Spring Break is the perfect time for students to unwind and enjoy some much-needed downtime. It’s all about balance. Here are my tips to make the week of vacation the best it can be:
Be Creative with Your Activities and Time:
Take a break from screens and digital devices. Use at least some of this time to disconnect from social media, texting, and gaming. Focus on being present in the moment with friends and family OR engaging in crafts, cooking/baking projects, or art activities. Not only are these activities enjoyable, but they also provide a sense of accomplishment and allow you to express yourself. You could also practice mindfulness, read a book, or simply enjoy quiet time alone or with friends.
Rest:
Make sure you prioritize sleep and balance. Did you know that research has found that 73 percent of high school students regularly do not get a healthy amount of sleep? The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends teens should be getting 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night. While you can never really catch up on lost sleep, longer breaks are a good time to try to hit reset on your sleep schedule and actually feel what it’s like to get the optimum amount of sleep for YOUR body and mind to be at its best.
Explore Outdoors:
Don’t just stay inside on screens and video games. Take advantage of the spring weather by spending time outdoors such as going for a hike, having a picnic in the park, or playing sports. You don’t have to be sporty to get fresh air and sunshine- it can do wonders for your mood and overall well-being.
Adventure:
If you're traveling, try to find something new to do that you have not done before. If you are staying local for spring break, explore your city or town like a tourist or go to a new place that has opened near you. Visit museums, try new restaurants, or attend local events and festivals. You might discover hidden gems right in your own backyard.
Keep Safe:
No matter what you are doing over break, prioritize safety. Whether you're traveling or staying close to home, think first and make responsible decisions. Look out for each other and practice good judgment.
Connect with Miriam Professionals
Do you have a question about your child's learning needs? Ask Miriam! Our team of experts is here to help. Click below to submit your inquiries, and let us provide the guidance and resources you need to support your child's success.
During the month of February, Miriam High School students studied up on Black history - and engaged in friendly competition with their peers - through a scavenger hunt created by teacher Karen Cross.
Yesterday, at the beginning of our Board Meeting, some children from Rooms One and Two did a fantastic job demonstrating a dancing brain break session for our Trustees. Later, one Trustee said what inspired her was noting the progress of one little girl.
Six Miriam High School students had the opportunity to explore diversity from all angles in late February, attending MICDS’ Student Diversity Conference. The conference, titled “Diversity in Motion: Unity on Every Loop,” was led by students, for students - from MICDS and five other area schools, including Miriam. The schools applied for the opportunity to attend.
On a recent visit to Miriam Lower/Middle School in Webster Groves, Mayor Laura Arnold had the opportunity to see firsthand the positive influence the school has on the community in Webster and beyond, and its dedication to serving unique learners in St. Louis.
On Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, my daughter Lucy and I had the privilege of visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. We were among hundreds of people from around the world who had gathered to pay our respects and reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom and peace. Standing in that sacred space on a day dedicated to Dr. King’s legacy, during the week of the presidential inauguration, provided a powerful day of reflection.
At Miriam students in grades K-8 explore the forces of magnets not only for science but also as a hands-on way to understand social interactions. Miriam Lower/Middle School Counselor Janene Allen teaches students that depending on their behavior, others might be drawn to you - or they may want to stay away.
Your child needs a tutor. Maybe they are struggling to learn to read as a first-grader, or perhaps they need a little help to make it through geometry in high school. Where do you start?
Miriam Lower/Middle School will soon have a new addition on its playground – and other new or updated occupational therapy equipment – thanks to a grant from the Missouri Athletic Club’s Charitable Society for Children (CSC) Grant.
Wishing you a very happy beginning to 2025! Miriam School, although covered in glistening snow, is bustling with our students’ return to school and the promise of all of the good things that happen here throughout our winter months.
At Miriam School and Learning Center, the mission is clear: help children with special educational needs unlock their full potential. The K-12 educational institution draws on more than 60 years of experience in the field to provide a highly personalized learning environment that brings the best in every child.
Rob Miller was inspired to open his pottery studio to people of all abilities when his grandson, Connor, was born with cerebral palsy eight years ago.
A steady stream of power tools could be heard from the woodworking class, held in the science lab. The rhythm of the Electric Slide and other slide dance songs echoed from the gym, filling the air with energy and movement.
Miriam Learning Center is continually working to address needs in the community regarding students with learning differences. It’s no secret that we, as a society, are in the midst of a teacher shortage – and special education teachers are in even shorter supply. Enter Miriam’s Gen Ed to Special Ed teacher training program!
Wishing you a very blessed and joyful holiday season. Many wonderful events have happened in our organization over the last month as we continue to foster a sense of community and belonging. I had the pleasure of hosting two Community Coffees at both campuses to introduce our strategic plan.
Students at Miriam School and Learning Center learn differently, as classes provide individualized curriculum that often includes integrated speech and occupational therapy. At the high school, which is home to 40 students, teachers and staff place a major emphasis on preparing students for life after high school.