What is HIGH FIVE?

We believe that every child deserves quality experiences that support healthy child development. Created in 2001, HIGH FIVE is Canada’s only comprehensive quality standard for children’s programs. HIGH FIVE's proprietary approach is built on a quality framework, consisting of program assessments, awareness, policies and procedures, and training and development.

HIGH FIVE 5 Principles Image  Training for front-line workers is based on research that identifies five principles of healthy development:

HIGH FIVE star A Caring Leader
HIGH FIVE star Play
HIGH FIVE star Friends
HIGH FIVE star  Mastery
HIGH FIVE Star Participation


Since its formation, over 1 million children have had quality experiences in programs using HIGH FIVE and over 500 organizations and municipalities in Ontario alone are affiliated with the program.  

In 2018, Parks and Recreation Ontario launched HIGH FIVE for Older Adults: Principles of Healthy Aging as a framework for older adult recreation based on the current HIGH FIVE national industry standard for children. 

 

Training and Accreditation

Individuals

HIGH FIVE® training provides participants with an understanding of how to design and facilitate programs that address the unique needs of children and older adults. For this reason, many municipalities, non-profit organizations, and service providers either require or recommend HIGH FIVE certification for employment. After successful completion of training, participants receive nationally recognized certification that will assist them in working with programs for children and older adults in the sport and recreation industry.

Organizations

Any organization that delivers programs for children aged 4 to 12 can register with the HIGH FIVE standard. A registered HIGH FIVE organization is committed to ensuring that every child has a positive recreation experience by providing staff with HIGH FIVE training, conducting performance evaluations, and implementing HIGH FIVE policies and procedures around service delivery. 

Trainers

Becoming a HIGH FIVE® Trainer is a three day course designed for people who believe in ensuring that children have the best way to play! HIGH FIVE trainers are responsible for training staff in their organization or are interested in training staff at multiple agencies.


Find a HIGH FIVE Organization