Kids in the Spotlight #3 (KITS)

This evidence-based 5-day performing arts retreat offers a meaningful and memorable experience for children, youth, and their families. Led by counselor and Developmental Psychology MA Denise Goldbeck, the program uses the performing arts as a powerful pathway for growth, confidence, and healing.

The Program…

Across five inspiring days, participants collaborate to create and perform a musical production. In the process, they build communication skills, learn to respect themselves and others, express themselves with confidence, and work through challenges in a supportive environment. By the end of the retreat, each child has taken part in a joyful and transformative journey.

Parents or guardians attend the opening session on the first evening and return for the final evening performance. The program concludes at noon the following day. Outside of session times, children remain in the care of their parent or guardian.

Older children attend evening sessions, while younger children generally do not. Children stay at The Haven with a parent or guardian.

Children learn:

• Self-awareness
• Greater confidence
• Increased poise
• Stronger social understanding
• Improved social interaction skills
• Leadership ability
• Healthier family relationships
• Improved academic performance
• Greater ability to sustain attention
• A sense of belonging
• Understanding of their own development
• Ability to participate in small and large groups

The group builds a child-led culture through games and the creative process of producing the show. Children are cast into roles that will support their growth most effectively. Youth leaders assist the performers as they strengthen confidence and social skills. Most importantly, everyone has fun.

For Parents and Caregivers…

In an optional, complementary session, caregivers learn about:

• Child development, both their own and their children’s
• The developmental aspects of the program

How to register…

Registration is completed through the All-Stages Education Foundation website.

Room and meal reservations are arranged separately.

Meal package for participants 10 years and under for 5 days is $300, including 2 snacks per day.

Meal package for participants 11 years and up and adults for 5 days is $400, including 2 snacks per day for participants.

Children and youth under 15 years of age stay with a parent or guardian, with room charges ranging from $725 to $1900 for a 5-night stay, depending on room type and number of people in the room.

Youth 13 years and older may continue their development by becoming a youth intern and attending the LAUNCH Youth Leadership Training in addition to a KITS session.

Still not sure? Here are some comments from parents and grandparents of past programs…

“At KITS, children learn about themselves and others in a safe place where they are accepted for being themselves. Youth interns become poised, confident, young adults. I believe that they will make a world full of self-aware, compassionate, inclusive, and responsible people, able to take on future challenges with strength, courage, and wisdom.” Naomi, parent

“This program was so transformational for my daughter. The awareness she walked away with about how she shows up for herself and towards others was really powerful. She felt a level of joy in her heart that is often hard for her to touch, and this emotion now lives with her as a reference point for what’s possible. I would highly recommend this program to everyone.” Kate, parent

“I hope this will be the first of many for my grandchildren. I think the older students demonstrated how powerful the program is for teaching kindness and consideration. I would highly recommend it.” Alison, grandparent