Adventure Programming and Training - CampHacker #121
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Adventure programming is about way more than a $1M ropes course!
Adventure programming, challenge courses, low ropes, rock walls, team-building, staff construction, initiatives, WHATEVER you want to call it, this episode is about that.
This type of camp program has really been changing and growing over the years. From the early days where people built and tested their own ropes courses to today where zip-lines are tested by the same people who certify elevators, we’ve certainly seen it grow.
One thing that has remained true is the goal of adventure programming. Campers take part in adventure programming at your camp to become changed through exposure to challenge and risk. Whether that be the risk that comes with being 30 feet in the air or that risk of telling their friend that they need better communication from them, the benefits to this type of programming are truly endless.
However, before you get your harness on and take a drill to an unsuspecting maple tree to start an adventure program at your camp, there are a lot of things to consider. Who will make sure your ropes course is up to regulatory standards? Do your staff know how to properly run adventure programming? Have you properly budgeted for this course? What the heck is an Ubuntu card!?
Yeah. Put that drill away and get, Air Pods out and listen in to this episode. Gabz, Travis and Joe are joined by Phil Brown from High 5 Adventure. Phil lends his expertise to the group as they share their practical tips and philosophies when it comes to planning, implementation evaluating and proper training for adventure programming.
What is the coolest adventure program you have at your camp? Let us know in the comments!
Tool of the Week – Make Yourself a Better Camp Director
Travis: Loom
Joe: Wall Control Magnetic PegBoard:
Gabz: ToDoist
Phil: Ubuntu cards
Your Hosts:
Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - CampHacker.TV, Founder at Go Camp Pro
Joe Richards, Executive Director - Pearce Williams Summer Camp & Retreat Facility
Gabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp Ouareau
Phil Brown, Trainer, High 5 Adventure
Also, check out High 5 Adventure’s Podcast
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Bonus Content! - The Canadian Camping Magazine Searchable Archive
Thanks for letting your awesome out, Joe!