Spring Newsletter


April-June 2024

Free Admission to the Ecotarium Viewing Celebration on APRIL 8,12-5:00 (3:28 best view).  Activities, safety glasses available. DETAILS HERE

Spring Parent Education Topics

Taming Potty Training

with Jill Vetstein, LICSW

Learn about a variety of methods, understand the different approaches to toilet train your child, learn about the different potty training techniques and how to implement the basic steps for a successful potty introduction. Jill is also a Certified Early Intervention Specialist and Developmental Specialist. This is a live webinar that will not be recorded. Time will be allowed for questions. To register: [email protected]

Tuesday, May 14

7:00-8:30 p.m.

Tuesday, May 21

1:00-2:00 p.m.

Sensory Exploration and Play

presented by Pediatric Occupational Therapist Sydney Barnes

This live webinar presentation will dive into the importance of sensory play in early childhood development. It will offer practical tips and ways to incorporate sensory activities into your child's day. Learn how sensory experiences can enhance your child's learning, creativity, and overall well-being. This program is appropriate for parents of kids 6 months to 5. To register: [email protected]

Keeping Your Children

Safe this Summer Live Webinar


Thursday, June 6, 7-8:00 p.m.

Summer is almost here. Join an Emerson Health pediatrician and community experts who will discuss tips for keeping your children safe this summer whether splashing in the water, walking in the woods, or enjoying an afternoon at the playground. Registration is required for this free webinar. Questions? Email [email protected]

or call 978-287-3084.

Register for the Zoom Link Here


You can find resource lists

of spring & summer

CPR/First Aid Classes

for caregivers

Swimming/Water Safety Classes

for children, on our website.

SPRING STORYWALKS

April 12 to April 22


We'll have a NEW storywalk set up at Acton Arboretum's Wildflower and Orchard trails during school vacation week. These connecting trails are stroller and wheelchair accessible at 2 Taylor Rd


This story follows 3 friends on their hike through the woods to the top of a hill. They discover all sorts of things along the way, which are labeled for the reader. See who's the expert map reader, and who keeps a nature journal - a great idea for a vacation project!! Parking lot, porta potty and picnic tables available.


Acton Arboretum Information

Children's Garden in May

Come read this story of a little girl who moves from Korea to the US, Danbi Leads The School Parade, at:

Concord Public Library, 129 Main St.


Korean Family Month at the Library!

May 4: 3-4:00, Alphabet Workshop & Calligraphy Demo for all ages. Drop-in.

May 18: 10-12:00 Family Crafting for ages 6+ with a caregiver. Drop in.

May 18: 12-1:00 Explore Korean Music with Dalcroze Eurhythmics for ages 6+. Register beginning April 30.

May 25: 3-4:00 Samulnori Concert with the Korean Performing Arts Institute of Chicago! All ages. Register beginning April 27.

Details/Register on Library Calendar

Spring New Parent Support Programs: Newborn to 12 Months


Emotional Wellbeing After Baby

Meets Every Wednesday, 9:30-11:00

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. We warmly welcome Emily Khalsa-Smith, MA, our new group facilitator. Emily is a counselor at Metrowest Behavioral Health Care in Acton, specializing in maternal mental health. Before participating for the first time, please contact Emily Khalsa-Smith so she can send you the connecting link.


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 Emily about specific concerns related to postpartum depression or anxiety, email [email protected].

This group will not meet on June 19.

New Mothers Group

Meets 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 EducatorLactation 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 developmentand seek guidance about any concerns you might have. This group meets in person once a month and virtually on all other dates. Email [email protected] for the zoom link.

The group will not meet on June 19.


The in-person meetings will be held at the Littleton Library on April 10, May 15, and June 12

Please RSVP to Linda in advance for the in-person meetings: [email protected]


Emotional Wellbeing After Baby and New Mothers Groups are made possible through the generous support of Nordblum Family Foundation, Emerson Health DoN Community Health Initiative, and Concord Carlisle Community Chest. Thank you!

Teething? First Dental Visit? Oral Health for Moms!

Wednesday, May 8, 1-2:00

Presented by Jenny Citrin, DMD

Embarking on the journey of motherhood can be both exhilarating and exhausting, especially during your baby's first year of life. As you navigate the joys and challenges of caring for your little one, it's essential to prioritize not just their well-being, but yours too.

For moms, we'll explore the significance of maintaining tooth and gum health amidst the whirlwind of pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum care. Learn how these factors can impact your oral health and gain valuable insights into effective self-care practices.


For your precious bundle of joy, we'll address key concerns such as teething discomfort, airway health, and the nuances of breastfeeding versus bottle feeding. Discover expert tips on minimizing the risk of cavities, fostering healthy oral development, and knowing when it's time for that all-important first dental visit. Join us as we empower you with knowledge and practical strategies to safeguard both you and your baby's smiles, ensuring a happy and healthy start to your journey together.

If you're not a regular attendee of New Mothers Group and you would like to attend this presentation, email [email protected] and we'll send you the link.

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.

Groups begin the week of April 22nd.

To register, email [email protected] with:

Your First and Last Name

Your Child's Name

Child's age on April 22

Name of playgroup you are requesting

Ages & Stages Playgroup

for 24-35 Months

Mondays, 10-11:00, April 22 to June 10

Held at First Connections, Acton

This playgroup will meet in our playspace where the children can play with toys, as well as 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.



Little Learners Multiage Playgroup

Tuesdays, 10-11:00, April 23 thru June 11

Held at Youth Center Gym, Hanscom Air Force Base

Ages 12 months and mobile to 5 years

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.


Outdoor Nature/STEAM Playgroup for Ages 3-5

Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30, April 24-June 12

Held at Sargent Memorial Library, Boxborough

This group will meet on the lawn of the library, adjacent to conservation land, where we will explore the signs of the natural world waking up in spring, as well as other Science, Technology, Engineering and Math concepts, with some Art thrown in. We will also have our usual circle time with songs and a book every week. Bring a blanket to sit on and dress your child in clothing appropriate for the weather and wet ground. Younger siblings welcome, but please be aware that we will use some tools like scissors and glue, as well as small parts that are not always appropriate for younger toddlers.

(Rain location will be in the library's meeting room).


New Location!

Multiage Book Bag Literacy Playgroup

Thursdays, 10:30-11:30, April 25 to June 6

Held at Littleton Town Preschool Room

Ages 2-5, with younger siblings welcome

In this playgroup we will focus on early literacy skills, such as an interest in books, vocabulary, letter knowledge, print awareness, and phonological awareness, in addition to our regular free play and circle time. Each family will get a bag of books to take home and read each week. This group is especially geared toward families with multiple children in the playgroup age range.


Outdoor Gross Motor Playgroup for Ages 12-23 Months

Fridays, 10-11:00, April 26 to June 14

Held at Village Nursery School, Harvard

This group will meet on a fenced-in, grassy, toddler playground area. The children will 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 and dress your child in clothing appropriate for the weather and possibly wet ground. Infant siblings in a carrier are welcome. Please make arrangements for care of older siblings to keep new walkers safe.

(Rain location will be at First Connections in Acton)

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. New participants should email Jasmine to receive the zoom links: [email protected].

Saturdays, 9:00-9:30 a.m. (Meets March 30 - June 1)

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 keep. The specialist models reading, conversations, and play activities for parents, which are designed to promote language literacy, and school readiness. The program is designed to begin with children ages 18-24 months and is offered for 23 to 46 weeks. Bilingual Spanish and Mandarin specialists are available. The program is especially helpful for families who cannot easily attend our playgroups due to lack of transportation, a language barrier, having multiple children under age 6, single parenting, or other challenging circumstances. If you would like to learn more, contact Debbie at [email protected] or text/call 978-505-4429.

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.
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

Is Your 2024 Kindergarten Student Registered? If not, click for more information:

Acton & Boxborough Schools

Bedford Public Schools

Carlisle Public Schools

Concord Public Schools

Harvard Public Schools

Lincoln & Hanscom Public Schools

Littleton Public Schools

Maynard Public Schools

Sudbury Public Schools

Westford Public Schools

If you haven't signed up for First Connections' monthly "Getting Ready for Kindergarten" Newsletter yet, you can do so HERE. Articles and activities are geared toward children who will begin Kindergarten in September 2024.


In Kindergarten books will be available for families to use during June, July and August. These books offer gentle transition activities to help you and your child prepare over the summer for this new adventure (going to kindergarten!). If you would like a copy, send your email to [email protected] and we will notify you when they are delivered to our office.

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.

Acton & Boxborough

[email protected]

978-264-4700 X3948

Bedford

Caitlyn Queenin, 781-275-6804

Carlisle

[email protected], 978-369-3758

Concord

[email protected]

Littleton

[email protected] for screenings

Inclusive Preschool Playgroup for Community Children Info

Harvard

[email protected] 978-456-4143

Lincoln & Hanscom AFB

Rose Smart, 781-259-9403

Maynard

978-897-8246

[email protected]

Sudbury

978-443-1085 x6006

[email protected]

Info and intake form

Westford

[email protected], 978-692-5560 x2111

Places to find Summer Camp Information

Boston Parents Paper Summer Camp Listings

Special Needs Summer Camps & Fairs

Macaroni Kid Summer Camp Fair - In person at Westford Regency Sat., April 6, 9:00-12:00!

Check your town's Rec Dept, After-school programs, community, nature & arts centers

Resources for Financial Aid for Town-Specific Summer Camps

Bedford Recreation Summer Adventures

Assabet Valley Boys & Girls Club Summer Full Day Camp in Maynard

Residents of Acton and Boxboro can apply for a Campership at:

Doli Atamian Campership


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!

Financial Aid Form


Sudbury Summer Camp has financial aid for residents. Camp is ages 5+.

Financial Aid Form


Littleton's Camp Tahattawan Weekly Camp w/optional field trips.

Youth Scholarship Fund Application

NEW RESOURCES

Upcoming Professional Parenting Support Programs

1-hr presentations followed by a 30-min. Q&A session. Live Spanish translation. Register Here to join the discussion or listen to the recording. FREE, interactive, virtual series offers a safe, unapologetic and welcoming space to hold engaging conversations for and by Black families. Topics include strategies for protecting Black children, families and communities; raising bold, brilliant and culturally grounded Black children. Moderated by Eurnestine Brown, Ph.D., Director of Relational Equity and Belonging at Brazelton Touchpoints Center.

April 22, May 20, June 10 & 24, 3-4:30

South Asian Autism Support Group and Resources (SAAGAR)

3-session series, $35/session

Facilitated by Dr. Davina Savant

The Lurie Center for Autism designed this program for those of South Asian heritage with a child under age 12 with ASD, which is held twice each year. Interactive discussions and professional guidance with a S. Asian cultural perspective on topics such as parenting styles, disclosure, neurodiversity, complementary medicine, more. Register: 781-860-1700 or [email protected]. Thursdays, 12-1:00

April 4, 11 and 18

FREE virtual 8-week workshop for caregivers of children 0-17 years through Metrowest Behavioral Health Center who have experienced trauma.

Mondays 12-2 April 1-June 3 or

Tuesdays 11-1 April 30-June 18



Register for an intake screening here

Free Weekly Support Group for Parents of Toddlers

If you have a child age 1 through 3, join other parents and a facilitator from the Center for Early Relationship Support. This is a virtual group. First-time participants should register to receive the Zoom link. You can also email Leslie Pucker with questions. This group is open to all.

Wednesdays, 1:00-2:30

Focus on Literacy!

What are some of the benefits of kids meeting the author of a book they love?

* Let's kids know, "I could do that too!"

* Humanizes their heroes

* Autographs mean something

* Gives kids a more personal connection to favorite books (Brightly)


Author visits at Silver Unicorn Book Store,

12 Spruce Street, West Acton

Schedule

April 13: Andrew Hacket, 11-12:00

Ollie, the Acorn and the Mighty Idea!


May 4: Bob Shea, 3-4:00

Oh, Are You Awake?

Did you know that children who choose what they read and have an informal environment in which to read tend to be more motivated, read more, and show greater language and literacy development than kids who don't? Also, the number of books in the home correlates significantly with higher reading scores for children. (The Literacy Project)


Concord Public Library, 129 Main Street

June 8, 10-3:00 (rain date June 17)

Boxboro Library, 427 Mass. Avenue

April 5-7 (Sunday 2-4:00, $5/bag)

Harvard Public Library, 4 Pond Road

May 10 members, 11 (9-4), 12 (10-2)

Westford Library, 50 MainStreet

June 7 members, 8 (10-5:00), & 9 (2-4:00)

Do You Need Transportation to Appts & Activities?

Emerson Hospital has compiled a listing of all the transportation services available in Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury and Westford. Check out the information at www.emersonhealth.org/transportation.

Information on Car Seat Inspections and Education

A recent discussion with Michael Deblasio, Littleton Fire Dept. Child Passenger Safety Technician, let us know about a Mass. D.O.T. Car Seat Distribution Program. This program also provides classes for groups, families or grandparents on installing seats correctly and making sure your seat is appropriate for your child. For low-income parents, the program can let you know if your MassHealth insurance will provide a seat free of charge, and whether you're eligible for a second seat if needed. If you live in Littleton, you can reach him at [email protected] or 978-540-2302.

Child Passenger Safety Program | Littleton, MA (littletonma.org)


If you would like a free inspection of your car seat, contact the Technicians in the towns we serve below, or search for a nearby town HERE. For virtual assistance: [email protected]

Bedford Fire Dept: 781-275-7262, Bedford Police Dept: 781-275-1212

Boxborough Fire Dept: 978-264-9770

Carlisle Police Dept: 978-369-1155

Concord Police Dept: 978-318-3400

Harvard (Nashoba Valley Regional Dispatch District): 978-772-1900

Sudbury Police Dept: 978-443-1042

Westford Fire Dept: 978-692-5542, Westford Police Dept: 978-692-2161

Chelmsford Mothers Club Spring Kids Tag Sale

Greater Visions Children's Center

Saturday, May 4, 9-1:00 (half price 12-1:00)

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 per adult. Questions: [email protected]

Chelmsford Mothers' Club Kids Tag Sale - Home

FREE PARENT COMMUNITY SUPPORT & EDUCATION


Managing Fears & Phobias in Kids and Teens: April 16, 11:00, Free

Free McLean Hospital presentation by Jacqueline Sperling, Ph.D. Register here


ADHD in the Family presentation, April 4, 7-8:00, Free

Anyone who lives with someone who has diagnosed - or even suspected - ADHD will benefit from this overview, including concrete methods to ease living with an adult or child with ADHD. Linda King holds advanced certification in ADHD coaching, including family-specific, and has been working with families for 10 years. Register at Groton Public Library.


Autism 101 6-Part Virtual Workshop: May 3,10, 17, 24, 31, June 7

Understanding Your Child's New Autism Diagnosis, 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 Autism 101. For more information or to register, visit this webpage.


Supportive Parent Solutions open to All and Free

Parents experiencing the challenge of parenting a child who may be struggling with their mental/behavioral health can attend a safe space with others in this facilitated group held on the 2nd Thursdays, 10-11:30 a.m. or 7-8:30 p.m. Receive caring support, learn coping skills and about community resources. Held at St. Catherine's Parish Center but not affiliated with the church, 107 N. Main Street. Registration not required. Questions? Email Nicole: [email protected] or 978-399-2503.


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 [email protected] 617-299-1533 for the connecting zoom link. Free

Held on the 2nd Monday of each month, 7:00-8:30 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 [email protected]. SAVE THE DATE: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference, June 4, at Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel in Marlborough! For details, additional resources, workshops, & evening groups, contact [email protected], 617-748-2454


FREE & LOW-COST CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES IN THE COMMUNITY


April 5: Free admission to The Ecotarium today, 10-5:00, details here.


April: 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 13: Finding Nemo, April 27: The Frog Prince. Website Information.


Free First Fridays at the Discovery Museum, Acton, 4:30-8 pm - Make your reservation!

April 5, May 3 and June 7. Discovery Woods closes at dusk. Non-perishable food donations accepted. Registration begins 10 days prior. Info here


Free Family Day Art Activities at The Umbrella, Concord, April 20, 12-2:00. Register here.


Free Family Fun Open Play Group at Roudenbush Community Center, Westford

1-3:00 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Register for your space.


April 15: Patriots Day Activities with Free Admission at Concord Museum, 10:00-4:00

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


April 9, 23, 30, May 7, 14, 21: 9:15-10:00 Tactile Tuesday Playgroup for Ages 1 & Up

Held at Nashoba Brooks School in Concord. Free. RSVP: [email protected]


May 18: Apple Blossom Festival Parade on Main St Westford, 10:00

Parade ends at Abbott School Carnival, which will open at Noon on Saturday/Sunday. Fireworks at 9:00. Info


June 22: SpringFest at Haskell Field, Sudbury, 12-5:00. Music, games, food trucks.


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.

Autism-Friendly Evening, Saturday, June 15, 5 -8:00 pm

All-Access Evenings (adults & children with disabilities/sensory sensitivities), Saturday April 27, 5-8:00 pm


A SAMPLE OF FREE LIBRARY PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN


April 5: LincFam Drop-in Playgroup at Lincoln Library, 10-11:30. All welcome.

Continues on Fridays (not 19th), then moves to First Parish Church, 4 Bedford Rd for spring/summer dates.


April 6: Mandarin Storytime for Ages 1 1/2-5 at Sudbury Library, 21 Concord Rd, 3:30-4:00. Immersion program with stories, songs & rhymes. Drop in.


April 12: Spanish Storytime for Ages 1 1/2-5 at Sudbury Library, 10:30-11, Drop in.


April 16: BUILD with Legos, Keva, Magnatiles, Blocks & more at Bedford Library.

10:30-12:00 for age 3+ with a caregiver. No registration, drop in. 7 Mudge Way.


April 17: Dinoman at Westford Library, 1-1:45, Register on library calendar on April 1.

Learn about the Mezozoic era with life-sized dinosaurs!


April 17: The Reptile Nook visits Boxboro Library, 4:30-5:30, with snakes, lizards & more

No registration, drop in, 427 Mass. Ave.


April 17: Animal Adventures visits Chelmsford Library at 10:00. Drop in, learn, & meet

8-10 animals. 25 Boston Road.


April 18: Pumpernickel Puppets "The Story of Peter Rabbit", at Westford Library,

11-11:45, for ages 3+. Register on library calendar on April 1. Behind the scenes demonstrations after the show


April 19: Bug Hunt w/Hands-on Nature drop-in program at Chelmsford Library for ages 4+. See beetles, worms, slugs, ladybugs and caterpillars. Indoor & outdoor program. 10-11:00, 25 Boston Rd.


April 19: TALK Yoga at Fowler Library for ages 3-5, 1-1:45. Register for this program

that includes movement, mindfulness, games, music, articulation, & sensory awareness for children of all abilities. Helps students connect mind & body, gain acceptance, self-confidence and awareness.


April 20: Cat Tales, a family play with actors and puppets for ages 5+ at Concord Library, 129 Main St. 11:30-12:30 drop in program. Meet the cast after the show.


April 30: Pig Tales Storytime at Clark Farm, thru Carlisle Library, 10-11:15, for ages 3-6.

Registration begins April 2. Farm-themed story and visit the pigs with farm educators.


May 4: Pig Tales Storytime at Clark Farm, thru Carlisle Library, 10-11:15, for ages 3-6.

Registration begins April 6. Farm-themed story and visit the pigs with farm educators.


May 25: To Bee or Not to Bee with Piti Theatre Company at Carlisle Library, 1-2:00

See puppets, clowning, dance, & live music with audience participation on the lawn. The show raises awareness about the honeybee's plight. Register on the calendar beginning April 27.


June 26: Magician Mike Bent brings comedy, magic, music & storytelling to Westford Library, 11-11:45, to kick off the summer reading program. No registration, drop in. 50 Main Street.


June 27: Edible Bird Feeder Workshop with Hands-on Nature at Acton Library, 1-2:00.

Children can make fruit wreaths and sunflower seed stars. Register beginning June 13. 486 Main Street.


June 29: Teddy Bear Picnic with musician Julie Stepanek at Carlisle Library, 1-2:00.

Sing along, bring lunch or snacks for an outdoor program. Register beginning June 1.


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 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! Visit our website