Be Your Own Hero
An empowering afterschool program for preteen girls
Be Your Own Hero is a fun, empowering self-defense program for young girls that helps them feel strong, safe, and confident in who they are. Through movement, games, and age-appropriate conversations, we teach them how to trust their instincts, speak up for themselves, and navigate the world with more awareness, resilience, and boldness.
Why this matters.
Growing up can be tough. Kids and preteens are learning how to manage friendships, set boundaries, and handle tricky situations — sometimes without the tools they need.
Be Your Own Hero gives them those tools. We teach practical safety skills alongside emotional awareness and communication strategies, all in a supportive and playful environment.
What we teach.
Our approach blends social-emotional learning with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu-based self-defense and trauma-informed practices. Kids learn through doing — and having fun.
💬 Using your voice: Saying “no,” setting boundaries, and speaking up
🧠 Tuning into your instincts: Recognizing when something feels off
🥋 Moving with power: Learning basic self-defense positions and escapes
🤝 Building confidence and respect: Through teamwork, games, and reflection
Who is this for?
Be Your Own Hero is designed for girls and female-identifying youth ages 9–13.
All classes are inclusive and affirming. We welcome a diverse range of experiences and identities, and create space for each participant to feel seen, respected, and empowered.
Register today!
More Than a Class — It’s a Community
We don’t just teach self-defense. We build connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Whether your child is shy, high-energy, or somewhere in between, they’ll find a place to grow and thrive at Arise.
September details comings soon!
Quiet Strength. Lasting Impact.
FAQs
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Your child will learn how to use their voice, trust their instincts, set boundaries, and respond to unsafe situations. We teach simple self-defense techniques, emotional regulation tools, and confidence-building strategies — all in a fun, supportive environment.
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While it’s not a traditional martial arts class, we do teach self-defense techniques based on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — and we use a belt system to help track progress and build motivation.
Students earn one stripe for every 10 classes. After four stripes, they can test for their next belt level. The focus isn’t on competition but on building confidence, consistency, and skill over time in a supportive environment.
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Yes. Many participants come in feeling unsure or nervous. Our instructors are trained to create trauma-informed, inclusive spaces where each child can participate at their own pace and feel safe and supported.
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Jess and Ash!
Classes are led by certified Empowerment Self-Defense instructors with experience in education, youth work, and martial arts. All facilitators are trained in trauma-informed, inclusive teaching practices.
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Just comfy clothes they can move in and a water bottle. We train barefoot on mats — no special equipment is required.
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Absolutely. Be Your Own Hero is open to girls and female-identifying youth ages 9–13. We welcome participants of all backgrounds, abilities, body types, and lived experiences.
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