Little Kids Gotta Move®
in Martial Arts
A Playful First Step into Martial Arts for Ages 2.5–5
Little Kids Gotta Move® (LKGM) in Martial Arts is a playful, movement-based introduction to martial arts designed specifically for young children ages 2.5–5. This program focuses on helping children explore movement, build confidence, and learn how to participate in a group setting in a fun and supportive environment.
Classes are structured to support early development through age-appropriate activities that encourage listening, coordination, self-regulation, and positive interaction with others.
Starting a new activity at this age can feel overwhelming for both kids and parents.
Many Parents Wonder:
“Will my child participate, freeze up, or disrupt the class?”
“Are they too young for structured classes?”
“Will they feel safe and supported?”
“Does my child need to be able to listen and follow directions to join?”
“Will this help with attention, listening, or social skills?”
You’re not alone — these worries are totally normal.
LKGM is designed to meet children where they’re at and help them build listening, self-regulation, and group participation skills in a supportive, movement-based environment.
In each class, children will:
Explore movement through age-appropriate martial arts activities
Build balance, coordination, and body awareness
Practice listening, self-regulation, and group participation
Gain confidence in a fun, supportive environment
Participate with an adult for support and skill reinforcement
This program is ideal for children who:
Are new to structured activities
Benefit from parent support during class
Are developing focus, listening, and emotional regulation
Learn best through movement and play
The LKGM in Martial Arts Experience
Fun, family-friendly class where adults participate with their child through simple games, drills, and movement activities.
Designed for little learners with age-appropriate activities and movement that are fun while building confidence.
Supportive, welcoming environment where kids learn at their own pace with no pressure, just progress and fun together.
Getting Started is Simple:
If your child is 4-7 years old and ready for the next step - Consider our Junior Samurai classes
Program Details
This is an 8-week program that requires preregistration. We are creating a community while having a group that attends regularly in order to build upon the skills taught each week.
$120 registration fee covers the 8-week program, weekly videos, and karate arm/headband
Karate Fundamentals
Children learn the basics of Karate in an environment tailored to their age and capacity through playful movements and guided instruction.
Confidence & Fun
Kids gain confidence as they move, learn, and play in an encouraging, active setting that celebrates effort and growth.
Group Participation Skills
Build awareness of others through structured peer interactions and group activities that teach turn taking, following directions, and working together.
Self-Regulation Strategies
Integrated teaching of Stop/Wait/Go concepts to help children manage energy, follow cues, and transition smoothly between activities.
LKGM Schedule & Registration
If the program is full, email us and we will add you to our mailing list for early access to registration for the next series.
Have questions? Feel free to reach out to Sensei Lise by email or on Facebook.
Kids Gotta Move is a registered trademark and is used with permission. The Little Kids Gotta Move in Martial Arts program is based on the Tumbling Together continuum of programs. It is not a therapy program but uses some of the parent strategies and program structure from Tumbling Together and Kids Gotta Move to help teach self-regulation and group participation skills to children. It is an inclusive program for all children.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Little Kids Gotta Move in Martial Arts and Junior Samurai?
Little Kids Gotta Move® in Martial Arts (LKGM) is a playful, movement-based introduction to karate for children ages 2.5–5. Classes focus on listening skills, self-regulation, coordination, and positive group participation with parent support. Families receive a weekly video highlighting the skills being taught, helping reinforce learning both in the dojo and at home.
Junior Samurai is designed for children ages 4–7 who are ready for more structured martial arts instruction without a parent on the mat. This program builds foundational karate skills while developing confidence, focus, and teamwork. Each 8-week series focuses on specific fundamentals to support steady progression in the martial arts journey.
How do I know which program is best for my child?
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If your child is younger and still developing focus and listening skills, LKGM is a great first step.
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If your child is ready to follow structured class routines independently and is interested in technique and skill progression, Junior Samurai is a better fit.
Can a child start in LKGM and move into Junior Samurai?
Yes! Many children transition naturally as they gain confidence, listening skills, and comfort participating in a group. After completing one or more LKGM sessions, children are familiar with the dojo environment, class structure, and instructor, making Junior Samurai a comfortable and successful next step toward independent participation.
It’s uncommon to switch programs mid-session, as each 8-week program is designed to build community and progressively develop skills from week to week. However, if space is available and a change is recommended by the Sensei, a transition may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
What if my child is close to the age boundary?
Age ranges are guidelines. We recommend considering your child’s readiness for independent participation and focus. Feel free to reach out if you’d like help deciding!
Do these programs prepare my child for the regular kids classes?
Yes! Both programs build foundational skills that make the transition to ongoing kids karate classes smoother and more enjoyable. Children who complete multiple Junior Samurai sessions often progress more quickly through early belt levels, as they have already learned many of the basic skills and expectations required for advancement.
When is my child ready for the regular kids karate class?
Every child develops at their own pace, and readiness is about more than age alone. In general, children do best in regular kids karate classes when they can participate independently, follow multi-step instructions, stay focused for longer periods, and work safely within a group setting.
For many children, Little Kids Gotta Move® or Junior Samurai provides the right foundation before transitioning into regular kids classes. These programs help build confidence, focus, and familiarity with the dojo environment, setting children up for long-term success in martial arts.
If you’re unsure which program is the best fit, we’re always happy to help guide you based on your child’s age, readiness, and experience.