12 Jul Kids Activities in Haywards Heath & Mid Sussex
Kids Activities in Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill & Mid Sussex — Have You Tried BJJ?
If you’re a parent in Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Horsham, or anywhere across Mid Sussex, you’ll know the challenge of finding a kids activity that actually sticks. You want something that your child genuinely looks forward to every week — not just for a month or two, but long term.
At Elements Martial Arts Haywards Heath, we’ve been providing that activity for hundreds of families across Sussex since 2012. We believe Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) might just be the best youth activity your child has never tried.
Why Parents Across Mid Sussex Are Choosing BJJ for Their Kids
Football, swimming, gymnastics — they’re all fantastic for development. However, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) offers a unique combination of physical challenge, mental engagement, and real-world confidence that children carry with them far beyond the mats.
BJJ is a ground-based martial art that teaches children how to use technique and leverage rather than size or brute strength. It’s safe, structured, and deeply rewarding. Because every session presents new physical puzzles to solve, children never get bored.
Here is what parents in Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, and Horsham consistently tell us:
“My child’s confidence has completely transformed since starting at Elements.”
— Sarah M., Parent from Burgess Hill
“They can’t wait to get to class every week. The discipline has completely carried over into their schoolwork.”
— David T., Parent from Haywards Heath
“The coaches are fantastic with the kids. I only wish I’d found this academy sooner.”
— Emma L., Parent from Horsham
What Your Child Will Gain at Elements Martial Arts Haywards Heath
Confidence That Goes Beyond the Gym
There’s something incredibly powerful about learning to handle yourself physically. When a child knows they can stay calm under pressure, manage conflict, and back themselves, that confidence doesn’t stay on the mats. It shows up in the classroom, on the playground, and in everyday social situations.
Real Anti-Bullying Skills
We don’t just talk about anti-bullying; we give children practical, non-violent tools. They learn how to stay calm, how to verbally de-escalate a situation, and, if absolutely necessary, how to control an aggressor safely without punching or kicking. This programme isn’t about teaching aggression — it’s about giving children the quiet confidence to walk away from a difficult situation.
Focus and Discipline — Organised for Fun
Our kids classes are highly structured and purposeful, but they are delivered through games-based learning that keeps children genuinely engaged. We know that a bored child is a child who stops turning up. Our coaching team is highly experienced in making every session feel like a game while delivering vital life skills.
A Clear Progression Pathway
Children progress through a structured, regulated belt grading system from white belt upwards. Having clear, achievable micro-goals is hugely motivating for young people. The sense of pride when a child earns their next stripe or belt is a milestone parents tell us they never forget.
A Positive Local Community
Our Haywards Heath gym is known for being a warm, inclusive environment. Children train alongside peers from across the local district, building strong social bonds outside of their immediate school circles.
About Elements Martial Arts Haywards Heath
We’ve been an active part of the Mid Sussex community since 2012. Our Haywards Heath academy operates alongside our sister gym in Brighton, bringing world-class martial arts tuition to the local area.
Our youth programme is led by Nic, Coach Head Instructor, BJJ Black Belt, and a team of fully qualified, DBS-checked coaches who specialise in early childhood physical development.
Quick Academy Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 5 years old and upwards |
| Experience Needed | None — 100% beginner-friendly |
| Location | Conveniently located in Haywards Heath, just a 5-minute drive from the Dolphin Leisure Centre / near the station |
| Accreditation | All coaches are fully insured, first-aid trained, and DBS checked |
We are easily accessible for busy families making the short commute from:
- Haywards Heath
- Burgess Hill
- Lindfield
- Cuckfield
- Horsham
- East Grinstead
- Balcombe
- Crawley
Frequently Asked Questions from Mid Sussex Parents
Does my child need any prior martial arts experience?
None at all. Our kids martial arts classes are specifically designed to welcome complete beginners from day one. We introduce techniques slowly and safely to ensure no one feels left behind.
At what age can children start training?
We welcome boys and girls aged 5 and above, split into appropriate age groups to ensure optimal coaching delivery.
Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu safe for children?
Yes, BJJ is widely regarded as one of the safest martial arts available because it involves no striking (punching or kicking). The focus is entirely on control, balance, and technique. All sparring is strictly supervised by our experienced coaching team.
Do they need to buy a uniform straight away?
Not at all. For your initial trial class, your child just needs to wear comfortable sportswear (like a t-shirt and shorts/joggers) and bring a water bottle. If they choose to join the academy, we will then sort out their formal training kit (Gi).
My child is quite shy — will they cope with the environment?
Absolutely. In fact, some of our most remarkable transformations occur in quieter, more introverted children. Because BJJ focuses on personal progression rather than team competition, children can develop at their own natural pace within a highly supportive peer group.
What if my child isn’t naturally sporty?
BJJ is often called “human chess”. It is a thinking person’s sport that rewards focus, problem-solving, and timing over raw athleticism. Children who traditionally dislike team sports like football or rugby often fall in love with Jiu-Jitsu.
Looking for Kids Activities in Haywards Heath or Burgess Hill?
Start Here.
If your child has never tried martial arts before, an introductory trial class is the perfect way to discover if it’s the right fit for them — with absolutely no pressure and no long-term commitment.
We run classes throughout the week at our dedicated Haywards Heath location, making it easy to fit around school timetables, homework, and family life.
Book Your Free Trial Session Today
Give your child the gifts of focus, fitness, and unbreakable self-esteem. Spaces in our local youth groups are limited to maintain high coach-to-student ratios.
>>> Claim Your Child’s Free Trial Class Here
- Elements Martial Arts Haywards Heath
- Part of the Elements Martial Arts Family | Empowering Sussex Families Since 2012
- Website: elementsmartialartshh.co.uk
