THE CADET PROGRAM EXPLAINED
Make Friends
Improve Skills
Have Fun
Work With Others
Create Memories
WELCOME TO
CADET!
THE REC ACADEMY,
How it works & Why it's important
All Recreation Academy participants are considered 'Cadets.' As a Cadet, you are held to higher standards of behavior, sportsmanship, and a strong commitment to personal growth. In essence, we've found that fostering this type of environment leads to a more enriching experience for everyone involved.
Our philosophy is put into practice through straightforward methods, which have proven themselves time and time again. We establish clear expectations right from the start, treat everyone with respect, seamlessly integrate participant feedback into our activities, and encourage all Cadets to learn and grow from their experiences, both positive and challenging. Our focus is on how we collaborate rather than just individual accomplishments.
To elevate this commitment, we are dedicated to fostering 'Upward Spirals' in our Cadets. By participating in our sessions, participants are able to cultivate confidence, self-esteem, and a host of other positive attributes that create a ripple effect. These personal developments not only enhance the overall experience, but also can serve as a contributing factor to better grades in school, improved problem-solving skills, and a foundation for lifelong success.
To clarify, we won't remove a Cadet from a program for messing up or having some fun. We understand that making mistakes is a natural part of being a kid and growing up. Our staff always encourages Cadets to embrace their uniqueness and their playful side while prioritizing safety. This also means knowing when to be serious and follow instructions. If safety concerns ever arise that could affect the well-being of the group, we may need to take appropriate action for the benefit of all participants.
The Cadet Program serves as a means to incorporate team building, leadership development, and the improvement of soft skills into the very essence of everything we do. Using a blend of engaging activities and thoughtful reflection to explore various aspects of communication, problem-solving, and so much more!
🎯Trained to Lead, Ready to Adapt
Before starting a session, our instructors go through intentional training built around The Rec Academy Method—a proven framework for making play purposeful.
They learn how to:
-
Create structure and momentum with clear expectations
-
Use games and group challenges to teach soft skills
-
Recognize and redirect behavior in the moment with teachable moments
-
Reflect and reinforce growth through guided debriefs
This isn’t theory—it’s action. From day one, our staff are coached to read the room, adapt on the fly, and turn everyday interactions into powerful developmental moments.
🧠 Experiential Learning in Motion
Our sessions are active by design. Games aren’t just for burning energy—they’re tools for teaching collaboration, emotional regulation, and leadership. Staff are trained to facilitate group dynamics, not control them—creating space for kids to problem-solve, speak up, and support one another. Through short, high-energy activities followed by reflective questions like “What worked?” or “What would you do differently?”, our instructors guide cadets toward self-awareness and personal responsibility—without ever sounding like a lecture.
🛠️ Prepared, Supported, and Empowered
Every Rec Academy instructor is backed by a team. From daily Plans of Action to post-session reflections, our instructors are never left to figure it out alone. Area Managers provide coaching, real-time feedback, and the support needed to bring out the best in every staff member—and every kid. When you drop your child off at A Rec Academy program, you’re not just getting safe supervision. You’re getting a dynamic, trained facilitator whose mission is to help your child grow through movement, connection, and play.