Camp Kokoro

The fun, spirit, and respect that characterize Camp Kokoro (meaning heart/mind) entice campers to return year after year and attract new families looking for quality summer activities. Since 2004, Thousand Waves’ month-long summer day camp has provided intensive karate training for all levels of students, along with outdoor activities and community building.

Camp Kokoro welcomes past and current Thousand Waves students and children trying karate for the first time! Our code of ethics—love, respect, non-quitting spirit, courage, and responsibility—permeates the day’s activities, providing a safe and secure place for every camper. Our community prioritizes kindness and inclusion, fostering respectful friendships that extend beyond the training floor.

Young teens aged 12 through 8th grade are counselors in training (CITs). They receive leadership training in addition to enjoying all the other activities. First aid, conflict resolution, respectful communication, and problem-solving/mediation are among the skills they learn at Camp Kokoro. CITs also help carry equipment, apply sunscreen, search for lost lunches, and perform countless tasks needed to make Camp Kokoro successful. Adored by the younger campers and appreciated by staff for their hard work, they wear their CIT t-shirts with pride and enthusiasm.

A hallmark of Camp Kokoro is quality martial arts instruction and a rigorous training schedule that facilitates remarkable growth in students of all levels. Each day starts with a traditional Seido Karate class. Students then broaden their relationship to the art with enrichment classes in different martial art styles, traditional weapons such as nunchaku, and conditioning. Campers are encouraged to demonstrate their strong spirit in each session by breaking boards and participating in tournaments. Campers finish each session with new knowledge and pride in their accomplishments.

We have a scholarship fund for families that need financial aid to participate. For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Thousand Waves’ Director of Children’s Programs, Sensei Lucia Frisancho, at lfrisancho@thousandwaves.org.