The Spotlight Program

The Spotlight Program is a drama-based social pragmatics program that fosters the development of social-emotional competence and confidence. Our program provides an array of opportunities and therapeutic services for youth ages 6-22 who struggle to navigate the social world. This includes youth with Asperger's Syndrome, PDD-NOS, High Functioning Autism, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders and other related diagnoses. Spotlight utilizes a unique, three-part model to facilitate social growth.

· Developing trust and alliance between participants and staff to create safe, positive and fun relationships.

· Using drama, theater and improv activities to provide a context for experiential social pragmatic learning.

· Creating strong, intrinsic motivation by incorporating participants' special interests into group activities.

The Spotlight Program is dedicated to the empowerment of youth and their families by responding to their evolving needs with specialized and enriched social programming.

We offer six-week summer programs for the following groups:

Social Scenes

Social Scenes are therapeutic, drama-based social pragmatics groups for youth ages 9-22 with social-emotional challenges. In addition to the intensive practice of social skills though drama and improvisation, participants also produce a short film with fellow group members and participate in activities such as special interest clubs, swimming and weekly field trips.

We will be holding Social Scenes groups at two sites. Groups for students aged 9-13 will be held at The Northeast Arc, 6 Southside Road, Danvers, MA 01923. Groups for students aged 12-22 will be held at First Baptist Church, 221 Cabot St. Beverly, MA 01915. For families with children ages 12-13, please note that once we have formed our groups we will be in touch regarding your child’s group location.

On Cue

On Cue groups encourage children ages 6-9 to learn and practice social skills in an activities-based setting, facilitating interaction and play amongst peers and counselors.

The curriculum includes movement and rhythm-based activities, field trips and swimming, in addition to group games and social stories.

Next Stage

Next Stage groups, for teens and young adults ages 14-22 transitioning into adulthood, address skills such as independence, self awareness, identity, community living, dating and relationships, education, employment and more.

Groups incorporate community field trips, guest speakers and support groups into the curriculum, in addition to improvisation games, role plays and group discussion.

Camp Focus

Arts Camps: Performing Arts

Special Needs Camps: Aspergers

Special Needs Camps: Autism

Special Needs Camps: Learning Disabilities and ADHD

All Activities