Photo: Courtesy CA State Parks
Junior Lifeguards start their days with stretches and warm-ups before beginning fun activities and “lifeguarding” lectures. Past activities have included boogie boarding, buoy swims, bodysurfing, and shoreline games. In addition, every summer the Junior Lifeguards go on field trips to nearby beaches like Montara State Beach and attend a Junior Lifeguard competition in Santa Cruz. These trips are great opportunities to practice the skills program participants have been learning as well as experience different local ocean environments.
Photo: Courtesy CA State Parks
Unfortunately, finance is often a concern for parents of prospective Junior Lifeguards. This summer, the California State Parks Association is funding scholarships for youth who would not otherwise have been able to participate. The program aims to be as inclusive as possible, as its primary goal is to educate the next generation of lifeguards. All youth deserve the opportunity to learn such important life skills regardless of their backgrounds.
This summer is shaping up to be a fun one. CSPA is also funding a new lifeguard truck! It will be used to transport medical supplies, boogie boards, wind shades, and lifeguards to the aforementioned field trip destinations and competitions. The Junior guard truck will also be used for lifeguards to respond to water rescues which will benefit everyone who visits our state parks.
Photo: Courtesy CA State Parks
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this vibrant, physically demanding educational experience!
Online registration through Reserve California opens on April 7th, 2023 at 7:00 am! Make sure to follow the instructions on the registration page and be ready as the sign ups are on a first come first serve basis.
About the author: Madeline Lee is a student at Woodside High School. She enjoys reading novels and playing in her school marching band.