A Program of Schools for Children

Milieu

At STEP, “milieu programming” means everything that happens outside the academic classroom — the shared spaces, routines, and activities that fill a student’s day.

 

For many of our students, activities such as eating lunch, participating in school events, or managing unstructured time can be some of the most challenging moments. That’s why we work intentionally to make these parts of the day feel safe, predictable, and welcoming.

Our goal is not just to reduce stress, but to turn these moments into opportunities for connection, growth, and inspiration — helping students build relationships, practice social skills, and discover new interests.

 

Electives

Our elective courses are led by a multidisciplinary team of teachers, behavior specialists, and clinicians. Generally, an elective runs for 1 to 2 classes, providing students with variety and exposure to new skills and interests. The offerings vary annually; however, recent examples include:

 

  • Crochet

  • Cross-stiching 

  • Weaving

  • Drop-Spindle

  • Gardening

  • Basketball

  • Soccer

  • Improv/Acting

  • Origami

  • Yoga

  • Mindfulness

  • Comic Book Design

  • Dungeons and Dragons

  • Seasonal Crafting

 

Alternative Learning

One of the distinctive features of the STEP program is our Alternative Learning Days.

Every Wednesday is a half day, and during this time students participate in a variety of structured, non-traditional learning experiences. Every other week, students take part in off-campus trips designed around four key domains: recreation, academics, adventure, and community service.

 

These experiences not only enrich students’ learning but also provide staff with the opportunity to observe and assess students’ skills — such as social interaction, flexibility, and problem-solving — in real-world settings outside the classroom. 

 

  • Apple Picking

  • Museum of National History

  • USS Consitution

  • Mass Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

  • Castle Island 

  • Lunch at Cabots

  • Franklin Park Zoo

  • Indoor Rock Climbing

 

Other Milieu Programming

STEP has intentional spaces for students to utilize if the academic classroom environment feels overwhelming. Our 1:2 ratio also allows for frequent check-ins with clinicians or therapeutic walks and movement breaks. 

Additionally, our programming provides other enrichment opportunities for student engagement.

 

  • STEAM

  • Art

  • Gym

  • Cultural Awareness

  • Music