Jujitsu has experienced a re-birth in the last decade with the advent of "No Holds Barred Fighting". In particular, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has led the change in the arena and its focus on groundfighting has resulted in numerous martial artists re-thinking their stand-up training. Groundfighting results in continuous and close physical contact with training partners. Keep this in mind when determining the suitability of the art with your child. Having said that, training in close-quarter and long-range situations makes for a more versatile martial artist.

Because it is such a diverse martial art, what you might find from one school to another may differ quite significantly. As is the case with any school, attend a class to determine for yourself what the focus is and whether or not the schools focus fits your child's personality and goals.

Jujitsu is, for the most part, a martial art which focuses exclusively on self-defense. Although Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, for example, is an exception to the rule, you will not find tournaments available to Jujitsu students. So if your focus is self-defense, the timeless art of Jujitsu may very well fit the bill.