Submitted by Allison Behnke
(April 14, 2025) — Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services is thrilled to share this summer’s youth programs. Please visit our website, www.hkyfs.org, for further information and registration. We are excited for a fun summer grounded in positive youth development, family time and community connections.
Early adolescence can be described as a “subperiod” of development. It is a time of transition in social capacity, physical growth, and life stage as kids from move childhood to adolescence. Young adolescents are working on maturing their “social brain,” which is responsible for positive peer interactions, forming identity, responding appropriately, and learning from others. Supporting the healthy development of these early skills helps kids increase sensitivity to peer and social acceptance, understand each other, and increase motivation to support self and others. (Rouse, M., UCLA Center for the Developing Adolescent, 2025)
Our summer programming is designed to meet the specific needs and drives of our youth in early adolescence (ages 10-15). Connecting our kids with ways to feel valued and respected and that their actions matter is a strong driver. These opportunities provide developmentally appropriate ways to connect with others, socialize safely, and find meaningful contribution to self and community, all strong indicators for healthy development and overall wellness and success.
Teen Trail Blazers: This summer, teens in Grade 7 and up are invited to join us on Wednesdays for exciting adventures to places like Lake Compounce, Six Flags, Brownstone, and more. This is the perfect way to spend time with friends, make new friends, and have tons of fun.
Dates: July 9, July 16, July 30, August 6, August 13, August 20, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on most dates (see website for more details)
Who: Youth in grades 7-12
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HK Girls-on-the-Run: Girls entering Grades 3 through 6 are encouraged to join us for this one-week “Girls-on-the-Run” mini-camp! This program empowers young girls to build confidence and positive friendships, strengthen self-esteem, and gain a love for physical/emotional health and wellness.
Dates: July 7-11, 2025
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: HKYFS and HKHS
Who: Girls 3rd-6th grade
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A Community Giveback Summer: This summer HKYFS is partnering with local organizations to offer Haddam and Killingworth youth an opportunity to not only earn necessary high school community service hours, but also to come together to interact with their community and peers in a positive inter-generational environment where they can make a true difference. This opportunity also allows the community to see the incredible value youth bring and the ways in which everyone is an asset to the well-being of the whole community. Teens who attend all events can earn up to 15.5 service hours. Each day will include transportation to a service site such as Helping Hands Pantry and Haddam Social Services, as well as additional activities at HKYFS for continued leadership, teamwork and community-building skills.
Dates: July 1, July 29, and August 5, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Drop-off and Pick-up at HKYFS
Who: Rising 9th-12th graders
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Be You at the Barn: Nothing is more important than raising self-confident, resilient, and empowered youth. “Be You at the Barn” is a one-week program for youth ages 8-12. This fun mini-camp will bring kids together with horses and peers in a safe farm environment. Co-facilitated by the HKYFS Director and Clinician, “Be You at the Barn” utilizes on-the-ground equine/adventure activities, games and crafts to help us learn more about horses, ourselves, each other, and community.
Dates: August 4-7, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon
Location: Lexi’s Place Farm, Higganum
Who: 8-12 year olds
Registration is first come, first served for all of the programs listed above. Please sign up at www.hkyfs.org/event/ or email alli.behnke@hkyfs.org with any questions. Scholarship is available, if needed.
