Stepping Stones School is in full swing with its six-week Extended School Year (ESY) program, designed to support continued learning and development through the summer months.

The school’s theme this summer is “Amusement Parks,” with the children learning about different types of amusement parks, how the rides move (fast or slow, around, up or down, etc.), and what games and food they might see at the parks.

Each week the classrooms have focused on a different theme park and incorporated it into lessons and activities. Parks in July include Hersheypark, Legoland, and Sesame Place; in August, they will focus on Universal Studios and Disney World. Every Friday the whole school comes together for “Team Time,” where they gather to complete activities related to that week’s park.

Another highlight of the ESY experience is water play, which brings sensory exploration to the school’s outdoor playground through a variety of water-based activities.

ESY is also an opportunity for the students who have graduated up a level to get acquainted with their new classrooms. These transitions are thoughtfully supported by staff to help students adjust smoothly and confidently as they grow.

Whether enjoying amusement park lessons, splashing in water play, or exploring new classroom routines, the ESY program at Stepping Stones continues to be a cornerstone of summer success for its students.

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 rmoses@arcessex.org.