How Discover Term Changed My Child’s Life
Sending your teen to Powder Term or Surf Term is a huge step. These five-week ski or surf & school programs are designed to take 6th-9th graders out of their usual home, academic, and digital environments and on a formative journey of self discovery. To push their limits in every way imaginable as they live, learn, and train on a rigorous, phone-free schedule.
But don’t take it from us — see what real Discover Term parents have to say about how these fully immersive adventures have impacted their kids.
What changes did you notice in your child after the program?
“Every bit of Cameron’s experience was transformative. From community living to challenging herself both academically and physically, she will carry these ‘core memories’ throughout the rest of her life. It was powerful. We couldn’t have been more thrilled with the outcome but in all honesty, we weren’t surprised.”
“Arjavi had the awesome experience of eating, living, sleeping, learning, disagreeing, making amends, and making memories with peers from various backgrounds. It seems to have become more obvious to her that our family values, such as being considerate, speaking with kindness, self-confidence, and understanding our heritage, coincide with her own ideology.
We are ever grateful for the environment that was created at Powder Term, especially at such a critical transition in Arjavi’s life. She seems to have come to peace with herself, some of her struggles, her social identity — and these are tremendous shifts for an 8th grader to make.”
“I think the biggest thing I’ve noticed is how much independence she gained and how good it is to watch her new lessons play out just by observation. The changes are very subtle and she’s still a 12-year-old girl, but she is substantially different than when she left and it’s amazing to watch.”
“Gideon and Asher got so much out of the program. They’ve matured, been challenged, risen to the occasion, and are changed people for it.”
What did you learn from the experience as a parent?
“It showed us how Luke is growing up and we need to let him — and encourage him to spread his wings.”
“Our biggest lesson is that Bella is going to be just fine. We’ve worried that she doesn’t take charge enough, but seeing her have so much fun, get way better at skiing and make a gang of new friends shows us that there is more than one way to lead. We definitely feel her growing up and being more independent.”
What did your child like most about their Discover Term program?
“Mya I think had the most fun socially, just hanging out with all the kids. It was also a great experience for her to ski for the first time and she was excited that she skied a black despite her injured foot.”
“Cameron kept a journal of her highlights for the full five weeks she was there. Some of the highlights of her experience included shared roommate conversations, learning to practice patience, being okay with falling and failing, getting up and dusting off, meeting people on the slopes, and more. She absolutely loved the staff.”
What would you tell other parents considering Discover Term for their child?
“This experience is perfect for 6-8th graders. It seems fitting for this age group to have the opportunity to explore the world without the constant presence of their parents and technology. Powder Term was this safe yet open place for Arjavi to be the person she wants to be, not the one people who have known her for many years have labeled her as. For her to dig deep within, step up and take responsibility for herself, her actions, her efforts, and her life!”
“This is a very special and unique chance to learn and grow in an unbelievable atmosphere.”
“I don’t think opportunities like this come along very often. For parents willing to dare, I think it’s a great experience.”
“It was an amazingly positive experience for us. It delivered on so many fronts. Bella’s skiing has improved massively. Making so many friends has enriched her life. And she has grown more confident.”
“It’s a great way to give kids a break from the routine. To show them how life can be flexible and you can learn new things. I like how they had their own responsibilities and had very little screen time as well.”
“It’s the greatest gift you can give your child. No phones. Lasting friendships. And the lifelong skill of skiing. Our child craved independence, got a five-week taste of it, and is now on a new trajectory in life.”