Hiking for All Abilities
Cahoots is making tracks in local Perth schools with our new all abilities hiking project, Cahoots Trailblazers.
The all abilities hiking project, funded by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries – Hiking Participation Grant, is a school-based introduction to hiking for students in Education Support Schools to engage safely and responsibly with the outdoors.
Every child deserves the chance to explore, learn, and grow in the great outdoors, and for children living with neurological or developmental disorders, outdoor activities like hiking offer not just adventure, but a host of physical, mental, and emotional benefits, allowing them to trailblaze challenges.
From strengthening muscles to boosting confidence, hitting the trails can be truly transformative for young adventurers which is why Cahoots is offering its Cahoots Trailblazers program to schools in WA.
Each hike will be guided by an enthusiastic and qualified Leader, and involve up to 12 students at locations within the Perth metropolitan and hills area.
Hiking isn’t just a walk in the park – it’s an excellent form of physical therapy. Every step along a trail presents an opportunity to strengthen muscles, improve balance, and enhance coordination.
Whether navigating bush trails or conquering inclines, each movement engages different muscle groups, contributing to overall physical development.
Our hikes will be on tracks classed as 1 and 2 based on the Australian Walking Track Classification System, so they will, of course, be suitable for all abilities and age groups.
Not only are our Trailblazer hikes in line with Cahoots risk policy and risk management plans, the Australian Adventure Activity Standards and Good Practice guidelines are incorporated into project planning and program delivery, so you can trust that your loved one can have a fun and safe time on our hikes.
Hiking offers a form of nature therapy, providing an excellent opportunity for us to reconnect with the world and to simply be present. In our busy lives, it allows us to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us
Not only is hiking physically beneficial, for children with neurological or developmental disorders, hiking provides a gentle yet stimulating environment where they can engage their senses in a natural, unstructured way.
From feeling the crunch of leaves beneath their shoes to listening to the symphony of bird calls, every sensory experience helps to foster cognitive development and sensory integration.
Hiking offers countless opportunities to push boundaries, overcome obstacles, and achieve goals – all of which are essential for building confidence and self-esteem.
With each trail conquered, these young adventurers learn that their disabilities needn’t limit their potential, empowering them to embrace new challenges with courage and determination.
The trail isn’t just a path through nature – it’s a gateway to new friendships and shared experiences.
This is our main goal at Cahoots, and Cahoots Trailblazers offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Whether it’s swapping stories around a campfire or lending a helping hand on the trail, these shared adventures foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie that transcends differences and celebrates diversity.
With the support of industry bodies Outdoors WA and HikeWest, our goal is to introduce at least 150 children and young people aged 9 to 18 years living with a neurological or developmental disorder to regular active outdoor recreation through hiking.
Education Support Schools around Western Australia are invited to join Cahoots to deliver its exciting hiking adventures to students during Terms 3 and 4 in 2024, as well as Terms 1 and 2 in 2025.
Whether you’re a teacher, support worker, student or parent, if you’re interested in getting involved with Cahoots Trailblazers, contact your local school and let them know about our program.
Let’s take steps!
Click the button to express your interest and our team will reach out to you!
Or to find out more, you can speak to one of our friendly staff on 1300 103 880 or email info@cahoots.org.au.
Photo by cottonbro studio via Pexels
