Stepping Into July: Reflections From Our Holiday Camp at Forest Adventure

As we wrap up the June holidays and step into a fresh new month, I’ve been reflecting on one of the most meaningful moments from our holiday camp - our high‑elements outing at Forest Adventure. Even though the children were on the junior course, the elements were still high, shaky, and very real. For some, it was pure excitement. For others, it was fear. And for all of us, it became a powerful lesson in courage, support, and growth.

Proud Moments - For Them, and For Myself

One of my biggest reflections was how proud I felt - not just of the children, but of myself too. Throughout the two‑hour session, I found myself encouraging every child with patience, warmth, and genuine belief. Some were trembling, some froze mid‑air, and some needed time before taking the next step. But every single one of them finished the course.

And the best part? A few who were initially terrified ended up asking, “Can I go again?”

In that moment, I realised something important: I needed to affirm myself too: To recognise the effort, presence, and emotional holding I gave the children, instead of waiting for anyone to thank me. Supporting them through fear took heart, and I’m proud of the way I showed up.

Stepping Out of Comfort Zones

For some children, the fear started even before the day itself. A few were already worried the night before, so I assured them that I’d be “walking with them from the ground.” And I meant it.

During the course, two children froze mid‑air, unable to take the next step. Instead of rushing them, we paused and practiced my CALM Reset right there - suspended above the ground, harnesses tight, hands trembling. Shoulder havening, hand havening, counting, breathing. And something beautiful happened: The children behind them started encouraging them, and even practiced the CALM Reset together.

It wasn’t just bravery, it was community.

The Ones Who Were In Their Element

Then there were the children who simply thrived. They zipped through the course with joy, confidence, and pure delight. Watching them enjoy themselves so fully was a reminder that courage doesn’t always look like overcoming fear, sometimes it looks like embracing joy without hesitation.

The Quiet Encouragers

One of my favourite parts of the day was seeing how the children supported one another. No one teased. No one judged. No one looked down on anyone who was scared.

Instead, they called out from afar: “You can do it!” “I’m here!” “Just one more step!”. It was gentle, sincere encouragement, the kind that makes a child feel safe enough to try again.

My Closing Reflection

Forest Adventure wasn’t just an outing, nor a session just for fun. It was a space where children learned courage, empathy, and resilience, and where I was reminded of the quiet power of being present, patient, and supportive.

As we step into July, I’m carrying these moments with me - the shaky platforms, the brave breaths, the cheers from behind, and the smiles at the end. They’re reminders that growth happens in many forms, and often, in the most unexpected places.

Looking forward to how July unfolds,

Kei