Jiu-jitsu ground technique being taught at Snyder Dojo

Little Dragons, ages 5–12

Kids Jiu-Jitsu & Grappling in Kalamazoo

Little Dragons is Snyder Dojo's kids no-gi jiu-jitsu and grappling class. Kids ages 5–12 learn to control a partner, escape from the bottom, and stay calm under pressure — through drills and games they'll beg to come back for.

What You'll Learn

Position First

Kids learn to hold and escape positions — the focus is control, not submissions — with safety first.

Games That Teach

Grappling games build strength, coordination, and problem-solving without feeling like a workout.

Respect on the Mat

Kids learn to tap, to listen, and to take care of their partners.

Kids BJJ Without the Franchise Price Tag

At Snyder Dojo, one $60 membership covers both Little Dragons and Kids Judo — so your child gets grappling and throws for one price.

  • Monday 5:30–6:25 PM — Little Dragons no-gi
  • Tuesday & Thursday — Kids Judo, also included
  • Private lessons ($50) to help shy kids warm up
  • Parents train after in the adult grappling class

Class Times

DayTimeClassAges
Monday5:30–6:25 PMLittle Dragons — Kids No-Gi GrapplingKids 5–12

Little Dragons and Kids Judo are both included in one $60/month membership. See the full schedule & pricing.

Common Questions

What is Little Dragons?

Little Dragons is our Monday kids no-gi class for ages 5–12. Goals, rules, and strategy are close to no-gi BJJ, but the focus is position rather than submission. Kids learn to fall, take down, pin, and escape, and play grappling games that build strength and coordination.

What age should my kid start jiu-jitsu?

Little Dragons is for ages 5–12. Younger kids (3 and 4) can start with our Saturday Preschool Judo class, and teens 13+ join the adult classes.

Is jiu-jitsu worth it for kids?

Parents tell us it helps with confidence, focus, and listening — and it gives energetic kids a safe place to wrestle and play hard. Grappling teaches kids to handle conflict calmly without striking.

What does my child wear to no-gi class?

Athletic shorts without zippers or pockets and a t-shirt or rash guard. No gi needed.

How much does kids jiu-jitsu cost?

$60 a month includes Little Dragons and Kids Judo. Siblings are $105 for two and $140 for three or more. The first class is free.

What Students & Parents Say

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars across 21 Google reviews.

★★★★★
Chris is fantastic. It was a great experience for my kids.
— Jeremy D., via Google
★★★★★
Sensei Chris is wonderful with the little kids. My son attends the Saturday 9 am class. Not only does he have a great time but Judo teaches him self control and improves his listening skills. Highly recommend for toddler age on up.
— Leslie O., via Google
★★★★★
A friendly and welcoming dojo to people of all skill levels with no pressure to compete. Making sure people are safe and comfortable is a top priority. The instructor, Chris Snyder, has decades of experience with both kids and adults. There is no better dojo to bring your kids to and/or take classes yourself.
— Ben M., via Google

Try Little Dragons Free This Monday

Your first class is free. Come try it — no contract, no pressure, no egos on the mat.

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