Blog

Crossroads Summer Programming Guide

Posted on by Teresa Stimpert
18
Apr

Turn Summer Break into Summer Growth

Summer presents a unique opportunity to engage youth and families in meaningful behavior change programs. With schools closed, many probation departments, community organizations, and service providers are looking for structured, evidence-based activities. This guide highlights four Crossroads curricula perfectly suited for summer programming:

1. JOB READINESS & EMPLOYMENT (JobTec Curriculum)

For ages 18+ and adults (Approximately 50 hours)

Summer Focus: Prepare participants for workforce entry or summer employment opportunities

  • Develop interview skills and workplace communication
  • Understand the importance of choosing a career that is in line with one’s value system
  • Learn techniques that will assist in controlling emotions in the workplace
  • Create resumes and job application materials

Implementation Tip: Partner with local businesses for mock interviews or job shadowing opportunities to provide real-world application of newly acquired skills.

2. FOUNDATIONAL LIFE SKILLS (Cog Life Skills Curriculum)

For youth and adults 30-42 hours based on risk level

Summer Focus: Strengthen problem-solving and decision-making during unstructured time

  • Enhance critical thinking in real-world situations
  • Discover how attitudes affect behavior
  • Build self-management and impulse control
  • Practice positive peer interaction skills

Implementation Tip: Incorporate outdoor activities that require teamwork and communication, allowing participants to practice skills in a supportive environment.

3. COMMUNICATION & RELATIONSHIPS (Real Colors Curriculum)

For families, youth, and adults (3-4 hours)

Summer Focus: Strengthen family connections and improve communication

  • Understand different personality types and communication styles
  • Build empathy and active listening skills
  • Promote understanding of ourselves and others
  • Improve rapport and understanding between family members

Implementation Tip: Offer family workshops where parents/caregivers and youth participate together, creating opportunities for immediate practice and feedback.

4. PARENTING SUPPORT (Parenting Curriculum)

For parents and caregivers (24 hours)

Summer Focus: Enhance parenting skills during challenging summer months

  • Understand the process of changing negative behavior in children
  • Prioritize one’s needs as a parent
  • Provide skills to better lead the family
  • Utilize the Personal Awareness Journal

Implementation Tip: Create a parent support network that meets weekly throughout summer, providing ongoing reinforcement of skills and peer support.

PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION SUGGESTIONS

*Virtual options can be made available as well

One-Day Real Colors Workshop: Completed in 3-4 hours using either the paper or virtual instrument

Bi-Weekly Groups: Deliver 2-3 hour sessions twice per week for 8-10 weeks (Cognitive Life Skills and JobTec)
Half-Day Intensives: Offer concentrated 4 hour sessions twice weekly for 3 weeks (Parenting)
Family Programming: Schedule evening or weekend sessions that accommodate working parents (Real Colors)
Mixed-Age Groups: Where appropriate, create intergenerational learning opportunities (Real Colors)

Community Partnerships: Collaborate with parks, libraries, and recreation centers

All Crossroads curricula incorporate our evidence-based Building Blocks for Behavioral Change and can be enhanced with our Pre & Post-Test System to measure program effectiveness. The Resource Library contains additional materials to support your summer programming.

Ready to launch your summer program? Contact us at info@ncti.org or call 800.622.1644 for implementation support and resources.

Remember: Changing behavior happens through interactive learning, practicing new skills, and creating a supportive environment—the perfect combination for meaningful summer engagement!