My son is autistic and super shy, so getting him involved in social activities is challenging, but we want to expose him to as much as possible. The Regional Center coordinator agreed and would be funding this. When we came to Dawn Barnes for our free trial class, he hid under my chair the entire time, but didn't want to leave, so we stayed and watched all the kids have so much fun! Days after this, he couldn't stop saying how much he can't wait for karate again... so I signed up for another trial class since the first time was a bust. Happy they allowed us to do so. So we came back... anxiety-ridden, we walked in, not knowing what he would do but he was soooo excited and the instructors were so enjoyable and had such an upbeat vibe, we were ecstatic! They showed patience and kept up with his energy. You can tell all the kids in class fed off of the instructor's energy as well. Upon completion of the class, they provided a white belt and my son said he couldn't wait to go back! We loved his excitement for this specific dojo and the energy the instructors provided. So all this to say, we were so disheartened to find out that they don't accept third party payments. Even to have a credit card on file from the Regional Center, who would be paying for the classes, so I'm taking a star down for that. And another star because it pained me to tell my son that we couldn't go back cause it isn't in our budget to pay out of pocket right now, since it would take 9-12 months to be reimbursed by the Regional Center if we wanted to go that route. Dawn Barnes - can we keep a credit card on file with you so you can just charge it each month? My son would be ever-so-grateful! read more

My son goes here and loves it. My second son will be joining this karate club soon. I would definitely recommend this karate club to my friends. The staff is amazing and friendly . read more

My 5 YO with low confidence has attended Dawn Barnes for a year. Highly recommend for parents who have children that may struggle with confidence and engagement in school. We saw significant improvement in my son's overall engagement inside the dojo and outside- we think it's because he started to really get engaged with the lessons inside the dojo. Special shout outs tl Liz and Ando who make the kids feel comfortable but stay within reasonable "discipline" methods. Ando especially makes class really fun and fast paced so time flies. Also, really important, this is a life lessons school so the lessons they teach all carry moral/values about trying your best and keeping the body/mind/spirit strong Thank you DB for being a great community asset! read more

We love this place! The senseis are wonderful and so patient with the kids. The classes are fun while teaching important life skills like respect. Everyone on staff is warm and friendly. My daughter is excited to attend and their flexible schedule makes it easy for us to fit in classes based on our availability. I cannot speak highly enough about DBKK! read more

We recently moved to this side of town and stumbled up Dawn Barnes Karate Kids, and I am so happy we did. We're like a little family in here. Sensei Ando, Sensei Liz and Sensei Patty work absolute magic with the kids. Our daughter looks forward to seeing them the moment she walks in. We have to mention Mrs. Lynn at the front desk, she knows all the children by name, she's seen so many of them grow up here. It's wonderful to see how she helps them with their confidence and to find their voice as they check in for class. We especially love how she helps them with their manners as they politely learn to ask for their student cards. I have to mention the Friday Fun Nights at the end of the month. Not to be missed! Mrs. Lynn has crafts and pizza for them and they party with the Sensei's and students of all ages into the night (6p to 8p). Parents get a little break too, we take a nice stroll down Ventura for date night. Thank you Dawn! read more

My son loves Dawn Barnes! The classes are fun, engaging, and educational. Ms. Lynne is wonderful, and all the sensais are knowledgeable and patient. It's a wonderful and welcoming environment. read more

All the Sensei are AMAZING! I highly recommend it. It is a very positive environment.

We LOVE this place. Our 6 year old son has been going here for about a year, and it has been so good for him. He's grown not only in strength and skill, but in respect and patience. The Sensei's know how to work with young kids and Liz at the front is amazing. We love it so much that our 4 year old daughter just signed up as well. It's such a kind and special place. read more

Great place to send your kids for karate class. Probably the best introduction for children to learn martial arts. Dawn Barnes does an incredible job teaching the fundamentals of living a positive life through respect, focus and being a good person. Sensei Ando is great with kids as well as all the sensei's here. We have been coming here 5 years and we love it. Dojo is always clean, seating area is well kept. The extra curricular activities I.e tournaments and belt tests are always well done. Highly recommend sending your kids here if you are interested in introducing martial arts to your children. read more

My daughter attended this karate school up until today last Sunday 7/ 24. She loved every class that she took with both of her Sen Sei's; the level of structure and encouragement was always present on each one of her classes as she worked hard to earn each one of her belts. The latest one was blue belt ironically earned last Friday before the events that proceeded after that are pushing me towards this decision. This being said there were always issues with the rude behavior that Miss Linne displayed on several occasions towards myself and my daughters Baby-Sitter, she is the specific reason as of why we are leaving your school. Of particular interest were the events that unfolded last Friday July 22, 2022 at 6:30 PM when my husband took Daughter to a special event that was organized by your karate school. She had been very excited to attend this particular event for several days. To be perfectly clear, I made a mistake and signed her up for a workshop on Sunday instead of the event on Friday. Naturally, when My daughter and my husband arrived punctually at 6:30 pm she was not on the list. What proceeded next was a series of offenses that came directly from Miss Linne who directly told My daughter that she was not on the list and when my husband called me for me to talk to Miss Linne and clarify the situation she was extremely rude, saying things like "You're not on the list" "You need to leave", when my husband tried to look at the list in Mrs. Linne computer after she said "Look at the list" she yelled, Sir you are not allowed to touch my computer. My daughter was crying, my husband was deeply offended, for your information she is a fully functioning Autistic child, she took this situations very hard. It wasn't until Sen Sei Lis intervened to say that My daughter could stay and that she could only have (1) pizza slice. I have been in the service industry all my life and I am aware how a client should be treated and accommodated if there is a change or if they made a mistake. To add insult to injury she proceeded to fully charge $60.00 to my credit card for this party where she included her rude behavior and offensive comments those of course free of charge. Several weeks ago, I received a request to send-in a photo of my daughter to be included on the wall "Family Tree" of your school. I immediately replied to this e-mail and proceeded to include two pictures of my daughter to be included on the tree. And yet, the pictures mysteriously never appeared on your wall. Is it because of our Latin Heritage that we were singled out? I find this very very disturbing. Miss Linne was in charge of putting these pictures up, as she was the one asking for them in the email I received... The truth is that Miss Linne is completely ignorant when it comes to Emotional Intelligence. She has offended me with her attitude and remarks in the past as well as the lady who is my daughter's caregiver. We refuse to put up with a Bully and with someone like Miss Linne who never apologized for making my daughter cry last Friday and for offending my husband. When I asked to speak with Sen Sei Lis and with Miss Linne at the end of the class about this issue. Miss Linne was nowhere to be found. She acted like the complete coward that she is. Avoiding me since the very moment I enter through the door today. Sadly the person who is most hurt by all this is my daughter. She loved learning from her Sen Sei's, she always had a smile for everyone who came across her and she really wanted to become a black belt in your school, besides the emotional distress that my daughter has endured because she is no longer attending the school that she loved so much is truly offensive. The worst part is that this was not her fault. And by having this person in charge only perpetuates this kind of toxic behavior in this business. I'd being a business owner myself and know how important is the person 'in charge" the "face" of your business, it's sad that this is hurting your business too. In closing, we are not the first family that have left your school because of Miss Linne's attitude, and I can assure you we are not going to be the last ones... read more

My daughter LOVES going to karate. As parents we love how flexible their membership is. You pay a monthly fee and can go to any class time (in you rlevel), how often as you want, every week. Some weeks we might go 2-3 times if we know she might miss karate due to a vacation or something. It's perfect. Everyone that works there is super respectful and knowledgeable. The Sensei's are pros both in karate and how to teach children. I can't say enough about how much we love this karate school. read more

Dawn Barnes Karate has truly become an extension of our home. My 6 years old son started back when he was 5. As a typical boy full of energy, I felt he could use friendly reminders and encouragement around discipline and respect while also being physical. It has been so heartwarming seeing my son William as well as other kids progress. My son has developed a strong connection with Sensei Mitch who consistently provides him with feedback and support. He is incredible! I personally could not imagine being at Dawn Barnes without Lynne's welcoming and always loving attitude. Sensei Liz is also so very confident and knowledgeable. Overall they have a great team in place and the facility is always looking clean and organized! It is always a happy and exciting day when we have karate scheduled for my son! read more

We have had an amazing experience at Dawn Barnes. Our son looks forward to each time he goes to class. All of the senseis are warm and gentle. They teach the fundamentals of karate in a fun way which keeps the kids engaged. Mrs. Lynne is amazing and has been super helpful regarding our membership and on occasions when we needed to take a break due to scheduling conflicts. Highly recommend! read more

Dawn Barnes Karate is one of the best things that happened to my two young boys. It has helped them respect others, develop focus, listen, follow directions, and gain confidence. Most importantly, they love it! The senseis are AMAZING. They are a perfect balance of fun and discipline. You can see that they really care. The classes teach them how to demand respect from others by using their words and circle of power. Most of the karate moves are defensive, so they are able to protect themselves. When they learn offensive moves, they are taught to use them with constraint, and only when necessary. My oldest started in the kitties class. He moved onto Tiger Tots, and then Tigers. He is currently a Lion, and will soon be a Dragon. My youngest wasn't able to do Kitties because of the covid lockdown, but Tiger Tots was a perfect starting point for him. The staff takes covid safety seriously. Everyone is checked at the door before entering the building, and I've seen them send kids home for showing up sick. They also keep the facilities clean and tidy. Dawn Barnes Sherman Oaks ROCKS!! read more

Love this place and the team always friendly always kind and very caring about each kid.

We are thrilled with our experience at Dawn Barnes! The instructors are patient, skilled, and have a wonderful way with the kids...and Miss Lynn is awesome! Our son (7) has grown in confidence and skill during the last year. The dojo is well-organized, clean, and safe. We highly recommend this place to any parent looking for an effective, fun, and friendly martial arts program for their child. If you're new, ask to attend a day that's less busy. Either way, the kids will catch on quickly! read more

Incredible studio that follows well balanced teaching approach! Very talented and engaged senseis (teachers) who are teaching kids from young age quite a few life important skills of how to use power of one's voice and words and body to protect oneself - as one of the many examples. They also have amazingly flexible schedule and time options have been great for us. read more

Great for kids. The teachers are responsible, patient, and good at covering the basics.

We love Dawn Barnes Karate Kids! They run a really nice program here; kids have fun while learning to try their best and show good respect. Lynne at the front desk is very welcoming and enthusiastic! The senseis are patient and kind, and adapt to each child's needs. We love it! read more

I can't speak highly enough about the senseis and how this dojo is run. Sensei Ando, Liz, Patty and Mitch have truly seen my son since day 1 and encouraged just the right things in him to build his confidence and strength. Their patience and professionalism is so exceptional. Exactly the right balance of karate inside the dojo and the life skills outside of the dojo. We go as often as we can and I have seen so much growth in my son who was struggling with so many of those life skills. THANK YOU. read more

In addition to our kids loving their weekly classes at Dawn Barnes, Miss Lynne and the SenSei's put on a magnificent Ninja birthday party for our son! Everyone, especially our five year old, had a wonderful time at the party. They did EVERYTHING - food, cake, decorations, party favors (ninja sword included:) I literally just showed up and the space had been transformed from its usual awesomeness into a ninja space. It was very sweet and exactly what our five year old wished for - even his big sister had a blast. read more

Dawn Barnes Karate Kids - Martial Arts Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

This place is an amazing place for kids to learn karate. The monthly unlimited membership makes it so easy to fit it in our family's schedules. Most importantly, the staff is truly fantastic. As we all struggle through Coronavirus, they handled the situation amazingly well. They even setup a Facebook channel so that our kids could practice karate at home and stay engaged. We look forward to returning once things open up again. read more

Love the fact they have a class for kids as young as 3, haven't been yet but look forward to bringing my daughter soon.

FANTASTIC PROGRAM and a FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE! In our previous review, we raved about Sensei Erin - who is awesome! Now it's time to rave about Sensei Jeff, Michael and Tristen - they are fabulous, fantastic, fun and truly have a gift teaching the kids! This so much more than karate! The social skills, confidence & courage taught is incredible! Thank you Karate Kids read more

Been coming here for years since my boy was a toddler everyone else is nice but Ruby is a big no no so I think it's time to go and try somewhere else. read more

Dawn Barnes Karate Kids - Dragon blue belt ready to learn more. - Martial Arts Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

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Amazing place. Very clean and child safe dojo. Comfy for parents and kids. Free Wi fi! This place is for parents and kids that appreciate structure and discipline presented in a gentle, loving way. The teachers are passionate and dedicated. They all take time to connect with every child. My son has been going here for over a year. He loves karate. He's learned life skills as well as karate skills. Our very favorite Senseis are Sensei Erin, Lincoln and Jeff. My daughter just started a few months ago and is thriving. She has ASD. The teachers are all very understanding and patient. My daughter has developed self confidence, discipline and social skills. We always feel welcome at karate kids. read more

Dawn Barnes Karate Kids - My son before Lions class. - Martial Arts Near Me - Sherman Oaks, California

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My cousin asked me to take his kids to this Karate studio about a week ago as he got caught up at work. I feel compelled to write a review because my experience was beyond excellent! The atmosphere in this establishment is extremely warm and positive, the looks in all the kids eyes exuded excitement and pride in there lessons. All of the staff members and trainers were extremely nice and went out of there way to make me feel comfortable as I waited for my friends kids to finish there session. A truly classy place with Genuinely nice people running it, it was spotlessly clean and just a great place to hang out , not to mention an Excellent environment for kids to learn martial arts and be trained by passionate and talented people. Thanks to Dawn and her family and staff for making this an unexpected pleasure. If I could give 20 Stars I would!!!! read more

We have been a part of this karate Dojo for almost 6 years. We did not know much when we started coming here, but years later, the teachers at Dawn Barnes Karate have taught our daughter confidence, strength, disclipine and have helped shape her into a respectful and kind individual. I have visited many Dojos, and this is not just a place where you learn physical karate, but they also teach the kids to become good citizens. They teach with positivity. It truly is a special place and my daughter loves coming to class. read more

Great place - kids learn mindfulness, self respect, and responsibility-- not just about karate! It's a really holistic approach to growing up healthy and strong. read more

Dawn Barnes is a karate studio that every child should experience! Lynne and Sensei Liz are so welcoming and helpful! The studio is very clean and organized which is super important. My daughter loves karate and is constantly learning new moves, techniques, and is always asking when she is going back. read more

Hi Dawn. As I have never seen you much less spoken with you please advise of the courtesies extended to me? As I was given the following options: A. Continue paying $160 a month and have my son enrolled as I have been although my son couldn't physically participate in hopes he would soon be able to or B. Cancel and pay the following month wherein he still had the option to attend class for the next month, which obviously his medical status as advised would not allow him to. Not sure how either of those options are "courtesies". Today my son was given another doctor's note and new diagnosis which again refrains him from any physical activity for another 4 weeks. I simply asked to freeze his acct given the unforeseen circumstances. My son's gymnastics and Krav Maga studio both in Sherman Oaks were more than willingly to freeze his acct although that is not their standard practice. Their actions prove they are more concerned with the child's well being rather than profit. Your companies actions do not reflect the same that you speak of unfortunately. read more

If I could give them 6 stars I would. I love this school and the entire program. The unlimited class schedule is awesome for kids who are committed and excited to go and learn. They also weave in great lessons about respect, patience and kindness which I think makes DBKK a fun, safe, and welcoming place for all families. This is a wonderful school and we are happy to be a part of the DBKK family! read more

My son enjoyed karate here for a year until it came to sparring, other kids were hurting him. Nice sensei's and front desk ladies, clean location. It isn't cheap at $200 a month and just became not worth it when I had to force my son to go. read more

DBKK has truly become our home away from home. We having been coming every week for the past 5 years with our son earning his black belt recently. We are so grateful for all the staff with guiding our kids towards being the best version of themselves, teaching mindfulness, kindness, self empowerment, and of course self defense. Thank you DBKK staff! You are one of a kind!! read more

I'll start by saying that I can't say enough about the place, it's Sensei's and staff. The Sensei's are skilled and provide a safe surroundings for your child in the Dojo, while teaching them all the skills they need as they transition through their belts. Mrs Lynne, we'll can't say enough about her. She's kind, caring and supportive of all the children and runs a really tight ship. My daughter has been taking classes there since she was four. I was looking for a place we're she would not only develop good technique but also a strong mind. Six years later, and equipped with her black belt, not only is her skill set well developed, but the discipline and self-respect and confidence she attained along the way has provided her with a foundation for a lifetime. I highly recommend this school for any youngster who wants to develop a strong base for future art forms...if that's a path they chose. read more

We have been attending classes at Karate Kids with our daughter. She absolutely loves Sensei Jeff! Such an awesome place for children to learn karate. The staff are warm and welcoming and we could not be happier that we chose this place to teach our daughter about life skills. Plenty options for class times is a bonus!! read more

This is a wonderful program that fits well into our family dynamic and busy schedule. The plus side for us is that there are multiple locations and the classes are on a drop in basis. With three children and diverse schedules the convenience of the program is fantastic! These classes have helped with discipline and self control. I feel like the staff has taken a personal interest in our son, and really wants to see him progress. They have also helped with bumps along the way such as concentration. Sensei Erin who also runs the front desk is wonderful and kind. I would high recommend this program! read more

Dawn Barnes Karate has been an amazing experience for our son. He's been attending for over 2 years now! Could not be more happier with this program and what it does for all the kids. Thank you Dawn Barnes Karate. read more

I can't give enough stars here. This is an absolutely phenomenal program with exceptional Sensei. My son has been going here for a little over a year now. The growth I've seen in him both physically and mentally is outstanding yet there is always a bar to raise for him here. The program integrates well at home with very challenging yet attainable goals around the core values this dojo adheres to. We're definitely here for the long run. read more

We love Dawn Barnes Karate Kids. My son just started taking classes here and it has helped him coming out of being so shy. They are very engaged with the children and constantly helping them improve. I couldn't have picked a better place to start karate for my 4 year old. read more