Youth First! Developing Programs that Empower and Connect

Facilitator Tyler Kearns

FREE & Virtual Two Part Training Series

Thursdays: December 4th and 11th

From 12-2pm both days

When you put youth at the heart of everything you do, you unlock the power to build strong connections that inspire trust, engagement, and meaningful relationships. In this session, you’ll learn practical strategies to give young people real voice and choice in shaping their experiences. Discover how prioritizing connection sparks confidence, develops essential life skills, and creates a true sense of belonging. Walk away ready to design programs that energize, empower, and celebrate every child. This is your opportunity to put kids first and make every interaction count!

Objectives:

• Strategies to build connection to youth
• Learn ways to bring youth led activities to programming
• Problem solving and behavior management with positive youth voice

Audience: Leaders and Frontline staff

Tyler is the current Program Coordinator for Clayton Kid Zone. In his 17th year in before and afterschool programming he has become an accomplished leader and trainer in the field. Tyler is a National AfterSchool Association Next Generation leader and top presenter honoree and a National Play Ambassador with the Genius of Play. Kearns’ knowledge base comes not only from research but from experience from the frontlines, as we he continues to hone his craft onsite daily with staff and students. Tyler is also the Professional Development and Quality Committee Chair with the Missouri Afterschool Network working to further advance the professional development for afterschool professionals in his state. Outside of programming, Tyler is also the owner and Master instructor Axiom Martial Arts with 18 years of experience coaching, leading, and instructing all ages in martial arts training.