Members Only Early Bird Registration: February 9 - 17, 2026
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The Teen Leadership Core (TLC) is exclusively for teens (ages 12-18) attending Convention. It combines the richness of quality workshops, the fulfillment and camaraderie built through volunteer service, and the sheer fun of games and team activities. The beauty of the TLC program is that everyone wins. Everyone gets something they love out of it.

This year we're excited to introduce Stoa, who will be heading up the workshops and activities portion of the TLC.

Workshops and Activities presented by Stoa

Communication Skills for Life

Teen Leadership Core volunteers at service table

The ability to speak well and think clearly opens doors—in college, careers, relationships, and community leadership. Whether you're presenting an idea, navigating a job interview, or simply having a meaningful conversation, strong communication skills set you apart.

Join Stoa Christian Homeschool Speech & Debate for an engaging introduction to the skills that have transformed thousands of homeschool students into confident, articulate communicators. In this beginner-friendly seminar, you'll get hands-on experience with the fundamentals of public speaking and learn how to organize your thoughts, express your ideas clearly, and even engage in basic debate.

No prior experience? No problem. This workshop is designed for students who are just getting started or who are simply curious about what speech and debate is all about. If you do have experience, it will be a great chance to hone your skills. You'll be encouraged, coached, and cheered on in a supportive environment where it's okay to be nervous and okay to make mistakes. That's how we all learn!

Come discover what thousands of homeschool families across the country already know: when you invest in your voice, you invest in your future. We can't wait to meet you.

Everyone participating will get their own TLC t-shirt to wear throughout the Convention. Teens who register will be divided into two groups. One group will serve during Sessions I & III and attend the special teen sessions in Sessions II & IV, and the second group will attend the special teen sessions during Sessions II & IV and serve in Sessions I & III. Many families and teens alike rave about this program.

After you register your teen, you will receive a link to a form to fill out their preferences for the types of service they would like to experience. We also have some additional opportunities on Friday morning and Saturday evening.

All participants will receive a certificate for the total number of hours they serve throughout the Convention, including any additional hours they contribute. Great for high school transcripts and college and job applications.

Teen Leadership Core is an experience like no other. Your teen will love it!

Teen Leadership Core volunteers at convention

Registration Information

Teen Con is available on Friday and Saturday for students ages 12-18. Registration is just $75 for both days (single day registration is not available) for members ($80 for non-members) and includes the exclusive TLC t-shirt.

Program Schedule

Friday

  • 12:30 - 1:00 p.m.

    Group Kickoff Session

  • 1:00 - 3:30 p.m.

    Session I

  • 3:30 - 6:00 p.m.

    Session II

Saturday

  • 8:15 a.m. - 12:40 p.m.

    Session III

  • 12:40 - 1:45 p.m.

    Lunch Break (on own)

  • 1:45 - 5:55 p.m.

    Session IV

  • 5:55 - 6:15 p.m.

    Group Closing Session

Teen Con Guidelines

Only teens (ages 12-18) registered for Teen Con are permitted in the teen workshops. At other times of the day, teens may attend sessions and visit the Exhibit Hall. CHEA will provide volunteer adult chaperones for Teen Con; however parents are responsible for their teen's safety and behavior during the Convention. We recommend that parents and teens read over the Convention materials together and arrange meeting times and locations. In consideration of all in attendance, we request teens follow these basic guidelines:

For Teens

  • Wear modest, casual clothing.
  • Remain seated during the sessions.
  • Do not loiter outside the rooms during sessions.
  • Be attentive to the speaker.
  • Turn cell phones to vibrate.
  • Please do not use your cell phone during the sessions. If you must take a call from your parents, please step outside.

For Parents

  • Review your program schedule with your teen so you can be found if needed.
  • If possible, have lunch together.
  • Teens will wear one wristband for the two days (there is no one-day Teen Con registration).
  • Wristbands will be included in the parents' packet at check-in.