Designed for Every Age Group
While all students participate in the same weekly themes, activities are intentionally adapted by age level to ensure every child feels supported, challenged, and confident.
Throughout the program, students work toward a fun and supportive end-of-session “NextWave Showcase,” where each group presents ideas and projects developed during the academy. Presentations are age-appropriate and focused on learning, creativity, and confidence — not pressure or competition.
The NextWave Showcase Experience
At the end of the program, families are invited to attend the NextWave Showcase — a fun and supportive event where students present ideas, projects, and skills developed throughout the academy.
Inspired by a “Shark Tank–style” format, students work individually or in teams to share creative business ideas, problem-solving projects, or leadership challenges they have explored during the program.
Presentations are fully age-appropriate:
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Younger students focus on sharing ideas and building confidence speaking in front of others.
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Middle grades present collaborative projects demonstrating teamwork and creativity.
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Older students deliver more structured presentations that develop leadership and real-world communication skills.
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The goal is not competition, but confidence.
The Showcase celebrates growth, effort, and creativity — giving students a memorable opportunity to feel proud of what they accomplished.
For many families, this becomes a highlight of the summer as students demonstrate new confidence, communication skills, and independence.
The NextWave Experience by Age
Students grow through progressive stages designed to build confidence, independence, and leadership over time.
Explorers (Entering K–2)
Learning Through Play & Discovery
Younger students are introduced to leadership and money concepts through games, storytelling, movement, and hands-on activities designed to build confidence.
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Examples include:
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Interactive money and teamwork games
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Creative building and design projects
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Guided group discussions and collaborative play
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Structured athletics focused on coordination and teamwork​
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For the NextWave Showcase, younger students present simple ideas or team creations with instructor support, helping them practice speaking, sharing ideas, and celebrating their work.
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Primary Focus: confidence, participation, social development, and communication.
Builders (Entering Grades 3–5)
Applying Ideas & Working in Teams
Students begin applying financial literacy and leadership concepts through collaborative challenges and problem-solving activities.
Examples include:
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Budgeting and earning simulations
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Team business and creativity challenges
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Branding and marketing activities
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Leadership rotations and group decision-making
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During the NextWave Showcase, students present team projects that demonstrate their ideas, creativity, and teamwork in a fun and encouraging environment.
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Primary Focus: independence, teamwork, responsibility, and communication skills.
Leaders (Entering Grades 6–8)
Real-World Thinking & Leadership Development
Older students take greater ownership of projects while developing leadership, strategic thinking, and presentation skills.
Examples include:
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Entrepreneurship and business development projects
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Investment and decision-making simulations
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Strategy challenges and leadership exercises
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Mentorship opportunities within group activities
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For the NextWave Showcase, students deliver more structured presentations inspired by a Shark Tank–style format, building confidence in public speaking, collaboration, and real-world communication.
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Primary Focus: leadership, confidence, critical thinking, and presentation skills.
All students participate in the final NextWave Showcase presentation.