Character Development
Character Development programs are designed to strengthen the classroom community through activities that foster teamwork, trust, communication, and a sense of closeness between students. This may be achieved through team-building initiatives, low ropes challenges, and our extensive high ropes challenge course. Character development is incorporated into most of our multi-day programs and can also be booked as a one day program.
Please contact our School Programs Logistics Coordinator at logistics@westminsterwoods.org with any questions!
Daytime Programming
Team Challenges
Teacher Naturalists provide an opportunity for students to develop teamwork, cooperation, trust, and perseverance while also having fun. Students will collaborate to solve problems and overcome obstacles to strengthen classroom community. Prerequisite for High Ropes Challenges.
High Ropes Challenges
On our extensive redwood course, students have the opportunity to challenge themselves and grow beyond their comfort zone. Secured in harnesses, students may balance on cables, climb trees, or swing through our forest canopy while being supported by their team. Our professional Teacher Naturalists/Challenge Course Facilitators will choose which of the high ropes elements their group will participate in based on their evaluation of the group's needs and capabilities. This program is an additional fee and subject to availability.
Team Building Hike
This program fosters an intentional character development experience during a full day of exploration in our redwood forest. Teacher Naturalists use carefully chosen games, challenge course initiatives, solo activities, and journaling to facilitate group bonding, games, teamwork, and meaningful reflection. Typically a full day program with lunch on the trail
“The strongest element of the program was the Challenge Course and the way kids were invited to support one another, work together, and push their edges.”
Evening Programming
Night Adventure
The Night Adventure hike provides an opportunity for students to challenge themselves and support each other. Students will explore the forest in an exciting evening adventure. A Night Adventure may include a solo walk or other activities that allow students to face their fears and find their courage.
Mix & Mingle
Mix and Mingle is an introductory program that consists of a series of meaningful, lighthearted activities and conversations designed to strengthen the classroom community. Carefully facilitated activities, masquerading as playful games, cultivate camaraderie and allow students to practice healthy communication skills.
New Eyes
New Eyes facilitates a powerful dialogue in a class with considerable shared history. This program alleviates social tension and promotes a healthy community by giving participants the opportunity to communicate meaningful things in a controlled environment. This program begins early at 7:00 and is best suited for groups of 35 or less on the final evening.
