Register Now for Spring Lessons
Spring is the perfect time to give your child a gift that lasts a lifetime. At Steve DeMasco’s Shaolin Studios (SDSS) of Needham, we’re now enrolling kids for our Spring Session 2026, running March 23 through May 30. Whether your child is stepping onto the mat for the first time or continuing their martial arts journey, this session is built to help them grow — in skill, in confidence, and in character.


Why SDSS Needham Is the Best Karate in Needham
Needham families have trusted SDSS because we go far beyond kicks and punches. Located right on Great Plain Ave, our school is staffed by full-time, professional instructors — not volunteers, not part-timers. Every member of our team is background-checked and trained to work with children of all ages, energy levels, and learning styles.
Our curriculum is rooted in the same proven system that Grandmaster Steve DeMasco has used to train elite groups like the FBI SWAT teams — adapted, of course, for young learners in a safe, fun, and encouraging environment. From our littlest Tiny Tigers to our advanced Dragons, every class is designed to challenge kids at their level while keeping them engaged and excited to come back.
What sets SDSS apart isn’t just what happens on the mat. It’s what Needham parents notice at home: kids who listen better, manage frustration more calmly, stand a little taller, and treat others with more respect. That’s the SDSS difference.
What's Included in the Spring Session
$399 covers the full session (March 23 – May 30), including:
- 1 weekly 45-minute lesson (see schedule for class times)
- SDSS uniform & belt for new students
- SDSS t-shirt for returning students
This is one of the most comprehensive and affordable karate-for-kids programs in Needham — and spots fill quickly every session.


Who Is This Program For?
Our Spring Session is open to kids of all experience levels. Our structured class tiers — Tiny Tigers, Tigers, Dragons, Teens, and Adults — ensure your student is always training with peers. No experience necessary. No intimidating tryouts. Just a welcoming community where everyone belongs.
FAQ
Spring Session
My child has never done karate before. Is this session right for them?
Absolutely. Many of our most successful students started with zero martial arts experience. Our instructors specialize in working with beginners and will make sure your child feels welcome, capable, and excited from day one. New students also receive their SDSS uniform and belt as part of the Spring Session tuition.
How do I know which class level is right for my child?
When you reach out to register, Sensei Lukas will help you identify the best fit based on your child’s age and experience. You can also take advantage of our free introductory lesson to see where your child thrives before committing to a full session.
What if we miss a class during the session?
Life happens! Reach out to us directly and we’ll do our best to accommodate make-up opportunities. Communication is key — our team is always happy to work with Needham families to make the experience as smooth as possible.
Is SDSS Needham a safe environment?
Safety is our top priority. Every staff member has been thoroughly vetted and background-checked before working with children, and our facility is clean, well-maintained, and designed with young athletes in mind. Parents are always welcome to observe classes.