Giving The Gift Of Training
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If you're still looking for a few last minute gift ideas this holiday season you may want to check out what the world of training has to offer. From the thrill-seeking to the practical, for the young or old, a number to organizations have gift certificates available to please that special someone on your shopping list.
For the adventurous spirits on your list, how about letting them learn to guide an Alaskan dog sled team through Canada’s Algonquin Park, or paddle a kayak alongside Orca whales in British Columbia. Wilderness Adventures in Toronto, Ontario has a wide variety of overnight or longer, adventure experiences that range from $175 to $1,350 Cdn. The company’s open gift certificate policy allows shoppers to pay for an entire adventure or contribute just a portion of the cost.
If you want to get the kids away from the television and video games for a while consider what Tanglewood 4-H Camp and Learning Center has to offer. In conjunction with the University of Maine, the 4-H group has gift certificates available for its 2008 Outdoor Education programs. These include family camps and a variety of youth day and residential, discovery, and leadership camps for ages 5-18 years old. During the camps children have the opportunity to make friends while learning about watersheds, forest life and global action. They’ll also participate in numerous activities including swimming, hiking, sailing, gardening, music, and drama.
Imagine getting behind the wheel of a high performance sports car for the first time. At the Skip Barber Racing and Driving School in Lakeville, Connecticut gift certificate recipients can learn to drive around the track and in timed Autocross sessions in BMW M3s, Porsche 911s, and even Skip Barber-built “formula” racing cars. The school also offers courses for experienced drivers and teens that teach “real world” experience such as accident avoidance, threshold braking, and how to recover from skids and hydroplaning in winter weather.
For some the idea of getting off the ground may seem more appealing, and if that’s the case, then Harv’s Air in Manitoba may have the answer. The aviation training school has gift certificates for everything from letting a novice take the controls for the first time to scenic trips overlooking the area, and even aerobatic flights that include loops, rolls, and inverted flight. Packages range from $53.50 to $175 Cdn.
Finally, for those looking for practical training gift options there are many opportunities available. DriveWise in Barrie, Ontario offers simulation based training for new drivers and anyone else who’s hoping to become a better driver. YMCA organizations throughout North America have gift certificates available for memberships, personal training, weight management and a number of their other programs. As well, check out local first aid organizations for CPR, baby-sitter training and other safety based programs. Finally, if you want something for the family and their pets, check out kennel clubs, dog training schools and pet stores for training and grooming programs that owners can participate in along with their favorite four-legged friend.