Why I Started Little Dojo Buddies

Little Dojo Buddies started with a sticker.

After one of my son’s jiu jitsu classes, his coaches were handing stickers to the kids as a reward for their focus and effort. A meaningful gesture that I know goes a long way, especially someone like my son who loves stickers. That’s when the idea hit me:

What if there were stickers that actually reflected what these kids were doing?

Stickers that celebrated their journey in martial arts. Stickers that were fun, encouraging, and made just for them, like little animal characters in gi’s with phrases like “Congrats on your first class!” or “Great job today!” That moment sparked Little Dojo Buddies, a brand built for kids who are just starting (or deep into) their martial arts journey. So I went home and began researching how to print my own stickers and the idea continued to grow from there.

But I knew it had to be more than just merch. I also wanted it to be about creating something that supports the mental, emotional, and behavioral growth that martial arts gives children, in a way that feels playful and positive.

Parents Are Part of the Journey

This journey isn’t just about the kids. It’s also about us—the parents.

From tying their belt before class to cheering them on during a tough drill, we play a powerful role in how our kids experience martial arts. Our encouragement, consistency, and presence can help turn nervousness into confidence, frustration into grit, and effort into pride. Little Dojo Buddies is here to support that connection. These stickers and characters aren’t just cute collectibles—they’re tools to help spark conversations, celebrate milestones, and stay engaged in our kids' growth on and off the mats.

Teamwork Between Parents and Coaches

When parents and coaches work together, the impact is even stronger. Coaches provide structure, discipline, and mentorship. Parents bring trust, support, and the daily reminders that keep kids grounded. When we communicate and stay aligned, we help create a consistent and encouraging environment—one where kids thrive.

At the heart of it all is community. Little Dojo Buddies was born from the energy inside the dojo, the high-fives after class, the shared smiles between parents, and the coaches who care. We’re here to build on that—to celebrate progress, spark motivation, and remind every kid (and parent) that this journey is worth it.