Spring Newsletter
April, May and June 2015
In This Issue
We begin April with Brain Building in Progress Week and follow it with Week of the Young Child. You can find statewide activities and resources through these links:
For a chronological list of local activities for these weeks email lmatthews@jri.org or check our new and improved website soon ( www.jri/firstconnections.org)
brain building
State Budget Cuts
Facing a $768 million deficit in the current roughly $36.5 billion state budget, a mix of revenues, spending cuts, and reforms has been deemed necessary to bridge the budget gap. The announced solution includes a combination of the Governor's 9C authority to adjust Executive Branch spending reductions, non-tax revenue adjustments, and other one-time fixes.
Among the 9C cuts is a reduction of $1 million to Services for Infants and Parents, including a $10,400 (7%) cut to First Connections that must be removed from the current March thru June budget. As we have shared this news with families, so many have asked what they can do to help. We do accept donations of all kinds: used toys and clothes for families, supplies and books for playgroups (Ellie has a great list), as well as monetary donations via our soon-to-be
updated website ( www.jri.org/firstconnections). It is our understanding that the cuts we received last month will continue into the next fiscal year beginning in July.
We are also looking to form committees of parent volunteers to help us accomplish meeting the goals of our grant and our newly revised Strategic Plan which was funded by The Sudbury Foundation. If interested, please contact me at mbeilman@jri.org.  We greatly appreciate your support.                                      Mary Beilman, Director, CFCE Coordinator
PARENT EDUCATION SEMINAR TOPICS:

Preparing for Parenthood, presented by Laurie Ganberg, LICSW 
Pregnant women and their partners or support persons are invited to this workshop to meet other parents-to-be, create a postpartum plan of support, and learn about the "fourth trimester." This is a great adjunct to a childbirth class and is geared to those expecting their first or who are new to the area.
Held at First Connections in Concord from 1-3:00 p.m. April 4 or June 6

Taming Toilet Training presented by Developmental Specialist Jill Vetstein, LICSW
What is it about transitioning a child to the potty that makes even the bravest parent cringe? Other developmental milestones seem so much simpler. However, be it riding a bike, using a spoon, or using the potty, the same basic parenting principles apply: your child needs to be ready, you need to support him/her, and you need to keep a sense of humor and perspective. This seminar includes: Understanding different potty training approaches, Learning techniques and resources, Necessary developmental signs before beginning, How to introduce and implement the potty, Expectations and challenges.
Tuesday, May 12, 7:00-9:00 p.m. at The LEAP School, Bedford 

Raising a Bilingual Child presented by Teresa Burke, Co-founder of Hola La
Research shows there are many benefits to bilingualism - cognitive, cultural, socio-economic - and that parents who raise their children bi- or trilingually are helping their children along that path! This interactive workshop will present some of the research, as well as share ideas, activities, and strategies that parents can use at home to maintain or to teach your heritage language to your children.
Wednesday, May 20, 7:00-8:30 p.m. at Gleason Library, Carlisle
 
Language Development for Toddlers & Preschoolers, Angela O'Hara, MS, CCC-SLP
Toddlers and preschoolers go through tremendous growth in their language and articulation development. We all LOVE when our child makes cute sound errors like "wabbit" or "pasghetti," but how do we know whether this is normal or delayed? This seminar will present normal language development beginning with early language milestones and include comprehension, expression, articulation, pragmatics/social, and what to expect as your child grows. Angela is a pediatric speech-language pathologist.  
Tuesday, June 9, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Emerson Health & Wellness Center, Concord

"Climb Out of the Darkness" w/ Team Concord  
Climb Out of the Darkness is the world's largest event raising funds for awareness of postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and all other mental illnesses related to pregnancy and childbirth. 1 in 7 women each year will experience maternal mental illness. You can help Postpartum Progress shine a light on the most common complication of childbirth.Team Concord will walk at Walden Pond in Concord on Saturday, June 20 at 9:00 a.m. Candice Brothers is coordinating this event: candicebrothers@gmail.com. You can register to walk or donate here: crowdrise.com/candicebrothers-COTD2015
For more information about maternal mental illnesses: www.postpartumprogress.org
For more information about First Connections' "Emotional Wellbeing After Baby" free weekly support group, contact Laurie Ganberg, LICSW, lganberg@jri.org
BIRTH TO ONE YEAR PROGRAMS:

First-time Moms Group
6-Week group includes a different topic each week such as: Adjusting to your new role, Changes in relationships, Work/family life balance, Sleeping, feeding, crying and infant development. Emerson Sports Rehab & Specialty Services provides our motor development guest speaker, Mary  Evans, DTP, MA, who is a pediatric and neurological specialist. Held in Concord. Please register for this program: lmatthews@jri.org or 978-287-0221. Meets on Tuesdays 12:30-2:00 beginning on April 28

New Moms Group
Any mother with a pre-crawling baby is welcome to attend this ongoing weekly support group facilitated by Emerson Hospital and First Connections. This open discussion group is a forum for you to share experiences and resources, connect with other new mothers, and seek guidance about any concerns you might have. Facilitators are certified in lactation support. Held at Emerson Health & Wellness Center, Concord. No registration required. Directions can be emailed ( lmatthews@jri.org)
Every Wednesday, 1:00-2:30 p.m. in the Yoga Studio

Emotional Well-being After Baby Group
Emotional challenges are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, yet mothers often feel isolated and ashamed if they are struggling. Mothers experiencing anxiety or depression, or who are feeling overwhelmed, in the postpartum year can come together for this supportive, nonjudgmental, confidential group to share stories and learn from each other. While this is an ongoing, weekly group, before attending for the first time please contact the facilitator, Laurie Ganberg, LICSW at lganberg@jri.org or 978-287-0221, ext. 219. Childcare provided for older siblings with advance notice.
Every Monday, 10-11:30 a.m., at First Connections, Concord
 
Infant Playgroups
These playgroup are for babies not walking steadily yet. The group includes developmental discussions and handouts, playtime, circle time with finger plays, rhymes and songs, and a take-home board book at the last session. Registration required.
3-11 Mos Non-Crawling Babies meets Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 at Boxborough Library
7-13 Mos Crawling and Newly Walking Babies meets Wednesdays, 12:00-1:00 in Bedford

Discovery Day for Families
Join a variety of community participants at The Ripley Playscape for a fun-filled afternoon. Musketaquid Arts & Environment will have creative projects to enjoy, and Ellie from First Connections will have some STEM activities for the 8 and under crowd, as well as a storywalk of How Groundhog's Garden Grew just in time for spring planting. Free. No registration.
Sunday, May 3, 2-4:00 p.m.
120 Merriam St., Concord
TODDLER & PRESCHOOLER PLAYGROUPS:
Groups will run from April 6 thru June 22. Registration is required by emailing lmatthews@jri.org or calling 978-287-0221. Playgroups are free of charge and require a caregiver participant. Sign-up age is based on the first day of class. Families may sign up for one weekly group per child; we will not take wait lists for second groups this session. If you are unable to register for a playgroup due to space limitations, and have a group of friends who are looking for a space to meet on your own, our playroom is available during the following times: Mondays after 11:30, Tuesdays before noon, Wednesdays after 11:00, Thursdays and Fridays any time.  
 
14-23 Month Large Motor Playgroup in Sudbury
All children must be steady walkers in this group which combines a story and song circle time with gross motor activities in a preschool gym. Activities include running, balancing, jumping, throwing and kicking balls. We will also work on literacy and social skill building. Ideal for helping children get some energy out while continuing to develop school-readiness skills. Not safe for infant or non-walking siblings.
Fridays, 10:00-11:00, WoodsEdge Children's Center, near the Marlboro town line.
 
Multilingual Raising a Reader Playgroup for Ages 1-5 in Maynard
This group is for children who speak a language other than English at home. In addition to circle time, free play, and snack time, each family will bring home a different bag of books to read each week. We encourage families to share customs and stories from their home countries during this group. Currently participating families do not need to re-register. Nut-free environment. 2 openings remain.
Tuesdays, 2:00-3:30, Union Congregational Church/The Community School

 

Paint and Play for 2 Year Olds in Westford

Weekly playtime includes a developmentally appropriate art project. We will also have circle time with songs and stories, as well as snack time. Please let us know if there are any anaphylactic allergies other parents should know about. There is a rabbit in this school in case anyone is allergic.

Tuesdays, 10:00-11:30, Nashoba Tech Early Childhood Learning Center 

 

Paint and Play for Siblings Only, Ages 2 thru 5, in Harvard

Weekly play time includes a developmentally appropriate art project. We will also have circle time with songs and stories, as well as snack time. Let us know about any anaphylactic allergies other parents should be aware of. Infant siblings can be brought to this class.

Mondays, 10:00-11:30 at Village Nursery School

 

Nature-Based Playgroup for Ages 3 thru 5 in Acton

After a long, cold winter with way too much snow, we are looking forward to warmer temperatures and growing things. This group will learn about what is happening in nature all around us. As it gets warmer we will take walks in the conservation land behind the museums, and even plant some seeds in our garden.

Mondays, 2:30-3:30, The Discovery Museums Classroom Building

 

Sing and Play in Spanish Group for Ages 1-5 in Littleton

This playgroup is for parents and children who already speak or understand Spanish as all songs, stories and conversation will be in Spanish. Led by Ibeliza Tovar, a Venezuelan Spanish Montessori Teacher. Free Spanish storybook at the last class. Families who are currently in this group do not have to re-register. Does not meet weekly, so can be combined with another group.

Thursdays, 1:30-3:00, April 9, May 7 and 21, at Reuben Hoar Library

  

father-daughter-grass2.jpg
PARENT GROUPS MEETING THIS SPRING

Adoption Learn & Play Daytime Group
Meet with other adoptive parents and a facilitator to discuss a different topic each month related to adopting young children. Held on Wednesdays, 9:30-11:00 with childcare.
April 8 - Temperament vs. Personality
Are you an extrovert or introvert? Temperament is inborn and stays with you for your whole life. Parents have an important role in nurturing their child's temperament. Personality is acquired on top of temperament and is influenced by education, socialization and life pressures. We'll talk about ourselves and our children, whether we blend well or may need some day-to-day tips. 
May 13 - Secret Thoughts of Adoptive Mothers
The adoption process is emotionally complex, to say the least. It takes courage and is fraught with anxiety and uncertainty. But when we reach that moment when we fall in love with our children and become their fiercest defenders there is no looking back. This session focuses on moms in honor of Mother's Day.  
June 10 - A Look at the Wise Up Workbook and Life Books 
Today's topic looks at two interactive projects you can use with your children to help them develop the language of their adoption story, and further the bonding process of your family.
 
"We Are Family" Evening Group for Adoptive Families
This group is for families who have either 1) adopted a child from foster care, 2) adopted a child at the age of 3 or older, or 3) adopted a child who is now age 5 or older. The group is part facilitator education and part peer support. To be added to the monthly reminder email list: lmatthews@jri.org
Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., April 9, May 21, June 18 in Concord   
 
Preparing for Kindergarten -
For Parents
Presented by Patty Marquis, LICSW

This program will cover changes that all families will encounter as their child enters the public school system. Topics will include:
  • Realistic transition expectations
  • Making the unfamiliar familiar
  • Assuaging your own worries while addressing your child's anxieties
  • Self-care and self-control issues
  • Common stressors affecting behavior
  • Playful readiness skills activities
  • Making daily transitions manageable
  • Communicating effectively with your child's teacher

Wednesday, April 15, 6:30-8:30

Village Nursery School, Harvard

 

Space is limited, preregistration required: lmatthews@jri.org 
  

D.W. Counts Down to Kindergarten!
 
A 20-minute play with audience participation to help parents and children get ready for kindergarten.
 
Performed by The KidStage Acting Company
 
Arthur's younger sister gets help from her family and friends as she prepares to enter Kindergarten. The play includes opportunities for children to participate, and lots of helpful ideas for parents!
 
 Friday, June 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Concord Scout House, 74 Walden St  
Free parking in the municipal lot on Walden Street - enjoy the Kindergarten StoryWalk on your way over to the Scout House! This program is appropriate for parents and their children who will be entering Kindergarten in Fall 2015.

RSVP required based on capacity of the bldg:
lmatthews@jri.org or 978-287-0221 - please tell us how many will be attending.
  
We thank the Cultural Councils in Carlisle and Concord for their grants in support of this program. We thank Whole Foods for their donations of healthy snacks and volunteers!
 


Concord Public Schools
Kindergarten Registration Dates
If you haven't received a registration packet, please call your school
Alcott: April 28 or May 5, 1-2:00
978-318-9544
Thoreau: March 31 or April 7, 1-2:00
978-318-1300
Willard: April 14 or 16, 1-2:00
978-318-1340
 
Heading to Kindergarten in Bedford?

Check out the Top 10 Most Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:

 

http://www.bedford.k12.ma.us/about-our-school/kindergarten-faq-davis.html

 

Sudbury's Kindergarten Orientation Day is April 30

Please confirm the exact time:

Loring School: 978-443-0870

Nixon School: 978-443-1080

Haynes School: 978-443-1093

Noyes School: 978-443-1085  

Acton Family Network
Popsicles and Playground Kindergarten Social
For all Acton & Boxboro residents 
Sunday, June 7, 3:00-5:00 p.m.
Goward Playground
An opportunity to meet some of the families and future classmates of your September 2015 kindergartener. Free. 
 
Harvard's Hildreth Elementary School Kindergarten Events
 
Wed. April 29, 6:00-7:00 p.m  
Kindergarten Parent Orientation
 
Thursday, May 14, 5:30-6:30
Kindergarten Tour
 
Maynard's Green Meadow School  Kindergarten Events
 
Tuesday, April 7, 6:30-7:30
Kindergarten Parent Orientation
 
April 9 and 10, 2015
Kindergarten screenings: 978-897-8246
 
PARENT-CHILD ACTIVITIES

 

Babies 'n' Books

Saturday, March 28

9:30-11:00 a.m.

Concord Children's Center, 1300 Main St.

Story Time begins at 10:00. Coffee, snacks.

Free. RSVP to maher.cec@gmail.com 

 

Spring Fling Pajama Jam at Indian Hill Music School

Friday, March 20

6:30 p.m. Free.

Musical story hour for young families. Drop in.

36 King St., Littleton

978-486-9524

 

Make A Chalkboard Planter Stand

Saturday, April 4

9:00-12:00

at Home Depot. Free project, certificate and workshop apron.

For ages 5-12.

Register online:

http://workshop.

homedepot.com

 

Family Drop-in Days at The Umbrella Arts Center

Monday, April 20

Saturday, May 2

Saturday, June 13

2:00-4:30 pm

40 Stow St, Concord

Free 30-60 minute projects. All ages welcome.

Find other low-cost art and nature-based family activities for spring at

www.theumbrellaarts.org

 

Kid-Friendly Metrowest Hikes:

Celebrate Spring!

Hikes meet on Tuesdays at 10:00 and are suited for caregivers who carry their children or have children who can walk/run. Trails are not suited for strollers. This is a free activity. Questions? email Emily:

metrowesthikes@gmail.com

March 24: Mt Misery, Lincoln

March 31: Great Hill Conservation Land, Acton

April 7: Cpt. Sargent Farm Conservation Area, Acton

April 21, May 19, June 16: Mt. Misery, Lincoln

(GPS: 100 S. Great Rd)

Celebrate School Vacation and Earth Day on April 21st!

   

Eggie Night For Ages 6-12

Friday, April 24, 6-8 pm

Nara Park Amphitheater

$5/person at the door.

Food pantry donations greatly appreciated!

Fun and games including races, games, flashlight egg hunt, DJ music.

www.acton-ma.gov/recreation

 

Beach Party Blast

Sat., June 20

12:00-4:00 pm

NARA Park, Acton. Free family fun with music & games for all ages

www.acton-ma.gov/events


 
Jam Time Half Price for Grandparents 

Did you know that grandparents can bring their grandchildren to Jam Time in Maynard all day on Thursdays for $5 per child? Adults free.

www.jamtime.com

 

Sensory-Friendly

"Shrek the Musical"
 
Saturday, March 28

Open Door Theater, Acton

Reserve tickets at:

978-264-8150 

 

 PARENTING COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:
 
Do you live in Acton or Boxboro? The Acton-Boxboro United Way would like your opinion on services and issues in your town. You are encouraged to let your voice be heard via this 10-minute online survey which is available in English, Mandarin, Portuguese and Spanish:
 

The Role of Imaginative Play in the Life of Children with Scott Barry Kaufman, Scientific Director of the Imagination Institute at Univ. of Pennsylvania

Dr. Kaufman will present evidence showing that the crucial skills learned during imaginative play lead to optimal development, well-being and creativity in children. Free. Registration is required: www.discoverymuseums.org

Thursday, March 26, 6:30-8:30 at Congregation Beth Elohim, 133 Prospect St., Acton

 

The Opposite of Worry: Helping Children with Fears and Anxieties presented by Dr. Lawrence Cohen

Dr. Cohen's Playful Parenting approach can help ease children's anxieties and fears through empathy and playfulness. His techniques are applicable for children from preschool thru elementary school and beyond (and for anxious parents too!). Free. No registration required. 

Tuesday, March 31, 7-8:30 p.m.

At 6:30 Parents can socialize & visit resource tables

Carlisle Public Schools Auditorium, 83 School Street

 

Tiny Fingers Tiny Toes Hands-on Program for Expectant Parents

Informational hands-on class includes: newborn appearance from head to toe, baby care basics, safety, immunizations, and what to expect during pediatrician visits. Healthy snacks and drinks provided, as well as a goody bag with additional information. Sign up through Pediatrics West, 978-577-0437. 9:00-4:00. No fee.

Held April 11 or June 13 in Westford, May 9 in Fitchburg

 

Finding Huck Finn: Reclaiming Childhood From a River of Electronic Screens

presented by Dr. Michael Rich

Dr. Rich is often referred to as the world's first mediatrician. Free. www.westfordparentconnection.com

April 8, 7:00 p.m. Stony Brook Middle School, Westford

 

Cooking & Baking for People with Food Allergies

Author Colette Martin will present ideas and solutions for busy families with food allergies. 6:45 p.m. Free.

Mon., April 13 in Lexington, www.asthmaandallergies.org

 

Talking with Children About Their Food Allergies with MGH Psychologist Nancy Rotter

Dr. Rotter will talk about the kinds of things children are able to understand based on their developmental stage, and common anxieties that may arise around food issue. 7:00 p.m. Free.

Wed., Apr. 15, Framingham,www.asthmaandallergies.org 

 

Food Allergy Desensitization Research

Current research on food-specific immunotherapy will be presented by MGH Allergist Yamini Virkud. 7:00 p.m. Free

Tues., May 12 in Newton, www.asthmaandallergies.org


 
West Suburban Mothers of Twins Tag Sale

Spring and summer clothing sizes 0-14, single & double strollers and other baby gear. Held at St. Anargyroi Church, 9 Casman St., Marlboro. $1 Admission. Pregnant women and club members can enter at 8:45. 

Sat., April 25, 10-1:00 www.wscmmota.org/tagsale.php 

 

Sudbury Family Network Kids Tag Sale

Sellers and buyers welcome at SFN's Kids' Stuff Tag Sale at Curtis Middle School. Gently used children's clothing for ages 0-10, toys, equipment, books, sporting goods and maternity items. Spaces available for $25, sellers keep their own profits. To sign up: email sfn.tagsale@gmail.com.

Saturday, May 16, 9:00-Noon, 22 Pratt's Mill Road

 

From Diapers to Diploma: A Healthier Way to Navigate Your Child's Path to College

with Author Frank Bruni

Increasingly, American parents start worrying about college admissions when their children are barely out of diapers, and by middle school they're thrust into the competition for Ivy League. That dangerous game teaches kids a curious set of values, sets too many up for disappointment, perverts the true purpose of education, and perpetuates the myth that success hinges on going to a highly selective school. Join Mr. Bruni, a N.Y. Times columnist and author of  Where You Go Is Not Who You'll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania. Light refreshments by Idylwilde. Registration required at: www.discoverymuseums.org

Mon., April 13, 6:30-8:30, R.J. Grey Auditorium, Acton

 

A Look at Adoption via Adoption Community of New England presented by Etta Lappen Davis of RFK Children's Action Corps

This seminar for prospective adopters covers all of the beginning information you need to make educated decisions about adoption such as: making the decision to adopt, starting the process, adoption options, the core issues of adoption, and adoption language. $25/person. To register, contact Jennifer at 978-440-0422 or email japps@RFKChildren.org

Saturday, May 2, 2:00-5:00 p.m. in Acton