As students at The Arc of Essex County’s Stepping Stones School enjoy another summer of learning, they’re also making plenty of time for fun during the school’s six-week Extended School Year (ESY) program.

Every Friday, the entire school comes together for “Team Time,” a special schoolwide event tied to that week’s theme. One recent favorite transformed the school into a World Cup celebration, complete with soccer-inspired games and activities that encouraged teamwork, movement, and lots of cheering. The World Cup was also an inspiration for a variety of soccer-themed sensory activities and educational lessons during the summer.

Water play has once again become a favorite part of the schedule, giving students the chance to cool off outdoors while enjoying sensory exploration and active play with their classmates.

ESY also provides an important opportunity for students who have moved up to a new classroom to become familiar with new teachers, classmates, and routines before the regular school year begins. Staff work closely with each child to ensure those transitions are smooth, comfortable, and successful.

Whether they’re learning new ideas, splashing during water play, or building friendships through Friday Team Time, Stepping Stones students are making the most of summer together.

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.