Naperville Park District offers youth classes on building confidence, leadership

Recent studies, such as the KidsMatter "State of the Kids" survey, show that today's youth experience stress in their daily lives from a variety of sources, from bullying to homework to time spent on social media.

The Naperville Park District is partnering with Lisa Lombardi Coaching Inc. to offer a youth confidence series, teaching practical life skills for kids that help build self-esteem, manage stress and prepare them for the future workplace and the challenges that life brings.

Classes available this fall for kids ages 6 to 13 include the Wednesday, Sept. 25, offerings: "Whack a Worry" from 5 to 6 p.m. and "Public Speaking for Kids" from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m.

Students, age 11 to 19, can register for "Tween/Teen Life Coaching: Smashing the Seven Soft Skills" from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8.

Registration for each of these one-hour classes is available online at www.napervilleparks.org.

The youth confidence classes were first offered in spring 2019 and have been well received, with more than 150 participants registering for the first five classes that focused on topics including critical thinking, dealing with bullies, social cliques, leadership and communication skills.

"Classes are kept to a maximum of 10-15 students to allow the kids to build confidence and interact in a more personal setting," said Program Manager David Naydenoff. "The program focuses on building leadership and communication skills through fun and interactive activities, allowing space for kids to explore their creative side in a fun setting."

"Health and wellness includes more than just physical fitness," said Andrea Coates, Superintendent of Recreation. "This is an example of a program that is central to our mission to promote healthy lives, healthy minds and a healthy community."