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HIGH FIVE® - National Standard for Sport and Recreation 

Camp counselor using chalk with campers
PSP Community Recreation has adopted HIGH FIVE as the national framework for recreation policy, recreation procedures, risk management, program evaluation and staff development. 

Since its inception in 1996, PSP Community Recreation programs have evolved to meet the needs of the CAF Community.  With this growth we have seen major changes in the delivery of leisure services including an increase in children’s programming and a focus on dual model of program delivery (PSP administered and Club administered).

HIGH FIVE® is a national standard for sport and recreation, founded by Parks and Recreation Ontario. It is designed to support the safety, well-being and healthy development of participants in recreation and sports programs.

HIGH FIVE® achieves this by providing sport and recreation professionals with tools, training and resources that promote and support the principles of healthy development.  Initially launched in November 2001, this quality assurance framework seeks to ensure all participants experience healthy development from their participation in recreation and sport programs.


Commitment to Quality

  • Our programs promote positive experiences by caring leaders  
  • Our programs foster friendships  
  • Our programs present opportunities for play  
  • Our programs teach skill development and mastery  
  • Our programs encourage participation  
  • Our programs welcome diversity and uniqueness    
  • Our programs protect participants in a safe and secure environment   
  • Our programs matter to the CAF community

FAQ

  • Is HIGH FIVE® a program in which I can enrol my child?
    No. HIGH FIVE® is a quality standard that organizations follow. The standard provides tools, training and resources to help organizations improve and measure the quality of their programs for children, 6 to 12. To locate a Registered Organization in your area that is involved in HIGH FIVE®, please visit your Authorized Provider.
  • What does the HIGH FIVE® logo mean?
    The HIGH FIVE® logo symbolizes an organization’s “Commitment to Children”. You will find this logo on materials that HIGH FIVE® produces, as well as in recreation guides and other communications material produced by registered HIGH FIVE® organizations.  
       
    The five stars on the logo represent the five principles of healthy child development – a caring adult, friends, play, mastery and participation. When all of these elements of quality are present, the recreation or sport program will contribute to healthy child development and your child will likely have a positive experience.
  • How can I suggest to my local recreation department or organization that they get involved with HIGH FIVE®?
    If your local/community organization is not involved, contact the person responsible for children’s programs or the Director of Recreation and suggest that they become involved. You may also contact your Authorized Provider and advise that an information package be sent. You can also speak to a local city counselor or board member about the importance of your local/community organization becoming involved in HIGH FIVE®.
  • Is HIGH FIVE® mandatory for organizations providing recreation and sports programs?
    No. HIGH FIVE® is a voluntary program for organizations that are interested in ensuring their programs support healthy child development. Although not required, it is the only comprehensive quality standard of its type that is recognized nationally.