The children at Stepping Stones School celebrated their first holiday season in their new school building, and put a fresh spin on familiar school traditions.

The annual holiday party on December 12 welcomed families of the children in the Early Intervention and school programs, and included a holiday music dance party, refreshments, gifts from the Candle Lighters, and a visit from Santa himself!

On December 17, students from The Deron School of New Jersey visited Stepping Stones for their annual collaboration. The Deron students helped guide the Stepping Stones children as they completed a wooden snowman craft together. The day also featured a bowling game and coloring time together.

On December 19, Officers Stacy Chiarolanza and Chris Niemiec from the Fairfield Police Department delivered gifts to each of the children at Stepping Stones School through their Toys for Tots program. From Barbies to racecars, each gift was received with a joyful smile, and The Arc of Essex County thanks the FPD for taking the time to give the children such a magical afternoon.

Throughout the month, the students have been learning about different December holidays, including Hanukkah, Las Posadas, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve. They completed art projects, decorated cookies, mailed wish lists, listened to stories, and played games related to the holidays. They also decorated their classrooms and school bulletin boards to add festive touches throughout the building.

During the last week before holiday break, the children participated in a series of spirit days. On Friday December 20, the children were also treated to a special lunch, and they wore party hats to ring in the new year a little early with a countdown and “happy new year!” chants.

The Arc of Essex County’s Stepping Stones School is a Department of Education approved private school for students with disabilities. Located in Fairfield, NJ, the school is designed to meet the developmental and educational needs of children with cognitive impairments such as Down syndrome and other students with similar educational and developmental needs. For more information, or to request a virtual tour and assistance with an out-of-district placement, contact Robin Moses, Director of Early Childhood and Education at (862) 210-8781 or [email protected].