Kids in the Spotlight #4 (KITS)

This evidence-based, 5-day performing arts retreat offers children, youth, and their families a powerful space for growth, creativity, and meaningful breakthroughs. Led by counselor and Developmental Psychology MA Denise Goldbeck, the experience uses the performing arts as a dynamic pathway for development and self-discovery.

The Program…

Across five memorable days, participants of all ages collaborate to create and perform a musical production. Throughout the process, they build communication skills, learn to respect themselves and others, grow in self-expression, and develop the confidence to face challenges and move through difficult experiences. By the end of the retreat, each child has taken part in an engaging, uplifting, 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, parents or guardians are responsible for caring for their children.

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

Children learn:

• Self-awareness
• Increased confidence
• Increased poise
• Greater social understanding
• Increased social interaction skills
• Leadership ability
• Enhanced family relationships
• Improved academic performance
• Increased ability to hold attention
• Sense of belonging
• Understanding of one’s own development
• Ability to participate in small and large groups

The group creates a child-led culture through games and the process of building the show together. Casting is based on which roles will support each child’s growth most effectively. Youth leaders assist the performers as they strengthen confidence and social skills, making the experience fun and enriching for everyone involved.

For Parents and Caregivers…

In an optional complementary session, caregivers explore:

• 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 old stay with a parent or guardian. Room charges range from $725 to $1900 for a 5-night stay, depending on room type and the number of people in the room.

Youth aged 13 and older may continue their development by becoming a youth intern and attending the LAUNCH Youth Leadership Training alongside 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 in them to 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