique.
- Introduce the Life Skill of the Week (use the Code of 26 for consistency).
- Give a shoutout to someone for respect, focus, effort, etc.
- Preview what’s coming next.
This is where character development lives. And yes—parents are watching this too.
10. After Class: This is Where Culture is Built
Don’t clock out the second the class ends. This is your retention window.
- Sniper chats – 1:1 convos with a purpose.
- Nomination chats – Invite kids to leadership paths.
- Behavior follow-ups – Quick accountability chats.
- Injury reports – Keep parents informed.
- Test prep reminders – Keep the upgrade path visible.
If you’re only coaching during class, you’re missing half the game.
Final Word:
Running a great kids program is not about hype. It’s about precision.
This framework works because it creates consistency, teaches discipline, and drives culture. And when you get it right, everything else becomes easier:
- Retention improves
- Word-of-mouth grows
- Your team has a roadmap to follow
This is what elite looks like. Not chaos. Not charisma. Clarity.
Want this printed out in your instructor room? DM me. I’ll send you the cheat sheet.
Let’s raise the bar. Your students deserve it.
