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More Than a Camper: Building Real-World Skills with Montreal Youth Programs

What happens when your child gets "too old" for summer camp? For many 13- or 14-year-olds, the idea of traditional camp activities has lost its shine. They're ready for more—more responsibility, more challenges, and more real-world experience.

This is a critical age for development. The right Montreal youth program can be a launchpad, helping pre-teens and teens build the confidence and skills they'll need for high school, university, and their first job.

That’s precisely why we created our Leadership Program (Ages 12-14) and our Counsellor-in-Training (C.I.T.) Program (Age 15). These aren't just "camp" programs; they're hands-on leadership-in-training academies.

The Leadership Program (Ages 12-14)

Our Leadership Program is the perfect bridge for campers who are ready for the next step. This program shifts the focus from being a camper to becoming a leader.

Participants work closely with senior counsellors and directors, learning the "why" behind camp operations. They participate in workshops on:

· Public Speaking & Communication: Gaining the confidence to lead a group.

· Problem-Solving: Working as a team to plan and execute camp-wide activities.

· Childcare Fundamentals: Learning the basics of responsibility and safety.

They get to shadow counsellors, assist with STAs (Specific Training Activities), and serve as role models for younger campers, all within a supportive and structured environment.

The C.I.T. Program (Age 15)

The C.I.T. Program is the capstone of the Laurus experience. This is a true, hands-on training program for aspiring camp counsellors. C.I.T.s are fully immersed in the day-to-day life of a counsellor, learning key responsibilities that translate directly to any future job.

The program includes:

· Direct Childcare Experience: C.I.T.s are paired with a counsellor mentor and get hands-on experience leading a group of campers.

· Activity Planning: They learn how to design, plan, and lead safe, engaging, and age-appropriate activities.

· Safety & Responsibility: C.I.T.s are trained in our safety protocols and learn what it truly means to be responsible for the well-being of others.

The Laurus Advantage: Real Skills, Real Fun

Unlike other Montreal youth programs, our Leadership and C.I.T. tracks are not just about work. They're still part of the vibrant, fun Laurus community. They build deep bonds with their fellow C.I.T.s, participate in their own exclusive events, and get to experience the magic of camp from a new and empowering perspective.

When your teen completes a Laurus leadership program, they don't just leave with a certificate. They leave with proven experience, authentic confidence, and a set of practical skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Is your teen ready to become a leader?

Inspiring growth, learning, and fun for children ages 3-15 through exceptional camps, tutoring, and educational programs.

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