Fatima's Great Outdoors
Born Learning Trail at Nara Park, Acton
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The Born Learning Trail is designed to help adults interact with children in ways that boost language & literacy development, and to help caregivers understand how to best support early learning in outdoor everyday moments.
Fatima is having a challenging week at school, so she is happy to hear her family is going camping for the weekend! Their time together at a park brings new experiences that she is excited to share when she returns to school for "Show & Tell." The author is the founder of @BrownPeopleCamping.
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April 15 thru 23
25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton
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The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson
at The Robbins House in Concord
This is a story about two young girls who live in a segregated community, and how a new generation reaches across the fence and is allowed to make friends one summer. Learn more before visiting Here
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June 17 thru 25
320 Monument Street, Concord
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The Storywalk Project was created with a Racial Equity grant from CHNA 15 DoN funds from Lahey Hospital and Medical Center. Storywalks are available to all community organizations to borrow free of charge. Email lmatthews@jri.org for a list of books available.
Access our Resources for Talking to Young Children about Race here
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Spring Parent Education Schedule |
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0-2 Communication and Connections
Presented by Mary Beilman
Learn about ways to connect, support and understand your baby. We will discuss communication milestones including crying, understanding and first words. In addition, we will learn about the benefits of using sign language to help build communication skills, reduce frustration and enhance communication. Participants will learn basic signs to incorporate into their daily routines. Bring your baby, a blanket and enjoy a story and song that includes the new signs we learn.
Held at First Connections on Wed., April 19, 10-11:00. Masks for Adults
Mary is a Baby Sign Language Educator certified thru the Institute of Pediatric Sleep and Parenting with training based on Dr. Joseph Garcia's SIGN with Your BABY Program.
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Pelvic Floor Health for Moms
presented by Emerson Pelvic Health Therapy Specialists
Have you had trouble lifting or getting back into exercise? Do you leak when you laugh, cough or sneeze? Do you have pain with intercourse? If so, join the pelvic health physical therapists to learn more about pelvic floor dysfunction and pain, and how it can be treated. Email lmatthews@jri.org to be sent the connecting link - you will receive the link automatically if you are already attending New Moms Group.
Wed., May 24, Virtually at 1:00 p.m.
To attend any of these programs, email Linda to be put on the list to attend or receive the link.
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Pick Your Battles: Setting and Holding Limits with Toddlers and Preschoolers
Presented by Ellie Springer, M.Ed
Young children thrive when they have clear and consistent boundaries, when they know what to expect from their caregivers, and when they know the adults are in control. Toddlers' and preschoolers' developing brains drive them to seek control and power, though, so they are constantly pushing the boundaries we set for them. In this presentation, Ms. Ellie will talk about how to decide whether a battle is worth fighting, when to give your child some control, when and how to set a limit, and what to do when you get that inevitable pushback.
Thursday, June 15
7:00 p.m.
Held virtually
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Spring New Parent Support Programs: Newborn to 12 Months
Emotional Wellbeing After Baby
Meets Every Thursday, 9:30-11:00
Funding for this group is provided by the Nordblum Family Foundation
and The Emerson Hospital DoN Community Health Initiative
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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 can come together in this supportive, nonjudgmental, confidential group to share stories and learn from each other while receiving coping strategies and skills. This is an ongoing weekly group for parents of babies 0-12 months. Before participating for the first time, please contact the facilitator, Heather O'Brien, LICSW, so she can send you the connecting link.
Held Thursdays, 9:30-11:00 a.m. via zoom, with in person groups at First Connections on 4/20, 5/18, 6/15.
Our office maintains an extensive list of mental health providers and support groups for postpartum depression and anxiety. For assistance in finding a counselor or a support group that fits your schedule, or to speak with Heather about specific concerns related to postpartum depression or anxiety, email Heather O'Brien, LICSW.
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New Mothers Group - Held Every Wednesday, 1-2:30
Meets in person at Littleton Library April 5, May 10, June 7 via RSVP
Does not meet on April 12.
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, Infant Massage Teacher and Pediatric Sleep Consultant 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. Currently being held virtually in a hybrid schedule via zoom and in person. Email mbeilman@jri.org for the link.
New Dads Group - Held Monthly on Tuesdays, 7:30-9:00 pm
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. April 12, May 10 and June 14
Older Babies Parent Group - Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30
This 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 are unable to make it in case we have a wait list. This group requires registration for the spring semester, by emailing lmatthews@jri.org.
Spring Group will meet April 26 thru June 21 with in-person groups at Boxboro Library on 4/26, 5/24, 6/21
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Spring Playgroups
First Connections playgroups are free of charge and priority registration is given to families in the towns our CFCE grant includes: Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury, Westford, and Hanscom AFB. If a group is full you will be put on a wait list. If you remain on the wait list you will be given priority registration for the next session. Please register for the group that corresponds to your child's age on the first day of playgroup. REGISTER
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Groups begin the week of April 24th*
Masks are optional at our playgroups, subject to change if virus spread increases
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Beginning Conversations about Race, Culture, & Prejudice
For children ages 3-6 and their parents/caregiver
Young children notice differences in people like skin color, hair type, eye shape, and the foods they eat and languages they speak. We adults can help them learn about these differences and try to prevent them from absorbing prejudiced ideas they may see or hear other places. In this group, we will read books together about skin color, race, culture, and the prejudice and discrimination associated with those traits, and explore our own physical appearance and culture through play and art. Each week, families will also get to borrow a bag with books to read at home and tips/activities for parents related to the books. Younger siblings welcome.
Mondays 10:00-11:00 p.m., Bedford Public Library
Little Learners Playgroup for Hanscom Air Force Base Families
For mobile babies thru age 5
This group will meet in the Youth Center gym. The children will have a chance to run around, throw and kick balls in the large space, along with Legos, puzzles, and other quieter activities. Children will have time to play with old friends and meet new ones. At the end of each session, we will have a circle time with songs and a book. Open to all families who have access to HAFB. Current participants will continue. Space is limited for new members with advanced registration required.
Tuesdays, 10-11:00, Youth Center Gym, *This group meets May 2 thru June 20
Ages & Stages Playgroup for 24-36 Months Playgroup
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. We will do messy art and sensory activities in this group, so please dress your children in clothes that can get dirty. Each group will end with a circle time with songs and a book. Infant siblings in a carrier are welcome.
Thursdays 10-11:00 at Concord Carousel Preschool
Outdoor Gross Motor Playgroup for Ages 12-24 Months
We will meet on a fenced-in, grassy, toddler playground area and have time to run, throw and kick balls, scoop sand, etc., and have a circle time with songs and a story. Bring a blanket to sit on. Infant siblings in a carrier are welcome. Please make arrangements for care of older siblings to keep new walkers safe.
Fridays 10-11:00 at Village Nursery School, 40 Poor Farm Rd., Harvard
(Rain location will be at First Connections in Acton)
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Multilingual Me, You, We Playgroup for Ages 2-5 |
In this playgroup, children will have the chance to see old friends, meet new ones, and practice important social-emotional skills such as taking turns, using words to negotiate conflict, and labeling feelings. Each family will receive a free kit of hands-on materials created by Boston Children's Museum. This group is for families who speak a language other than or in addition to English at home. Co-facilitated by an English-speaking educator and a Mandarin-English-speaking educator.
Wednesdays, 10-11:00 at First Connections, 179 Great Rd, Acton
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Mandarin Story Times with Jasmine for ages 2-5 |
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 a Master's Degree in Language Arts and a Certification of Mandarin Grade A. She has years of experience teaching Mandarin, specializing in vocalization, speech, recitation, and debate. This is a Mandarin immersion experience. One-time registration and weekly zoom sign-ins will be used to track attendance. Current participants will continue; new participarticipants should email Jasmine to receive the zoom links: xwang@jri.org.
Saturdays, 9:00-9:30 a.m.
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Limited Openings for Ages 18 Mos to 4 Years |
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 you get to keep. The specialist models reading, conversations, and play activities designed to promote language literacy, and school readiness. The program lasts for 46 weeks, with breaks for holidays and in summer. Bilingual Spanish and Mandarin specialists available. The program is especially helpful for families who cannot easily attend our playgrops due to lack of transportation, a language barrier, having multiple children under age 6, complex work schedules, single parenting, or other circumstances. If you would like to learn more, contact Debbie at firstconnections@jri.org or text/call 978-505-4429.
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Focus on Child Development
If you would like to know more about your child's development: their strengths, where they might need support, and what to expect at their age, the Ages and Stages Questionnaire is a great tool. It is a caregiver-completed screening that should only take 15 minutes or so and can be done at home with things you have around the house. One questionnaire screens your child's development in areas like communication and motor skills, and the other screens your child's social and emotional development.
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Questions about the ASQ?
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Early Intervention screenings do not require a referral from your doctor, and are free of charge or paid thru insurance. They are available to children newborn to age 2.9.
Here are the E.I. programs serving our catchment area:
Residents of Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Hanscom
Residents of Harvard
Residents of Sudbury
Residents of Westford
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Turning 3 Essentials presented by the Federation for Children with Special Needs.
Free Webinar: May 9, 7-9:00 p.m.
Westford Public Schools is sponsoring this webinar open to all. Explore the difference between Early Intervention and Special Education, the transition planning conference, special education procedures including referrals, evaluation, the team meeting, eligibility determination, services, goals, placement, response options, and parents' procedural due process and rights for resolving disputes. This program is important for any parent whose child is currently enrolled in early intervention services, and those whose child may be eligible for public school-based services as preschoolers.REGISTER HERE
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Public School Preschool Screenings |
Public school preschool screenings do not take place over the summer, so if you have any concerns or questions about your currently 2.9-4 year old child's preschool readiness or development, please contact the Early Childhood Program in your town as soon as possible to schedule a screening. |
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Acton & Boxborough
jgibowicz@abschools.org
978-264-4700 X3948
Bedford
Caitlyn Queenin, 781-275-6804
Carlisle
lbruce@carlisle.k12.ma.us, 978-369-3758
Concord
joshea@concordps.org, 978-318-1500
Littleton
Allison Gilman, 978-486-3959 for screenings
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Harvard
jtoth@psharvard.org, 978-456-4143
Lincoln & Hanscom AFB
Rose Smart, 781-259-9403
Maynard
978-897-8246
lmonachino@maynard.k12.ma.us
Sudbury
978-443-1085 x6006
early_childhood@sudbury.k12.ma.us
Westford
cmoran@westfordk12.us, 978-692-5560 x2111
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Free Developmental Screenings For Infants and Children
Extra Steps Pediatric Therapies will be offering free developmental screenings during their open houses this spring, sponsored by MA Act Early. There will also be fun activities for kids of all ages, and giveaways! Drop in, no registration needed.Located at 222 Main Street, Acton.
Saturdays, April 29 and May 20, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
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Resources for Financial Aid for Town-Specific Summer Camps |
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Bedford Recreation Summer Adventures
Assabet Valley Boys & Girls Club Summer Full Day Camp in Maynard
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Residents of Acton and Boxboro can apply for a Campership at:
Concord Residents can apply for financial aid for Concord Rec full-day summer camps at: Financial Aid Form
Lincoln Residents & Public School Students (including Hanscom) can apply for financial aid for Parks & Rec summer camp. Deadline is April 14!
Sudbury Summer Camp has financial aid for residents. Camp is ages 5 & up.
Littleton's Camp Tahattawan Full-day Weekly Camp w/optional field trips.
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Places to find Camp Information
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Discovery Museum News: Free Memberships & a Film Project! |
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First-time Parents
are now eligible for a free Discovery Museum membership which they can use until their first child turns 18 months! Membership includes unlimited visits, members-only hours, store discounts, monthly calendar of events and more. Details Here!
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The museum will be filming father-child pairs, aged infant to 13, while playing at the museum for a series of shared videos that will support incarcerated fathers. Participants will earn $500 and a 1-year museum membership for 3 hours on Monday April 24 or May 8. Fathers who identifty as non-white are especially encouraged to apply or ask questions at fun@discoveryacton.org
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Acton Emergency Assistance Program |
The town of Acton has established a program through ARPA funds to assist low- and moderate-income families with short-term financial assistance for needs such as rent, mortgage, childcare, utilities or other emergencies. Up to $1,000 in a 12-month period with payment made directly to the vendor. For more information: click here.
As reported in our Winter newsletter, Boxboro also has an Emergency Financial Assistance Program. For more information: click here.
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Town of Bedford Rent Relief Program |
Temporary rental assistance is available to residents through grants of $300-750/month for 6 months to eligible households. New applicants only who are spending over 30% of income on rent or whose income is below 30% AMI. Residents who are recieving another type of rent assistance are not eligible. More Information
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Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line:
A new mental health service available to all
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The Mass Behavioral Help Line is a new service in conjunction with recently opened Community-Based Behavioral Health Centers. Services and referrals are available to all residents not dependent on any health insurance status, including assessment for outpatient referrals, urgent or crisis care. Help available in 200 languages for adults and children.
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Free QPR Zoom Training for the Community
Thursday, March 30, 7:00 pm
Join AB Cares and Emerson Health for a free zoom training to help everyday citizens recognize the warning signs of suicide and what you can do to help someone you may be worried about. You'll learn how to offer hope, and how to get help. REGISTER HERE
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New In-Home Childcare Search Resource: Jovie (formerly College Nannies & Sitters)
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Whether you need a date-night sitter or an in-home nanny, this service allow you to hire their screened employees for full-time, part-time, after-school, summer or back-up care. Local, state & federal background checks. You pay a placement fee, wages, taxes and insurance for caregivers.
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New Program Prioritizes Childcare Vouchers to Childcare Workers making up to 85% SMI
If you are currently a childcare worker, or have a hire letter with a start date and rate that makes you income-eligible for financial assistance, you can currently be prioritized for a voucher. Educators, support staff, administrators, kitchen staff, transportation staff, and cleaning & maintenance staff are eligible. Even if the childcare that you work for does not accept vouchers, your child will still be eligible to use a voucher at a program that does accept vouchers. For more information in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Hiatian-Creole, French, Chinese, Vietnamese, & Arabic, click the graphic.
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Northeastern University Feeding & Communication Research Study
seeking Infants 3 Months & Under
The Speech and Neurodevelopment Lab at Northeastern is conducting research on sucking, feeding and communication development during a child's first 3 years of life. Each session (3, 6, 9, 12, 24,and 36 months) is one hour, and the first few are conducted in your home. $50 Amazon cards after each session, and $99 after the 3-year visit. Info: snl@northeastern.edu or Website
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Chelmsford Mothers Club Spring Kids Tag Sale
Greater Visions Children's Center
April 29, 9-1:00 (half price 11:30-1:00)
Thousands of gently used items for infants to elementary age children at a fraction of retail cost. Clothing, toys, nursery items. Funds raised reduce the cost of activities for CMC members. Please leave kids at home/no strollers. Admission is $2 or a non-perishable food donation. Questions: communityoutreach@kidstagsale.com
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Spring Community Support & Education
Westford Parent Support Group meets 2nd Thursdays, 7-8:30
Join other parents who are living with the challenges of parenting a child who may be struggling with their mental health. This is a safe space to receive caring support. Learn skills and receive helpful resources. Open to Westford residents and those from surrounding communities. No fee. No registration required. Meets at the Town Hall meeting room, 55 Main Street. Questions? Contact Sue Hanly, RN
Who's Raising the Kids? Big Tech, Big Business, and the Lives of Children
Presented by Psychologist Susan Linn, March 29, 7-8:00 pm via zoom
Dr. Linn's research centers on the impact of big tech and big business on children, arguing that our digitized-commercialized culture, homes and classrooms are damaging for kids and families, as well as society at large. Her presentation will explore and expose the roots of this modern condition, explain the commercial incentives that drive it, and map out what we can do for our families and communities to create change.
The In-Sync Child in the 21st Century, live webinar May 16, 7-8:30 p.m.
Presented by Authors Carol Stock Kranowitz and Joy Newman
This program will give a brief overview of sensory, perceptual and visual-motor development, then share activities that develop and enhance physical & emotional health, and academic success. They will discuss helpful movement activities to incorporate into your child's day. Free, registration required here
How to Talk to Kids About Gun Violence, live webinar June 7, 7-8:00 p.m.
Dr. Neena McConnico, Dr. Patricia Crain de Galance, & Pediatrician/Author Anthony Rao
This panel discussion will be moderated by Boston Globe Parenting Unfiltered columnist Kara Baskin.
Autism 101 6-Part Virtual Workshop begins May 5
Understanding Your Child's New Autism Diagnosis webinar on First Tuesdays, 12-1:00
The Lurie Center for Autism in Lexington is a Mass. General for Children program which provides a wealth of informative programs for parents of children with an ASD diagnosis addressing topics such as reducing anxiety around medical visits, sleep challenges, safety plans for home and in the community, reinforcement and limit setting and individual problem-solving assistance. Some topics have fees or are covered by insurance; others are free, including the two listed above. For more information or to register, visit this webpage.
Infant and Pregnancy Loss Support Group
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 with experience supporting families whose pregnancies have ended unexpectedly or whose infants have died. Individuals are encouraged to contact the facilitator, Katie Stockman, NP, at katie@kstockmannp.com or 617-299-1533 for the connecting zoom link. Free
Held on the 2nd Monday of each month, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group
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 the Acton-based group, which meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month, 11-12:00, 30 Sudbury Rd. Rear, Acton, contact Joe O'Leary at 978-760-0360 or j.j.oleary@comcast.net. SAVE THE DATE: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference, June 6, 2023 at Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel in Marlborough! For details, additional resources, workshops, & evening groups, contact colleen.pritoni@state.ma.us, 617-748-2454
Spring Low-Cost Parent & Child Community Activities
Movement & Books with Miss Sarah from L'Ecole de Ballet at Littleton Library
We will read a story then create a dance with body-, space- and music-awareness, finger plays and other activities. Sign up for individual dates on the calendar: March 28, April 4 and April 11, 10:30-11.
Low-Cost Playtime Theater Shows thru Concord Youth Theater
This interactive program acts out familiar children's stories and includes a sing-a-long and prize! Geared toward ages 2-9. $5/person in cash at the door. Held at 53 Church Street, West Concord at 10:30 a.m.
Spring Schedule: April 1-The Pied Piper, April 15-The Lion King, April 29-The Story of Rapunzel
Free Family Music with Sarah at Bedford Library 4/1, 5/6, 6/3, 10:30-11
Drop in to the meeting room for singing, dancing and music making on Saturday mornings!
Free First Fridays at the Discovery Museum, Acton, 4:30-8 pm - Make your reservation!
April 7, May 5 and June 2, 4:30-8:00 pm. Discovery Woods closes at dusk. Non-perishable food donations accepted. Registration begins 10 days prior. Info here
Free Author Visit Storytime: "Being a Cat", 10-11:00, at Silver Unicorn Books
12 Spruce Street, West Acton, in person drop-in program on April 8 with author Maria Gianferrani.
Free Family Day at The Umbrella, Concord, April 8, 12-2:00
Build Earth Float Bases for Earth Day with science teacher Steve Lechner. Register here.
$2/Grocery Bag of Books at Boxboro Library Book Sale! April 1, 9-2:00 & April 2, 2-4:00
Free Toy Time for Toddlers and Preschoolers at Maynard Library every Wednesday
Drop in to play with other children age 1-5 - blocks, trains, obstacle courses, parades and more with Mr. Mark!
Free Saturday Drop-in Studio for Ages 5 & under, 11-11:30, at Fowler Library
Stories, crafts and other hands-on activities. Held in the backyard; in case of rain held indoors with masks suggested. April 8, 15, 22, 29, 1322 Main Street, West Concord More Info Here
Free Monthly "Busy Bee Play Time" at Littleton Library, 10-11:30
Preschoolers and caregivers welcome to get to know other local families and play! Register for dates on library calendar. Scheduled dates are April 10, and May 8
Free Author Visit Storytime: "Dozens of Doughnuts" at Carlisle Library
April 11, 10:30-11:30, 22 Bedford Rd. Story with author Carrie Finison and craft, ages 2 & up. Masks recommended. Register Here
Patriots Day Activities at Concord Museum, 10:30-4:00, April 17
Family drop-in activities include learning about life and crafts in the colonies. Acton Minutemen will be encamped on the grounds for kids to talk to and ask questions, as well as a Redcoat!. Information Here
Adults $15, Ages 6-17 $8, Age 5 & Under free. Active military free, EBT $2/person x 4.
"Eating the Rainbow" Storytime at Littleton Library on April 18
Myra Zuckerman from The Joy of Colorful Cooking, will read picture books, and learn why eating colorful fruits and vegetables is important. For preschoolers thru 3rd grade, 2-2:45. Register on calendar.
Free Hands-on Building Game with Buildwave for Ages K-6th Grade on April 18
Drop in to Boxboro Library, 10:30-11:30, to create with Lego, PlusPlus, and Buildwave materials using design & engineering fundamentals in a unique and memorable context.
Free "Programming, Pizza and Penguins, Oh My!" on April 29th in Acton
Penguin Coding School invites families with children age 5-18 to an afternoon of coding, robotics and pizza! Teachers will give demonstrations on the many applications of coding that children of all ages can enjoy. Learn about the variety of coding classes they offer on weekdays, weekends and summer. Swag bags are limited, and you won't want to miss out! 4:00-6:30 p.m., 411 Mass. Ave., Suite 101. Info Here
Free Bilingual Spanish Storytime at Goodnow Library, Sudbury
Held on Friday, April 28, 10:30-11, no registration required. Ages 1 1/2-5 with stories, songs and rhymes
Free Bilingual Spanish Music Class for Ages 7 and Under at Fowler Library, Concord
April 1, this drop-in musical Monday with Ricardo, 11-11:30. 1322 Main St., West Concord
Free Fieste del Norte Music Program at Museum of Russian Icons on April 21, 2-3:00
Learn about Mexican culture through traditional mariachi music, storytelling, songs, costumes, interaction with instruments and dance steps. Audience participation encouraged. Register Here.
Apple Blossom Festival Parade on Main Street Westford, 10:00 on May 13
Parade ends at Abbott School Carnival, which will open at Noon on Saturday and Sunday. Info
Free Toe Jam Puppet Band Concert at Acton Library, June 30, 3-3:45
Free Toe Jam Band Family Concert at Carlisle Library, June 30 at 6-6:45
Free Especially for Me Visiting Times at The Discovery Museum
This series of free events is for families with children who have a disability. Free for all family members. Registration is required.
Sensory-Friendly Afternoons, Tuesdays, 1:30-4:30 pm: April 4, May 2, June 6
Evening for Families with Deaf, Hard of Hearing & KODA Children, Saturdays, 5-8:00 pm: May 6
Autism-Friendly Evenings, Saturdays,5 -8:00 pm: April 1, June 3
All-Access Evenings, Saturdays 5-8:00 pm.
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Thank you for the
Diaper Pantry Donations
Acton-Boxboro Family Network
Acton Food Pantry
Next Steps Pediatric Therapies,
Concord Carousel
Boris G, KC Sylvestre, Stacey Kenneally,
Caroline Snodgrass
Thank you to those who provided specific donations for local families in need:
Liz Travis, Stacey Kenneally, Kundini Shah, Deb Borsuk, Jamie Lineweaver, Kristen Crory, Maggie Bittarelli, Karrie Weber, Lauren Abad, Neeraj Dalal
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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: www.firstconnections.org
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