Winter Newsletter
January-February-March 2023
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If First Connections has made a positive impact on your parenting experience, please consider making a year end donation now! Your GIFTS matter! Click here to read one donor's story and learn about employer matching.
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New Opportunity for 2-3 year olds! In January, First Connections will begin offering the ParentChild+ program to local families* through a new grant from the MA Department of Early Education and Care! This free program brings fun and engaging early learning experiences right to your home. Each week an Early Learning Specialist visits bringing a high quality book or toy that the family will get to keep. The specialist models reading, conversations, and play activities designed to promote language, literacy, and school readiness. Families can enter the program when their child is 24 to 36 months and participate for up to 2 years. This is especially helpful for families who cannot easily access our traditional programs, due to lack of transportation, a language barrier, having multiple children under age six, complex work schedules, single parenting, or other circumstances. Any interested family may inquire.* If your family would like to participate or learn more email firstconnections@jri.org or text ParentChild+ to 978-505-4429.
*Must reside in Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury, or Westford.
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ParentChild+ has a 40 year track record of supporting early childhood success. Children who take part in this program are well prepared to transition to preschool and kindergarten successfully!
JOB OPPORTUNITY!
Part-time Home Visitors
First Connections has immediate openings for two part-time Early Learning Specialists. No formal education is required - training will be provided with guidance from Ms. Ellie & our ParentChild+ partners. Experience living within one of the communities served and experience raising children or working with parents and young children preferred. Bilingual Portuguese, Spanish, Russian or any Indian, African or Middle Eastern dialects preferred.
Starting rate of $19 per hour,
14, 20, or 30 hr/wk available
year round or academic schedules
and benefit options
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Free Winter Parent Workshops
Email Linda to register for these programs
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Encouraging Self-Help Skills in Children Age 18 Months to 5 Years
Presented by Pediatric Occupational Therapist Anna Knox
Children grow so quickly, and we're not always aware of what they are developmentally capable of doing for themselves in our day-to-day home life. Anna will give us information and an overview of how we can teach our children to do things for themselves at particular ages during toddlerhood and up to kindergarten age.
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Thursday, February 16, 6:30 p.m.
This is a live virtual program.
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This program will be held virtually
on Wednesday, January 11
11:30 a.m. or 5:30 p.m.
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Introduction to Infant Massage
For parents and their pre-crawling babies
Presented by Mary Beilman, MA ECSE, CLC, CEIM
Infant massage is a form of loving communication that fosters bonding and trust between parent and child. In this introduction to Infant Massage Mary will share the benefits for you and your baby, and will demonstrate a routine to help with gas and some gentle movements.
Mary will be teaching 4-week Thursday morning infant massage classes thru Carlisle Recreation Dept. beginning Jan 26, Mar 23 or Apr 27 virtually; or in person beginning Tuesday Jan 24, Mar 21 or Apr 25. Information here
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Nurturing Your Children's Literacy and Fine Motor Development
in Preparation for Kindergarten
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Presented by Dr. Sharon Ryan, PreK-2 Literacy & Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator for Acton-Boxboro Schools
Dr. Ryan will discuss ideas about the kinds of activities that families can enjoy together to nurture young children's literacy development in preparation for transitioning to kindergarten, and why it is important to work on these skills at home. Each family will take home a packet that includes a rhyming book, scissors, and other fine-motor activity supplies geared toward children age 3-5 with adult assistance to get them started.
Wednesday, March 15, 10:00-11:00
Held at First Connections in Acton
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Join us in Celebrating Lunar New Year
Sunday, January 15, 2:30 in the Meeting Room at Acton Memorial Library, 486 Main Street
Drop-in program - no registration or fees required!
Everyone is welcome at this cultural learning event. Jasmine Wang and Ellie Springer will lead a Bilingual Mandarin/English storytime. There will also be crafts, games and activities, and Chinese snacks provided.
2023 is the Year of the Rabbit!
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New Parent Programs - Newborn to 12 Months |
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New Mothers Group - Every Wednesday, 1-2:30
Anyone who identifies as a mother with a pre-crawling baby is welcome to attend this ongoing weekly drop-in group facilitated by Early Childhood Educator, Lactation Counselor, Sleep Consultant and Infant Massage Teacher Mary Beilman. This open discussion group is a forum for you to share experiences and resources, connect with other new mothers, learn about your baby's development, and seek guidance about any concerns you might have.
This group meets in person at Littleton Library on the first Wednesday of each month (RSVP to Linda.)The group meets via Zoom on all other Wednesdays. Email Mary for the link. This group will not meet on December 28.
Older Babies (5-11 Months) Group - Every Wednesday, 10-11:00
This virtual group is for parents whose babies are moving out of the newborn stage, beginning to move independently, and eat a wider variety of foods. You may have different questions than parents who are in the "4th trimester." Your baby should be a minimum of 5 months and a maximum of 11 months at the start of this group. Weekly attendance is expected unless you notify us that you're ill or otherwise unable to join us. This group requires registration for the Winter session by emailing Linda. Meets January 11 thru March 29
New Dads Group - Held Monthly, 7:30-9:00 p.m.
Our New Dads Group is a peer-led group, facilitated by two experienced dads. This group allows dads to make connections, ask questions, learn about child development, and share their experiences of parenthood. Adjusting to a new identity as a parent along with the changes in relationships with friends, family and partners can sometimes be a challenge. Fathers are welcome to attend with/without babies and continue to attend the group for as long as it is helpful. This group is geared toward fathers with babies 0-12 months. We are LGBTQ+ friendly and welcome any person who identifies as a father. Please email hobrien@jri.org before attending to receive the connecting link for this currently-virtual group. Tuesday, January 10, Wednesday, February 15, Tuesday, March 14
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Emotional Wellbeing After Baby - Thursdays 9:30-11
Now meeting in person and virtually!
Emotional challenges are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, yet parents often feel isolated and ashamed if they are struggling. Parents experiencing anxiety or depression in the postpartum year and beyond can come together in this supportive, nonjudgmental, confidential group to share stories and learn from each other while receiving coping strategies and skills. To receive the zoom link, or before participating for the first time, please contact the facilitator, Heather O'Brien. Heather is also available on Thursdays for phone or zoom one-to-one assistance with finding a counselor or a support group that fits your schedule or to speak about specific concerns related to postpartum adjustment.
Funding for this group is provided by The Nordblum Family Foundation and Emerson Health
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Winter Playgroups
Groups begin the week of January 9 and end March 31.
They do not meet the week of February 20
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To register for any playgroup or storytime listed below, email lmatthews@jri.org. Please let us know your child's first name, age, and the town you live in. If someone other than who is registering the child will accompany the child to playgroup, please let us know the name of that person. We appreciate your respecting the minimum and maximum ages for groups. Masks are optional for adults and children but subject to change if community spread of contagious illnesses increases.
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Ages & Stages Playgroup for Ages 12-23 Months
Meets on Mondays, 10-11:00, at Bedford Public Library
This group will meet in the library's large meeting room, and children will have the opportunity to engage with toys and activities to support different areas of their development, based on the Ages & Stages Developmental Milestones. Each meeting will end with a circle time with songs and a book. Infant siblings in a carrier are welcome.
Ages & Stages Playgroup for Ages 24-36 Months
Meets on Thursdays, 10-11:00, at Concord Carousel Preschool
This playgroup will meet in a preschool classroom where we will have a chance to play with their toys, as well as to engage in activities designed to support 2 year olds in different areas of their development based on the Ages & Stages Developmental Milestones. Each group will end with a circle time with songs and a book. Infant siblings in a carrier are welcome.
Money Math Playgroup for Ages 3 thru 5
Meets on Fridays, 10-11:00, at Village Nursery School, Harvard
This playgroup will meet in a preschool classroom where we will have the chance to play with their toys, as well as to engage in some activities to promote early math skills and to begin to learn about money. Younger siblings may attend, but be aware that we will be using small parts which may present a choking hazard, as well as tools like scissors, and that the activities will be geared toward 3-5-year-olds. Infant siblings should be secured to keep them safe
Little Learners Playgroup at Hanscom Air Force Base
Meets on Tuesdays, 10-11:00, at Hanscom Youth Center
This group for mobile babies through 5 year olds will provide opportunities for children to play with peers, learn or practice new skills, and explore different toys. Caregivers will have the chance to play with their children and to connect with other families on the base. Each group will include a circle time with songs and a book. Come see old friends and meet new ones! Infant siblings in carriers welcome. This group is continuing with the families who joined in November. We will accept additional names for a wait list.
Literacy Playgroup for Multilingual Families
Meets on Wednesdays, 10-11:00, at First Connections in Acton
Co-facilitated by a Mandarin-English bilingual educator and an English-speaking early childhood educator.
For families with children ages 18 months to 5 years who speak any language other than or in addition to English at home. In this group we will play with toys and engage in activities related to a book we read at circle time, as well as have time to explore all the toys in our playroom. Each family will get a bag of books, some in languages other than English, to read at home, then bring back to exchange for a different bag the next week. We will also share tips on supporting children's emerging literacy skills. The group will be conducted in English, but speakers of any language are welcome, and our bilingual Mandarin-English facilitator will share some Mandarin words with us. Caregivers are encouraged to speak their home language with their child during the group. Infants in carriers welcome.
Saturday Morning Virtual Mandarin Story Times for Ages 2-5
Meets on Zoom Saturdays from 9:00-9:30
Ms. Jasmine's popular program includes read aloud stories, language facial exercises, introduction to Chinese characters and pronunciations, and virtual activities. Jasmine Wang graduated from Communication University of China with an M.A. in Language arts and a Certification of Mandarin Grade A. She specializes in teaching vocalization, speech, recitation and debate. This is a Mandarin immersion experience. New families should email lmatthews@jri.org to receive the Zoom link.
One-time registration and weekly zoom sign-ins will be used to track attendance.
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Don't Miss Kindergarten Registration for Your Town!
Acton-Boxborough Public Schools Kindergarten Information Night
Tuesday, January 17, 2023, 7:00 p.m.
Online registration begins January 18. Online registration begins 18.
Bedford Public Schools
Carlisle Public Schools
Concord Public Schools Kindergarten Registration Begins January 1, 2023
Contact Erin Higgins with questions: ehiggins@concordps.org
Harvard Public Schools
or call the elementary school 978-456-4145
Lincoln Public Schools
or call the K-4 office, 781-259-9404
Littleton Public Schools
or call Shaker Lane School, 978-486-3959
Westford Public Schools
Nabnasset & Robinson schools will register students on March 7, 2023, 5:00 pm
Miller school has not posted a date, call office 978-392-4476
Maynard Public Schools
Contact Green Meadow School, 978-897-8246
Sudbury Public Schools "Kickoff to Kindergarten" Information Night
Tuesday, January 31
Registration opens February 1st
Questions: early_childhood@sudbury.k12.ma.us or 978-639-3204
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Thank You from Our Diaper Pantry!
Westford Brownie Troop #83839
Abby Flanagan & Friends
ABUW Day of Action Volunteers
Katie Goldman, Katrina Weiss,
Ilaria Howard, Nicole Nichols, Jess McEachirn,
Maria Van der Keyl McDonough, Amy Gordon
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Winter Community Parent Support & Education
The following programs are not provided by First Connections but are compiled here for your convenience.
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Do You Know About the Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Grant Program?
The ECMHC grant program provides consultation services to preschools and parents that help support the social-emotional development and behavioral health of children currently enrolled in preschool. ECMHC consultants provide guidance to programs, educators, and families on addressing the developmental, emotional, and behavioral challenges of infants and young children in early education settings. Requests for this service can be initiated by a parent or by a preschool program with the goal of helping a child who may be struggling to become more successful in the classroom. This is a FREE service through the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care, available statewide. Programs serving our towns:
Together for Kids serves preschools located in: Ashby, Ayer, Berlin, Bolton, Groton, Harvard, Lancaster, Lunenburg, Pepperell, Shirley, Townsend (and towns west). Call 508-791-3261 or email Beth Ciavattone, eciavattone@communityhealthlink.org
MSPCC Mental Health Consultation Program serves preschools located in: Bedford, Billerica, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Dunstable, Lexington, Lincoln, Lowell, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Waltham, Westford (and towns northeast). Call 508-688-5408 or email Jayna Doherty, jdoherty@eliotchs.org
Enable, Inc serves preschools in: Acton, Boxboro, Concord, Framingham, Hudson, Littleton, Maynard, Marlboro, Natick, Stow, Sudbury, Wayland, Wellesley, Weston (and towns southeast). Call 781-821-4422 or email Kim Baldasaro, kbaldasaro@enableinc.org
SEMINARS OR WEBINARS
Basic Rights in Special Education: Effective Communication
January 20, 6:30 p.m. Webinar in CHINESE
A special FCSN workshop for non-English speaking families introducing special education laws and procedures, the Individualized Education Program (IEP) document, and the transition planning. The workshop is virtual and free to all.
基本權利系列工作坊
本系列介紹了特殊教育法律和
程序，個性化教育計劃（ IEP ）
文件以及學生年滿18岁時所涉
及嘅計劃。
研討會將以虛擬方式進行
Strategies for the IEP Meeting Workshop
January 11, 5:00 p.m. Webinar in SPANISH
Serie de talleres sobre derechos básicos.
Esta serie es una introducción a las leyes y procedimientos de educación especial, el documento del Programa de Educación Individualizada (IEP) y la planificación involucrada cuando un estudiante cumple 18
Lawrence Cohen, Ph.D., to offer Workshops in Boston this Spring; Online in February
Author of Playful Parenting & The Opposite of Worry
May 27-28, 2023: An in-person 2-day weekend workshops for parents in Boston, MA. Priority will be given to people who live in the greater Boston area. These will be the first in-person workshops for Liz and Larry since the pandemic began, and we are very excited. The workshops are a combination of short lectures, experiential exercises, and small group discussions. We will cover the key parenting areas of connection, play, emotions, setting limits, and the parenting team.
Feb-April: A 6-week online class for parents, on Tuesdays from 5-7pm Pacific Time, starting 2/28/23 and completing on 4/4/23. The content and format will be similar to the weekend live workshop.
March-April: A 6-week online class for parent educators, on Thursdays from 5-7pm Pacific Time, starting 3/2/23 and completing on 4/6/23. This course will combine an overview of playful parenting with a powerful technique of case exploration. The six-week series is experiential, focused on looking within and helping other parents look within, to find their own solutions.
For all of these events, the fee is a sliding scale from $150-$350 per person. Some scholarships available.
Introduction to Floortime for Parents - Online Parent Course 1
Offered by Astra Center for Neurodiverse Development in Acton
In this Floortime TM workshop, you will learn DIR® techniques developed by Stanley Greenspan, MD and Serena Wieder, PhD. The program focuses on the child-parent (or caregiver) relationship as the heart of learning and development. You will learn how to play with your child to better support his/her development and emotional growth. This course tightly couples theory and practice to help you master specific skills to help your child. Suitable for parents of children ages 2 to 10, with issues of behavior, regulation, communication, or developmental delays. $120/parent or $160/family including extended family and caregivers.
Held Wednesdays, 7-9:00 p.m. on Jan. 11, 25, Feb. 8, 22, March 8, 22
ONGOING SUPPORT GROUPS
Virtual General Parenting Support Group (FREE)
Weekly open discussion format with other parents, addressing struggles you may be feeling while raising children. You will get help and support from other parents who are experiencing similar difficulties. Facilitated by Wayside Youth & Family Services, held on Wednesdays from 6-8:00. Confidential. To join contact christi_fagerberg@waysideyouth.org
Virtual Parent Groups Held by the Center for Early Relationship Support (FREE)
Fragile Beginnings for parents of babies who've spent time in the NICU, Thursdays 10:30-11:30 via zoom
Newly Adoptive Parents of babies under 12 mos. meets on Fridays from 10-11:30 via zoom
Parents of Toddlers (1-3 yrs) meets from 1-2:30 on Wednesdays via zoom
Pregnancy Support Group meets Tuesdays, 12-12:45 via zoom
Free Virtual Support for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Join the Asperger/Autism Network of New England for free monthly support groups for Fathers and Spanish Speakers. The Parents of Children Under 12 group has a wait list. Information Here
Free Virtual Support for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
(Serves Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard & Westford)
Northeast Arc Autism Support Center offers support groups for Parents of Children Under 10, Parents of School-age Children, Fathers of Children with Autism, Arab-speaking and Cambodian-speaking parents. You can find information here: Northeast Autism Support Center Groups
Free Autism Alliance Support and Activities for Families (Sudbury area)
Portuguese-speaking Group de Suporte for parents meets 6:30-8:30, Info Here
Just for Dads Drop-in Support Group, first Wednesday of each month, 6:30-7:30 Info Here
Parents of Children Age 10 & Under Drop-in Group meets the 3rd Wednesdays, 12-1:00, Info Here
Parents Helping Parents Support Groups (FREE)
Facilitated virtual groups allow parents to get advice, give feedback, and find resources to help you manage day-to-day parenting challenges. Specialty groups include Single Parents, Parent Connection Evening Groups, Fathers, Parenting as a Person of Color and those working with the Department of Children & Families. Information Page
NAMI offers support groups for family members of persons struggling with mental illness, as well as peer groups for those with a diagnosed mental illness. Specialty groups are available for partners and parents, including a Spanish-language group. "NAMI Basics" is an on-demand educational program available to parents/caregivers of children and adolescents with emotional or behavioral issues Link Here
Infant and Pregnancy Loss Support Group (FREE)
This ongoing monthly group is for those who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy at any stage or infant loss shortly after birth and are looking for support from others with shared experiences. The group is facilitated by an advanced practice nurse practitioner specializing in perinatal grief support. Individuals are encouraged to contact the facilitator, Katie Stockman at kstockman@emersonhosp.org or 617-299-1533 for the connecting zoom link. "We are a compassionate and nurturing community of grieving parents - you are not alone."
Website. Second Monday of the Month, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group in Acton (FREE)
Come share the rewards and challenges of raising your grandchildren. Learn from and support others in similar circumstances. Discover ways to relieve stress. Benefit from the resources available from the Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, and hear about State agencies which can provide assistance. If you are interested in joining this group, which meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month, 11-12:00, at 30 Sudbury Road (Acton Senior Center), contact Joe O'Leary at 978-760-0360 or j.j.oleary@comcast.net. For additional statewide resources, workshops, & evening groups, contact colleen.pritoni@state.ma.us or 617-748-2454. Website.
Adoption Journeys Monthly Support Group (FREE)
Every month this professionally-facilitated group for adoptive parents meets virtually for support, education, and connection. Periodic guest speakers, family events and a bi-monthly newsletter are additional benefits of registering. To find out more or join this group, email Child & Family Services, kcalvin@cfservices.org
Boston Post Road Adoption Resources ($30/35 per group)
This agency provides support groups for adoptive parents (ages 4-7, 8-12 or teens), adopted children age 8 and older, adult adoptees, and assists adults with birth parent searches and reunions. Website
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Free & Low-Cost Community Parent & Child Programs |
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Concord Youth Theater Productions for Ages 2-9 Years-Saturdays 10:30-11:30
Interactive new & improved versions of favorite stories with a sing-a-long and audience participation encouraged. Read the story at home, then see it acted out in person! Held at 53 Church Street, West Concord. $5 at the door. For more information email hkidder@comcast.net or call 978-371-1482. Upcoming schedule - no reservations required!
December 17: The Grinch
January 7: Goldilocks & The 3 Bears
January 21: Peter Pan
February 18: The Lorax
March 4: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
March 18: Chicken Little
April 1: The Pied Piper
Free Admission to Discovery Museum, Acton, for Everyone on First Fridays!
Free Especially for Me Visits for families with a Child who has a Special Need
January 3, 1:30-4:30, Sensory-Friendly Tuesday
January 7, 5:00-8:00, Autism-Friendly Saturday
January 21, 5:00-8:00, All-Acess Saturday
Family Trees Exhibit at Concord Museum through January 2nd
Visit the annual exhibit of trees decorated as a celebration of children's literature! Special events include a Memory Jar tree and activity on December 17 & 18 from 10-4:00, and a Costume Character Day also on December 17, 1-3:00. Admission: $18 adult, $10 ages 6-17, $8 ages 3-5, 2 & under and active duty military free, $2 with EBT card per person. Museum Information
deCordova Museum Parent-Child Outdoor Winter Programs - $18 adult, children free
Artfull Play includes art, stories, nature & friends joining in multisensory activities. Geared toward ages 2-5.
This program is held on Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 on January 18, February 15 and March 15.
Artfull Explorations investigates ideas and unique materials inspired by themes and artists on view in the park and museum. Make your own project or collaborate with others. For all ages. Held on Sundays, 1:30-3:30 on January 29 and March 19. Fee includes museum admission. Information here
Save the Date for the Sweetie Valentines Day Party in Acton - Saturday, February 11!
Acton-Boxboro Family Network has reserved the Blanchard Memorial School Gym in Boxboro for their open-to-the-public Valentines Party. Non-members are asked to register before attending - watch for information HERE.
Sensory-Friendly activities take place from 9:30-10:00. Main event will be 10-11:30
SPECIAL FREE LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Family Storytime and Gift Making at Maynard Library for all ages on December 17th
"Welcome Winter" storytime from 10:30-11:15, then a Gift Making opportunity to use a variety of craft supplies like stamps, stencils, paint, special papers, and more to make gifts and cards for family and friends from 12-4:00. Drop in, no registration needed.
Real Live Bubble Show on December 28, 10:30-11:30 brings a professional bubble blower to demonstrate the biggest bubble in the world, floating rainbow bubbles, and watch someone go inside a bubble! https://www.maynardpubliclibrary.org/
9-Hole Indoor Mini Golf at Westford Library on December 28 from 11-3:00
Register for the time slot that works best for your family. The activity begins in the Meeting room and travels all over the library!
Encanto Storytime with Mirabel takes place on January 11, 10:30-11:15. Enjoy stories, songs, games, a dance party, Spanish words, and see the "miracle" door!. Drop in program for all ages.
Preschooler Nature Storytimes at Gleason Library, Carlisle
Nature Connection Storytimes feature seasonally-appropriate nature-based stories along with a sensory engagement activity. Held January 12, February 9 & March 9, 10:30-11:15
Magic Maples Storytime at Clark Farm will teach children about Norway Maple Trees, maple tapping and sugaring along with a storytime. Held Tuesday, February 28, 10-11:15 and Saturday, March 4, 10-11:15.
Noon Year's Eve, Author Visit, Dragons, & Musical Mondays at Concord Libraries
A Family Noon Year's Eve Party will happen at 1322 Main Street on December 31, 11:30-12:15. Wear your sparkly best and enjoy crafts, music and a countdown with cider and snacks.
Storytime with author Joshua Funk, then enjoy a fun character creation drawing and writing activity at 129 Main Street. The author will sign your books, including The Great Caper Caper & My Pet Feet. January 14, 10:30-11:15.
Giants, Giraffes, Dragons & Detectives takes place at 129 Main Street with Trevor the Games Man on February 23, 10-11:00.
Musical Mondays happens on all non-holiday Mondays at the 129 Main Street branch. A new performer, Ricardo Rosales, will bring a bilingual English/Spanish show for all ages on February 23, 10:30-11:15.
No registration required for any of these programs. More information on the Calendar
Noon Year's Eve Countdown at Lincoln Library for Ages 6 & Under on December 31st!
Drop in and groove to storytime favorites, oldies, and a few pop hits, then ring in the New Year with a countdown and apple juice toast at 12:00. No registration required, older siblings welcome. Info here
Mama Ballroom, Abra KIDabra, Snow People, Storytime Yoga, more at Sudbury Library
Mama Ballroom movement class for moms and 0-18 month babies. 12/20, 1/3 & 1/17, 11:30-12:15
Abra KIDabra magic show with Mike Bent for ages 4 & up, on Dec. 28, 3-3:45 pm (drop in, no reg.)
Create Giant Snow People activity for ages 3 & up on Dec. 27, 2-4:00 pm (drop in, no reg)
Storytime Yoga on January 6 for Babies (1 mo.-pre-walkers) at 11:45, and Kids (walkers-preschool), 1:30-2.
Lunar New Years Celebration for all ages on January 25, 3-4:00 pm (drop in, no reg)
Registration required, unless otherwise noted, on the Calendar Page
Babygarten Storytime Program for 0-18 Months at Littleton Library begins Feb. 2
This hour-long in-person program is a stimulating experience intended to nurture the bond between caregivers and children, and to increase the caregiver's awareness of their child's development. The program emphasizes language enrichment and pre-literacy skills thru nursery rhymes, songs, stories, and parent information. A developmental craft and free-play time is included. Register for dates you can attend. Held Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 on February 2, 9, 16, March 2, 9, 16.
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New Resources in the Community |
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Family-Friendly COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics
Each person receives a $75 Gift Card
Mass. residents who receive a 1st, 2nd, or booster vaccine will receive a gift card while supplies last. This offer expires 12/31/22. Closest clinics to our towns are: Fitchburg, Framingham and Lowell. Clinic locations, dates and times are listed on this page.
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Acton Child Care Grants Available Again in January
for families below 300% of the Mass. Median Income level. Funds are available for families who require child care to maintain employment, attend school, or seek employment through a job search. Familes must not be receiving a financial subsidy through the state or be using a private scholarship to attend child care. Information here, or contact Community Resources Coordinator Laura Ducharme, 978-929-6651 or lducharme@actonma.gov
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Sudbury Rent Relief Program
Sudbury residents who are having financial difficulty paying their rent can apply to the Regional Housing Office for possible financial assistance through ARPA Funds. More Information here:
978-639-3388
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Boxboro Financial Assistance Available to Residents
Boxboro residents experiencing financial difficulty who earn up to 80% of the Mass. median income can apply for a grant up to $1,000 to assist in paying for rent, mortgage, dental/medical care, transportation/car repairs, utilities, etc
Contact Wendy Abetz, Community Services Coordinator
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English Language Learner Adult Classes
Now offered at Concord-Carlisle High School
In-person evening classes for beginners. Intermediate classes held online and in person January thru May. Take the placement test online. You can translate the forms into your language. Scholarships available
or email ace@concordps.org or call 978-318-1432
English At Large, a free program, is also accepting referrals for refugee learners residing in Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard & more neighboring towns (map on website). More information here
Conversation Circle for English Language Learners takes place at Fowler Library, 1322 Main Street, West Concord on most Tuesdays, 2:30-3:30. Beginners welcome at this free program to practice your English. No registration required. More information here
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Sudbury Summer Camp Fair - January 23, 2003
Meet representatives from day, overnight, travel, and community service summer camps for kids in grades K-12.
Held at Lincoln-Sudbury High School from 11-2:00
Boston Parents Paper Virtual Summer Camp Fairs
Choose your family's interests and you will receive links on a monthly basis from January-June with information about the 6 virtual Camp Expos. Sign Up Here
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Thanking our Community for your Support
Maynard Community Chest, $1,000
Acton Congregational Church $2,500
Beacon Santa, Acton Congregational Church & Toys for Tots for helping families with holiday wishes.
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Denotes funding for this program provided by Mass. Dept. of Early Education & Care CFCE Grant
First Connections, a division of Justice Resource Institute, is one of 84 Coordinated Family and Community Engagement (CFCE) programs in the state of MA, funded in part by the Department of Early Education and Care and offering regionally specific family support services. Our CFCE funded programs extend to families within our 11-town catchment area including Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Hanscom AFB, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury, and Westford. We also rely on the generous support of local partners who help fund these programs and expand the geographic reach of our First Year of Life & EWAB programs. We are grateful for the financial support of Acton-Boxborough United Way, CHNA15 grants with DoN funds from Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Concord-Carlisle Community Chest, Emerson Health Determination of Need Mental Health Grant, Maynard Community Chest, Nordblum Family Foundation, William E. Schrafft and Bertha E. Schrafft Charitable Trust, Acton Congregational Church, and individuals like you. Thank you for your support! To view our direct services and programs:
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