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News
Playroom Wish List: New or gently used children's cash register, nesting cups, dinosaurs, board books, chunky wooden toddler puzzles and pop-up/cause-and-effect toys, or items from Amazon wishlist: http://bit.ly/FirstConnectionsWishlist
Newsletter Sponsor Sought: Would your com pany like to sponsor First Connections' quarterly newsletter? Do you use Constant Contact in your business? Constant Contact's Care for Kids program supports youth oriented nonprofit organizations by providing a free account to an organization nominated by a paying account. The nominating business pays 0 - Constant Contact provides the account free of charge. Learn more by visiting: www.cares4kids.com
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- First Connections is one of only 2 CFCE programs in Massachusetts invited to The State House on June 14 to highlight their Postpartum Support Programs. "Bringing PPD Into the Light: Reducing Barriers, Decreasing Stigma, and Weaving a Network of Support for Mothers Across the Commonwealth" is an opportunity for many organizations to share the importance of our work with legislators.
- As a result of all the work that Laurie Ganberg has done in the past two years while working for us and as part of her work with the Every Mother Project, she has been offered a position to begin a new program in Seattle, Washington, similar to the Women & Infants Hospital Day Program in Providence where moms can receive treatment for Postpartum Depression/Anxiety with their babies. Of course this is a good news/bad news situation for us as Laurie will be leaving us in August. We are currently seeking a clinician who can fill Laurie's shoes and continue the work she has been doing which includes running our weekly Emotional Wellbeing After Baby Group, monthly New Dads Group, and doing outreach as part of an upcoming Postpartum Progress grant. Please contact Mary Beilman for more information: [email protected], 978-429-8284 ext. 201, 179 Great Road, Acton, 01720. This is a part time position 1-2 days per week.
THANK YOU TO:
- Concord-Carlisle Community Chest for their generous 2016-17 grant of $22,000 to support our programming.
- Museum of Science-Boston, The Discovery Museums-Acton and Acton Dental Associates for their contributions to STEAM Day.
- Katie Stockman, R.N., from Emerson Hospital, for speaking at our Clinician's Breakfast in April.
- The staff of Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge for hosting 106 people at the puppet show and contributing to the learning experience.
- Dunkin Donuts for their coffee donation.
- Concord Children's Center for their donation of treats for our quarterly Advisory Council Meeting.
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Transition Activities
CARLISLE
Popsicles on the Plaza at Carlisle Public Schools hosted by the Carlisle PTO. Incoming kindergarteners welcome for this last play date event before school begins.
Friday, June 17 at 3:05
Rain cancels.
CONCORD
Concord Family Network hosts
their annual Back to School Popsicle Party for Children entering Concord Public Schools Kindergarten Fall 2016
Wednesday, August 24
3:30-5:00 P.M.
Held at Alcott School
This CFN tradition is open and free to all Concord families with a child entering Kindergarten at any of the three elementary schools. In addition to tasty popsicles and the thrills of a grammar school playground, we're planning face painting, coloring activities, and more. Please RSVP so we have enough pops for every child by emailing: [email protected] or through the form on www.concordfamilynetwork.org
Please include:
Names of adults attending
Names of kids attending
Kindergartener's school
Kindergarten teacher's name
THANKS!
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 Summer Change of Seasons Event at Ripley Playscape
Join teacher Patricia Collins for a family-oriented, participatory event to mark the arrival of summer. Explore the Playscape and gather in a circle to create a ritual of song and movement using instruments and a rainbow of silks. Free. RSVP's appreciated for planning purposes:
executive@
concordchildrenscenter.org
Saturday, June 18
9:30-10:30 a.m.
120 Merriam Rd., Concord
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Do you live in Acton, Boxboro, Harvard or Littleton and need a Preschool Scholarship for your 4 Year Old Child?
 The ABHL Early Childhood Council has a scholarship program for families who are working a minimum of 20 hrs/wk and live at or below 85% State Median Income (less than $7,000/mo for family of 4). If you think you might be eligible, please contact Betsey Sweet, Grant Coordinator: [email protected]
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| Updated Resources On Our Website
RESOURCES TAB
2016 Early Childhood Education and Care Listing for our Catchment Towns, including subsidy and scholarship info.
2016 Playgrounds Update
2016 Swimming Lessons
Resources
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OO  Our Annual Free and Low Cost Things To Do With Children Aged 0-8 is almost ready!
The chronological list for July and August includes events, programs and activities in or near our catchment area towns, most of which are on a drop-in basis. Activities requiring registration or a small fee are clearly noted. You can receive the list in your email by sending a request to Linda:
[email protected]
We will also post it on our website when completed.
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 Saturday, June 18 9:00 a.m. at Walden Pond Climb out of the darkness is the world's largest event raising funds for postpartum depression, anxiety or other mental illnesses related to pregnancy and childbirth. The Concord Climb group welcomes anyone's support either in person or through pledges. If you would like to walk with the group, please register online, whether raising funds or not, for insurance reasons. www.crowdrise.com/ candicebrothers-cotd2016
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SUMMER SAFETY
When most of us are enjoying time at the pool or beach, injuries aren't the first thing on our minds. Tragically, however, 3 children die each day as a result of drowining (CDC). Toddlers between 1 & 4 most commonly drown in swimming pools. Children older than 5 are most likely to drown in rivers and lakes (AAP). Thankfully parents can play a key role in protecting the children they love. If you are unable to attend either of the presentations below, please review the following information before your summer begins so that we all have a safe summer! https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/Drowning.aspx
Water Safety Presentation for Parents and their Children Aged 3-7
Goldfish Swim School will present an interactive program for parents and their children which will include the following:
- Introduction to the concept and importance of water safety
- Safety methods children can use to avoid potential dangers in and around water
- What children can do if a water crisis situation happens
- Materials and information will be given to the children in an effort to remind them how to prevent water-related accidents.
The program is designed to be fun yet informative as children are guided through a variety of activities to boost their learning.
Please register the number of children attending, their ages, and the date you can attend by emailing [email protected].
9:00 a.m. on June 27 or July 9
Goldfish Swim School, 3 Lyberty Way, Westford
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Summer Playgroups
Registration is required for all groups by emailing Linda at [email protected]. Summer session runs from the week of July 11 to the week of August 22. Please register only if you will be able to attend at least 6 out of the 7 dates listed to be mindful of families who will not be going away during that time period. Playgroups listed below are free of charge and open to all.
Infants 3-8 Months
Thursdays, 10:30-11:30, at Gleason Library in Carlisle
This group includes developmental discussions and handouts, playtime, circle time with finger plays, rhymes and songs. August 18 will meet at First Connections in Acton. All other dates meet in Carlisle.
July 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25
Mobile Babies 9-15 Months
Tuesdays, 2:30-3:30, at Maynard Public Library
This group is for babies who are crawling or newly walking. There will be free play time at the beginning, and stories and songs at the end. The facilitator will be available to talk to and answer questions, but we won't have the same structured adult talking time as in the infant group because the children are starting to move around and sitting still for more than a few minutes is too much to ask!
July 12, 19, 26, August 2, 9, 16, 23
1 Year Old Walkers "Raising a Reader" Playgroup
Wednesdays, 10-11:15, at First Connections in Acton
This group is for newly or confidently walking toddlers and will include free play with time to work on social skills such as sharing and waiting for a turn. Some art and sensory activities, and a circle time are also planned. Each family will bring home a different bag of books to read each week, and exchange the bag the following week for more books. Tips will be included on using dialogic reading techniques w/children.
July 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10, 17, 24
1 1/2 to 2 1/2 Gross Motor Playgroup
Mondays, 1:30-2:30, at The Learning Experience in Littleton
Children in this group should be steady on their feet. The group will combine a story and song circle time with gross motor activities in the preschool's gym, "Make Believe Boulevard." Activities include balancing, jumping, throwing and kicking balls. We will also work on literacy and social skill building. Not safe for non-walking siblings.
July 11, 18, 25, August 1, 8, 15, 22
2 and 3 Year Old Paint and Play Group
Fridays, 10-11:30, at WoodsEdge Children's Center, Sudbury
Weekly playtime includes a developmentally appropriate art project. We will also have circle time with songs and stories, as well as snack time and outdoor play when the weather permits. Please let us know if there are any anaphylactic allergies other parents should know about. Infant siblings welcome.
July 15, 22, 29, August 5, 12, 19, 26
2 1/2 thru 4 Year Old Outdoor Adventure Group
Mondays, 10-11:00 at Harvard Park/McCurdy Track
This group will explore the great outdoors using our five senses. We will take short walks exploring all we see, hear, smell and feel around us. We will also read a book and do some activities during our walks. We will meet at the playground next to the parking lot before going out on the trails. Siblings under 2 should be held in a backpack, sling or carrier since strollers will not smoothly travel along the trails, and they may find it hard to keep up. There is a small playground and walking track here for use after our playgroup. Restroom facilities available.
July 11, 18, 25, August 1, 8, 15, 22
2-5 Year Old Paint & Play Group
Thursdays, 3:30-5:00 at The Taylor School, Boxborough
Weekly play time includes a developmentally appropriate art project. We will also include outdoor water play on warm days, as well as a circle time with songs and stories. Bring a light snack to have before outdoor play (inform us during registration if there are anaphylactic allergies participants should be aware of). Infant siblings welcome.
July 14, 21, 28, August 4, 11, 18, 25
5-8 Year Old Outdoor Adventure Group
Tuesdays, 10-11:00, at Mt. Misery Conservation Land, Lincoln
This group will explore the conservation land nature trails and learn about what is happening in the ponds, fields and woods around us. We'll read a different book each week and allow the children to talk about what they may have discovered in their own back yards during the week. The places we will be walking are not stroller-friendly. Babies welcome in a carrier/sling/backpack. The group's walking pace, books and activities will be geared toward children 5-8, so younger siblings may have a hard time keeping up. Note: many people walk their dogs in this area, not always on a leash. Please keep this in mind if your child is uncomfortable around dogs.
July 12, 19, 26, August 2, 9, 16, 23
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Summer Parent Groups
First-Time Moms Group-Tuesdays 11:00-12:30
Meets: June 21, 28, July 12, 19, 26, August 2
Meets: August 16, 23, 30, Sept. 6, 13, 20
Held at First Connections in Acton
Facilitated by a Certified Lactation Counselor (registration required: [email protected]). For the new parent, there are many changes, many questions, and often a feeling of isolation if you've just left the working world or your family is not close by. This group strives to be educational, supportive, and the ideal format for new mothers to share ideas and experiences. During the 6 weeks we focus on adjusting to your new role as a mother, infant care concerns (feeding, crying, sleeping), infant development, making the return-to-paid work or stay-at-home mom decision, and changes in your relationships with your spouse, family and friends.
Ongoing New Mothers Group - Wednesdays 1:30-3:00*
Held at Emerson Health & Wellness Center, 310 Baker Avenue Extension, Concord, in the yoga studio.
Any mother with a pre-crawling baby is welcome to attend this weekly support group. Open discussion format is a forum for you to share experiences and resources, connect with other new mothers, and seek guidance about any concerns you might have. No registration required. Co-facilitated by a Certified Lactation Counselor and Consultant from Emerson Hospital and First Connections.
*This group will not meet on Wednesdays, July 6 or August 10.
E
motional Well Being After Baby Group
- Mondays 10-11:30*
Held at First Connections, 179 Great Road, Acton
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
[email protected]
*This group will not meet on Monday, July 4
New Dads Group - One Tuesday per Month, 7:30-9:00 p.m.
Held at First Connections, 179 Great Road, Acton
Our new dads group allows dads to make connections with other fathers, ask questions, exchange tips, and share their experiences of parenthood. Fathers are welcome to attend with or without babies, most of whom are 0-12 months. Facilitated by Laurie Ganberg, LICSW, who runs our postpartum group, and at least one "veteran" father. Email
[email protected] to be added to the monthly reminder email list.
Tuesday, July 12
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Community Activities
Upcoming Emerson Hospital Healthy Living Family Programs
- Infant CPR Anytime will be held August 9, 6:30-8:00 pm, $50/couple
- "Soon to be Grandparents" will be held on June 16, 7-8:30 pm, $30/couple
- Babysitter Training for Ages 10-13 will be held on June 18, July 23 & August 20 from 9-1:00
Upcoming Lowell General Hospital Health & Wellness Family Programs
- Tiny Fingers, Tiny Toes: Everything New Parents Need to Know will be held on August 20, 9-4:30. Taught by a pediatric nurse. Free.
- Family and Friends CPR will be held on July 11 or August 8 in Chelmsford. Taught by Trinity EMS from 6:30-8:30. $20. CPR Anytime Kits available for purchase if desired.
- Happiest Baby on the Block class for new and expectant parents is a step-by-step method to help babies sleep longer and teaches parents how to soothe even the fussiest infant in minutes. Includes a parent kit with DVD and CD for home use. Monday, August 29, 6-7:30. Taught by an R.N. from the Mother-Infant Unit. $15.
Autism Parent Support Group at Pediatrics West
Free group for parents and caregivers of children on the spectrum for Autism, Aspergers and PDD. Meets at 133 Littleton Rd., Suite 301, Westford from 7-8:30 p.m. Contact Alison to sign up: 978-577-0414. Summer dates: July 12 and August 11.
http://pediatricswest.com/?page_id=2570
Sensory-Friendly Screening of "Finding Dory" at AMC Theatres - June 25, 10:00 a.m.
Free Friday Night Fun at Acton Discovery Museums, 177 Main St. - June 24, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Food donations are accepted for several local pantries.
www.discoverymuseums.org
And don't miss International Mud Day on June 29th, 11-2:00. Scoop, sculpt & squish to your heart's content! (Regular admission or library pass for this "free with admission" activity).
Free Celebration Saturday at Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard on June 18
Celebrate Fruitlands' birthday with a party filled with activities for families including guided walks, light snacks, 19th Century lawn games, make-your-own artwork and community sculpture, live music and more from 10:00-5:00. www.fruitlands.org
Strawberry Day at Drumlin Farm, 208 S. Great Rd., Lincoln, 10-4:00 p.m. on June 18
Extra activities during this "free with admission" program include meeting berry-loving animals, exploring the gardens and making crafts. Strawberry picking is available for a fee from 10-2:00.
Grandfather Turtle's Tales from the Three Rivers at Assabet River NWR, Sudbury, June 19
Award-winning professional storyteller Tony Toledo brings nature to life through a story about Grandfather Turtle's adventures along the Sudbury, Assabet and Concord Rivers where he escapes peril, meets old and new friends, and has laughs along the way. Great for ages 5 and up. Held from 1-1:45 p.m. Free drop-in program.
Also: Refuge Fledgling Hour on June 24, 10:30 a.m., for Ages 2-5, siblings welcome.
This month's theme will be Nature's Recyclers. Free, drop-in program.
Both held at the National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center, 680 Hudson Rd., Sudbury. Hands-on exhibits and easy hiking trails, free parking. Questions? Contact
[email protected]
Riverfest Family Festivities at Great Meadows NWR, Sudbury, on Saturday, June 18, 10-2:00
Family fun for everyone includes games, crafts, face painting, hiking, fishing, and wildlife up close and personal. A Drumlin Farm naturalist will let you visit with native wildlife that live along the banks of the rivers. At 1:00 Snakes of New England and the World will visit. And a Vernal Pool Team will bring some of their favorite animals from Cape Ann.
http://riverfest.sudbury-assabet-concord.org/
Taiwanese Storytime for Ages 3 and Under at Concord's Main Library on June 21 at 10:30.
Stories, songs, finger plays and crafts presented in Taiwanese. Free. 129 Main Street.
Free Admission for Licensed Teachers & their Immediate Families, June 25, Davis Farmland
Hands-on encounters with rare-breed farm animals, spray park, playground, and Kids LiveWell food offerings. Located in Sterling, MA.
www.davisfarmland.com
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WIC Program Locations and Eligibility Information
The Women, Infants and Children Nutrition program provides healthy food for your family if you have a child under age 5 and meet income eligibility requirements. A family of 4 can earn $44,955 per year and be eligible. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also eligible for WIC. More information is available at
www.mass.gov/wic or 1-800-WIC-1007. Local offices are on Hanscom AFB, and in Ayer, Clinton, Marlboro, Leominster and Waltham.
Statewide Childcare Subsidy Wait List Information
T
he Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care provides subsidies to low-income families who meet the work or activity requirements and need childcare or before/after school care. There are many families on the wait list, so if you are anticipating needing financial assistance for childcare please read the information provided at this link to see if you are eligible, and if so complete an application:
http://www.mass.gov/edu/birth-grade-12/early-education-and-care/financial-assistance/financial-assistance-for-families/ Do you live in Acton and not have access to a car during the day? The Cross-Town Connect transportation service has two low-cost options that can take you to First Connections, shopping plazas, the train station, town hall and library. If you live on Sachem Way, in Nagog Woods or Avalon Drive, along Great Road or Main Street, then you are on the shuttle route, which runs Monday thru Friday. Children can ride without a car seat. The cost per ride is $1. Call 978-844-6809 or go to www.crosstownconnect.org for more information. In addition, the Minute Van service provides rides to W. Concord, Emerson Hospital, Maynard Center and the Food Pantry in Boxboro -- anywhere within 3 1/2 miles of Acton Town Hall - for $4/ride. To make a reservation in advance for your trip call 978-844-6809 or www.minutevan.net. |
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