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Winter Newsletter
January-February-March 2024
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Free Winter Parent Workshops
Email Linda to register for these programs
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Communication Milestones
Thursday, January 11, 1:00 p.m
Presented by Katie Newton, MS, CCC-SLP
Parents are often told to read to their child every day to encourage talking and learning. There are so many additional opportunities throughout each day that can increase communication and understanding around language. Please join us for an informative webinar where we will share strategies to help make playtime and everyday activities, such as dressing and mealtime - perfect opportunities for stimulating speech and language. We will highlight the typical speech and language milestones for children, and review when a more formal evaluation might be useful. To receive the Zoom link, email lmatthews@jri.org.
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For Ages 9 months to 4 years | | |
Email lmatthews@jri.org for the zoom link | |  |
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Postnatal Yoga Helps Recovery
Wednesday, March 27, 1:00 pm
Presented by Bre Meagher, Doctor of Physical Therapy
Navigating the first few months postpartum is challenging. It can feel overwhelming figuring out where to begin and how to move your body on top of all the other tasks on your plate. Join Dr. Meagher, who is also a yoga instructor and specialist in pelvic and orthopedic health. She will lead you through a yoga flow focused on how to reconnect with your pelvic floor, improve core stabilization, and enhance functional movements. Come be in community with others going through the same transition.
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Fostering Empathy in Young Children
Thursday, March 21, 7:00 p.m.
Presented by Ellie Springer, M.Ed.
We all want the children we care for to grow up to be empathetic, kind adults. But how do we make sure that happens? Spoiler alert: it's not by forcing them to say "sorry" and to share their toys, nor is it by shaming or punishing them when they don't. Join Ms. Ellie for a conversation about when children are developmentally able to develop these skills, and how we can foster genuine empathy in our children - where they actually care about others, treat them with kindness, and give genuine apologies. Email lmatthews@jri.org to receive the Zoom link for this live webinar.
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2024 is the Year of the Dragon! | |
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Join us in Celebrating Lunar New Year
Saturday, February 3, 10:30-11:30
Maynard Public Library
Registration Required Here
Everyone is welcome at this cultural learning event celebrating the Lunar New Year! Jasmine Wang & Ellie Springer will lead a bilingual Mandarin/English storytime. There will also be crafts, games, activities and Chinese snacks provided. Open to all - Mandarin-speaking and non-Mandarin-speaking families. Room limited to 60 individuals.
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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 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 one Wednesday each month (RSVP to Linda.) The group meets via Zoom on all other Wednesdays. Email Mary for the link.
In Person Dates: January 17, February 14, March 13
Zoom Dates: January 24 & 31, February 7 & 21, March 6, 20 & 27
No Group: January 3 & 10, February 28
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Emotional Wellbeing After Baby Group
Meets Every Thursday 9:30-11 via Zoom
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. 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 these parent groups is provided by Concord Carlisle Community Chest, the Emerson Health Determination of Need Mental Health Grant, and Nordblom Family Foundation
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Goodbye to Heather
Heather O'Brien has been a treasured member of the First Connections team for eight years. During her tenure, she has pursued her passion for supporting parents experiencing emotional challenges in early parenthood. Hundreds of parents have found hope during this isolating and scary time through Heather's groups. Many have conquered postpartum depression and anxiety. Please join us in thanking Heather and bidding her farewell as she transitions to full-time private practice. In March, Heather will pass the baton to the capable hands of Emily Khalso-Smith. Stay tuned for more updates. Send messages of thanks to hobrien@JRI.org.
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Winter Playgroups
Groups begin January 17 & end March 29. They do not meet the week of February 19
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Our playgroups are free of charge and open to all families living in Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Hanscom AFB, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury, and Westford. Residents outside of those towns can attend if there is space. To register for a playgroup, email lmatthews@jri.org and include your child's age, town you live in, and the name of the person who will attend the group with your child. Space is limited in all groups.
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New! Book Discussion and Playtime for Ages 2-5
Held on Mondays, 2-3:15 pm. at First Connections in Acton
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In this group, led by Ms. Ellie and Ms. Jasmine, we will read a portion of the book, How to Talk so Little Kids Will Listen, by Joanna Faber and Julie King, before each group and then have a chance to talk about key points with each other, ask questions, and get support, while children play amongst us in the playroom. Families with multiple children, including siblings under 2, are welcome. Infants should be held or in a carrier to keep them safe. All parents will receive a copy of the book (also available on Audible and through libraries as an audiobook but we recommend using a hard or electronic copy due to images that would be hard to translate via audio). There will be a circle time with story and songs included at the conclusion. Limited to 10 families. | |
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New! Boston Children's Museum Tinker Playgroup for ages 3-5 | |
Meets 9:30-10:30 on Wednesdays
Jan. 17, 24, 31, Feb. 7, 14, 28, Mar. 6, 13
at Roudenbush Community Center, Westford
Play and learn together, meet new friends, and practice important STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) skills for children. Includes free kit of hands-on materials created by the museum. Younger siblings welcome.
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Ages & Stages Playgroup for Ages 12-23 Months
Meets on Thursdays, 10-11:00, at First Connections in Acton
This group will meet in our playroom, full of developmentally-appropriate toys, and will include activities each week to support different areas of a one-year-old's development, based on activities in the Ages & Stages Questionnaire. Each meeting will also include a circle time with songs and a book. Infant siblings welcome but should be held or in a carrier to keep them safe.
Ages & Stages Playgroup for Ages 24-36 Months
Meets on Fridays, 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.
Little Learners Playgroup at Hanscom Air Force Base
Meets on Tuesdays, 10-11:00, at Hanscom Youth Center
January 23, 30, February 6, 13, 27, March 5, 12, 19, 26
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.
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 xwang@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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First Connections offers the ParentChild+ program to local families* through a 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 a home visitor brings a high quality book or toy that the family keeps. The home visitor models reading, conversation, and play designed to promote language, literacy, and school readiness. Families with a child age 16 to 36 months may apply. This 23-46 week program supports families who cannot easily access traditional playgroups. Lack of transportation, language barriers, multiple toddlers, single parenting, or other circumstances are also considerations for participation. | |
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Any interested family may inquire by contacting Debbie at: firstconnections@jri.org or texting 978-505-4429.
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!
*Must reside in Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Hanscom AFB, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury, or Westford.
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Acton-Boxborough Public Schools Kindergarten Information Night
Tuesday, January 16, 2024, 7:00 p.m. via Zoom
Registration information and calendar
Online registration begins January 17 for children who are 5 by September 1,2024
Bedford Public Schools
Information will be posted here February 1st
or call 781-275-6804, davisregistration@bedfordps.org
Registration will be for children who are 5 by August 31, 2024
Carlisle Public Schools
To receive the Kindergarten planning postcard, contact Linda Cavallo-Murphy, Registrar.
978-369-6550 x3191 or lcavallomurphy@carlisle.k12.ma.us
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 5, 2024.
Concord Public Schools Kindergarten Registration Begins Online January 1, 2024
Registration Information Here
Contact Erin Higgins with questions: ehiggins@concordps.org or 978-318-1500 x8101
Registration will be for children who are 5 by August 31, 2024
Harvard Public Schools
Fill out a Pre-Registration Form Here
or call the elementary school 978-456-4145
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2024
Lincoln-Hanscom Public Schools
Fill out an Intent to Enroll Form
or contact mradl@lincnet.org at the K-4 office, 781-259-9404
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 30, 2024.
Littleton Public Schools
Registration will begin in May. Check here in April: Information Here.
or contact Shaker Lane School, 978-486-3959, x1301 or kfitzpatrick@littletonps.org
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2024
Maynard Public Schools
Contact Green Meadow School, 978-897-8246 or ndangelo@maynard.k12.ma.us
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2024
Westford Public Schools
Kindergarten registration information page
Registration opens February 12, call 978-692-5560 x2107 with questions
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2024
Sudbury Public Schools "Kickoff to Kindergarten" Information Night
Tuesday, January 30 virtually
Early Childhood Website
Questions: early_childhood@sudbury.k12.ma.us or 978-639-3204
Registration opens February 1st for children who will be 5 on September 1, 2024
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Getting Ready for Kindergarten!
If you have a child who will be entering kindergarten in 2024, you can sign up to get a monthly email from our early childhood education coordinator, Ellie Springer. In January, February, and March, we will share articles on kindergarten readiness and how to help your child and you get ready to start kindergarten. In April through August, we will send you a monthly calendar with simple activities you can do each day to help your child develop the skills to be ready to learn in kindergarten. Please note, these activities WILL NOT emphasize "academic" skills like letters and numbers but instead will focus primarily on the skills kindergarten teachers say children actually need to be successful in school, such as self-help, fine motor, and social-emotional skills.
Please fill out this form to register to receive these emails:
https://forms.office.com/r/3xadWuvpha
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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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Is Your Child Having Challenging Behaviors in Preschool?
The Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (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 508-421-4454 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
Empower, 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@empowerlga.org
McLean Hospital FREE Mental Health Webinars
Register for the link for these and more programs HERE.
The Link between Social Media and Mental Health: Wednesday, January 17, 12:00
Shining a Light on OCD: Tuesday, January 30, 12:00
Managing Fears & Phobias in Kids and Teens: Tuesday, March 19, 11:00
SUPPORT GROUPS
Virtual Parent Groups Held by the Center for Early Relationship Support (FREE)
If you have any questions, email Leslie, lpucker@jfcsboston.org or Website Information
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, 11-12:00 via zoom, jroberts@jfcsboston.org
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, 7:00-8:30 Info Here
Parents of Children Age 10 & Under Drop-in Group meets the 1st 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, Parents of Preschoolers (3-6 yrs), Parent Connection Evening or Early Morning Groups, Fathers, Multicultural Families, Parents in Recovery, and those working with the Department of Children & Families. Information Page
Parent Support Group held in Westford (FREE)
Join other parents of children who may be struggling with their behavioral health. Learn new coping skills, new resources, and receive caring support. Contact Community Wellness Coordinator Nicole Laviolette at 978-399-2503 or via email. The group meets on the 2nd Thursdays from 7-8:30 pm. at the library or Town Hall.
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
NAMI Support Groups (FREE) 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 a local group, which meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month, 11-12:30, at Acton Senior Center, contact Joe at 978-897-9595 or j.j.oleary@comcast.net. For additional statewide resources, workshops, & evening groups, contact colleen.pritoni@state.ma.us or 617-748-2454. Website. 6-part January webinar: Responding to Trauma & Building Healthy Relationships.
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 or supchurch@cfservices.org
Boston Post 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 Parent & Child
Programs in the Community
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First Day Hikes 2024! with DCR: Download Brochure with all the details for January 1st.
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 cyt@concordyouththeatre.org or call 978-371-1482. Upcoming schedule - no reservations required!
January 20: Rumpelstiltskin
February 3: Cinderella
February 17: The Ugly Duckling
March 9: Alice in Wonderland
March 23: Green Eggs & Ham
April 13: Finding Nemo
April 27: The Frog Prince
Open Gym Playgroup at Roudenbush Community Center in Westford
For $5/week you can meet other families with young children and play in the gym on the mats and equipment. A great way to be able to socialize during the winter months! Register Here by the month.
Free Especially for Me Visits for families with a Child who has a Special Need
Information & registration page
January 6 & March 9, 5-8:00 p.m: Autism-Friendly Evening
January 6, February 6 & March 12, 1:30-4:30: Sensory-Friendly Afternoons
February 10, 5-8:00: Evening for blind, visually impaired or deaf/blind
March 23, 5-8:00: Evening for deaf, blind or deaf/blind
January 6 & February 3: Drop-in Free Family Days at The Umbrella Arts Center
Families of all ages and abilities can visit Room 222 from 2-4:00 on these dates to partake in a seasonal and creative craft led by instructor Alison Tsoi. Information & registration page. 40 Stow Street, Concord.
January 29, Feb. 26, Mar. 25: Beede (Swimming) & Books includes storytime at 1:30 and then 30 minutes of pool play with a caregiver in the water. Takes place at 498 Walden St., Concord. Register
February 10: Sweetie Valentines Day Party at Blanchard School, Boxboro, 10-11:30
Join Acton-Boxboro Family Network for Valentines activities. Registration is required starting 1/1/24. Free for members, $10/family non-members. Sensory-friendly from 9:30-10:00. Registration link
FREE SPECIAL LIBRARY PROGRAMS
December 26: Create Giant Snowpeople using a variety of craft supplies. 2-4:00 for ages 3 & up, no registration required. Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Rd, Sudbury
December 27: Family Magic & Comedy Show with Scott Martell for ages 3 & up, 3-4:00 at Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Rd, Sudbury. No registration required.
December 28: Music At the Blissful interactive, high-energy, fun-filled family concert for all ages, 10:30-11:15 at Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Rd, Sudbury. No registration required.
January 4: Sensory Storytime for ages 0-5 at Concord Library at 11:30. Neurodivergent
children benefit from smaller, sensory-guided storytimes so this group is limited to 8. Register
January 4: Celebrate Mr. Mark's 25th Anniversary as Maynard's Children's Librarian
Drop by and congratulate Mr. Mark and join the fun! 77 Nason Street, 4-7:00 p.m.
January 4-March 28: Mama Ballroom for parents and their 0-18 Mo. babies. Learn the basics of ballroom while wearing your baby. Includes a circle time with health & babywearing tips. No registration required but limited to 10 pairs each week. Held 11:15-12 at Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Rd., Sudbury.
January 6: Musical Saturday Morning with Ricardo in Spanish & English for ages 7 and under from 11-11:30 at Fowler Library, 1322 Main St., Concord. Drop in, no registration. Also Feb 3 & March 2.
January 12 & 26, Feb. 9 & 23, Mar. 8 & 22: Sensory Storytimes offer quiet books, activities and tactile toys at Acton Memorial Library, 486 Main St. No registration required, appropriate for all ages.
January 13, Feb. 10, Mar. 9: Saturday Toddler Storytime meets at Littleton Library with Miss. Jenn from 10:30-11. Geared toward 18-36 months. Register here.
January 13: Grandparents & Kids Storytime & Breakfast held at Union Hall, 27 School St., Carlisle, for age 3 & up. Stories, songs and more. Register thru Carlisle Library.
January 13: Intro to Bharatanatyam Dance for Ages 3-7 at Fowler Library with Laiya Maria Pavlov from 11-11:45. Explore the imaginative world of dance through this South Indian classical dance form. Register.
February 1, 8, 15, 29, Mar 7, 14: Babygarten, for parents and babies 0-18 months. Unique program combines child development information, pre-literacy activities, a developmental craft and free play at Littleton Library. Register for the dates you can attend. 10:30-11:30.
February 4: Winter Carnival Fun - Reptiles! Learn how animals survive freezing temps,
floods & other winter challenges. Meet live reptiles. Held at Lincoln Library, 1:15 OR 2:00 for ages 4+. Drop in.
February 5: Brazilian Musical Monday at Concord Library, 129 Main Street, 10:30-11:15. Sulinha's Trio brings a Bossa Nova beat and traditional instruments to children's favorite interactive songs to encourage movement! No registration required.
February 22: Celebrate Our Oceans with Ariel! Fun stories, songs and games for ages 4 and older from 10:30-11:15. Registration required beginning Feb. 5. Held at J.V. Fletcher Library, Westford.
February 23: Drive-in Night at the Movies! at Carlisle Library. Create your own cars (bring a box you can sit in), then drive to the movie. Popcorn & juice boxes served. Register beginning January 26. For ages 4-10, held from 5-7:00 pm.
Sudbury Summer Camps for K-12th Fair at Lincoln-Sudbury HS on January 21, 11-2:00
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New Resources in the Community | |
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Opting for Growth by Embracing Stress & Emotion: The Delicate Balance between Adult Comfort & Children's Developmental Needs. How to Tip the Scale in Favor of Our Children's Mental Wellness!
A FREE program at Concord Public Library
Guest Speaker Psychologist Karin Hodges, founder of Raising Moxie
Dr. Hodges will share valuable insights on how to foster a home environment that promotes your kids' emotional growth and well-being. By giving them permission to express their emotions, become challenged and stressed, parents can learn how to help them develop resilience. Dr. Hodges will do a deep dive into the world of child development and mental health, giving you a better understanding of your children's needs and ways to ensure their growth and well-being. Registration appreciated, walk-ins welcome.
Held in person on January 18 at the Main Library, 129 Main Street, 5:30-7:30
Helping Children Build Skills to Manage Stress and Worries
Presented by Child Psychologist Rachel Kramer
Learn adaptive and effective strategies for managing stress through family-oriented coping skills, physiological approaches to managing stress and worries, and cognitive behavioral strategies. Time allotted for questions. Appropriate for parents of all ages of children. $25. Register thru Concord Adult Ed. Register.
Held virtually on Wednesday, March 6, 7-8:30 p.m.
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FREE TANGLEWOOD MARIONETTES SHOWS
February 11: Arabian Adventure
March 10: Hansel and Gretel
April 14: Sleeping Beauty
1:00 at Acton Rec Center, 50 Audubon Drive
Pre-registration Required as capacity is limited to 80
See show descriptions and suggested audience ages here.
This is an Acton Recreation Dept. program sponsored by Mass. Cultural Council Festivals & Project Grant
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BABYSITTER TRAINING CLASSES
If you need a mother's helper or sitter and have a someone in mind who you'd like to have more formal training, offer to pay for a class and be assured they can handle an emergency and keep the kids busy!
January 13, "Babysitter Basics", 8:30-12:30 at Roudenbush Community Center, Westford, Ages 10-14, $40, Information Here
January 13, "Middle School CPR", 1:30-3:30, at Roudenbush. Covers chocking, CPR, AED. AHA Family & Friends curriculum. $55
February 28, "Blast Babysitting & CPR", 6:30-8:30 thru Sudbury Recreation for ages 12-15, $105 Information Here
March 8, "Blast Babysitting & CPR", 3:30-6:30 thru Concord Community Education for grades 6-8, $125, Information Here
April 6, Red Cross Babysitter Training, 10-6:00 for ages 11-15 thru Carlisle Recreation Dept. $159 (+$40 if certification requested). Includes CPR/First Aid/AED training and corrective behavior skills and how to implement them. Information Here
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FREE AUTHOR & ILLUSTRATOR VISIT STORYTIMES
January 27: Upside-Down Book of Sloths, Fire Flight, and A Cloud in a Jar - 3 science & nature authors! (11-12:00)
February 7: Soren's 7th Song (illustrator talk/demo, 6-7:00)
February 10: To Dogs, with Love (about service dogs 11-12:00)
March 10: This Wolf was Different (book signing (11-12:00)
March 23: Small Things Mended (book launch! 3-4:00)
March 30: Wombat and the Family Tree (11-12:00)
Held at Silver Unicorn Book Store, 12 Spruce St., West Acton
Click here for more details.
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FREE Trauma-Centered Yoga Virtual Group for Adults
Facilitated by Metrowest Community-based Services
This free program consists of movement and conversation for ages 18+ who have experienced a crime at any point in their lives such as abuse, neglect, witness to domestic violence, being bullied, etc. A legal case does not have to have been enacted. Information about the largest randomized control trial for Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga vs. Cognitive Processing Therapy, was recently published in JAMA. The Trauma Center is affiliated with First Connections, so mention us if you would like to apply by contacting VOCA Clinician Liz Spruill at 978-382-7005 or espruill@jri.org .
Wednesdays, January 3-February 21, 12:00-1:15 pm
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2023-24 Diaper Pantry Update
Between our Emerson Health 2023 grant, a First Parish Church-Westford donation, and individual diaper donations, First Connections was able to distribute 26,898 diapers to 42 needy families in 2023: 18,745 of these were purchased with the grant, 8,153 were donated. The need is ongoing and growing in concert with the increasing use of food pantries in our communities. There are currently more families accessing food pantries than during the COVID19 crisis.
We are grateful to the William E. Schrafft and Bertha E. Schrafft Charitable Trust for a donation to sustain the diaper pantry services for 2024, however we are always in need of your diaper donations.
For 2024, qualified families will be able to receive diapers and wipes on a monthly basis if they are residents of Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury or Westford.
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Looking to Help a Local Family Shelter?
The 3 shelters in our area all have established protocols for you to help based on the needs of the residents. There are 90 families in Bedford, another 90 in Concord, and 33 Families in Acton
Bedford Plaza Shelter
Town Website Information
Concord Best Western Shelter
Concord-Carlisle Community Chest
Acton Minute Man Inn Shelter
Acton-Boxborough United Way Website
First Connections is helping shelter families in the following ways:
* Facilitating a new mother/ baby group weekly in Concord
* Facilitating a playgroup weekly in Bedford
* Distributing books and early literacy information to families
* Helping to connect the administrative teams at the shelters with community resources
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Denotes funding for this program provided by Mass. Dept. of Early Education & Care CFCE Grant.
First Connections, a program of Justice Resource Institute, Inc, is a Coordinated Family and Community Engagement (CFCE) grant recipient through the MA Department of Early Education and Care. We offer free services to families residing in Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Hanscom AFB, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury and Westford. In addition to state funding, we rely on the generous support of local partners to fund these programs and to expand the geographic reach of our First Year of Life programs to families in neighboring towns. We are grateful for the financial support of Acton-Boxborough United Way, Acton Congregational Church, Concord-Carlisle Community Chest, the Emerson Health Community Benefits Grant, the Emerson Health Determination of Need Mental Health Grant, Maynard Community Chest, Nordblum Family Foundation, Sudbury Foundation, William E. Schrafft and Bertha E. Schrafft Charitable Trust, and Trinity Congregational Church. We also appreciate private donations from individuals and families that help make this work possible. Thank you for your support!
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