Four or five-week self-defense and violence-prevention courses are offered several times a year for both pre-teen (11– 13) and teen women & trans-youth (14 – 19). Courses combine practical physical training; eyes, voice, body language awareness exercises to help hone instincts; boundary-setting games that help build assertiveness; and discussions highlighting major safety concerns facing young women & trans-youth – including violence in relationships, sexual abuse, defending against an attacker with a weapon – and brainstorming ways to be safe or get safe.

Students who wish to continue and expand upon this course after completing it, may choose to enroll in our after-school karate & self-defense program, PACT or Power, Action, Change for Teens.

Each class builds community and respect through talking circles, movement games, and other activities encouraging and empowering teens to take risks, grow, and feel pride in their minds, bodies, and spirits.

From students of the Teen Self-Defense Course:

“This class builds confidence while letting you work to your own ability. It’s about techniques, not strength. I feel more powerful and confident.”

“What was most important to me was learning what to do if someone tries to grab you or choke you because I have had experiences where I didn’t know what to do.”

“Since taking the class I’ve started to express my deep feelings more to people. I know how to defend myself in ways I didn’t used to.”

“I got a chance to really think about the times I have been abused and thought it was not a big deal. I learned that I have power and I could protect myself from violence and abuse, even though I used to think I was weak.”

“I learned that the most important thing to me is myself because I am precious.”

Courses are taught by intergenerational and racially diverse teams composed of adult teachers and teen peer educators creating a dynamic, and supportive setting that welcomes diverse voices, experiences, and strengths.

CAE's teen programming is offered FREE of charge. These courses are sponsored by several foundations, click here for a list.

To make this class as accessible as possible, we also offer free childcare for students during class.



This course is open to all teen women & trans-youth, 11-13 (pre-teen course) or 14-19 (teen course). Free childcare is available to all students. Students are diverse in body type, background and ability. With prior notice, we are able to give added attention in class to teen women with varying abilities. Unfortunately, we are on the second floor and our space is not handicapped-accessible. Call for more information or to set up a workshop or course at your location.



First check out the course calendar, to determine which start date works for you (or for your teen). Then, call us to pre-register. Our office is open for callers from 10 AM to 6 PM, Monday - Friday. After you have pre-registered we will send you a confirmation in the mail.