Activites, Camps and After School Classes in Reston, VA

Comedy Camp! Stand-Up & Stand Out! (Rising Grades 5-8) Get ready to write, perform, and bring the laughs in this fun and interactive comedy camp for rising 5th-8th graders! Stand-up comedy is one of the most challenging—but also most FUN—forms of public speaking, and this camp will help young comedians build the skills they need to craft clever (and age appropriate) jokes, develop their own comedic style, deliver punchlines, and stand-up on the comedic stage with confidence! Over 10 hours of hands-on learning, campers will: 🎤 Discover the art of writing humor – from wordplay to storytelling to perfecting comedic timing. 😂 Create their own jokes & stand-up routines – developing material that fits their unique style and personality. 👀 Receive peer and instructor feedback – refining their work through fun, supportive critique. 🎭 Perform their original stand-up sets – putting their skills to the test in a final comedy showcase! Daily Schedule (1:00 – 4:30 PM): 1:00 – 1:45 PM – Lunch & Quiet Activity (Drop-off for PM students) 1:45 – 2:00 PM – Comedy Warm-Up & Icebreakers 2:00 – 4:00 PM – Writing, Practice, & Feedback (Joke-building, storytelling, timing) 4:00 – 4:30 PM – Wind Down & Parent Pick-Up Whether they dream of being the next great stand-up comic or just want to build confidence and have fun, this camp is the perfect place to laugh, learn, and let loose on stage! 😆🎤

Summer Camp Intro to Model UN (Rising Grades 6-8 ONLY) ! Based on popular demand, we are THRILLED to introduce our NEWEST summer camp evening class! We have developed a 12-class hour, in-person evening camp that simplifies the principles of debate for our newest junior diplomats and also makes it as FUN as possible! In our classes, we will cover: Public Speaking Research Diplomacy Debate Parliamentary Procedures All students will participate in various games/activities to allow them to understand and develop their diplomacy skills. As usual, ALL classes (with more than 8 students) are taught by two instructors (public speaking professionals who are also comedians/performers) to ensure that all students receive plenty of individualized attention and feedback. Further, for all exercises, our limited size classes are broken in half to make sure that each student is improving in a smaller group setting. Short take-home assignments may be given. Students are expected to complete them in order to gain the most from this class! Day 1 Introduction to Model UN and Research Day 2 Understanding Debate and Committees Day 3 Negotiation Skills Day 4 Resolution Writing and Voting Day 5 Voting and Practice Simulation Day 6 Full Simulation (Parents are invited!) Start your Fall ready with new knowledge and experience that no other event teaches. By participating in Model United Nations, students learn: What are the biggest challenges facing the world today How to be more self-confident, especially with public speaking How to interact with other people who come from different backgrounds and perspectives How to work as a team to achieve shared goals How to take action to solve problems, on a local, national, and global scale ** This is very limited size group led by Model UN and Debate expert and PhD Candidate, Aaron Trujillo. He has coached multiple Model UN sessions as well as debate winners internationally!

"The Great Debate!" 1-Week Debate Camp for Rising 5th-8th Graders! We are beyond excited to launch our 5-day Debate Camp, led by Aaron Trujillo, PhD Candidate at GMU and an Expert Debate Coach! With years of experience coaching students from elementary school to the Master's level, Aaron has helped multiple teams win championships—and now he’s bringing his expertise to Highest Speak to help your child develop confidence, critical thinking, and speaking skills! ✨ No prior debate experience required! Whether your child is brand new to debate and looking to get a taste of it or an experienced debater looking to sharpen their skills, this camp is for everyone. It’s the perfect opportunity to dive into debate and have fun, learn new skills, and build confidence in a high-energy environment. What makes this camp so special? This 1-week camp is filled with hands-on lessons, fun activities, and friendly competition, ensuring your child develops as a confident, articulate speaker. It’s a great starting point for beginners and perfect practice for experienced debaters. Here’s what we’ll cover each day: Day 1: What is Debate? Introduction to debate and its importance Exploring different debate styles Fun activities to build a strong foundation Day 2: Structuring a Strong Argument How to build a solid argument step-by-step Crafting claims, evidence, and reasoning Group activities to practice structuring arguments Day 3: Crafting a Compelling Speech Tips and tricks for writing a persuasive speech Learning how to capture attention and hold an audience’s interest Practice delivering speeches with confidence Day 4: Mastering Rebuttals and Questions Responding to others’ arguments with strong rebuttals Practicing asking and answering questions like a pro Group debates with real-time feedback Day 5: Final Practice & Mini Debate Tournament Putting everything into action with a mini debate tournament Individualized feedback to help each student improve Fun and friendly competition to showcase what they’ve learned Why Debate is Important for Middle Schoolers: Debate builds confidence, teaches critical thinking, and helps your child become a persuasive speaker—skills they’ll use in school, social settings, and beyond! Plus, learning how to argue respectfully and thoughtfully is an important life skill. This camp is perfect for both beginners who want to give debate a try and experienced debaters looking to practice in a supportive, energetic environment. Small Class Sizes = BIG Impact! To ensure personalized coaching and feedback, class sizes are limited. Your child will receive individual attention from Aaron and other coaches to help them improve every day. Fun & High-Energy Atmosphere: Led by Aaron Trujillo, PhD Candidate at GMU and an Expert Debate Coach, our camp is all about having fun while learning! With his expertise and infectious energy, your child will feel excited and motivated every day. Important Dates: 🗓️ 5 days, 3 hours each day 📍 Location: Reston, VA Spots are filling up FAST—don’t miss this chance to help your child become a confident, skilled debater in a fun, supportive environment! Secure their spot today!

Emotions in Motion – Readers Theater, Monologues & Improv (Rising Grades 2-4) Unlock the power of expression at our 5-day summer camp, where kids will explore how to bring emotions to life through readings, monologues, and improv! Each 2-hour session is designed to help campers connect with their emotions and express them clearly through their voices and actions. They’ll dive into Readers Theater, practice delivering powerful monologues, and have a blast with improv games that encourage spontaneous emotion and creativity. Campers will receive valuable feedback from both peers and instructors, helping them refine their skills and build confidence in their public speaking abilities. Whether they're reading a script or improvising on the spot, they’ll learn how to use tone, volume, and body language to make their performances truly engaging. This camp is perfect for kids who want to strengthen their emotional expression, improve their public speaking, and have a ton of fun along the way! 1-1:45: Lunch/quiet activity/Parent Drop Off For morning students, they may eat a packed lunch, relax, and work on a quiet activity. Students only registered for afternoon can choose to bring lunch and eat during this period or arrive by 1:45 in time for camp. 1:45-2pm: Circle Up Students will gather up for a quick warm or fun discussion or game. 2-4:00pm: Lesson and Practice Students will work on the lesson for the day and practice their voices and emotions through readers theater, monologues, or improv games! 4-4:30pm: Wind-Down and Parent Pick-Up Students will wind down with a quiet activity while waiting for parents to pick up.

🎭 Write & Shine: Creative Writing + Theater & Improv Afternoon Bundle – 2 Weeks of Creative Fun! ✨ 📍 Reston, VA | For Rising Grades 2-4 | July 7-18 (Weekdays Only) This 2-week afternoon camp offers the perfect blend of creative writing, acting, and improv! Kids will develop their writing skills while expressing their creativity through Readers Theater, Monologues, and Improv Games. With high-energy, interactive activities, they'll gain confidence in both public speaking and storytelling. 🗓️ Daily Schedule: ⏳ 1:00 PM - 1:45 PM – Lunchtime (Students can bring their lunch or be dropped off by 1:45 PM) 🎭 1:45 PM - 2:00 PM – Circle Time (Warm-Up & Creative Exercises) 🎤 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM – Creative Writing + Theater & Improv (Part 1 & 2) 🌟 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM – Wind Down & Parent Pick-Up Afternoon Sessions (1 PM - 4 PM, Monday-Friday) WEEK 1 (July 7-11) 💡 Emotions in Motion – Readers Theater, Monologues & Improv ✅ Express Emotions through Acting – Learn how to portray emotions using voice and body language ✅ Readers Theater – Practice performing scripts and stories with classmates ✅ Monologues & Improv – Perform solo and improvise scenes to boost confidence ✅ High-Energy Fun – Through games and activities, campers will practice public speaking and acting while having a blast! WEEK 2 (July 14-18) ✍️ Write & Shine – A Creative Writing Adventure! ✅ Creative Writing – Develop short stories, characters, and settings through fun exercises ✅ Presentation & Public Speaking – Present stories and ideas to the group ✅ Fun Challenges – Creative games to spark imagination and improve storytelling skills ✅ Feedback & Growth – Receive positive feedback to improve writing and speaking skills 🎯 Perfect for kids who: ✔️ Love acting, improv, and performance ✔️ Want to improve their writing skills and express themselves creatively ✔️ Need confidence in public speaking in a fun, supportive environment 📢 Special Bundle Pricing Available – Register for Both Weeks & Save! Limited spots available – don’t miss out on this exciting summer camp experience! 🎟️

Speak & Shine Morning Bundle – 2 Weeks of Confidence & Fun! 🌟 📍 Reston, VA | For Rising Grades 2-4 | July 7-18 (Weekdays Only) Give your child the ultimate confidence boost with two weeks of high-energy, fun-filled morning sessions designed to build strong communication skills through interactive games, creative challenges, and engaging activities! 🗓️ Daily Schedule: ⏳ 9:30 AM – Early Drop-Off (Optional, with Fee) 🎤 10 AM - 11:30 AM – Morning Session (Part 1) 🍎 11:30 - 11:50 AM – Snack Break 💡 11:50 AM - 1 PM – Morning Session (Part 2) Morning Sessions (10 AM - 1 PM, Monday-Friday) WEEK 1 (July 7-11) 🎤 Public Speaking Fun & Fundamentals! ✅ Learn the basics of speaking with confidence and expression ✅ Practice storytelling, persuasive speaking, and simple debates ✅ Play fun improv and speaking games to build confidence ✅ Get comfortable speaking in front of a group in a supportive, encouraging setting WEEK 2 (July 14-18) 💡 Baby Shark Tank – Young Entrepreneurs & Public Speaking! ✅ Brainstorm fun business ideas and practice pitching them ✅ Learn how to explain ideas clearly and persuasively ✅ Create simple posters, ads, and presentations for a friendly Shark Tank-style challenge ✅ Present ideas to a panel of "judges" in a fun, no-pressure environment 🎯 Perfect for kids who: ✔️ Love interactive learning and exciting challenges ✔️ Want to build confidence speaking in front of others ✔️ Enjoy creative projects and teamwork 📢 Special Bundle Pricing Available – Register for Both Weeks & Save! Spots are limited! Sign up today for an exciting, confidence-building experience! 🎟️

Baby Shark Tank: Young Entrepreneurs & Public Speaking Camp! 💡 For Rising 2nd-4th Graders | 5-Day Camp | 3 Hours Per Day Does your child have big ideas and a creative spark, or do they need a little encouragement to think outside the box? In Baby Shark Tank, we help all kids—whether naturally inventive or just getting started—hone their creativity, critical thinking, and public speaking skills while bringing their ideas to life! Inspired by the hit show Shark Tank, this incredibly fun, high-energy, interactive camp introduces young entrepreneurs to the world of business, marketing, problem-solving, and persuasive speaking. Through fun challenges and hands-on projects, campers will learn to develop, market, and pitch their own creative ideas, all while solving real-world problems and gaining confidence in their communication skills. What Campers Will Learn & Do: ✅ Brainstorm & Design their own product or business idea ✅ Solve Real-World Problems by creating solutions for everyday challenges ✅ Learn Persuasion & Marketing to make their ideas stand out ✅ Create Posters & Ads to showcase their brand ✅ Develop Public Speaking & Confidence through fun speech and debate exercises ✅ Work Independently & in Teams to refine their presentations ✅ Pitch to a Panel of Experienced Judges on the final day! 💬 Public Speaking Focus! Campers will learn how to: ✔️ Use voice projection, body language, and expression to speak with confidence ✔️ Craft a compelling pitch that keeps audiences engaged ✔️ Effectively present with posters, props, and visuals—a valuable skill for STEAM-based projects ✔️ Think on their feet and respond to questions like a pro Daily Schedule Breakdown Each day is structured to keep kids engaged, active, and learning in a fun, interactive way! 🔹 Part 1 (First 90 Minutes) Ice Breaker Game – A fun activity to warm up creativity and public speaking skills Lesson of the Day – Introduction to key concepts (entrepreneurship, persuasion, marketing, problem-solving, storytelling, etc.) Guided Discussion & Examples – Looking at real-world business ideas and how kids can apply similar strategies 🍎 20-Minute Snack & Social Break 🔹 Part 2 (Last 90 Minutes) Hands-On Challenge! Campers work independently or in teams to complete a task based on the lesson Creative Time – Designing posters, writing scripts, practicing pitches Mini-Presentations & Feedback – Sharing progress and learning to give & receive constructive feedback 🎉 Final Shark Tank Pitch Day! Campers will present their ideas to a panel of experienced judges in a fun, high-energy showcase that puts their skills to the test! 🚀🦈

Expression Explosion! Readers Theater, Monologues & Improv (Rising Grades 5-8) A fun, high-energy summer camp where middle schoolers can laugh, perform, and gain confidence while learning to express themselves! Whether they love drama or just want to feel more comfortable speaking in front of others, this camp is packed with exciting activities that build creativity, quick thinking, and strong communication skills. Campers will bring words to life through Readers Theater, monologues, and improv games, all while getting peer and instructor feedback to help them grow. They'll leave feeling more confident speaking up—not just on stage, but in class, presentations, and everyday conversations! With a mix of engaging activities, interactive performances, and lots of laughter, this camp is the perfect space for middle schoolers to have fun, gain confidence, and find their voice! Daily Schedule 1-1:45: Lunch/quiet activity/Parent Drop Off For morning students, they may eat a packed lunch, relax, and work on a quiet activity. Students only registered for afternoon can choose to bring lunch and eat during this period or arrive by 1:45 in time for camp. 1:45-2pm: Circle Up Students will gather up for a quick warm or fun discussion or game. 2-4:00pm: Lesson and Practice Students will work on the lesson for the day and practice their voices and emotions through readers theater, monologues, or improv games! 4-4:30pm: Wind-Down and Parent Pick-Up Students will wind down with a quiet activity while waiting for parents to pick up.

"Write & Shine: A Creative Writing Adventure" - Summer Camp at Highest Speak Unleash your creativity this summer with Write & Shine: A Creative Writing Adventure, a fun-filled, 5-day camp designed to ignite the imaginations of rising 2nd to 4th graders! Over the course of five exciting days, campers will develop their writing skills through hands-on lessons, fun writing activities, and the opportunity to build confidence in public speaking. Through interactive games, group discussions, and creative exercises, each child will walk away with not only a stronger command of creative writing but also valuable public speaking skills that will serve them for years to come. Camp Schedule: 1:00-1:45 PM – Lunch Break/Quiet Activity Time to relax, recharge, and enjoy a quiet activity like reading or drawing to get ready for the exciting afternoon. 1:45-2:00 PM – Circle Time We’ll gather in a circle to share our thoughts, review the day's goals, and engage in icebreakers or quick creative exercises to prepare for class time. 2:00-4:00 PM – Class Time Each day will feature a lesson on an important aspect of creative writing, followed by a hands-on writing activity and an opportunity to present their work. The focus will be on fostering creativity, building writing confidence, and developing skills in public speaking. 4-4:30pm- Wind down activity while waiting for parent pick-up Each student will receive valuable, constructive feedback on their writing from both peers and instructors. This feedback will help them sharpen their writing skills, not only improving their creativity but also preparing them for school assignments and projects. The ability to review and revise their work based on feedback will be an essential tool for success in school, especially in writing-intensive subjects. Additionally, practicing presenting their stories will enhance their public speaking abilities, boosting their confidence in class presentations and future speaking engagements. Ready to Write & Shine? Sign up today for this unique summer camp and watch your child’s creativity flourish in a supportive, fun, and educational environment!

Ultimate 3-Week Public Speaking & Creativity Summer Program for Rising 5th-8th Graders! Join us at our brand-new CENTER in Reston, VA, for an unforgettable summer filled with confidence-building, creativity, laughter and communication! Over three weeks, students will dive into public speaking, creative writing, debate, entrepreneurship, improv, and more! Whether your child wants to strengthen their voice, unleash their imagination, or sharpen their persuasion skills, this program has something for everyone! Week 1 (July 21-25): Public Speaking & Creative Writing AM Session: Ultimate Public Speaking Program • Master the art of confident public speaking through engaging lessons and interactive activities with plenty of practice and individualized feedback. • Learn persuasive speech, storytelling, and impromptu speaking skills. • Gain essential communication techniques for school, social settings, and future careers. PM Session: Write & Rock! Creative Writing Coolness • Explore character development, world-building, and storytelling techniques. • Build confidence in writing and presenting original works. • Engage in interactive exercises that blend writing with public speaking skills. Week 2 (July 28-August 1): Advanced Public Speaking & Debate AM Session: Public Speaking Mastery – Debate & Persuasive Speaking • Develop structured arguments and think critically in engaging debates. • Learn persuasive techniques and refine delivery through real-time feedback. • Strengthen confidence in class discussions, leadership roles, and social settings. PM Session: Expression Explosion! Readers Theater, Monologues & Improv • Develop confidence and creativity through theater-based activities. • Perform in Readers Theater, monologues, and improv games. • Strengthen speaking and quick-thinking skills in a supportive environment. Week 3 (August 4-8): STEAM Innovation & Theatrical Expression AM Session: STEAM Tank – Innovate, Speak & Pitch Like a Pro! • Inspired by Shark Tank, campers will create, brand, and pitch a business or product idea. • Learn persuasive speaking, marketing, and intellectual property basics. • Participate in a high-energy pitch showcase judged by real professionals! PM Session: Comedy Camp! Stand-Up & Stand Out! Get ready to write, perform, and bring the laughs in this fun and interactive comedy camp for rising 5th-8th graders! Stand-up comedy is one of the most challenging—but also most FUN—forms of public speaking, and this camp will help young comedians build the skills they need to craft clever (and age-appropriate) jokes, develop their own comedic style, deliver punchlines, and stand up on the comedic stage with confidence! Over 10 hours of hands-on learning, campers will: 🎤 Discover the art of writing humor – from wordplay to storytelling to perfecting comedic timing. 😂 Create their own jokes & stand-up routines – developing material that fits their unique style and personality. 👀 Receive peer and instructor feedback – refining their work through fun, supportive critique. 🎭 Perform their original stand-up sets – putting their skills to the test in a final comedy showcase! Daily Schedule for All Camps: 9:30 – 10:00 AM – Early Drop-Off (Extra Fee – Please Add to Your Registration) 10:00 – 11:30 AM – Morning Session Part 1 11:30 – 11:50 AM – Snack & Socialization/Activity Time 11:50 AM – 1:00 PM – Practice/Activity/Feedback Time 1:00 – 1:45 PM – Lunch & Quiet Activity (Drop-Off for PM Students) 1:45 – 2:00 PM – Warm-Up & Icebreakers 2:00 – 4:00 PM – Lessons, Practice, & Feedback 4:00 – 4:30 PM – Wind Down & Parent Pick-Up Why Choose This Program? ✔️ Designed for middle schoolers to develop real-world confidence and communication skills. ✔️ Taught by expert instructors, including Sumedha Bahri, Patent Attorney, Professor, Speaker & Stand-Up Comic! ✔️ Hands-on, engaging activities with daily practice and personalized feedback. ✔️ Small class sizes for individual attention and maximum participation. ✔️ A fun, supportive environment where students learn while having a blast! Don’t miss out—spots fill up fast! Secure your child’s place in the Ultimate 3-Week Public Speaking & Creativity Summer Program today!

Ultimate 3-Week Creative Writing + Readers’ Theatre and Improv + Comedy Writing and Performance (PM Program) PM Session Daily Schedule: 1:00 – 1:45 PM – Lunch & Quiet Activity (Drop-Off for PM Students) 1:45 – 2:00 PM – Warm-Up & Icebreakers 2:00 – 4:00 PM – Lessons, Practice, & Feedback 4:00 – 4:30 PM – Wind Down & Parent Pick-Up Week 1 (July 21-25): Write & Rock! Creative Writing Coolness • Explore character development, world-building, and storytelling techniques. • Build confidence in writing and presenting original works. • Engage in interactive exercises that blend writing with public speaking skills. Week 2 (July 28-August 1): Expression Explosion! Readers Theater, Monologues & Improv • Develop confidence and creativity through theater-based activities. • Perform in Readers Theater, monologues, and improv games. • Strengthen speaking and fun, quick-thinking skills in a supportive environment. Week 3 (August 4-8): Comedy Camp! Stand-Up & Stand Out! Get ready to write, perform, and bring the laughs in this fun and interactive comedy camp for rising 5th-8th graders! Stand-up comedy is one of the most challenging—but also most FUN—forms of public speaking, and this camp will help young comedians build the skills they need to craft clever (and age-appropriate) jokes, develop their own comedic style, deliver punchlines, and stand up on the comedic stage with confidence! Over 10 hours of hands-on learning, campers will: 🎤 Discover the art of writing humor – from wordplay to storytelling to perfecting comedic timing. 😂 Create their own jokes & stand-up routines – developing material that fits their unique style and personality. 👀 Receive peer and instructor feedback – refining their work through fun, supportive critique. 🎭 Perform their original stand-up sets – putting their skills to the test in a final comedy showcase! Why Choose This Program? ✔️ Designed for middle schoolers to develop real-world confidence and communication skills through incredible fun and creative courses! ✔️ Taught by expert instructors, including Sumedha Bahri, Patent Attorney, Professor, Speaker & Stand-Up Comic! ✔️ Hands-on, engaging activities with daily practice and personalized feedback. ✔️ Small class sizes for individual attention and maximum participation. ✔️ A fun, supportive environment where students learn while having a blast! Don’t miss out—spots fill up fast! Secure your child’s place in the Ultimate 3-Week PM Ultimate Writer and Performer Pack!

High School Public Speaking Weekend Bootcamp Join us for a fun, high-energy weekend bootcamp designed to help high school students become confident, clear, and engaging speakers! Whether you're prepping for class presentations, student leadership, or college interviews, this bootcamp will give you the tools to speak up and stand out. Over two interactive sessions, students will learn the fundamentals of public speaking, including how to structure their thoughts, write compelling content, and deliver with confidence. We’ll explore a variety of speaking formats—persuasive, storytelling, debate, and impromptu—while keeping the atmosphere encouraging and collaborative. With a balance of writing and speaking exercises, students will improve their communication on the page and on the stage. The weekend includes plenty of individualized instructor coaching and peer feedback, so each student walks away with tangible growth and renewed confidence. This bootcamp is not only about skills—it’s about connection. Students will build friendships, practice social confidence, and have a blast while they learn. Bootcamp Agenda Day 1 – Foundations & Expression Welcome & Icebreakers - Fun speaking warm-ups to build comfort and group connection - Set personal speaking goals for the weekend The Building Blocks of Public Speaking - Learn to use voice, body language, and pacing with confidence - What makes a speaker memorable? Structure & Clarity - Organize thoughts clearly and effectively - Practice mini speech outlines - Share and receive peer feedback Break (20 minutes) Impromptu Speaking Practice - Think on your feet with fun prompts and games - Build confidence with instructor and peer feedback - Daily Wrap-Up & Reflection - Reflect on what you’ve learned Preview Day 2 Day 2 – Crafting & Performing Warm-Up & Speaking Game - Energizing group activity to get everyone talking and collaborating Writing for Impact - Craft powerful openings, closings, and use of storytelling - Learn persuasive techniques to strengthen your message Speech Craft - Choose a format (persuasive, storytelling, or debate-style) - Draft your own short speech with individual support Break (20 minutes) Coaching & Practice Rounds - Practice speeches in small groups - Receive targeted instructor coaching and peer feedback - Strengthen both writing and performance Closing Reflection & Optional Mini Showcase -Share final takeaways Optional: Present your final speech in a mini showcase Celebrate growth and build lasting confidence

STEAM Tank: Innovate, Speak & Pitch Like a Pro! 💡 For Rising 5th-8th Graders | 5-Day Camp | 3 Hours Per Day Inspired by Shark Tank, this high-energy, hands-on camp blends STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) with public speaking and entrepreneurship! Whether you’re a beginner exploring innovation for the first time or an aspiring entrepreneur ready to bring your ideas to life, this camp will challenge you to think creatively, solve real-world problems, and pitch your ideas with confidence! What You’ll Learn & Do: ✅ Use STEAM to Solve Real-World Problems – Apply science, tech, engineering, art, and math to design creative solutions. ✅ Develop a Business or Product Idea – Brainstorm, prototype, and refine an innovative product or service. ✅ Master Public Speaking & Persuasion – Use voice, body language, and storytelling to deliver a powerful pitch. ✅ Learn Marketing & Branding – Create logos, ads, and persuasive messaging to attract customers. ✅ Create Visual & Digital Presentations – Use posters, models, and digital tools to showcase your brand. ✅ Learn Key Laws on How to Protect Your Business through Intellectual Property! – Understand trademarks, copyrights, and patents to safeguard your ideas. ✅ Pitch to Real Judges! – Present your final project in front of a panel of experienced judges on the last day. Public Speaking + STEAM = The Ultimate Entrepreneurial Skillset! 💬 Learn to: ✔️ Think like an engineer by designing creative solutions for everyday challenges. ✔️ Use technology & math to plan, budget, and improve your business idea. ✔️ Develop artistic & storytelling skills to make your brand memorable. ✔️ Confidently present and defend your ideas with strong public speaking skills. ✔️ Protect your business by understanding basic intellectual property laws. Daily Schedule Breakdown 🔹 Part 1 (First 90 Minutes) STEAM Warm-Up Challenge – Quick hands-on discussions or games to spark creativity & problem-solving. Lesson of the Day – Explore topics like entrepreneurship, innovation, marketing, intellectual property, and persuasive speaking. Case Study & Real-World Examples – Analyze successful STEAM-based businesses and inventions. 🍎 20-Minute Snack & Social Break 🔹 Part 2 (Last 90 Minutes) Hands-On STEAM Challenge! – Work solo or in teams to prototype a solution to a real-world problem. Creative Time – Develop branding materials, create visual prototypes, and practice pitching. Mini-Presentations & Feedback – Get real-time coaching to refine your pitch and product. 🎉 Final Shark Tank Pitch Day! – Compete in a high-energy pitch competition where you present to a panel of judges! Led by Instructor: Sumedha Bahri 👩‍🏫 Patent Attorney | Engineer | Expert Speaker | Founder of Highest Speak With a background in law, engineering, and public speaking, Sumedha brings real-world expertise in entrepreneurship, innovation, and persuasive communication. She will mentor campers in developing strong business ideas, building confidence, and mastering the art of the pitch! No matter your experience level, you’ll leave inspired, more confident, and ready to take on the world with your creative ideas! 🚀🦈

**MUST BE RISING GRADES 5-8! No Exceptions! Ultimate Public Speaking Summer Program for Rising 5th-8th Graders in Northern VA/DMV Area! Get ready for an EPIC summer at our brand-new CENTER in Reston, VA! Join us for the Ultimate Public Speaking Summer Program, where your child will boost their confidence, learn key speaking skills, and have a ton of fun in the process! Public speaking is essential for success in school, making new friends, and even preparing for future careers. For middle schoolers, mastering public speaking now is the perfect way to gain the confidence needed for class presentations, group discussions, and social situations. In this 5-day, 3-hour per day program, we’ll teach your child how to speak confidently and effectively in any situation. Here’s what we’ll cover: Performing like a pro in any public speaking situation! How to conquer nerves and speak confidently in front of others! The secrets to organizing a powerful and effective speech! The basics of Persuasive Speech, Storytelling, and Impromptu Speaking! A beginner’s intro to Debate—think fast, speak well! Each day is packed with fun, interactive activities and lots of opportunities for practice! Here’s how the day will break down: Part I (1-1.5 hours): Icebreaker activities to help everyone feel comfortable A lesson packed with practical tips for the day Practice through games and group activities that make learning fun! BREAK (15 minutes): Time to grab a snack and drink! Part II: Individualized Feedback: Your child will have a chance to practice and get specific feedback on their performance! Multiple Practice Opportunities: Students will practice several times in smaller groups to really make sure they understand and can apply the feedback they’ve received. More interactive games and activities to help reinforce the lesson Wrap-up to reflect on the day and discuss key takeaways for improvement Bonus: There will ALWAYS be two instructors leading the program, including Sumedha Bahri, the founder of Highest Speak (she’s a Patent Attorney, Adjunct Professor, Keynote Speaker, and Stand-Up Comic!), plus one of our other super fun and talented instructors! Why is this so important for middle schoolers? Middle school is a time when students are starting to speak up more in class, participate in group projects, and face more challenging academic situations. Public speaking skills will help your child gain the confidence they need to express themselves clearly, think critically, and speak up in any situation—whether for a class project, school debate, or even in social situations. Plus, they’ll learn how to think on their feet and craft arguments that are persuasive—skills that will be useful throughout their school years and beyond! This program WILL sell out FAST, so make sure to reserve your spot TODAY! Your kids will not only learn an important life skill, but they’ll also have an absolute blast doing it! No experience necessary! Whether it’s your child’s first time or they’ve been with us before, they’ll have a fresh and exciting experience with new exercises and games! Don’t miss out—this is the summer program they’ll never forget!

"Write & Rock! Creative Writing Coolness!" - Summer Camp at Highest Speak (Rising Grades 5-8) This summer, Write and Rock is the perfect camp for rising 5th to 8th graders who love to write and want to build their confidence in speaking! Over 5 exciting days, you’ll explore your creativity, learn to craft amazing characters, develop incredible story settings, and practice the art of creative writing. Plus, you’ll have the chance to present your work, practice public speaking, and get feedback to help you improve. Whether you're looking to become a better writer for school or just want to unleash your imagination in a fun, supportive space, this camp is for you! Camp Schedule: 1:00-1:45 PM – Lunch Break/Quiet Activity Take some time to eat, relax with a quiet activity like reading, drawing, or "quiet" socialization with friends before we dive into the afternoon session. Afternoon only students can either choose to bring lunch to camp or arrive by 1:45pm after lunch time is done. Daily Schedule 1:45-2:00 PM – Circle Up We’ll gather in a circle to get to know each other, talk about our writing goals, and get ready for the fun lessons ahead. You’ll have a chance to share your ideas and get inspired by others! 2:00-4:00 PM – Class Time Each day will be packed with a creative writing lesson, a hands-on activity to apply what you’ve learned, and an opportunity to present your work. You’ll receive valuable feedback on both your writing and public speaking skills. 4:00-4:30pm - Wind Down and Parent Pick-Up Students can wind down with a quiet game or activity and wait for parent pick-up. Constructive Feedback Each day, you’ll receive helpful feedback from your instructors and classmates. This feedback will guide you in refining your writing and boosting your public speaking skills. By the end of the camp, you’ll be ready to write and present with more confidence, whether it’s for school projects, creative writing contests, or just for fun!

Social Skill Class for High Schoolers! (MUST be Rising Grades 9-12!) Boost confidence. Spark conversations. Connect with ease. Have FUN! Meeting new people can be exciting — and let’s be honest — a little nerve-wracking too. That’s why this lively, hands-on class is all about helping teens become more confident, natural conversationalists who know how to connect, listen, and really engage. Led by Instructor, Britney Mason, FCPS Guidance Counselor (M.S Counselor Education) each week is filled with fun, interactive learning and real-life practice designed to build the social muscles that matter most: how to start conversations, keep them going, navigate tricky moments, and walk away feeling proud of how they showed up. Whether your teen wants to break out of their shell or fine-tune their communication skills, this class will get them talking, laughing, and connecting with confidence. Here’s what we’ll explore: 🗣 First Impressions & Body Language Teens learn how posture, tone, and eye contact shape the way others see them — and how to lead with confidence before they even say a word. 💬 Starting & Maintaining Conversations We teach the go-to strategies for making small talk less awkward and more fun — so conversations with new people feel easy, natural, and rewarding. 💖 Emotional Intelligence & Empathy Understanding emotions — in themselves and others — helps teens build stronger, more meaningful connections. ⚖️ Handling Conflict & Peer Pressure We give teens practical tools to stay calm, assertive, and true to themselves in tough social moments — from disagreements to peer pressure. 🌟 Social Confidence & Celebration The final week brings everything together, reinforcing self-awareness, self-expression, and the power of being authentically themselves. At Highest Speak, we help teens build daily positive communication habits that stick. Our goal is simple: to make social skills fun, energizing, and practical — so your teen walks away ready to thrive in school, friendships, and life. Let’s help them step into every new conversation with ease, energy, and authentic confidence!

**MUST BE RISING GRADES 2-4! No exceptions! Northern VA/DMV Area! We are back for the Ultimate IN-PERSON Summer Program for your kids in our incredible new CENTER in Reston, VA! Public speaking skills are absolutely ESSENTIAL to academia, future career success, and to simply making friends or standing up for yourself! In this 5 day, 3-hours per day program, we will have a TON of fun covering: - How to best PERFORM in ANY type of public speaking situation! - How to conquer any level of NERVOUSNESS! - How to STRUCTURE any type of speech! - The Fundamentals of Persuasive Speech, Storytelling, and Impromptu Speech! - Intro to Debate Concepts! Every day, the students will have multiple opportunities to practice what WE preach and receive feedback! Our 3-Hour day is broken into: Part I (1-1.5 hours) - Ice Breaker Activity - Lesson for the day - Practice through Game or Structured Assignment in Breakout Sessions! BREAK (15 minutes: Please bring a drink and snack.) Part II: Group Discussion of Previous Exercise/Lessons Lesson Cont. Practice through Games or Structured Assignment in Breakout Sessions! Receive individualized feedback and practice to capture it! Wrap-Up We ALWAYS have two instructors! For this one, Highest Speak’s founder herself, Sumedha Bahri (Patent Attorney, Adjunct Professor, Keynote Speaker, and Stand-Up Comic) will be instructing along with one of Highest Speak’s amazingly fun instructors! This WILL sell out FAST! Reserve your spot TODAY! This is the greatest skill you can give your kids, while they have an absolute blast! ***NO prerequisites necessary! Previous and New Students will ALL benefit from this program! Our exercises differ from previous camp years, so previous students will still have a new experience!

Ultimate 3-Week AM Public Speaking & Creativity Bundle (Rising 5th-8th Graders) Boost confidence, creativity, and communication skills in a fun, supportive environment! This engaging bundle helps students express themselves, think on their feet, and strengthen their public speaking abilities—while having an absolute blast! Plenty of individualized feedback ensures every student improves in a way that works best for them. Daily AM Schedule: 9:30 – 10:00 AM – Early Drop-Off (Optional, extra fee applies) 10:00 – 11:30 AM – Morning Session Part 1 11:30 – 11:50 AM – Snack & Socialization Activity 11:50 – 1:00 PM – Practice, Activity, & Individualized Feedback Week 1 (July 21-25): Public Speaking & Writing Bootcamp! - Learn different forms of public speaking: ✔ Impromptu Speaking – Thinking quickly and structuring responses on the spot. ✔ Persuasive Speaking – Convincing an audience with strong, well-structured arguments. ✔ Storytelling & Narrative Speaking – Using vivid language and structure to engage listeners. - Writing & Structuring Different Types of Speeches – Craft compelling narratives, persuasive arguments, and well-organized presentations. - Build confidence in delivery, voice modulation, and stage presence through hands-on practice. - Plenty of individualized feedback to refine writing and speaking skills. Week 2 (July 28-August 1): The Great Debate – Fundamentals of Debate - Learn the foundations of argumentation, logical reasoning, and public speaking in debate. - Explore different debate formats, judging criteria, and argument structures. - Gain hands-on experience through mock debates on engaging topics. - Open to both beginners and experienced debaters looking to sharpen their skills. - Led by Aaron Trujillo, PhD Candidate at GMU and Expert Debate Coach. Plenty of individualized feedback to improve clarity, structure, and strategic thinking. Week 3 (July 28-August 1): STEAM Tank – Public Speaking & Entrepreneurship - Inspired by Shark Tank, campers create, brand, and present their own business or product idea. - Develop public speaking and persuasive communication skills to confidently showcase ideas. - Learn branding, storytelling, and the basics of entrepreneurship in a fun, creative setting. - No competition—just an exciting showcase where students present to real professionals and get positive feedback! - One-on-one coaching helps each student refine their pitch and delivery. Why Choose the AM Session Bundle? ✔️ Three weeks of engaging, hands-on learning in public speaking, creativity, and persuasion. ✔️ Plenty of individualized feedback to help each child improve in their own way. ✔️ Taught by expert instructors, including Sumedha Bahri – Patent Attorney, Professor, Speaker & Stand-Up Comic! ✔️ Small class sizes for tons of participation and personal attention. ✔️ Super fun programs designed to make public speaking exciting, creative, and confidence-boosting! 🔥 Limited Spots Available – Secure Your Child’s Place Today! 🔥

Impromptu Speaking & College Interview Boot Camp For High School Students Saturday & Sunday | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Looking to nail that college interview, build unshakable confidence, and speak like a pro—all while having a blast? This high-energy weekend boot camp is designed for high school students who want to think on their feet, speak with clarity, and shine in any situation—whether it’s an interview, a class discussion, or just day-to-day conversations. Through interactive games, group challenges, and fun, fast-paced activities, students will learn how to craft strong, spontaneous responses and speak with presence, purpose, and personality. Saturday: Speak Up, Think Fast We’ll kick things off with: Fun games and warm-ups to break the ice and get comfortable Strategies to overcome speech anxiety and find your voice Quick-thinking structures for answering any kind of question—academic, social, or professional Tips to make any impromptu speech engaging and impactful Lots of chances to practice in a supportive, lively environment Sunday: Spotlight on You Now we bring it all together and apply those skills where they matter most: College interviews, job interviews, and academic Q&A prep How to talk about your accomplishments and goals authentically and confidently Real-time practice with feedback to help you sharpen your answers Focus on content, structure, and delivery—with your unique personality front and center This boot camp is perfect for students who want to build real-world speaking skills while having tons of fun. Whether you're prepping for an interview or just want to walk into any room with more confidence, you’ll leave feeling empowered and ready for anything. Confidence. Clarity. Charisma. And a whole lot of fun. Let’s unlock it all—one impromptu moment at a time!

Middle School Social Skills Class: Talk, Laugh, Connect! * (MUST be RISING Grades 6-8!) Boost confidence. Make new friends. Have fun while learning how to really connect! Starting conversations and making friends can be exciting — and yeah, sometimes a little awkward. That’s why this fun, interactive class is designed just for middle schoolers who want to feel more confident talking to others, handling tricky social moments, and being their awesome selves. Led by Britney Mason, an FCPS Guidance Counselor with a Master’s in Counselor Education, each session is packed with energy, games, and real-life practice. Students will build the “people skills” that matter most — from saying hi without feeling shy to handling peer pressure and everything in between. Whether your child is outgoing or on the quieter side, this class gives them tools to: Start conversations without overthinking it Keep chats going and avoid awkward silences Read body language and show confidence Handle social stress like peer pressure or drama Understand emotions (their own + others’) to build stronger friendships Here's What We'll Explore: 🧍‍♂️ First Impressions & Body Language How to show confidence with posture, tone, and eye contact — before even saying a word. 🗨️ Starting & Keeping Conversations Going Fun ways to break the ice, stay relaxed, and keep the convo flowing naturally. 💡 Feelings & Friendships Why emotions matter — and how understanding them helps build real connections. 🛑 Handling Conflict & Peer Pressure Tips for staying calm, speaking up, and being true to yourself in tough moments. 🎉 Confidence & Celebration Bringing it all together so students leave feeling proud, confident, and ready to shine. At Highest Speak, we believe social skills should feel fun — not forced. Our mission is to help kids build positive communication habits that stick with them for life. Let’s help your middle schooler walk into every new conversation with ease, energy, and confidence!

Summer Camp Intro to Model UN (Rising Grades 9-12 ONLY) ! Based on popular demand, we are THRILLED to introduce our NEWEST summer camp evening class for High Schoolers! We have developed a 12-class hour, in-person evening camp that simplifies the principles of debate for newer high school diplomats and also makes it as FUN as possible! In our classes, we will cover: Public Speaking Research Diplomacy Debate Parliamentary Procedures All students will participate in various games/activities to allow them to understand and develop their diplomacy skills. As usual, ALL classes (with more than 8 students) are taught by two instructors to ensure that all students receive plenty of individualized attention and feedback. Short take-home assignments may be given. Students are expected to complete them in order to gain the most from this class! Day 1 Introduction to Model UN and Research Day 2 Understanding Debate and Committees Day 3 Negotiation Skills Day 4 Resolution Writing and Voting Day 5 Voting and Practice Simulation Day 6 Full Simulation (Parents are invited!) Start your Fall ready with new knowledge and experience that no other event teaches. By participating in Model United Nations, students learn: What are the biggest challenges facing the world today How to be more self-confident, especially with public speaking How to interact with other people who come from different backgrounds and perspectives How to work as a team to achieve shared goals How to take action to solve problems, on a local, national, and global scale ** This is very limited size group led by Model UN and Debate expert and PhD Candidate, Aaron Trujillo. He has coached multiple Model UN sessions as well as debate winners internationally!