Embracing Winter: Our Winter Movement Program IN ELIOT, ME

Winter Movement Program

Winter Carnival

(all grades)

The culmination of our 2026 Winter Movement Program included a week long Winter Carnival.  We celebrated winter with snow sculptures, a sledding party, cross country skiing party and hot chocolate and popcorn around our fire pit.

Each December, the students at SWS are fitted with cross country skiing boots. We anxiously await the arrival of snow after our Winter Break in December.  

This year we were lucky enough to enjoy a bountiful supply of snow and perfect conditions.  Our trails and the adjoining conservation land trails enable all of our students to make progress, take risks and be adventurous. This is true of the most advanced skier down to the beginner.

Concurrent with xc skiing is the Learn to Skate Program that takes place at the Dover Ice Arena once a week for four consecutive weeks.  The children do learn to skate independently and build skills.  Additionally, they are learning executive functioning skills in organizing and keeping track of equipment, getting themselves into and out of their skates, and following instructions for a large group. 

We also enjoy the best sledding hill ever!  With helmets on and hay bales as guard rails our students experience the thrill of speed while they perfect the precision of steering a sled full of friends. 

Socially, this all school experience strengthens the bonds of the children across the grades. Older children skate, ski and sled with and encourage the younger students. 

Our Winter Movement Program also instills a love of the season and the outdoors in the children and to cherish the opportunities it provides.  These life long sports build strength, endurance and a strong will.  

All of our students also contribute to the stewardship of our trails and care of our equipment.

We are enjoying the gifts of this Northern Life!