
Listening is a skill just like kicking and punching! But listening is hard to do when you're preschool age. Our instructors give easy to understand instructions that help kids learn how to listen in and out of the class!

A coachable kid is a successful kid! From teachers to instructors to parents, children have to be able to discern sage advice when they hear it. And we make it so much fun that they love to practice being coachable.

Social Skills like interaction with peers, understanding social cues, working with others in a shared space and more - these are hugely important skills that will help your preschooler thrive!

Little Dragons gives preschool age children important foundations for mental skills like focus - as they get older, they'll have the ability to have sustained patience at will, and they'll benefit from it for life.

Children need a safe, structured place to learn to overcome obstacles in order to build grit and determination. Our Preschool age classes are specifically designed to be a space where you child can learn to overcome any obstacle they face!

A lack of confidence can permeate every aspect of life, so it's vital that children begin to built it as early as possible. Little Dragons will help your child build a rock-solid confidence that they'll carry with them for the rest of their lives.
It's not just kids that love Little Dragons. Once they see the classes, parents love it because it's more than just a fun activity - it's life skills in action!
Little Dragons class times were designed by parents for parents - you're almost guaranteed to find a time that works for your families needs.
Your child will be surrounded by peers striving towards the same goals they are. They'll build friendships and be supported in their journey.
There's literally no better place for your child to learn life skills like Persistence, Determination and Empathy. They'll listen and learn from role-model instructors, and they'll love it!
It's more than amazing ninja moves - it's proprioception, balance, agility and more - physical traits that will remain with and benefit your child for the rest of their lives.
Kids need activities that are engaging and awesome. They *have* to be cooler than video games, TV, phones and other screen oriented activities that simply aren't beneficial. Little Dragons is exactly what they want - here's why:
Kids can see their own strength building after only a few weeks. They love to see their strength grow in real time, working each day on becoming the strongest version of themselves.
Yes, the reality is that every child thinks they're already a ninja! Once they get into class though, they start learning actual, real 'ninja' moves, and they absolutely love feeling like a superhero.
Many parents are new to Soares Martial Arts, but almost all kids know how awesome it is to be here. It's a blast, and parents can feel great knowing it's also packed with benefits.
We teach kids because we love it! because we love what we do! That shows through each and everyday, and the joy is infectious. It's the most fun activity available for them, hands down!
Of American children are obese or are at risk for obesity
To help fight and prevent Obesity, kids need to move! The reality though is that our lives aren't setup for movement. With 7+ hour seated school days and busy parent work schedules, it's tough to keep modern kids healthy.
Lead sedentary lives
Almost half of Adults are sedentary
More and more it seems inevitable that as kids grow into adults, they slow down and become unhealthy. It doesn't have to be this way, but we have to create healthy movements habits before it's too late.
Our goals for our Little Dragons students are the same as your goals as a parent. Confidence, Self-Esteem, and Healthy Habits for life!
Having a solid foundation of positivity in your child's life is invaluable. You can't control their experiences everywhere, nor would you want to. But at Soares Martial Arts, you'll know they'll always be good ones.
At Soares Martial Arts, it doesn't matter if your child isn't the best kid on the team; they'll never ride the bench. They'll always know they're valued members of class, and part of the team, each and every day.
What is the best martial arts program for kids in Dartmouth, MA?
The best martial arts program for kids is one that helps children build confidence, discipline, focus, respect, and physical fitness in a safe and structured environment. At Soares Martial Arts in Dartmouth, MA, our children's martial arts programs are designed to help kids grow mentally, emotionally, and physically while learning practical self-defense skills.
What age can my child start martial arts?
Many children can begin martial arts as early as age 4, depending on maturity, attention span, and readiness for structured instruction. Our age-appropriate martial arts classes in Dartmouth are designed to meet children where they are developmentally so they can learn successfully and enjoy the experience.
Is martial arts good for shy or introverted kids?
Yes. Martial arts is one of the most effective activities for helping shy children build confidence and self-esteem. Through structured classes, encouragement, goal setting, and progressive achievement, many children become more comfortable speaking up, participating, and interacting socially.
Is martial arts good for kids with ADHD?
Martial arts can be an excellent activity for children with ADHD because classes emphasize focus, routine, listening skills, movement, and self-control. Many Dartmouth families choose martial arts because it provides structure while giving children a productive outlet for energy.
How many martial arts classes per week should my child attend?
For most children, attending martial arts classes two to three times per week creates strong progress without becoming overwhelming. Consistency matters more than intensity, and regular attendance helps children build skills, confidence, and discipline faster.
Do parents stay and watch martial arts classes?
Yes, many parents choose to observe classes, especially when their child is new to training. Watching classes helps parents understand teaching style, class structure, and how their child is progressing.
What should my child wear for their first martial arts class?
For a first class, comfortable athletic clothing is usually appropriate unless otherwise instructed. Once enrolled, students can transition into the proper martial arts uniform. We also recommend arriving a few minutes early so your child feels comfortable before class begins.
Does my child need experience before starting?
No experience is necessary. Beginner students start with foundational skills and are guided step by step in a supportive environment. Our Dartmouth martial arts programs are designed to help complete beginners feel comfortable from day one.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
The time required to earn a black belt depends on attendance, effort, consistency, program requirements, and individual progress. Martial arts is designed as a long-term developmental journey focused on discipline and growth rather than quick rewards.
Is martial arts better than team sports for some kids?
That depends on the child. Martial arts can be an excellent fit for children who thrive with structured routines, individual progress, personal accountability, and goal-oriented development rather than team-based competition.
Will martial arts teach my child discipline?
Yes. Discipline is one of the core benefits of martial arts training. Students learn respect, focus, consistency, responsibility, listening skills, and perseverance through structured instruction and clear expectations.
Does martial arts help with bullying?
Martial arts helps children build confidence, awareness, emotional control, and practical self-defense skills. While no activity can completely eliminate bullying, confident children often carry themselves differently and may be better prepared to respond appropriately.
Is martial arts safe for children?
When taught in a structured environment by qualified instructors using age-appropriate instruction, martial arts is generally a safe activity for children. Safety procedures, supervision, and controlled progression are essential parts of quality training.
What martial arts style is best for self-defense?
The best martial art for self-defense depends on individual goals, age, and training consistency. Effective self-defense training should focus on awareness, confidence, decision-making, practical technique, and appropriate responses.
Do you offer martial arts classes for teens?
Yes. Teen martial arts programs are structured differently than children's classes, offering more advanced challenges, physical conditioning, confidence-building, discipline development, and self-defense training.
Do you offer martial arts classes for adults?
Yes. Adult martial arts classes can help improve fitness, coordination, confidence, stress management, flexibility, and practical self-defense skills. Adults of all experience levels are welcome to begin training.
Is martial arts good for fitness?
Absolutely. Martial arts improves cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, coordination, endurance, balance, and overall physical conditioning while keeping training engaging and goal-driven.
How do I know if a martial arts school is right for my family?
Look for experienced instructors, structured classes, a clean and welcoming environment, age-appropriate teaching, strong communication, and a positive school culture. The best way to evaluate a martial arts school is to visit, observe a class, or try an introductory lesson.
What makes a good martial arts instructor?
A strong martial arts instructor combines technical expertise with communication skills, patience, professionalism, leadership, and the ability to connect with students of different ages and skill levels. Credentials matter, but teaching ability matters just as much.
Why choose a martial arts school in Dartmouth instead of driving farther away?
Convenience helps families stay consistent, and consistency creates results. Choosing a high-quality martial arts school in Dartmouth makes it easier to maintain attendance, establish routines, and stay committed long term.
Traditional Youth Sports don't work for most kids.
For many families, the emotional cost and lack of real benefits simply isn't worth the effort and time commitment
Little Dragons is the perfect solution
All of the benefits of a group sport - teamwork, interaction with peers, learning with a group, but with all of the advantages of an individual activity
We regularly survey our parents to be sure we're offering the best program possible. Here's a sample of the real feedback we get regularly:

Both my son and daughter have attended Soares Martial Arts for a year now. My son’s focus has improved and he is excited and looks forward to learning new skills, they teach important life skills every child needs. My daughter has grown so much during her time at Soares Martial Arts. She loves earning her stripes and I love that it’s so much more than learning karate. So many benefits to list- self confidence, integrity, focus, kindness, responsibility. I could go on. Truly a great place and worth the investment.

My daughter joined the Soares Martial Arts school about 6 months ago and we have noticed a great improvement in her confidence, self-discipline and respect for others. The instructors are fantastic, caring and attentive to all students. They are always very encouraging to each student. My daughter enjoys and looks forward to going every week as well as receiving encouraging postcards in the mail. We highly recommend Soares Martial Arts School.
Take advantage of our no-strings attached trial offer. You'll see for yourself just how amazing your child could be.

Soares Martial Arts is the favorite choice of North Dartmouth families for their children's' and teens' physical, mental and emotional development. Plus, there’s no better facility for adults to improve their physical health and mental wellness. Schedule a trial today!
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