The 2024-2025 season of Communi-Play has come to an end, leaving families and young participants with wonderful memories and valuable skills. This program, designed for children ages 2.5 to 5 and offered at no charge to Arc families, focused on building communication and conversation skills such as listening, eye contact, body language, and gestures. Held at Studio Arc in Fairfield, it offered two classes each month, from September to June, totaling 20 Saturday morning sessions. A standout feature of Communi-Play was its emphasis on parent involvement, creating a supportive space for children to grow with their families by their side, and parents to practice the tools and techniques to help their child build communication skills.

Led by Jaquetta Perry-Boyd (affectionately known as “Mrs. J”), a speech-language specialist with over 20 years of experience, the program saw participation grow steadily over the months, welcoming as many as 13 families at a session. Children enjoyed a safe and engaging environment, building confidence and making friends through play. As families look forward to the next season starting in September, Communi-Play remains an example of how thoughtful guidance and playful learning can help shape a bright future for young learners.

To learn more about The Arc of Essex County’s Children’s Programming, click here or contact Toshonda Johnson-Hall at 973-535-1181 ext. 1275 or tjohnson-hall@arcessex.org. To learn more about the Communi-Play program, email Christina Hernandez at shapiro@arcessex.org.