HIGH FIVE® is Canada's quality standard for recreation and leisure programs. It was founded in 2001 by Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO) as a national standard for children’s recreation programs.

HIGH FIVE not only provides recreation professionals with training, but also gives organizations program assessment tools, policies and procedures, and resources to raise awareness about the component parts of operating successful programs. Since then, the standard has evolved to include training on several of other factors including mental health, competitive sport programs, and healthy aging.

Based on extensive research on the characteristics of quality programs, HIGH FIVE established the five principles that ensure positive experiences in recreation and leisure settings.

1. A Caring Leader
2. The opportunity to make Friends
3. The opportunity to Play
4. The opportunity to Master skills
5. The opportunity to Participate

HIGH FIVE-trained instructors use these principles to create inclusive and inviting spaces for their program participants. 

At the organizational level, HIGH FIVE helps managers and leaders keep participant experience top of mind in their assessments, training, and procedures.

This ensures that at every level, HIGH FIVE organizations are committed to delivering the highest standard of programming.