Our Program
Research and developmental psychology indicate that children between the ages of 11-13 have very specific needs - primarily safety, security, and predictability. They think in concrete terms and need tangible experiences from which to build. The goal of the SUWS Youth Program is to create reference points that each child may tap into later for positive self-reinforcement. The staff and daily curriculum give students the tools they will need to chart a course for future growth and success.
Preliminary Assessment
Upon arrival, students are immediately placed in an established group of no more than eight students. Children are assessed on how they interact with staff, peers, and tasks, as well as on the types coping behaviors they exhibit. Relationships are developed and students are introduced to the concepts of cooperation and respect for self, others, and property. Once students have established a sense of personal responsibility, they begin to learn outdoor skills and activities to help build success and emphasize adventure. By creating small, tangible, sensory-based goals that facilitate success, students build personal investment and begin to feel better about themselves and their abilities.
Goal-Based System
By progressing through our goal-based system, SUWS Youth students are continually presented with opportunities to learn and practice skills that increase their understanding of personal responsibility and improve their self-esteem. As the program progresses, students ascend through a network of levels designed to challenge, test, and encourage emotional and physical growth.
Llama Training
Each group is supplied with several llamas used to transport food and gear. In addition, llamas are used as a therapeutic resource. By successfully accomplishing a variety of skills and tasks, a child earns the right to help care for the animals. We have found that this system reinforces an understanding of responsibility and giving within each participating student.
Primitive Skills
Learning these basic abilities provides opportunities for building confidence, developing problem-solving skills, and achieving tangible, hands-on success. Students create positive reference points that will serve them the rest of their lives.
Unconditional Acceptance
Focus is placed on the inherent goodness and potential of each student through non-confrontational, respectful interactions.
Ropes Course
As they progress through the program, students participate in a ropes course exercise that is designed to test their level of commitment and encourage cooperation, communication, and trust. The ropes course provides students with the opportunity to face their fears and to experiment with their newfound levels of self-esteem and self-reliance.
Length of Stay
Students remain in the program for a minimum of 28 days and a maximum of nine weeks. By providing our students with numerous opportunities and adequate time for individual success, SUWS Youth gives them hope and helps them begin to build the foundation of self that they have somehow missed along the way.