Children In Leadership

A trauma-informed summer program for young changemakers.

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What Is Children In Leadership?

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

Leadership begins with self-awareness, empathy, communication, and a strong sense of belonging. Through hands-on experiences, trauma-informed care, and partnership with the adults who support them, this program supports the whole child — socially, emotionally, creatively, and relationally.

Hosted in collaboration with Connecticut Partnership for Children, Inc., Children in Leadership reflects the core trauma-informed, relationship-based framework that guides all Empowered Futures programs.

Why Leadership Development?

Leadership isn’t about taking charge — it’s about being kind, brave, collaborative, and self-aware. In Children in Leadership, children learn how to:

  • Communicate clearly and confidently

  • Navigate emotions and resolve conflict

  • Embrace their uniqueness and make a positive impact

  • Lead with empathy, curiosity, and purpose

Leadership skills are intentionally woven together with Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) tools such as affirmations, mindfulness, movement, and reflection. We create environments that are both safe and brave, where children are encouraged to speak up, try new things, and support one another.

What Makes Children In Leadership Different?

Children in Leadership is rooted in a trauma-informed, relationship-based, and SEL-driven approach. We prioritize:

  • Emotional Safety First – Children feel seen, heard, and valued

  • Relationship Building – Connection and communication guide all interactions

  • Skill-Building Over Punishment – Self-regulation and coping skills are taught intentionally

  • Restorative Practices – Reflection, repair, and reconnection are supported

  • Individualized Growth Plans – Support is tailored to each child

  • Family Partnership – Collaboration with caregivers builds consistency and trust

Program Structure

Children thrive in environments that balance predictability with flexibility. 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 actions

  • Safety – Make choices that protect self and others

  • Leadership – Show empathy, problem-solving, and teamwork

Leadership in Action: Committees & Real-World Experience

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

Each participant joins a committee of their choice and contributes to real, meaningful projects within the program community:

  • Finance Committee – Supports budgeting for projects and special events

  • Yearbook Committee – Captures memories and designs the summer keepsake

  • Celebration Committee – Plans and hosts the end-of-summer celebration

Through committee work and daily activities, children build confidence, take initiative, collaborate with peers, and see how their contributions matter.

Our Trauma-Informed, Restorative Approach

We believe all behavior is communication. Our goal is to understand the why behind behavior and respond with compassion, structure, and support.

Proactive supports include:

  • Predictable routines and clear transitions

  • Choice and age-appropriate autonomy

  • Calming spaces and regulation tools

  • Breathing and grounding practices

  • Gentle coaching and collaborative problem-solving

When challenges arise, we use a reconnection-focused approach:

  1. Remain calm and assess needs

  2. Offer space and support for regulation

  3. Guide restorative conversations

  4. Rebuild connection and re-engage when ready

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

Family Partnership

We believe growth is a shared journey. Families are essential partners in a child’s experience, and we prioritize open, respectful communication throughout the program.

We provide:

  • Regular check-ins and updates

  • Emotional regulation tools for home use

  • Restorative and growth-focused language support

  • Guidance for navigating big feelings and conflict together

We are here to listen, collaborate, and support each child — every step of the way.

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Summer 2026 - Registration Opening Soon!

Where leadership begins with connection, confidence, and care.

Register Today! 
Program Details

Program Length: Six weeks (summer session)

Ages: 6–13
(If your child falls outside this age range but you believe this program may still be a good fit, please reach out — we’re happy to talk.)

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.)

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided daily in a nut-free environment

Location: Naugatuck, CT

Payments: Flexible payment options available

Frequently Asked Questions

We’d love to connect. If you’re interested in Children in Leadership or want to see if it’s a good fit for your child, reach out to us anytime. We’re happy to answer questions and share details about upcoming sessions.

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  • 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.

  • 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.