Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.

SUGGEST AN EVENT

If you have a family friendly event or educational program happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

BEST BETS

On Saturday, December 11th at 1:30pm – FAMILY CONCERT: No Nap Happy Hour continues with Uncle Rock, performing a family concert at Flywheel (43 Main St.). www.flywheelarts.org Easthampton, MA (>$)

Also on Saturday, December 11th from 1:30-4pm – ECO-GIFT MAKING: Re-Wrap Afternoon at Sheep Hill (671 Cold Spring Rd.). A family-friendly event to make gifts from repurposed materials. Join other families to reuse a portion of the 25 million tons of trash generated in the USA every year to make origami boxes, decorated bags, scented sachets and decorated gift boxes for the holidays. 458-2494 http://www.wrlf.org Williamstown, MA (>$)

And in the evening on Saturday, December 11th at 7:30pm – COMMUNITY HOLIDAY PARTY: The Old Creamery (Route 9) is hosting a holiday party. Story telling, holiday songs with Laura Wetzler, refreshments. Cummington, MA (FREE)

On Sunday, December 19th at 2pm – SOLSTICE EVENT: Welcome Yule: Music, Dance, Songs, and Stories to Drive the Dark Away at the Shea Theater (71 Avenue A). Years ago, a tradition emerged of celebrating the return of the light at midwinter with music, dance, songs and stories. Mark your calendars for this festive and joyful celebration, and be with community to sing and dance away winter’s darkness and call back the warm sun of spring. 863-2281 www.welcomeyule.org Turners Falls, MA ($)

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

On Saturday, December 18th from 9-10am, Hilltown Families is hosting a Board Game Swap in the Meekins Library community room in Williamsburg, MA. Bring in board games you would like to swap with other families. Kindly make sure the games have all their pieces before bringing in. A fun way to recycle old board games and to discover new ones. Board games make excellent holiday gifts for the children in your life too! Surprise them with a new recycled game. This community swap is free and open to all families. RSVP here, or just drop in. Williamsburg, MA (FREE)

BULLETIN BOARD

CHRISTMAS TREE SALE: Notchview Christmas Tree Sale happens this Saturday, December 11th from 12Noon – 3pm at the Notchview Reservation in Windsor, MA. There is a good selection of trees this year; mostly the popular balsam and Fraser fir—all at $25. Contact Notchview at 684-0148. Benefits the Trustees of Reservations.

Tom Adams of Williamsburg, MA writes: The Williamsburg Berkshire East Tuesday Night Ski Program has opened the program to students of ALL AGES (middle school & high school included). We still have room for a bunch of people to join, so please help spread the word: Deadline: Tuesday, December 14th. Please visit www.WilliamsburgSki.info to find out more information and to download a registration form. If you have any questions, please email TomAdams@gmail.com or call 413.575.9707. It’s going to be a great year for skiing!

LIBRARY MITTEN TREE: The Springfield Library (220 State St.) welcomes donations of new mittens, scarves, gloves and hats for their annual Library Mitten Tree Project. Your donations can be dropped off at any branch library through Friday, January 7th. For more information about the Mitten Tree Project call the Central Library Children’s Room, 263-6828 x201

The Food Bank of Western MA writes: Volunteer Orientation on Tuesday, December 14, 6-8 pm at The Food Bank (97 N. Hatfield Rd., Hatfield). Do you want to offer your time to The Food Bank and those facing hunger in the community? Nearly every aspect of The Food Bank’s work, including our office, warehouse, and public events, is dependent on volunteers. Without you, we would not be able to do what we do. To learn more about how you can get involved, please join us at the first of regular Volunteer Orientation sessions for the community. Please RSVP to Erin Sullivan at sullivane@foodbankwma.org or 413-247-9738. Space is limited. Click here for directions to The Food Bank.

SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Let us help get the word out about your event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business or announcement. Email hilltownfamilies@gmail.com for more information. — Help us help you!

HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: GUEST DJ CHARITY KAHN

Tune in every Saturday from 9-10am. Encore episodes are aired every Sunday from 7-8am.

This week on the HFVS is hosted by our guest DJ, Charity Kahn of Charity and the JAMBand. It’s a holiday show about light, love, community and music!

Families have several ways to tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show:

Streaming Audio: Surf on over to ValleyFreeRadio.org on Saturday & Sunday mornings and listen to us live via streaming audio.

On Your FM Dial: Tune in to WXOJ 103.3FM if you live near Northampton, MA.

PODCAST: Listen to the most recent episodes of the Hilltown Family Variety Show anytime you wish! Click here to see our current select of episodes, and be sure to subscribe to our podcast too!

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WEEKLY LIST OF SUGGESTED EVENTS

Saturday • Sunday • Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday

Suggest an Event | Local Forecast | Free Museum Passes | Playgroups & Family Centers | Movies in the Valley | Movies in the Berkshires | Listen Here

Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ♦ On-going Events

Saturday, December 11th, 2010

6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including the Hilltown Family Variety Show and Spare the Rock. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org.

9-10:30am – ARTS & CRAFTS:Handmade Holiday class at MASS MoCA: Papier Mache decorations. 664-4481 x8131 http://www.massmoca.org North Adams, MA (>$)

10am-12Noon – NATURE STUDIES: Bird Banding Demo at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (472 West Mountain Rd.). For families with kids 3yo & older. 637-0320 Lenox, MA (>$)

10am-1pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Winter hike for families with kids ages 10yo & older at the Dorothy Frances Rice Wildlife Sanctuary. Please bring a snack and water. Call 413-584-3009 to register or visit www.tamarackhollow.com for more info. Peru, MA ($)

10am-12Noon & 1-3pm- CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY BAZAAR: The Dickinson Memorial Library hosts their annual Children’s Holiday Bazaar for kids 5-12yo to do their own holiday shopping from 10am-12Noon. Everything is priced at 50¢. Coffee and cookies for parents. Cork Craft activity follows from 1-3pm and Christopher Worth plays guitar. 498-2455 www.northfieldpubliclibrary.org Northfield, MA (FREE, >$)

♦ 10am-2pm – FARMERS’ MARKET:Winter Farmers’ Market at Amherst Middle School (170 Chestnut St.). Amherst, MA (MARKET)

♦ 10am-2pm – FARMERS’ MARKET: North Amherst Farmers’ Market happens a the Big Blue Barn at SwartzFamiy Farm (11 Meadow St.). www.northamherstmarket.com Amherst, MA (MARKET)

10am-5pm – OPEN HOUSE: Stage Road Neighborhood Walkabout. Three open houses with local artists, Leni Fried, Mike Augspurger, Kim Wachtel, Josh Wachtel (Radio Free Earth), and Eric Driver. 634-5591 Cummington, MA

10am-6pm – HOLIDAY CELEBRATION: The Fifth Annual “Special Day in Northfield: A Holiday Celebration.” Music performances, gift & craft making, demos, and much more. List of actvities here. 498-5921 Northfield, MA (FREE)

11am-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Holiday Family Fun Day at the Berkshire Museum. See the Festival of Trees: Storybook Forest. At 11am & 3pm, Mr. Punches Christmas Carol will be performed by Crabgrass Puppet Theater. At 1pm the Blafield Children’s Chorus sings . A Gingerbread Cookie Decorating workshop is at 2pm. Blafield Children’s Chorus and Gingerbread Cookie Decorating Workshop are included with Museum admission. Fee for Mr. Punches Christmas Carol. Discount packages including full Museum admission are available as well as performance-only tickets. Call 443-7171 to RSVP for workshop. www.berkshiremuseum.org 443.7171 Pittsfield, MA ($, 50% Museum Admission)

12Noon-2pm – SANTA: Santa Claus will make an appearance at the Springfield Science Museum. Check out the special exhibit, “Sugar and Spice: The Land of Gingerbread” while visiting the old guy! 263-6800 www.springfieldmuseums.orgSpringfield, MA (FREE W/ADMISSION)

12Noon-3pm – HANDMADE HOLIDAY FAIR: The Whately Library (202 Chestnut Plain Rd.) is hosting a holiday fair with local vendors, handcrafted products, kids crafts (12pm), ornament painting (1pm), cookie swap (2pm) and raffle. 665-2170 Whatley, MA

1pm – SPANISH: Spanish Get-Together at the Meekins Library the second Saturday of each month. Intermediate to advanced speakers. ¿Quieres Practicar tu español? Puedes Hacerlo en Las Tertulias en Espanol en la biblioteca Meekins en Williamsburg Los segundos sabados de cada mes a la una. 268-7472 www.meekins-library.orgWilliamsburg, MA (FREE)

1-4pm – TECHNOLOGY: The Forbes Library is hosting a technology petting zoo. Discover a variety of new tech gadgets. Good opportunity to learn about what our kids are talking about. Will be in the Collidge Museum. www.forbeslibrary.orgNorthampton, MA (FREE)

♦ 1:30pm – KNITTING GROUP: Get-Together Knitting Bees at Norton Inn (across street from Elmer’s). Get cozy with other knitters next to a warm fire and enjoy the company and help of other knitters (all skill levels). Ashfield, MA (FREE)

1:30pm – FAMILY CONCERT: No Nap Happy Hour continues with Uncle Rock, performing a family concert at Flywheel (43 Main St.). www.flywheelarts.org Easthampton, MA (>$)

1:30-4pm – ECO-GIFT MAKING:Re-Wrap Afternoon at Sheep Hill (671 Cold Spring Rd.). A family-friendly event to make gifts from repurposed materials. Join other families to reuse a portion of the 25 million tons of trash generated in the USA every year to make origami boxes, decorated bags, scented sachets and decorated gift boxes for the holidays. 458-2494 http://www.wrlf.org Williamstown, MA (>$)

♦ 1:30-3:20pm – ICE SKATING: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 Greenfield, MA ($)

2pm – CHRISTMAS EVENT: Dickens Days Holiday Tea for kids 3-5yo at the Boys and Girl’s Library, Athenaeum (6 Elm St.). 562-6158 Westfield, MA (FREE)

♦ 2-3:50pm – ICE SKATING: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 Holyoke, MA ($)

♦ 2-4pm – CHESS: At the Forbes Library. Casual meets every Saturday the library is open. All competition levels are welcome. Drop in for part or all of the session. Bring your own set if you have one or use one of the library’s. 587-1011 www.forbeslibrary.orgNorthampton, MA (FREE)

2-5pm – GIRLS CIRCLE: The Girl Circle, an ongoing group for girls between 9-12 yrs to explore their holistic relationship with the seasons, the moon cycles, sense of self and esteem, body image and awareness, verbal vocal clarity, holistic empowerment, fullness of expression, and gain skills for managing and balancing emotional and physical health and wholeness. Led by Alisa Wright Tanny. 695-6950 Conway/Shelburne Falls, MA ($$)

3-9pm – HOLIDAY STROLL: Downtown will bustle with the arrival of Santa and his sleigh, tree lighting at Town Hall, refreshments, shops open late, food drive, carolers, Railroad Street will be open to just foot traffic, story hour, gingerbread cookie decorating, face painting, and much more! 528-1510 www.southernberkshirechamber.comGreat Barrington, MA (FREE)

4pm & 7:30pm – THEATER: The Drama Studio presents a production of Peter Pan at St. Barnabas Church (41 Oakland St.). For kids 5yo & older. Seating is limited. RSVP 739-1983 Springfield, MA ($$)

4-9pm – CHRISTMAS EVENT: Old Sturbridge Village hosts Christmas by Candlelight, a nostalgic look at holiday traditions, music & food. www.osv.orgSturbridge, MA ($)

7:30pm – SOLSTICE EVENT: Welcome Yule: Music, Dance, Songs, and Stories to Drive the Dark Away at the Shea Theater (71 Avenue A). Years ago, a tradition emerged of celebrating the return of the light at midwinter with music, dance, songs and stories. Mark your calendars for this festive and joyful celebration, and be with community to sing and dance away winter’s darkness and call back the warm sun of spring. 863-2281 www.welcomeyule.orgTurners Falls, MA ($)

5-8pm – HAYRIDE: Hayrides through Look Park Winter Wonderland light display. www.lookpark.orgFlorence, MA (>$)

6pm – BALLET PERFORMANCE: Ballet Soleil presents, “A Very Merry Trans-Siberian Christmas Ballet.” At the Grange Hall. Williamsburg, MA (FREE)

7pm – HOLIDAY CONCERT: Pioneer Valley Symphony Family Holiday Concert. Holiday favorites, with An Old English Christmas, at the Greenfield High School. 773-3664 www.pvso.org Greenfield, MA ($)

7:30pm – COMMUNITY HOLIDAY PARTY: The Old Creamery (Route 9) is hosting a holiday party. Story telling, holiday songs with Laura Wetzler, refreshments. Cummington, MA (FREE)

Sunday, December 12th, 2010

7-8am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) airs encores the Hilltown Family Variety Show every Sunday morning. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org.

♦ 8am – WOMEN’S TRAIL RUN: Women of all levels are welcomed to a casual weekly trail run at the Chesterfield Gorge. All distances/All levels welcome. Organized by Leslie Charles and Tanya Rapinchuk. There is a late-risers run/walk at 9am too. West Chesterfield, MA

12Noon-2pm – SANTA: Santa Claus will make an appearance at the Springfield Science Musuem. Check out the special exhibit, “Sugar and Spice: The Land of Gingerbread” while visiting the old guy! 263-6800 www.springfieldmuseums.orgSpringfield, MA (FREE W/ADMISSION)

12Noon-2pm – CHRISTMAS EVENT: Fireside with Santa at Amelia Park Ice Arena (21 South Broad St.) 562-2277 Westfield, MA ($)

12:30-1:30pm – LITERACY EVENT: The Northampton High School Key Club invite all elementary aged kids to the NHS cafeteria for a literacy event. Kids can make a high school buddy, receive free books, listen to stories, and meet other students. Northampton, MA (FREE)

1pm – COOKIE DECORATING: Holiday Cookie Decorating workshop at Elmer’s. Lunch for little people too! RSVP 628.4003 Ashfield, MA ($)

2pm – SOLSTICE EVENT: Welcome Yule: Music, Dance, Songs, and Stories to Drive the Dark Away at the Shea Theater (71 Avenue A). Years ago, a tradition emerged of celebrating the return of the light at midwinter with music, dance, songs and stories. Mark your calendars for this festive and joyful celebration, and be with community to sing and dance away winter’s darkness and call back the warm sun of spring. 863-2281 www.welcomeyule.orgTurners Falls, MA ($)

♦ 2-3:50pm – ICE SKATING: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 Springfield, MA ($)

3:30pm – KNITTING: Second Sunday Yarn Spinners meet at the Meekins Library. All levels welcome. Bring your projects, needles and yarn.  Email morales.wolk@gmail.com to confirm. Williamsburg, MA (FREE)

4-9pm – CHRISTMAS EVENT: Old Sturbridge Village hosts Christmas by Candlelight, a nostalgic look at holiday traditions, music & food. www.osv.orgSturbridge, MA ($)

5pm – CHRISTMAS EVENT: Light Up the Holidays, a town wide holiday event. Local businesses on Main St. will offer treats and Santa will be at the Dalton CRA. www.daltoncra.org 684-0260 Dalton, MA (FREE)

6:30pm – THEATER: The Drama Studio presents a production of Peter Pan at St. Barnabas Church (41 Oakland St.). For kids 5yo & older. Seating is limited. RSVP 739-1983 Springfield, MA ($$)

Monday, December 13th, 2010

4:15-5pm in Plainfield: Creative Dance for Children ages 3-5yo at Earthdance with Maureen Shea. Drop-ins welcomed. 634-5431 ($)

5:15-6:15pm in Plainfield: Creative Dance for Children ages 6-9yo (a.k.a. The Dolphin Dancers) at Earthdance with Maureen Shea. Drop-ins welcomed. 634-5431 ($)

MONDAY PLAYGROUPS

• Northampton ♦ 9:30-11:30am : Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
• Northampton ♦ 11:00am: Tummy Time at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
• South Hadley ♦ 9:30-11am: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE) (mid Sept-May)
• Williamstown ♦ 10am: Play and Learn Group at the Williamstown Youth Center. www.williamstownyouthcenter.org (FREE)

MONDAY STORY TIMES

• Northampton ♦ 10:30am: Storytime with Ellie at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)

MONDAY PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS

• Northampton ♦ 12Noon – 1pm:Mother-Mother Breastfeeding group hosted by a certified lactation consultant every Monday at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. 582-2096 (FREE)

OTHER MONDAY ONGOING

• Greenfield ♦ 2-3:50pm: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
• Holyoke ♦ 3-4:50pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
• Montague ♦ 6:30pm: Evening Sing-Along at the Montague Center Library. Children of all ages and their families are invited to join Children’s Librarian Linda Hickman for a fun informal live music. Linda plays a variety of children’s music on the guitar and banjo, and there are bells and shakers for the children to play. For more information, call the Carnegie Library- 863-3214.
• North Adams ♦ 5:30pm: Haskins Gym Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
• Springfield ♦ 11am-12:50pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)

Tuesday, December 14th, 2010

4pm in Florence: Sing-along performance with Kit Langdon, for kids 1-8yo, at Cup & Top Cafe (1 North Main St.). 585-0445 (FREE)

TUESDAY PLAYGROUPS

• Amherst ♦ 9am-1pm: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
• Belchertown ♦ 9:30am-12:30pm: The Belchertown Family Center (720 Franklin St.) is open for drop-in playgroups for families with children 0-5yo. 283-7594 www.belchertownfamilycenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
• Easthampton ♦ 10-11:30am: Drop-in playgroup at the Easthampton Family Center (43 Main St.). www.easthamptonfamilycenter.org (FREE)
• Greenfield ♦ 10am-12Noon: Drop-in playgroups at the Greenfield Family Center (90 Federal St.). 475-1553 (FREE)
• North Adams ♦ 10am: Preschool Play and Learn Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
• Northampton ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
• Sandisfield ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Playgroup at Sandisfield Old Town Hall. 644-0104 (FREE)
• South Hadley ♦ 9:30-11am: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
• Sunderland ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Drop-in playgroup at the Sunderland Elementary School (27 Old Amherst Rd.) 475-1553 (FREE)
• West Springfield ♦ 10am-12Noon: Drop-in playgroup at the First Congregational Church (20 Lathrop St.) for all parents and caregivers of babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. 734-7667 (FREE)
• West Stockbridge ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Playgroup at W. Stockbridge Town Hall. Gym Fun. 644-0104 (FREE)

TUESDAY STORY TIMES

• Florence ♦ 10am: Kulp Memorial Lap Sitting at the Lilly Library for youngest ones 587-1500 www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
• Florence ♦ 11am: Toddler Time at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
• Greenfield ♦ 10-11am: Pre-School Storyhour at the Greenfield Public Library (402 Main Street). Mrs. Sally Ahearn leads this story time for children ages 5 and under. 772-1544 www.greenfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
• Hatfield ♦ 11:00am: Preschool story hour lead by Carolyn Mazel at the Hatfield Library (39 Main St.). Geared to ages 3-5, each story hour includes books, songs, finger plays, a play along with musical instruments, and a simple craft. 247-9097 (FREE)
• Lenox ♦ 11am: Toddler Story Time at the Lenox Library (18 Main Street). Story Time is for children age 18 months to 3 years. Children & their caregivers sing songs, learn finger plays & listen to a story. Following the structured program, participants are invited to stay so that the children can play together & their caregivers can visit. (FREE)

TUESDAY PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS

• Amherst ♦ 9am-12Noon: Grandparent support group at the Unitarian Meeting House (121 North Pleasant St.) Amherst Family Center with Ann Marie Meltzer. (FREE)
• Leverett ♦ 7:30-9pm: MOCAI’s Women’s Circle at the Quaker Meeting House (Long Plain Rd.) Weekly drop-in circle for women of color. Circles host a range of activities to suport and build community, with monthly guest facilitators. Babies in arms welcomed. No childcare. http://www.mocai.org (FREE)
• North Adams ♦ 10am: Berkshire Nursing Families at the Haskin Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
• Northampton ♦ 10:15-12:15am: MotherWoman Postpartum Support Group at the Community Action Building (56 Vernon St.). Confidential drop-in group for mothers of infants and babies up to one year old who are experiencing a challenging postpartum time. Expectant mothers welcome. Free childcare up to four years old. 253-8990 wwwmotherwoman.org (FREE)
• Northampton ♦ 1-3pm: New Mothers Circle at Cradle. 341-5282 www.cradlefamily.com (FREE)

OTHER TUESDAY ONGOING

• Amherst ♦ 2:15pm: Baby-friendly movie screening at the Amherst Cinema. ($)
• Florence ♦ 4:30pm: I Can Read Book Club at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
• Greenfield ♦ 2-3:50pm: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
• Holyoke ♦ 11am-12:50pm & 3-4:50pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
• Huntington ♦ 9:30-11:30am: School Readiness Program at the Gateway Family Center. 667.2203 www.hchcweb.org (FREE)
• Lee ♦ 3:30pm: Tail Waggin’ Tutors program at the Lee Library with Addie. Addie is a “Tail Waggin’ Tutor” certified by Therapy Dogs International as a trained therapy dog. The Tail Waggin’ Tutors program encourages children to read by providing a non-judgmental listener and furry friend to read to. All ages. 243-0385 (FREE)
• Millers Falls ♦ 3:30-4:45pm: Millers Falls Library Club (23 Bridge St.). An afterschool program with drop-in sessions for children of all ages. Activities include arts and crafts, snacks and homework help. 659-3801 www.montaguepubliclibraries.org (FREE)
• Leverett ♦ 10-11am:Happy Dan the Music Man: Sing With Your Baby Music, Movement, Instruments, and Fun for 0-2 year olds at the Leverett Crafts and Arts building (13 Montague Rd.). 259-1808 (>$ DONATION)
• Northampton ♦ 4-5pm: Girls Circle Yoga at Embodiment Studio (94 King St., 2nd floor), an ongoing weekly group for like-hearted, mind, and spirited girls. This class is created for reducing anxiety, digestive stress, emotional stress and overwhelming emotions. 695-6950 ($)
• Pittsfield ♦ 12:30pm: Chow Time in the aquarium at 12:30pm at the Berkshire Museum. 443-7171 www.berkshiremuseum.org (FREE w/museum admission)
• Springfield ♦ 10:45am-12:35pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)

Wednesday, December 15th, 2010

Deadline to sign up for the Springfield Area Christmas Bird Count

6:30pm in Huntington: Winter Power Story Hour at the Huntington Public Library. The LeBarron Family is hosting this month’s story hour. They will be sharing some great stories, fun crafts, and a special snack to share with all.  667-3506 (FREE) 

7pm in Northampton: Knitting Clinic at the Forbes Library. Knitters of all experience levels are welcome to attend. (FREE)

7pm in Northampton: Laugh for the Health of It. Take your teenager and laugh together at the Forbes Library Community Room. Join Certified Laughter leaders Trevor Smith & Mark Sherry for an evening of fun! 374-7671 www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)

WEDNESDAY PLAYGROUPS

• Amherst ♦ 9am-12Noon: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
• Belchertown ♦ 9:30am-12:30pm: The Belchertown Family Center (720 Franklin St.) is open for drop-in playgroups for families with children 0-5yo. 283-7594 www.belchertownfamilycenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
• Cummington ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Drop-in playgroup at the Cummington Family Center, located in the rear of the Cummington Community House on Main St. www.cummingtonfamilycenter.org (FREE)
• Greenfield ♦ 10am-12Noon: Drop-in playgroups at the Greenfield Family Center (90 Federal St.). 475-1553 (FREE)
• Huntington ♦ 10am-12Noon: Drop in playgroup at the Gateway Family Center. 667.2203 www.hchcweb.org (FREE)
• Lenox ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Playgroup at Lenox Community Center. 644-0104 (FREE)
• North Adams ♦ 10am: Toddler Play and Learn Group at the Haskin Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
• Northampton ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
• South Hadley ♦ 11am-12Noon: Parent with infant group at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
• Turners Falls ♦ 9:30am-12Noon: Drop-in playgroup at the Gill-Montague Family Center (78 Avenue A). 863-4805 (FREE)
• Ware ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Drop-in playgroups at the Ware Family Center in the United Church of Ware building (49 Church St.). 967-8127 (FREE)

WEDNESDAY STORY TIME

• Leverett ♦ 10:30am: Children’s story hour at the Leverett Library. www.leverettlibrary.org
• New Marlborough ♦ 10am: Library Story hour. 644-0104 (FREE)
• Northampton ♦ 11am: Toddler Time at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
• Northampton ♦ 4pm:Parenting/Baby Group at the Forbes Library. Call to pre-register. 587-1011 www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
• Northfield ♦ 10am: Story time at the Northfield Public Library. with stories, crafts and snacks. 498-2455 www.northfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
• Stockbridge ♦ 10am: Stores and crafts led by Vicky Cooper at the Stockbridge Library. (FREE)
• Williamsburg ♦ 10:30am: Preschool Storytime at the Meekins Library with Children’s Librarian Rochelle Wildfong. (FREE)

WEDNESDAY PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS

• Amherst ♦ 9:45-11:15am: MotherWoman Group: Getting Real About Motherhood. Expectant mothers welcomed. The are snacks and childcare for kids 4yo & younger. MotherWoman trained facilitator in the basement of the Unitarian Church (Amherst Family Center). Run by a MotherWoman trained facilitator. 253-8990 www.motherwoman.org (FREE)
• Holyoke ♦ 1pm: MotherWoman Postpartum Support Group at Midwifery Care of Holyoke (230 Maple St.). 534-2700 (FREE)

OTHER WEDNESDAY ONGOING

• Amherst ♦ 10:30-11:45am: Momma and Baby Yoga (Start after 7 weeks postpartum) at the CDH outpatient offices at 170 University Drive. Pre-registration is required: 582-2736, press “3” for Yoga
• Greenfield ♦ 12-1:40pm: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
• Hadley ♦ 10-11:30am: Rollerskate with Tiny Tot Romp, Stop, ‘n’ Roll Skate and Play at Interskate 91 North (Hampshire Mall). Strollers welcome. Parent’s don’t have to wear skates. For Ages 6 & under. 586-2737 www.interskate91.com(>$)
• Holyoke ♦ 3-4:50pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
• Montague ♦ 10:30am: Children and their families are invited to come and enjoy stories, crafts, music, activities and snacks with Ruth O’Mara at the Carnegie Library. For kids under age 5. 863-3214. (FREE)
• Northampton ♦ 1pm: Baby-friendly movie screening at the Pleasant Street Theater. ($)
• Northampton ♦ 4:15pm: Family Yoga for ages 3yo and up at the Hampshire Regional YMCA. 584-7086 (MEMBERS)
• Northampton ♦ 10:30-11:45 am in :Jewish Family Jam for infants, toddlers and their caregivers. Sing, drum and dance. Led by Felicia Sloin at Lander Grinspoon Academy (257 Prospect St.). 737-2601 http://www.jfswm.org (>$)
• Northampton ♦ 4:30pm: Yo-Yo School at A2Z. Come visit yo-yo school and learn to yo-yo for free with A2Z. (FREE)
• Springfield ♦ 10:30am-12:20pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)

Thursday, December 16th, 2010

5-8pm in South Hadley: Santa at Buttery Brook Park (123 Willimansett St., Rt. 33).  Ride holiday train through a land of holiday lights. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there. (FREE, >$)

5:30-7pm in Holyoke: Sarah Getoff will offer a workshop entitled, “Beyond Praise and Punishment: How to Teach Children Self-Esteem and Self-Control” at the Holyoke Community Charter School.   For reservations: info@sarahgetoff.com 586-3653 (FREE)

7-10pm in Hadley: Solstice Pageant at the Hartsbrook School. All are welcomed to join the high school students as they celebrate the season in song. 584-3198 www.hartsbrook.org Hadley, MA

7:30pm in Springfield: The Drama Studio presents a production of Peter Pan at St. Barnabas Church (41 Oakland St.). For kids 5yo & older. Seating is limited. RSVP 739-1983 ($$)

THURSDAY PLAYGROUPS

• Amherst ♦ 9am-1pm: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
• Belchertown ♦ 9:30am-12:30pm: The Belchertown Family Center (720 Franklin St.) is open for drop-in playgroups for families with children 0-5yo. 283-7594 www.belchertownfamilycenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
• Cummington ♦ 10am-12Noon: Babygroup for newborn to walking at the Cummington Family Center, located in the rear of the Cummington Community House on Main St. www.cummingtonfamilycenter.org (FREE)
• Great Barrington ♦ 1-3pm: Infant/Toddler Playgroup Group at the CHP Family Services Building (442 Stockbridge Rd.) 644-0104 www.communityhealthprograms.org (FREE)
• Northampton ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Music class at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
• Northampton ♦ 1pm: Baby playgroup at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
• South Hadley ♦ 9:30-11am: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
• Sunderland ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Drop-in playgroup at the Sunderland Elementary School (27 Old Amherst Rd.) 475-1553 (FREE)
• Ware ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Drop-in playgroups at the Ware Family Center in the United Church of Ware building (49 Church St.). 967-8127 (FREE)

THURSDAY STORY TIMES

• Amherst ♦ 10:30am: Preschool Story Time at the Jones Library in the Children’s Room. www.joneslibrary.org (FREE)
• Dalton ♦ 10am: Story time at the Dalton Free Public Library (462 Main St.) for preschool kids. 684-6112 (FREE)
• Florence ♦ 10am: Pre-school Story Time at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
• Lee ♦ 10:30-11am: Story time at the Lee Library (100 Main St.) for kids 2.5-5yo and their caregivers. 243-0385 (FREE)
• Lenox ♦ 11-11:45am: Preschool Story-Craft for children ages three to five at the Lenox Library Association featuring stories, songs and follow-along activities followed by a craft related to the story. 637-0197 x105 (FREE)

THURSDAY PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS

• Greenfield ♦ 10am-12Noon: Granparent Support Group at the Greenfield Family Center (90 Federal St.). 475-1553 (FREE)

OTHER THURSDAY ONGOING

• Great Barrington ♦ 9am: Kids’ Kitchen with Melanie Seserman at the CHP Family Services Building (442 Stockbridge Rd.). A cooking class for kids 2.5-5yo to learn about healthy food choices. www.communityhealthprograms.org 644-0104 (FREE)
• Greenfield ♦ 2-3:50pm: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
• Holyoke ♦ 3-4:50pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
• North Adams ♦ 11:30am: Teen to 23 Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
• Millers Falls ♦ 10am: Music and Movement series with Tom Carroll and Laurie Davidson at the Millers Falls Library 23 Bridge St.). Young children of all ages and their parents or caregivers. 863-3214 (FREE)
• Springfield ♦ 10:45am-12:35pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.). Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)

Friday, December 17th, 2010

10am & 11am in Pittsfield: Storyteller “Big Joe” Paglicua will entertain kids with stories at a special Aquarium Adventures at the Berkshire Museum. 443-7171 www.berkshiremuseum.org (MUSEUM ADMISSION)

4-9pm in Sturbridge: Old Sturbridge Village hosts Christmas by Candlelight, a nostalgic look at holiday traditions, music & food. www.osv.org ($)

4-5:30pm in Easthampton: Milk & Cookies w/Santa at Flywheel Arts (43 Main St.). Christmas carol sing along, stories with Mrs. Claus, craft making. 586-4998 x111 (>$)

5-7pm in Westfield: Fireside with Santa at Amelia Park Ice Arena (21 South Broad St.) 562-2277 ($)

5-8pm in South Hadley: Santa at Buttery Brook Park (123 Willimansett St., Rt. 33).  Ride holiday train through a land of holiday lights. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there. (FREE, >$)

5-8pm in Florence: Hayrides through Look Park Winter Wonderland light display. www.lookpark.org (>$)

5:30-7pm in Northampton: Family Fun Fridays at the Northampton YMCA in the gym. Free for members. 584.7086 www.hrymca.org (>$)

5:30-8:30pm in Springfield: Horse-Drawn wagon & carriage rides tour Bright Nights at Forest Park. 733-3800 ($)

6-8pm in Huntington: The Library will be holding a Holiday Open House. Come join in celebrating the season with tasty refreshments and some fun crafts. (FREE)

7:30pm in Springfield: The Drama Studio presents a production of Peter Pan at St. Barnabas Church (41 Oakland St.). For kids 5yo & older. Seating is limited. RSVP 739-1983 ($$)

FRIDAY PLAYGROUPS

• Amherst ♦ 9am-12Noon: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
• Belchertown ♦ 10-11am:Happy Dan the Music Man: Sing With Your Baby Music, Movement, Instruments, and Fun for 0-2 year olds at the Clapp Memorial Library. 259-1808 (>$ DONATION)
• Colrain ♦ 9:30-11:30am: Drop-in playgroup at the Colrain Community Church (306 Main Rd.). 475-1553 (FREE)
• Cummington ♦ 9:30-11:30am:Drop-in playgroup at the Cummington Family Center, located in the rear of the Cummington Community House on Main St. www.cummingtonfamilycenter.org (FREE)
• Easthampton ♦ 10-11:30am: Drop-in playgroup at the Easthampton Family Center (43 Main St.). www.easthamptonfamilycenter.org (FREE) – No Easthampton Family Center playgroup today
• Huntington ♦ 2pm: Baby-Time Meet & Greet at the Huntington Library. Feel like you haven’t spoken a complete sentence to another adult during the day..then this is the group for you. Parents or caregivers of infants and toddlers are invited to the Library for a short singing/story session with the children, and then a chance to make new friends. 667-3506 www.thehuntingtonpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
• Huntington ♦ 3pm: Drop in playgroup at the Gateway Family Center. 667.2203 www.hchcweb.org (FREE)
• North Adams ♦ 10am: Baby Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
• Stockbridge ♦ 9am : The Berkshire Day School (Route 183) welcomes all to a Music & Me playgroup for kids 2-4yo. This is an hour long circle time with sing-alongs, story and crafts. 637-0755 www.berkshirecountryday.org (FREE)
• Turners Falls ♦ 9:30am-12Noon: Drop-in playgroup at the Gill-Montague Family Center (78 Avenue A). 863-4805 (FREE)

FRIDAY STORY TIME

• Colrain♦ 11am: Preschool story hour at the Griswold Memorial Library. 624-3619 (FREE)
• Florence ♦ 10am: Mother Goose: Music, Stories and Movement – at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
• Greenfield ♦ 11am: Mother Goose on the Loose makes early learning lots of hands-on fun with songs, rhymes, and activities geared for the 3 and under audience. www.greenfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
• Sunderland ♦ 11am: Story/craft time for kids ages 3-5yo and their families at the Sunderland Public Library (20 School St.). Each storytime is approximately 45 minutes in length for theme-related stories, songs, finger plays and crafts! 665-2642 sunderlandpubliclibrary.org (FREE)

FRIDAY PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS

• Greenfield ♦ 10-11:30am: Franklin County Postpartum Support Group: This is Harder Than I Thought. At the Community Action Family Center (90 Federal St.). Drop-in for mothers of infants and babies experiencing postpartum. Expecting mothers welcomed. 774-1000 x2015

OTHER FRIDAY ONGOING

• Amherst ♦ 9:30am: Pre-school Spanish immersion program for kids under 6yo at the First Baptist Church. (954) 829-5233 (FREE)
• Greenfield ♦ 2-3:50pm: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
• Holyoke ♦ 9:30-10:30am:Read to Grow preschool program at the Children’s Museum (444 Dwight St.). 536-5437 (>$)
• Holyoke ♦ 3-4:50pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
• Pittsfield ♦ 10am & 11am: Aquarium Adventures. Each week children ages 2-4 meet a different animal from Berkshire Museum’s aquarium and watch as their new friend enjoys a meal. Story time is included. Free with Museum admission.
• Springfield ♦ 10:30am-12:20pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.). Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
• Springfield ♦ 2pm: Planetarium show at the Springfield Museum. 263-6800 www.springfieldmuseums.org(>$)