Kids Club Afterschool ProgramAt — City of Seaside - Recreation Department

The Recreation Department provides comprehensive training to ensure student success in their service learning experience. All students begin with an in-person orientation, lasting approximately one to two hours, which introduces them to the mission of the department, community expectations, facility use, and overall program goals. Following this, students participate in program-specific training, typically two to four hours in length, where they receive hands-on instruction in activity facilitation, equipment use, age-appropriate engagement, safety procedures, and effective communication strategies.

To promote a safe environment, students also complete safety and risk management training, which covers CPR and first aid awareness, emergency protocols, child protection guidelines, and facility walk-throughs, usually within a one- to two-hour session. To support continued growth, students meet weekly with their Recreation staff supervisor for 15 to 30 minutes to review progress, reflect on service learning objectives, and receive mentorship. In total, students receive between four and eight hours of initial training before beginning their service, supplemented by ongoing guidance throughout the duration of their placement.

Opportunity Supervision

To support day-to-day learning and accountability, each student will be assigned a site supervisor or mentor within the department. This supervisor will serve as the primary point of contact, offering direction on tasks, coaching on best practices, and acting as a resource for problem-solving. Supervisors will hold regular check-ins—weekly or biweekly depending on program needs—to review student progress, provide feedback, and address any challenges.

Shadowing opportunities will also be incorporated, giving students the chance to observe recreation professionals leading youth programs, coordinating athletic leagues, or managing facilities, so they can connect classroom theory with practical application. Additionally, the Recreation Department will provide structured skill development opportunities. Service learning students will be encouraged to attend in-house trainings on topics such as child and youth development, program safety, inclusive recreation practices, and leadership skills.