The High 5 Duncan program in Canada is an initiative designed to support the well-being and positive development of children and youth in community settings, especially through recreational and physical activities. High 5, a quality assurance framework, was created by Parks and Recreation Ontario, focusing on promoting the healthy development of children and ensuring that programs in sports, recreation, and physical activities foster positive experiences and growth.

Overview of High 5 and Its Mission

High 5 was initially developed in Ontario, Canada, with the primary mission of setting a national standard for organizations working with children aged 6 to 12 in recreational, sports, and physical activity programs. The aim is to create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where children can have fun, connect with others, and develop new skills. High 5’s standards are based on extensive research on child development, psychological health, and the importance of quality experiences for growth.

The Five Principles of High 5

The High 5 framework revolves around five key principles that create a foundation for high-quality children’s programming. These principles are:

A Caring Adult

Positive interactions with adults, such as instructors and coaches, are crucial. High 5 emphasizes the importance of well-trained adults who can guide, support, and connect with children in a meaningful way.

The Opportunity to Make Friends

Social interaction and friendship-building are at the heart of High 5 programs. Children thrive when they can make friends in a comfortable and safe environment.

The Opportunity to Play

Play is essential for the physical, emotional, and social development of children. High 5 encourages free play as well as structured play, allowing kids to explore, take risks, and be creative.

The Opportunity to Master Skills

Programs should allow children to develop skills at their own pace, giving them the satisfaction of achieving and mastering activities that boost their confidence.

The Opportunity to Participate

Participation in a supportive environment gives children a sense of belonging and ownership. High 5 promotes inclusive environments where every child can join and feel like a valuable part of the program.

High 5 in Duncan, British Columbia

In Duncan, British Columbia, the High 5 program has gained popularity in local recreational centers, schools, and community organizations. These organizations work to ensure that children in Duncan experience programs adhering to High 5 standards. The program’s implementation in Duncan has led to enhanced recreational opportunities, focusing on quality, inclusivity, and a positive environment for young participants. Local parks and recreation departments, sports clubs, and community centers provide training for staff in High 5 standards to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills to offer quality programming.

Certification and Training for Staff

One of the unique aspects of the High 5 program is the certification and training it offers for staff and volunteers working with children. In Duncan, organizations like recreation centers and youth programs enroll staff in High 5 training courses to better understand child development and program quality. High 5 offers several training levels:

High 5 Principles of Healthy Child Development (PHCD)

This is the foundational training program where participants learn the basics of the five principles and how to incorporate them into everyday programming.

QUEST 2 Certification

This training helps organizations evaluate their programs and identify strengths and areas for improvement.

High 5 Sport

This training course focuses on the specific application of High 5 principles within sports contexts, helping coaches and sports administrators better understand how to support children’s positive experiences.

Benefits for Children in Duncan

Children in Duncan benefit greatly from the High 5 program as they are able to participate in programs designed with their well-being and development in mind. The High 5 standards ensure that every child is treated with respect and given opportunities to explore their interests, develop friendships, and build self-confidence. Recreational centers in Duncan, like the Cowichan Community Centre, actively implement High 5 practices to foster a safe and inclusive environment.

Impact on the Community

Implementing High 5 standards has led to a positive impact on the Duncan community. Parents have greater peace of mind knowing that programs follow a structured and research-backed approach focused on their children’s well-being. Additionally, the local organizations benefit from well-trained staff who can build strong relationships with the children and families they serve, enhancing community trust and engagement. By emphasizing the importance of quality programming, High 5 also contributes to long-term community health, as children who experience positive early interactions in recreation and sports are more likely to remain active and engaged throughout their lives.

Future of High 5 in Duncan

High 5’s presence in Duncan and across Canada continues to grow as more organizations adopt the framework and invest in training. With its increasing popularity, High 5 is likely to expand its reach, involving more organizations and covering broader age groups. The continued focus on inclusive, child-centered programming supports the development of healthy, well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to the community.