Summertime Fun at May Institute!

Summer is a time of warmth, sunshine, and relaxation.  When the days are long, the weather is pleasant, and spirits are high, there is endless potential for enjoyment. Before fall takes us all back to reality with the hustle and bustle of school and other big life changes, summer allows us the time to slow down, take a breath, and embrace the beauty of the season.  

What better way to soak up the sun and create lasting memories than getting out into the community? From attending sporting events, to enjoying delicious food and good company at BBQs, to visiting the local zoo, there is an abundance of community excursion and enrichment opportunities available during the summer months. In fact, the adults and staff from May Institute’s Day Habilitation program in Raynham, Mass., recently spent the day taking in the sights and sounds at Buttonwood Park Zoo!  

Last month, the individuals and staff at a Western Massachusetts residence held a camp-out in their very own back yard! The group worked together to pitch tents and enjoy a delicious spread of grilled hot dogs and burgers, subs from Big Y, and ingredients for s’mores in the evening. As the night got cooler and the sun began to set, folks gathered around a roaring campfire to roast marshmallows and sing their favorite campfire songs. Staff members even took turns reading aloud scary campfire stories, to really emulate the quintessential camping atmosphere! 

Social experiences and community outings like these play an important part in enriching the lives of every individual May Institute serves. Not only do they make for great fun and cherished memories, but they have a significant impact on an individual’s growth, independence, and confidence. Interacting with others, navigating social norms, and learning how to communicate effectively are all skills that can be developed and honed during enrichment activities.  

For the May Center Schools for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, summer is a busy time, packed with community excursions and fun school events. And what screams “summertime” more than a carnival? The annual carnival held at the May Center School in Randolph is one of the more highly anticipated events of the entire year, bringing together all 120 students, teachers, and staff for a fun-filled day of games, treats, and laughter! Attendees enjoy each other's company and all the carnival must-haves, like face-painting, bouncy castles, cotton candy, and snow cones! 

At the May Center School for Brain Injury and Neurobehavioral Disorders in Norwood, both day and residential students get out in the community almost weekly throughout the summer. Excursions range from visiting the Museum of Science, getting competitive at the local arcade and trampoline park, and when it’s particularly beautiful weather; unwinding on Revere Beach. One highly anticipated, upcoming activity on the calendar this August is a tour of the famous Gillette Stadium!  

“It’s so important for our students to participate in activities that their typically developing peers have the chance to do more often and easily,” says Andrea Potoczny-Gray, Executive Director of the school. “Not only do they inherently boost confidence and independence, but they serve to enrich lives and cultivate memories to last a lifetime.” 

To view our Summertime Fun Flickr album, click here.