Crossroads Monthly Newsletter

Dear Crossroads Community,

As we reflect on December, it’s incredible to see how much we accomplished during this action-packed month! Our monthly themes of Kindness and Patience and the district’s year-long theme of Let Every Voice Empower have guided us in creating meaningful experiences that encourage compassion, understanding, and inclusivity.

One of the main highlights of the month was the elementary school’s trip to Lifetown. Whether playing on the indoor playground or shopping in the community stores, our students had an amazing time engaging in hands-on learning experiences. This trip not only provided joy but also reinforced vital life skills, as students interacted with one another and their environment. It also exemplified the idea of empowerment, as students practiced independence and decision-making in a supportive setting. We are already looking forward to our next adventure, scheduled for the end of January.

Another exciting opportunity this month was the visit from the Kindersmiles dentists. This program gave our students a chance to meet dental professionals in a friendly, supportive setting and build comfort with dental screenings and cleanings. The visit reinforced the importance of patience as students adjusted to new experiences and celebrated their ability to voice their needs and concerns—a key aspect of empowerment.

Of course, December wouldn’t be complete without a variety of holiday activities! Students enjoyed punching their tickets to board the Polar Express, accompanied by delicious hot chocolate served by our Speech Department’s hot chocolate cart. These moments reflected kindness in action, as students and staff shared in the joy of the season. We also learned about and celebrated Hannukah, with students enjoying jelly donuts as the jelly donut cart made its way around the building. These celebrations offered meaningful ways to embrace the spirit of the season as we explored diverse traditions.

We are also deeply grateful for the generosity of the families from Wardlaw-Hartridge School, who once again supported us with their annual giving tree. The joy on our students’ faces as they received these thoughtful gifts during Santa’s yearly visit to Crossroads was truly heartwarming and a testament to the kindness that binds our community together. Moments like these remind us how empowering it is to have voices from all parts of our community contribute to our students’ happiness and well-being.

As we head into the winter break, we want to extend our warmest wishes to all of you. May this season bring peace, joy, and cherished moments with loved ones. We look forward to seeing everyone refreshed and ready for the new year in January!

Warm regards,

Matt, Danielle, and Stacey

December 20, 2024 - Early Dismissal (1:00 PM)

December 23, 2024 - January 1, 2025 - School Closed for Holiday Recess

January 1, 2025 - School Reopens

January 13, 2025 - Early Dismissal (1:00PM) for Students for Staff Development

January 15, 2025 - PTO/Parent Education and Support Meeting (12:30PM)

January 20, 2025 - School Closed (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)

After over 25 years of dedicated service, Ms. Consuelo will be retiring at the end of this calendar year. Her impact on our school community is immeasurable. She has touched the lives of countless students, staff, and families with her unwavering dedication, compassion, and expertise. Crossroads will not be the same without her presence and leadership, but we are thrilled to wish her a retirement filled with happiness, health, and all the joy she so richly deserves. Thank you, Ms. Consuelo, for everything you have given to Crossroads—you will always be a part of our family!

The class also went on a field trip to Life Town where they had an opportunity to explore different places they would see within their communities and become more comfortable with going to places like the doctor, dentist, learning to buy groceries, and a variety of fun activities. Every student had a great time buying popcorn, ice cream and different crafts learning about money skills.

This month the students also worked on housekeeping skills like sweeping the floor, setting the table and cleaning the table. I am so proud at how well they all are doing.

We are thrilled to be hosting a vision screening event on January 15th and 16th using the latest non-invasive technology! This is a great opportunity to ensure your child’s eye health is on track.

Please keep an eye out for the consent form that went home in your child’s backpack this week. You can also access the form directly using this link:

Vision Screening Consent Form.

Don’t miss out on this awesome opportunity for your child!

Supporting Neurodiverse Children During the Holidays

The holiday season can be a joyful time filled with celebration, connection, and tradition. However, for neurodiverse children, the changes in routine, sensory overload, and social expectations can also make this time challenging. With thoughtful preparation and strategies tailored to their unique needs, families can create an inclusive and enjoyable holiday experience for everyone.

This guide offers practical tips to help families navigate the season, from maintaining predictability and managing sensory needs to adapting traditions and practicing social scenarios. By prioritizing comfort, understanding, and flexibility, you can ensure that the holidays are meaningful and stress-free for your neurodiverse child and your family.

1. Maintain Routine and Predictability

• Stick to a Schedule: Try to keep consistent wake-up, meal, and bedtime routines.

• Use a Visual Schedule: Display daily plans with pictures or words to provide clarity on what to expect.

• Prepare for Changes: If routines will shift (e.g., travel or guests), discuss and rehearse them ahead of time.

2. Prepare for Sensory Needs

• Create a Safe Space: Ensure there’s a quiet, sensory-friendly area for retreat if the holiday environment becomes overwhelming.

• Pack Sensory Tools: Bring headphones, weighted blankets, fidget toys, or other calming items when visiting new places.

• Monitor Overstimulation: Keep an eye out for signs of sensory overload and plan breaks when needed.

3. Practice Social Scenarios

• Role-Play: Rehearse holiday greetings, gift exchanges, or dining scenarios ahead of time.

• Explain Expectations: Share clear, specific expectations for social situations, such as how long an event will last or how to ask for a break.

• Use Social Stories: Create or use pre-made stories that describe what will happen during holiday events.

4. Be Flexible About Traditions

• Adjust Traditions: Adapt holiday traditions to be more inclusive and comfortable (e.g., quiet lighting instead of blinking lights).

• Simplify Events: Focus on a few key activities rather than trying to do everything.

• Honor Their Preferences: Respect preferences for food, activities, and clothing, even if they differ from traditional norms.

5. Plan for Travel

• Prepare for Delays: Pack snacks, entertainment, and sensory items to manage long waits or changes in plans.

• Practice Ahead: Visit transportation hubs or watch videos about flying or taking a train to familiarize them with the experience.

• Notify Staff: Inform airlines, hotels, or hosts about specific needs to receive accommodations.

6. Manage Gift-Giving

• Set Expectations: Let your child know what to expect during gift exchanges.

• Be Selective: Choose gifts that align with their interests and sensory preferences.

• Respect Boundaries: If opening gifts in front of others is overwhelming, allow it to happen in private.

7. Incorporate Interests

• Holiday Themes: Integrate their special interests into holiday decorations, activities, or stories.

• Offer Choices: Let them choose how to engage in holiday activities (e.g., picking decorations or helping with baking).

8. Take Care of Yourself

• Plan for Breaks: Caregivers need rest too! Schedule downtime for yourself.

• Seek Support: Connect with support groups, family, or friends who understand and can help during the holidays. Your Crossroads Behavior Team is here to support you in any way we can.

As we enter the winter months please be sure to pack warm weather clothing for your child. As long as it does not get too cold we will make every attempt to have the students enjoy recess outdoors. ⛄

Website: https://www.ucesc.org/schools/crossroads_school
Location: 45 Cardinal Drive, Westfield, NJ, USA
Phone: 908-233-9317