Long Beach Junior Lifeguards

From their web site: The Junior Lifeguard Program offers students 9 to 17 years of age the opportunity to receive instruction in Lifeguard rescue technique, emergency medical first-​aid, ocean sports activity, physical conditioning, marine ecology, and public service. Field trips and competitions at other area beaches will highlight the six (6) week course. All aspects of beach activity will be explored from beach running to skin diving. The program is presented in a manner that will enable each student to participate to the best of his or her abilities while acquiring new skills and abilities.
My experience: My children have been involved for 3 years and it amazes me that they are eager, happy and enthusiastic about something that is so challenging and difficult. Says a lot about the instructors, I think. The other compelling factor is the social aspect. Many of the kids know each other from school and come September when they ask each other, «what did you do this summer?» Answering with how you did in Jr. Guards carries a lot of weight.
From a parent perspective, i love how much they learn about the environment, and water safety. I also love how strong they become — it’s terrific cross training for their fall sport. LOTS and LOTS of sunscreen is essential. The morning session is less sun intensive but cooler; the afternoon session can get quite windy.