The Dojo - Billerica

Oct 2025

My daughter started as a Little Ninja almost 2 years ago. She was the smallest in her class, she couldn’t even get over the jumps in the obstacle course, but that didn’t stop her from trying. Sensei Steve made class fun and kept challenging her in ways that were attainable but not easy. Sensei Janine helped build her confidence and stay safe during games by running along side her until she could handle herself. Sensei Dawn’s calm and quiet demeanor made her feel comfortable and at ease. Sensei AJ came along a little later and gave Layla someone a little closer to her age to look up too. The Dojo is not just a katate class it is a community that helps kids and adults build strength, confidence, discipline, and perseverance. My daughter is still one of the smallest in her class but now she is also one of the highest ranking. My little guy just started the new Playful Pandas class a few months ago. He is my wild child. He bounces off everything, can’t always pay attention, causes distractions and is more or less your typical 3-4 year old boy. The Dojo team were getting more and more request for younger kids to join but they knew from previous experience that even the Little Ninja class was not the right fit for most 3-4 year olds attention spance and emotional range. So unlike most karate classes that tell you to call back in a year or two, the Dojo created a whole new class just for them. Sensei Brinna brings great energy and a background in child education pair that with Sensei Dawn’s genteel touch and black belt knowledge and you have a powerhouse for little learners. They are still teaching the kids the same core skills and techniques that the older kids work on but in smaller doses with a slightly more playful approach. The biggest difference is that a parent or gaurdian can and is encouraged to get on the floor with them. This was a game changer for my kid. Sometimes I “run”around the obstacle course with him or do the races with him. Other times I am just an extra support system/ cheering squad on the mat but either way he feels like I am a part of what he is doing and that gets him excited and helps him stay focused. Every class he attends he has an opportunity to earn a sticker and eventually earn a prize. He has had multiple days were he did not earn a sticker for various reasons but Sensei Brinna and Sensei Dawn always talked to him kindly about why and even though he would be upset in the moment he would always be excited for the next class. Discipline and perseverance can be taught at any age with the right instructors. The Dojo offered free classes for moms in May for Mother’s Day, plus a special selfdefense class. My daughter got supper excited and encouraged me to go. I was a little hesitant at first thinking I was too old to start learning karate, I was going to look silly being a white belt at 39, (insert all the other fears and anxieties). But my kids were so excited about it and by now I knew the Senseis enough to know I was in good company. The selfdefense class was so fun and there were a few other first timers there with me. My first regular class I was the only beginner walking on the mat with a handful of black belts, one brown belt, and two green belts. I was intimidated to say the least, for about one minute, then everyone said hello and welcomed me to the class with honest excitement. When I got a little lost or confused there was always someone there to help me. No egos, just a community with genuine passion for the art and the desire to hone their craft while enjoying a few laughs. I left with a few bruises, some sore muscles, and a big smile. I loved it! I have been going for over three months now and I look forward to every class. They ran the same special for Dads in the month of June. Our daughter and I convinced my husband to go and of course he had a great experience. He especially loved the weapons class! Even though he has not been able to continue classes he now has a better understanding of what our kids do and they get even more excited to teach him their new moves at home. I

Jun 2025

We have been sending our little guy (6) since early May and now big brother (10) started a week ago! Everyone is supportive, kind, and wonderful. I have seen such a difference in attitude in my youngest, even if he does still zone out about 30 minutes in. in just a week, my older son Carson has fallen in love with class. What really impresses me too though is how the culture of The Dojo is apparent everywhere, the kids are kind to each other and support each other. It's been a wonderful experience and we highly recommend! ❤️

Mar 2025

My daughter has been going to the Dojo for almost 3 years now. Great place for kids to learn while having fun! The staff is super friendly!