The Toma 5 methodology at Waves Lobitos
At Waves Lobitos, we work with the Toma 5 methodology, an approach created by Waves for Change that integrates sport, emotional well-being, and socio-emotional learning.
For us, Toma 5 is a simple and flexible framework that helps bring meaning, structure, and consistency to each session, without limiting creativity or adaptation to each context, discipline, or group.
Toma 5 guides the way we support children and young people in their personal and collective development.
A methodology built on two dimensions
The Toma 5 methodology is structured around two core elements:
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Five pillars, which guide each session
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Three phases, which support each participant’s process over time
These two dimensions complement one another and allow the methodology to be adapted to different activities and realities.
The five pillars of each session
The pillars are the shared foundation of all activities, whether surfing, skateboarding, jiu-jitsu, or art:
Safe Space
A physical and emotional environment where each person feels safe, respected, and heard.
Caring Adult
The role of a mentor who supports others through empathy and example.
Fun Activity
Playful and accessible activities that motivate participants, engage the body, and encourage learning through movement.
Learning Moment
A brief moment of group reflection to connect the lived experience with life skills.
Connection with new opportunities
What is learned does not stay within the session: it is connected to school, family, community, and everyday life.
The three phases of the process
Connection
Building relationships of trust, belonging, and friendship within the group.
Teamwork and emotional regulation
Developing cooperation, self-regulation, empathy, and strategies to cope with stress and challenges.
Projection
Integrating learnings and envisioning personal or collective goals that give meaning to the future.
Beyond structuring each session, Toma 5 supports participants’ emotional and social journey through three progressive stages:
The practice of Toma 5 at Waves Lobitos
At Waves Lobitos, we adapt the Toma 5 methodology to each discipline and each group:
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In surfing, trust, emotional regulation, and the relationship with nature are developed.
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In skateboarding, perseverance, cooperation, and acceptance of falling are part of the learning process.
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In jiu-jitsu, self-control, respect, and body awareness are strengthened.
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In art and conservation, creativity becomes an emotional and community-based language, connected to the territory.
More than a methodology, Toma 5 is the way we build community. It is a way of accompanying others with care, play, and reflection, creating real opportunities for the personal and collective growth of each child and young person.