Unleashing Confidence and Community: Inside Santa Barbara Trapeze Company's Transformative Camps
At the heart of Santa Barbara's bustling community lies a hidden gem: the Santa Barbara Trapeze Company. With a mission to foster resilience, confidence, and teamwork through exhilarating physical activities, the company has rapidly become a beloved institution for kids and parents alike.
Founded in August 2019 by Randy Kohn (CEO) and Shane Weaver (Head Of Guest Experience), this innovative camp offers children a chance to soar—both literally and figuratively. Nearly 20 years ago, Randy and Shane (two former summer camp friends with a passion for creating transformative experiences) envisioned a camp that would disrupt traditional models and foster a community-driven, cause-oriented brand. Their goal was to offer a place where people could train, play, and share their passion for flying, all while receiving exceptional service and building a strong community.
A Glimpse into the Camps
Trapeze Camp: Where Courage Takes Flight
The flagship Trapeze Camp is more than just an introduction to aerial arts. It’s a holistic experience designed to build character and camaraderie. Activities such as flying trapeze, trampoline, aerial arts, acro balance, juggling, and various games are meticulously chosen to challenge children physically while nurturing their emotional and social development.
Parkour Camp: Mastering Movement
For those with a penchant for ground-based thrills, the Parkour Camp emphasizes functional fitness and dynamic movement. Here, kids learn to navigate obstacles with agility and creativity, enhancing their problem-solving skills and physical capabilities.
Both camps provide a well-rounded developmental experience, ensuring that every child leaves with new skills and a bolstered sense of self-belief.
Safety and Training: A Top Priority
Safety is paramount at Santa Barbara Trapeze Company. All staff members undergo rigorous background checks, including Livescan, CPR AED, and First Aid certification, as well as TB testing. They also receive extensive training to ensure they can interact positively and supportively with campers. The camp maintains a camper-to-staff ratio of approximately 7 to 1, integrating techniques to foster personal growth and ensure a positive experience for all.
A Day in the Life at Camp
A typical day at the camp begins with sign-in, warm-ups, and engaging games. Campers are then divided into smaller groups to tackle morning activities like flying trapeze and trampoline. After a mid-morning snack break, the fun continues with more thrilling activities and creative arts and crafts in the afternoon. The schedule is designed to challenge and excite campers while providing ample time for relaxation and enjoyment.
Inclusivity and Community Building
Inclusivity is at the heart of Santa Barbara Trapeze Company’s mission. The camp welcomes children of all abilities, offering personalized support for those with special needs. Dietary restrictions and allergies are carefully documented to ensure every camper's safety.
The camp’s activities promote teamwork, cooperation, and mutual respect, fostering a strong sense of community. Each child is paired with a mentor or buddy to help them feel connected and supported. Staff members are dedicated to building strong, supportive relationships with campers, prioritizing their needs and ensuring a nurturing environment.
Environmental Commitment
Santa Barbara Trapeze Company is proud to be Green Business Certified, with facilities that include recycling bins and water refill stations to reduce plastic waste. The camp encourages children to be mindful of their environmental impact, teaching them to sort their recycling and trash properly.
Enrollment and Financial Assistance
Enrollment is straightforward, with parents able to register their children online or via direct contact. The camp is open to all children aged 6-14, with Trapeze Camp costing $550 per week and Parkour Camp $450 per week. Drop-in days and discounts for siblings and multi-week enrollments are available. Financial assistance through partial and full scholarships ensures that every child has the opportunity to participate.
Keeping Parents Informed
Communication with parents is a priority. Before camp starts, detailed emails provide all necessary information, followed by reminders as the start date approaches. During camp, open lines of communication are maintained through email, text, and phone.
Memorable Moments and Future Plans
Shane recalls one memorable experience… “ with a girl who attended camp with her brother several times. She was initially very nervous about flying on the trapeze but loved all the other activities. We encouraged her to climb higher on the ladder with each attempt, cheering her on and challenging her to reach further milestones. Although she didn’t ultimately take flight on the trapeze, she reached the top of the ladder and gave the instructor a high five. The smile on her face was ear to ear. This achievement was celebrated with applause from our instructors and fellow campers each time. Her willingness to push herself outside her comfort zone each day was evident, and we could see her courage and confidence growing. I believe she will carry the memories of being supported and encouraged at camp for a lifetime.”
Looking ahead, Santa Barbara Trapeze Company plans to expand its programs and introduce a mobile parkour service to bring unique learning experiences to diverse settings. Specialized classes and expanded outreach programs are also on the horizon.
A Personal Touch from the CEO, Shane Weaver
For Shane Weaver, the most rewarding aspect of his work is witnessing the transformative impact on children. Guiding them through challenges and watching their confidence grow as they realize their potential is incredibly fulfilling.
What Sets This Camp Apart
Santa Barbara Trapeze Company stands out for its unique offerings of flying trapeze and parkour, combined with a commitment to creating a supportive and empowering environment. The camp’s focus on inclusivity, safety, and personal growth ensures that every child feels valued and encouraged.
A Dream Celebrity Camp Day
If given the opportunity, Shane Weaver would invite Taylor Swift to spend a day at the camp, sharing her talents and enthusiasm with the campers. Such an event would undoubtedly be a highlight, inspiring children and bringing the community together.
Santa Barbara Trapeze Company offers flexible drop-in days for families, making it easy for those visiting the area to join in the fun. With a strong commitment to safety, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability, this camp provides a unique and transformative experience for every child.
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Santa Barbara Trapeze Co. looks forward to welcoming your child into their vibrant community!
