Bel Air Jiu-Jitsu is a martial arts school designed specifically for neurodiverse youth. We partner with other schools to offer classes that accommodate our student's interests, strengths and challenges-all in a safe, fun and inclusive environment. Being distracted, withdrawn, defiant or prone to emotional outbursts exist to some extent in all kids but when expressed to a high degree, they create a barrier to learning.
At Bel Air we do not focus on these visible challenges but rather on understanding each student's profile to develop an effective strategy. Students start their Jiu Jitsu journey with a 1-on-1 assessment class.
At Bel Air we do not focus on these visible challenges but rather on understanding each student's profile to develop an effective strategy. Students start their Jiu Jitsu journey with a 1-on-1 assessment class.
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Dr. Rick Solomon is the founder of the Play Project Autism early intervention. Principle #4: "Play at the right level" to meet the child where he or she is at developmentally. Students start their Jiu-Jitsu journey with a 1-on-1 assessment class.
If the prerequisites are met, they join the recommended class (Private, Fundamentals, Intermediate or Advanced) and then work towards transitioning to the regular Jiu-Jitsu program at our partner school within the same location.
If the prerequisites are met, they join the recommended class (Private, Fundamentals, Intermediate or Advanced) and then work towards transitioning to the regular Jiu-Jitsu program at our partner school within the same location.
Reviews (7)
Argelia Cristiano
Feb 02, 2022
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I am so grateful to have found Bel Air, I have seen my son’s progress from being unable to focus and running all around in the gym to being able to listen and follow directions. Alex and his team of coaches are extremely helpful and passionate on their job. I am excited to see what my daughter can achieve now that she has joined the classes.
Caroline K.
Dec 27, 2020
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Sarah C.
Nov 13, 2020
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We couldn't be happier with our experience at Bel Air Jiu-Jitsu. My 9 year old has always had a very difficult time participating in group classes and sports. Alex and his coaches do a wonderful job of offering structure, high expectations and the support needed to meet them. My 12 year old daughter also took classes at Bel Air and fell in love with the sport. I am so thankful for how her interest has been nurtured and the opportunities Alex has introduced us to beyond the walls of Bel Air. I would give a hundred stars if I could.
Cara W.
Nov 02, 2020
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Our Autistic 12 year old son started jiu jitsu at Bel Air in 2019. Alex and all of the other instructors were phenomenal with him, with their kind, quiet, thoughtful and measured approach to teaching. Though our son said he wasn't "into it" at first, we encouraged him to keep at it. Over time, with the incredible support of Alex and the whole Bel Air team, he gradually became more engaged, able to spar (with enthusiasm!), earning his first belt within about 3-4 months. We can't say enough about Bel Air, especially for kids with learning differences, ADHD, Autism, etc. - they
Therapy Admin
Jan 08, 2020
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After meeting Alex, and learning about what Bel Air has to offer, I knew it was a special place. Giving children an opportunity to learn something like Jiu-Jitsu is a unique way of allowing them to engage in something that teaches the importance of perseverance, all while giving them a sense of belonging. Bel Air has created a safe place for children to grow and work on skills beyond just that of the sport.
Erin Anderson OTR/L
Occupational therapist registered/licensed
Erin Anderson OTR/L
Occupational therapist registered/licensed
Tim Gustafson
Nov 15, 2019
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The Bel Air Program has been really fantastic. My son has been doing a weekly class for about 2 months and is really enjoying it. Alex and the other instructors are extremely patient and caring. They really tailor the instruction and the program with the utmost attention to the unique personalities and needs of the students. Highly recommended.
Tc Admin
Oct 15, 2019
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The Tuesday’s Child summer campers LOVED Bel Air Jiu-Jitsu. Tuesday’s Child serves children working on behavior management and Alex’s patience and understanding really brought out the best in each child while they learned martial arts. In fact, several of the summer campers enjoyed the program so much that they chose to continue taking classes at Bel Air after summer camp ended.
