Children In Leadership

A six-week summer program for young changemakers

Welcome to Children in Leadership, our immersive, six-week summer program designed to help children explore their inner strengths, build lasting friendships, and grow into thoughtful, emotionally intelligent leaders.

We believe leadership begins with self-awareness, empathy, communication, and a strong sense of belonging. Through hands-on experiences, trauma-informed care, and family partnership, this program supports the whole child — socially, emotionally, and creatively.

Hosted by Connecticut Partnership for Children, Inc., Children in Leadership is built on trauma-informed values and grounded in social-emotional learning, community connection, and authentic expression.

Why Leadership Development?

Leadership isn't just about taking charge — it's about being kind, brave, collaborative, and self-aware. Our program teaches children how to:

  • Communicate clearly and confidently

  • Navigate emotions and resolve conflict

  • Embrace their uniqueness and make a difference

  • Lead with empathy, curiosity, and purpose

We integrate leadership skills with Social Emotional Learning tools like affirmations, mindfulness, and movement. We foster environments that are both safe and brave, where children learn to speak up, try new things, and support one another.

What Makes Us Different?

Children in Leadership is rooted in a trauma-informed, relationship-based, and social-emotional learning (SEL) framework. We prioritize:

Emotional Safety First – Creating a space where children feel seen, heard, and valued.
Relationship Building – Connection and communication are at the forefront of everything we do.
Skill-Building, Not Punishment – Children learn self-regulation and coping strategies. We’re all here to learn and grow together!
Restorative Practices – Children are supported in repairing and reflecting.
Individualized Growth Plans – Tailored support for every individual child.
Family Collaboration – We work in partnership with parents and guardians to build consistency and support.

Program Structure

Children thrive in environments that are both predictable and flexible. Each day includes:

  • Morning emotional wellness check-ins

  • Leadership and teamwork activities

  • Social-emotional learning (SEL) discussions

  • Mindful movement and reset opportunities

  • Restorative conversations and conflict resolution skill-building

We guide children using strength-based expectations focused on:

Respect – Speak and act with kindness.
Responsibility – Take ownership of your actions.
Safety – Make choices that protect yourself and others.
Leadership – Show empathy, problem-solving, and teamwork.

Leadership in Action: Committees and Real-World Experiences

Children don’t just learn about leadership—they practice it.

Every participant is assigned to a committee of their choice. Committees are responsible for real, hands-on projects that impact our summer community:

Finance Committee – Oversees budgeting for projects and special events.
Yearbook Committee – Captures memories and designs the summer keepsake.
Graduation Committee – Plans and hosts our end-of-summer celebration.

Through their committee work and daily activities, children gain confidence, take initiative, and learn how their efforts contribute to something meaningful. They collaborate, lead games, solve problems, and celebrate their collective impact.

Our Trauma-Informed, Restorative Approach

We believe all behavior is communication. Our goal is to understand the "why" behind the behavior and meet children with compassion and support.

Proactive Strategies Include:

  • Predictable structure and clear transitions

  • Choice and autonomy

  • Calming corners and self-regulation tools

  • Breathing and grounding practices

  • Gentle coaching and collaborative problem-solving

When challenges arise, we use a de-escalation and reconnection protocol:

  • Remain calm and assess needs

  • Offer breaks and space to self-regulate

  • Guide children through restorative conversations

  • Rebuild connection and re-engage when ready

If ongoing support is needed, we collaborate with the child, family, and staff to create an Individualized Support Plan.

Family Partnership

We believe that growth is a shared journey. That’s why we prioritize open communication with families and invite you to be active partners in your child’s experience.

We provide:

  • Regular check-ins and updates

  • Emotional regulation tools you can use at home

  • Growth mindset and restorative language suggestions

  • Support for navigating conflict and big feelings together

We are here to listen, collaborate, and ensure your child feels supported every step of the way.

Program Details

Program Dates: 6 weeks, beginning the week of July 7, 2025
Days per Week: Monday through Thursday (4 days per week)
Ages: 6–13
(If your child falls outside this age range, please reach out—we’re happy to connect and explore if this program might still be a fit.)

Daily Schedule Options:

  • Half-Day Morning: 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM

  • Half-Day Afternoon: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM

  • Full-Day: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Families may mix and match time slots across the week to best fit their schedules and the needs of their child.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided daily in a nut-free environment
Location: Naugatuck, CT
Payments: View flexible payment options on our Payments page

Join Us!

We are honored to walk this journey of leadership, connection, and self-discovery with your child. To register or learn more, please reach out.

MacKenzie Mahoney & Ashlee Stabile
Children in Leadership Program Supervisors
Phone: (203) 819-5282
Email: hello@empoweredfutures.co

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We honor a child’s autonomy and offer choices whenever possible. If a child is feeling overwhelmed or hesitant, we provide space and support to re-engage at their own pace.

  • We create a welcoming, relationship-centered environment where every child is seen and supported. Small group activities, structured social time, and daily check-ins help all children feel included. Many of our shyest participants blossom by week two.

  • We offer flexible payment options through Klarna. If you need a different arrangement, please reach out to us—we’re happy to work with you.

  • Yes! Families are welcome to mix and match their child’s schedule week to week or even day to day.

  • We are happy to work with families to provide individualized support. Our team is trained in trauma-informed care and works closely with parents to implement accommodations that help each child feel safe and successful. Please reach out so we can start a conversation.

  • We use a restorative, non-punitive approach. Our staff supports children in identifying feelings, repairing relationships, and developing coping strategies. If additional support is needed, we collaborate with you to create an individualized support plan.

  • While we include fun and games, our focus is on social-emotional development, leadership skills, and meaningful connection. Children take on leadership roles, practice communication, and participate in team projects that have a real impact on their summer community.

  • Spots are limited and often fill quickly. We encourage early registration to ensure availability. Feel free to contact us to check for current openings.