Barrie gets a HIGH FIVE for its kids’ rec programs

The City of Barrie has achieved Canada’s highest recognized quality standard for children’s recreation programs.

Developed by Parks and Recreation Ontario, the HIGH FIVE Accreditation acknowledges the Recreation Department’s focus on healthy child development in all aspects of operations, from programming to policies and risk management. All City staff involved in delivering children’s recreation programs complete the HIGH FIVE Principles of Healthy Child Development Training.

“This is an incredible achievement and I’m so proud of our recreation team. HIGH FIVE is about putting kids first and offering the highest levels of quality and safety in our programs. At the City of Barrie, all kids’ recreation programs are delivered by trained, caring leaders who place an emphasis on helping participants make new friends, feel stimulated through play, build confidence through learning new skills, and feel like part of the team through active participation.”

– Steve Lee Young, Manager of Recreation Programs

The City’s Spring/Summer Recreation Guide includes hundreds of affordable programs for all ages and abilities from summer camps and swimming lessons to dance and fitness classes. Registration opens Tuesday, February 26.

Copies of the guide are also available for pick-up at City recreation facilities, Barrie Public Libraries and City Hall, or view it online via www.barrie.ca/RecGuide.

About HIGH FIVE:
HIGH FIVE is Canada’s comprehensive quality standard for children’s programs and holds true to the following five Principles of healthy child development that our research indicates are essential for providing a positive experience for kids: A Caring Adult, Friends, Play, Mastery and Participation. HIGH FIVE consists of Training and Development, Program Assessments, Policies/Procedures, and Awareness. www.HIGHFIVE.org