Long Beach Junior Lifeguards

I love the Long Beach Junior Lifeguard program. I did it as a kid, and it's the only extracurricular I REALLY want my kids to do when they're old enough. It's what I imagine forest school to be, but translated to a suburban beach environment (and with more physical endurance). Run-swim-runs! Pier Jumps! Moderately risky supervised activities that build resilience!

It culminates in an event called the Ironguard, a chance for the JGs to push their physical limits and determination - such a rare opportunity for kids.

I merely gained confidence in my ability to do hard things and solidified a lifelong love for the ocean, but my sister went on to become a lifeguard->firefighter->paramedic. We both got what we needed from the program!