Dawn Barnes Karate Kids

My child has been going to Karate Kids for about 6 months to the Sherman Oaks location. While the philosophy this company has published sounds good on paper the actual implementation is not the best. My biggest grievances: 1) Overcrowded classes, especially on weekends. On one occasion I've seen as much as 17 kids crowded in the dojo with only one sensei, and 12-13 is not uncommon during the week. 2) Lack of personal attention. Many kids often perform the moves incorrectly or to skip them entirely due to lack of attention, often right in front of the instructors. I would have expected instructors to correct , but more often then not they just ignore that. The above varies somewhat by instructor, some of them make a better effort than others. more

After looking for sometime a sport that my two girls can do, we found Dawn Barnes Karate Kids, it has been by far the most positive experience in our lifes. In Karate Kids our girls Mia 9, and Haylie 4 are learning no just the thecniques and knowledge about Shodokan and MMA but also the principals of respect, resposability and self confidence. Everyday we see how they appply the lessons they have learn. Mia started when she was 7 years old a litlle shy at the biggining but know she's full of confidence and keep doing the good work. She's now a proud member of the Black Belt Club and focusing in getting her black belt. Haylie statrted when she was 2 1/2 years old as a Kittie and now she's a Tiger Tot and loving it, she doesn't want to miss a class! The staff and the senseis make us feel welcome everytime we come to class.\r Thank you Dawn Barnes and thank you to all the staff at Karate Kids!\r Mario & Myrna Rodriguez\r Pacific Palisades CA more

My son has been with Dawn Barnes for four years. He has learned so much from karate - and from the staff at Dawn Barnes. We could not have been happier with all that he has taken from the sport and from the company. They have re-inforced life lessons of respect, self worth and patience. He has traveled through the programs over the years and we have watched him bring the lessons of the ""dojo"" into his daily life. We have been so happy with Karate Kids and highly recommend the program and the staff of Dawn Barnes to any parent or child looking for a ""life"" sport. more

My son started taking karate at Dawn Barnes Karate Kids 2 years ago and it has become a very important part of our weekly routine. I researched many karate schools on the Westside but found the ""life skills,"" principals taught at Dawn Barnes to be head and shoulders above the rest. The students are expected to show respect to their Sensei, their fellow students and outside of the dojo as well. Staff members from check-in to Sensei, treat every student, (and their families), with kindness and respect. The front desk staff know every student by name and the Sensei’s remember class to class, where the student needs work, how to motivate each students specifically and they often take time in between classes if a parent has questions or concerns. The facility is immaculate and obviously designed with parents in mind. Tables and chairs surround the glassed in dojo, enabling parents to see their child’s progress, visit with other parents or work on their laptops using the wireless internet service provided. Hard work is rewarded with stripes and belts but the real reward for my son has been learning and applying one particular life skill; ""always try your best,"" in the dojo and in life! Pros: Too many to mention more

My son has been taking karate at the Santa Monica Karate Kids Dojo since he was 3 1/2. He is now 8 and still going strong. Watching him grow with every belt he earns, gives our family so much pride. When he was invited to become a member of the ""Black Belt Club"" last year, we thought he was too young. We discussed the pros and cons with the Chief Instructor, Dorene, and she assured us that he wouldn't have received an invitation unless they felt he was ready. Since our son has been in the Black Belt Club, he has stepped up his ""game."" He is very serious about karate. He even has a goal of achieving his black belt by the time he turns 10. We love all of the instructors. They are just like family. I will always refer people to Karate Kids. Pros: Teaching Positive Life Skills Through Martial Arts more