Judo in Early Learning: Building Confidence, Strength and Respect

Judo in Early Learning: Building Confidence, Strength and Respect

Zac remembers what it felt like to be a high-energy five-year-old. That’s how old he was when he first stepped onto a judo mat – and honestly, it changed everything. Now, with over 10 years of experience teaching in schools, Zac is bringing his passion for judo to Choklits every month!

But judo isn’t just about throws and takedowns. It’s a martial art, a sport, and maybe most importantly, a way to help children grow in all kinds of ways – physically, socially, and emotionally.

What Is Judo and Why Does It Matter in Early Learning?

Judo is a Japanese word that means “the gentle way.” It was created way back in 1882 by Dr Jigoro Kano, who believed that using technique – not just strength – was the key to success. Today, judo is even an Olympic sport!

At Choklits, we know young children learn best by doing. Through movement, play, and connection with others, they build skills that last a lifetime. Judo fits right in.

The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) highlights the importance of physical wellbeing. Judo supports this beautifully – it helps children build strength, balance, and confidence, all while having fun.

Moving with Purpose and Learning to Fall

Judo helps children move in smart, safe ways. One of the first things they learn is how to fall. It might sound simple, but it’s a big deal. In judo, this is called ukemi – a skill that helps prevent injuries, whether they’re on the mat or playing at the park.

Zac teaches this step-by-step, making sure every child feels safe and supported. And while it might look like just tumbling to the outside eye, children are actually learning how to protect themselves – and that’s powerful.

All of this connects with EYLF Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing. They’re not just moving; they’re learning to trust their bodies and their growing abilities.

Growing Focus and Confidence

Judo isn’t wild or chaotic – it’s actually very structured. Each class follows a clear plan, and children learn to listen, concentrate, and remember what comes next. That kind of quiet focus takes practice.

And the more they try, the better they get. Sure, sometimes a move doesn’t work the first (or fifth) time. But that’s okay. In fact, it’s expected. Zac gently encourages children to keep going, and over time, they begin to believe in themselves a little more.

This growth in confidence and persistence supports EYLF Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity.They’re discovering they can do hard things – and that feels pretty amazing.

Respect, Teamwork, and Shared Learning

You might think judo is a solo sport – but it’s not. Children work in pairs, learning to be patient, take turns, and help each other. One child’s success depends on how well they listen and work with their partner. That builds a quiet kind of teamwork that sticks.

Before and after class, everyone bows to Zac and each other. It’s a small gesture, but it means a lot. It teaches that we respect ourselves, our teachers, and the space we’re learning in.

These shared rituals support EYLF Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world. Through judo, they learn that respect isn’t just taught – it’s practiced.

Self-Defense… Without the Fear

Judo is about using your body to protect yourself – not to hurt others. And that’s an important difference. While children do learn self-defense basics, the focus is on staying calm, being aware, and using skills responsibly.

It’s not about being aggressive. In fact, judo often helps children who struggle with emotional regulation find a calm and positive outlet. They learn where their energy can go, and how to use it in a safe way.

This directly connects to EYLF Outcome 4: Children are confident and involved learners. Judo helps them manage their emotions and actions through controlled, guided movement.

Personalised Learning and Parent Updates

Every child is different. That’s why Zac designs each class with flexibility in mind – so all children feel included and challenged in the right ways.

Room leaders will continue to observe your child’s progress and share notes about what they’re learning and how they’re growing through judo. That way, you’ll see the links between their movement and their overall development.

Conclusion: Judo as a Foundation for Lifelong Learning

At Choklits, we believe early learning should be active, joyful, and meaningful. Judo brings all of that – and more. Children move their bodies, grow their minds, and build strong relationships, all while having a really good time.

Consider exploring judo as an enrichment activity for your child – the lessons learned on the mat truly do extend into every aspect of life, creating stronger, more confident learners who are well-equipped to face future challenges.

We’re excited to have Zac and his energy at Choklits, and we can’t wait to see the smiles, the progress, and the proud little bows after class.

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Want to learn more about how we incorporate physical activity and character development into our programs? Book a tour to visit our center and see our activities in action. Follow us on social media for regular updates and ideas you can try at home.

Looking for more information about our approach to holistic child development? Contact Choklits Child Care to learn about our programs and how we make every day special for our children.

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Composed by Choklits Owner Matt Reynolds