Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events 02/26/11-03/04/11
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
Western MA Sugar Shacks are opening up this weekend serving breakfast and fresh maple syrup! Click on the photo for a list of Sugar Shacks in Western MA. Give them a call to see if they've serving up sweet goodness this weekend! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield - Sap drips from a tapped maple tree in the hilltowns.)
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.
SPONSORSHIP: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Hilltown Families has been serving & supporting our local community for over 5 years! Help us continue to serve our community by supporting the work we do! Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to support Hilltown Families through sponsorship and enhanced publicity. 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!
BEST BETS
In the early afternoon on Saturday, February 26th at 1:30pm – FAMILY CONCERT: The Deedle Deedle Dees will be a Flywheel in the old Town Hall, with a special Black History Month show featuring tunes about Sojourner Truth, Fannie Lou Hamer, Cool Papa Bell, Satchel Paige, Henry Box Brown, and other folks worthy of song. Presented by Hilltown Families and Spare the Rock. Doors open at 1pm. Easthampton, MA ($)
Later in evening on Saturday, February 26th from 5-8pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Participate in Red Gate Farm’s Fire and Ice celebration. Go sledding under the lights and warm up by the fire afterward. Dinner and cocoa provided- fun for all ages! 4 Norman Road. 625-9503. www.redgatefarm.org. Buckland, MA. (>$)
After brunch at one of the local sugar shacks on Sunday, February 27th, from 2-4pm – SINGALONG: A community singalong happens at the Jones Library in the Amherst Room, lead by Rise Up Singing songbook creators, Peter Blood & Annie Patterson. All are welcome. 43 Amity St. www.joneslibrary.org 259-3090 Amherst, MA. (FREE)
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Friday, March 4th at 7pm- FAMILY THEATER: See “Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical” at The Academy of Music. Knuffle Bunny is the story of a simple family trip to the laundromat and the things that go unexpectedly horribly wrong. The show is full of adventure, songs, and, of course, gigantic dancing laundry. 274 Main Street. 584-9032. www.academyofmusictheatre.com. Northampton, MA. ($)
BULLETIN BOARD
Deadline to enter to win: Feb. 28th.
SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES FAIR: Looking for that perfect summer program for your 4- to 19-year-old? Come to the 8th annual Pioneer Valley Summer Opportunities Fair at The Williston Northampton School on Sunday, Feb. 27, 12-3pm. There will be over 35 local, national, and international programs for elementary, middle & high school students. Programs include language, service, academic, sports, leisure, or cultural specialties. Ask programs questions, hear about scholarships/financial aid, and collect brochures. There will be 3 workshops: Choosing the best program for your child ages 4-10, Maximizing summer experiences for college admission, and How to find and land a great summer job or internship. ncronan@williston.com. 40 Park St., Easthampton (FREE)
LIBRARY CLOSURE: The Forbes Library Children’s Department in Northampton will be closed from Saturday, February 26 – Monday, March 7 while new carpet is installed.
Deadline to enter to win: March 2nd
VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION: The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts invites you to attend a Volunteer Orientation on Saturday, February 26th. Anyone who is interested in getting involved with The Food Bank, might want to volunteer in the future, or just wants to learn more about The Food Bank can attend. Orientation sessions will introduce you to the work of The Food Bank and the variety of volunteer opportunities we have available. A form is available on The Food Bank’s website where those interested can RSVP. Orientation sessions are held regularly on the second Tuesday and fourth Saturday of every month. 97 North Hatfield Road, Hatfield, MA. 247-9738. www.foodbankwma.org.
Deadline to enter to win: Feb. 28th.
Lynne Guyette, Easthampton Family Center Coordinator writes: The Easthampton Family Center will hold its first parent meeting this year on Friday, March 4, 2011. The meeting will take place at the family center during its egular playgroup time from 10:30am to 12:00pm. All family center members are invited to attend this meeting. There will be extra supervision and activities for the children while the meeting takes place. I hope to see you all there on the 4th of March. This is your opportunity to be heard and to help support the growth of the Easthampton Family Center.
Deadline to enter to win: March 9th
OPEN CALL FOR ARTWORK: Artists from Berkshire County (and beyond!) are invited to submit artwork (both 2- and 3-D) for the upcoming group exhibit, “Forty Shades of Green: Celebrating Ireland and Irish Culture.” The show will appear at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts in Pittsfield from March 12th-April 9th. Work of any type is welcomed, and submissions should be fully prepared for display. For more information, visit www.culturalpittsfield.com or call 499-9348.
SATURDAY WINTER FARMERS’ MARKETS:
- 10am-2pm – AMHERST: North Amherst Farmers’ Market happens a the Big Blue Barn at SwartzFamiy Farm (11 Meadow St.).
- 9am-2pm – NORTHAMPTON: Winter Farmers’ Market in the basement of Thornes through April 30th. Food, live music and art.
- 10:30am-1pm – SPRINGFIELD:Springfield Winter Market happens at Forest Park. 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Tune in every Saturday from 9-10am. Encore episodes are aired every Sunday from 7-8am.
This week Josh Wachtel of Radio Free Earth Guest DJs the Hilltown Famiy Variety Show, spinning tunes by Harry Nilsson, The Holy Modal Rounders, The Blazers, The Mills Brothers, The Gardenias, Michelle Shocked, Merle Travis, Radio Free Earth, and many others! 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!
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, February 26th, 2011
8am-3pm – WINTER FESTIVAL: Annual Winter Festival happens in downtown North Adams. This family fun event includes hay rides, ice sculpting, carnival games, refreshments, crafts, music, ice skating and more. 664-6180 www.northadams-ma.gov North Adams, MA (FREE, >$)
9am-5pm – BOTANICAL STUDIES: 2011 Amherst Orchid Society Show at Smith Vocational High School. Visit to see tons and tons of orchids of all kinds of varieties! Plants will be judged- see if you can predict the winners. Northampton, MA. (>$)
10am-1pm – OUTDOOR FESTIVAL: Five College Outdoor Festival happens at Hampshire College to celebrate outdoor sports and adventures. Demos with Zoar Outdoor, pancake brunch, adventure race, climbing competitions. 559.5536 www.hampshire.edu Amherst, MA (FREE)
10am-9pm- GIANT SANDBOX: Didn’t get to go south to enjoy a sandy beach for school vacation? Visit the Eastfield Mall for a healthy dose of sand! A giant sandbox has been built in the mall’s food court, containing more than enough sand for you to get your fix of summer. 1655 Boston Road. www.eastfieldmall.com. 543-8000. Springfield, MA (FREE)
10:30am – MUSIC SERIES: Music series at the Jones Library. For kids of all ages. 43 Amity St. www.joneslibrary.org 259-3090 Amherst, MA. (FREE)
♦ 11-11:45pm – KIDS YOGA: Karma hosts a children’s yoga class for kids ages 6-10yo. Stretches, poses and yoga/theater games. Pre-register. 727-8143 http://www.bekarma.com Northampton, MA ($)
11am-1pm: INTERNATIONAL ADVENTURES: A historic and cultural adventure of Pakistan, inspired by Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson, will take place at the Town Hall. Kids ages 9-12 can learn to write their name using Urdu letters, leaf through text books used by children in these mountainous schools, dress-up in their traditional clothing, enjoy Nan and tea, partake in a Pakistani craft, and listen to traditional music. 259-1213 www.mnspear.org Shutesbury, MA.
11am – STORYTIME: Pajama storytime at the Northfield Public Library. Enjoy what’s left of school vacation by lounging in comfy clothes and listening to stories. 115 Main Street. 498-2455. www.northfieldpubliclibrary.org. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
12Noon – YOUTHFILM: The Northampton Arts Council will host a YouthFilm Fest at the Academy of Music, featuring films directed, crafted, written and starred by local children and teens. Films screened early in the afternoon are suitable for young kids. Films screened later in the day are more appropriate for older kids. To see the schedule of films visit www.northamptonartscouncil.org Northampton, MA. (KIDS FREE, ADULTS >$)
1pm – MOVIE SCREENING: Despicable Me (PG) will be screened at the Whately Public Library (202 Chestnut Plain Rd.). 665-2170 www.whately.org/library Whately, MA (FREE)
1:30pm – FAMILY CONCERT: The Deedle Deedle Dees will be a Flywheel in the old Town Hall, with a special Black History Month show featuring tunes about Sojourner Truth, Fannie Lou Hamer, Cool Papa Bell, Satchel Paige, Henry Box Brown, and other folks worthy of song. Presented by Hilltown Families and Spare the Rock. Doors open at 1pm. Easthampton, MA ($)
1-3pm – OPEN HOUSE: Visit Sheep Hill for the Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation’s winter open house. Enjoy simple crafts, mulled cider, and a roaring fire, as well as outdoor activities like showshoeing and sledding! 671 Cold Spring Road. 458-2494. www.wrlf.org. Williamstown, MA. (>$)
1-4pm – ANIMALS STUDIES: Fox Fun for Families Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center (99 Millers Falls Rd.). Observation of mounts, skulls, books and outdoor tracking. For ages 7yo+ Indoors and outdoors. (800) 859-2960 Northfield, MA (FREE)
2:30pm – THEATER: The Piti Theatre Company presents the nature fable Elmer and the Elder Tree at the Orange Town Hall. The show is interactive, and includes music and dance. 6 Prospect Street. 978-544-1100. www.townororange.org. Orange, MA. (>$)
3:30 PM – FAMILY THEATER: Visit the Williston Northampton School for their annual February vacation children’s performances. This year’s show is Story Theater: Journeys of Transformation from Around the World and Beyond, and is based on a collection of folk stories. 18 Payson Avenue. 529-3434. www.williston.com. Easthampton, MA. (>$)
4pm – SPORTS ADVENTURES: The Mt. Holyoke Lyons hockey team takes on their rival team, the Smith Pioneers, at Fitzpatrick Arena in Holyoke. This is one of the biggest games for the two teams- come cheer them on and see some great women’s hockey! 575 Maple Street. 532-2929. sophia.smith.edu. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
5pm – HISTORICAL THEATER: The Norman Rockwell Museum presents, “Ain’t I A Woman: The Story of Sojourner Truth.” Actress Debra Zull performs a one-woman show that chronicles Truth’s life as an abolitionist, evangelist, and civil and women’s rights leader. Great for older students! 9 Route 183. 298-4100. www.nrm.org. Stockbridge, MA. ($)
Sunday, February 27th, 2011
9am-5pm – BOTANICAL STUDIES: 2011 Amherst Orchid Society Show at Smith Vocational High School. Visit to see tons and tons of orchids of all kinds of varieties! Plants will be judged- see if you can predict the winners. Northampton, MA. (>$)
11am-6pm- GIANT SANDBOX: Didn’t get to go south to enjoy a sandy beach for school vacation? Visit the Eastfield Mall for a healthy dose of sand! A giant sandbox has been built in the mall’s food court, containing more than enough sand for you to get your fix of summer. 1655 Boston Road. www.eastfieldmall.com. 543-8000. Springfield, MA (FREE)
2pm – THE REALLY BIG SHOW: The Northampton Arts Council presents The Really Big Show at the Academy of Music Theatre, a Valley classing featuring Tom Mahnken, of Trailer Park and Unit 7 fame, impersonating Ed Sullivan to introduce their bill of local artists. 587-1269 Northampton, MA ($)
2-4pm – SINGALONG: A community singalong happens at the Jones Library in the Amherst Room, lead by Rise Up Singing songbook creators, Peter Blood & Annie Patterson. All are welcome. 43 Amity St. www.joneslibrary.org 259-3090 Amherst, MA. (FREE)
2-4pm – CHESS: Love chess? Want to learn? Whether you are a chess pro or barely a beginner, you are welcome at Forbes Library’s casual drop in chess sessions! Bring your own set if you have one! All ages welcome. 20 West Street. 587-1011. www.forbeslibrary.org. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
2:30pm – SUPPORT GROUP: Queer Non-Gestational Parent Group at Cradle. For new parents (w/kids 2yo & younger). Children welcome. 341-5282 www.cradlefamily.com Northampton, MA (FREE)
3pm – THEATER: The Pajama Game with Miss Hall’s School Theater Ensemble. A musical comedy. 492 Holmes Road. 443-6401 Pittsfield, MA ($)
3-5pm – ICE SKATING: Public ice skating at Lassone Ice Rink. No rentals, so bring your own skates. Sharpening is available. Refreshments for sale. 529-3000 Easthampton, MA (>$)
Monday, February 28th, 2011
11am – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Visit the Berkshire Museum (39 South St.) for Aquarium Adventures- a program for toddlers where participants can meet aquarium residents, enjoy storytime, and create an art project inspired by their adventure. Blue-tongued skink and Lizard’s Guest. 443-7171. http://www.berkshiremuseum.org. Pittsfield, MA. ($)
4pm – BOOK READING: Join local author Jarrett Krosoczka for A Warm-up to the Meltdown- an exciting celebration including cake, balloons, and story time. 1 North Main Street. 585-0445. www.cupandtop.com. Florence, MA. (FREE!)
6:30pm – SING-ALONG: Evening Sing-Along at the Montague Center Library. Children of all ages and their families are invited to join Children’s Librarian Linda Hickman for a fun informal live music. Linda plays a variety of children’s music on the guitar and banjo, and there are bells and shakers for the children to play. For more information, call the Carnegie Library- 863-3214. (FREE)
7-8pm – LAUGH IN – Bring the older kids to the Forbes Library for some laughter therapy! Laugh for the Health of It is a 60 minute program of laughter and fun, facilitated by certified Laughter Leaders, Trevor Smith and Mark Sherry. Open to all. 20 West St. www.forbeslibrary.org 587-1017 Northampton, MA. (Free)
MONDAY PLAYGROUPS
Northampton ♦ 9:30-11:30am : Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)Closed today due to funeral at church.
- South Hadley ♦ 9:30-11am: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE) (mid Sept-May)
- Williamstown ♦ 10am: Play and Learn Group at the Williamstown Youth Center. www.williamstownyouthcenter.org (FREE)
MONDAY PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS
- Northampton ♦ 12Noon – 1pm: Mother-Mother Breastfeeding group hosted by a certified lactation consultant every Monday at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. 582-2096 (FREE)
MONDAY OTHER ONGOING
- Greenfield ♦ 2-3:50pm: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
- Holyoke ♦ 12-2:20pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
- North Adams ♦ 5:30pm: Haskins Gym Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
- Springfield ♦ 11am-12:50pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
Tuesday, March 1st, 2011
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 & 1-2:50pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
- Huntington ♦ 9:30-11:30am: School Readiness Program at the Gateway Family Center. 667.2203 www.hchcweb.org (FREE)
- Pittsfield ♦ 12:30pm: Chow Time in the aquarium at 12:30pm at the Berkshire Museum. 443-7171 www.berkshiremuseum.org (FREE w/museum admission)
- Springfield ♦ 10:45am-12:35pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
Wednesday, March 2nd, 2011
COOKBOOK SWAP/BOOK DISCUSSION: On Wednesday, March 2nd, Hilltown Sustainability will host a cookbook exchange and discussion of the book, The Vegetarian Myth. The meeting will be at the Village Congregational Church in Cummington at 7:30. The Vegetarian Myth was written by Lierre Keith, a former vegan of 20 years, and addresses food, justice, and sustainability. Come to share your thoughts and insights, and trade for some new cookbooks, too! For more information, contact Leni Fried at 634-5591.
10-11:30am: ROLLERSKATING: 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 (>$)
11am-5pm – READING: Read Across America at Boswell’s Books. Celebrate Dr. Seuss bday with activities throughout the day. 10 Bridge St. Shelburne Falls, MA (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
- Chesterfield ♦ 10:15am: : Children’s story hour at the Chesterfield Public Library. 296-4735 (FREE)
- Leverett ♦ 10:30am: Children’s story hour at the Leverett Library. www.leverettlibrary.org
- New Marlborough ♦ 10am: Library Story hour. 644-0104 (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 ♦ 12Noon-1:40pm: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
- Holyoke ♦ 12:30-2:20pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
- Northampton ♦ 1pm: Baby-friendly movie screening at the Pleasant Street Theater. ($)
- 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 ($)
Thursday, March 3rd, 2011
10am – THEATER: Academy of Music Theatre presents their School Day Series: Knuffle Bunny, A Cautionary Musical (Ages 3-8yo) 584.9032 www.academyofmusictheatre.com Northampton, MA (>$)
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)
- 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 TIME
- 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: Grandparent Support Group at the Greenfield Family Center (90 Federal St.). 475-1553 (FREE)
- Northampton ♦ 6pm: Single Parent Support Group at Cradle. 341-5282 (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 ($)
- Holyoke ♦ 12:30-2:20pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
- North Adams ♦ 11:30am: Teen to 23 Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
- Northampton ♦ 3:45-4:30pm: Karma hosts a children’s yoga class for kids ages 6-10yo. Stretches, poses and yoga/theater games. Pre-register. 727-8143 http://www.bekarma.com Northampton, MA ($)
- Springfield ♦ 10:45am-12:35pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.). Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
Friday, March 4th, 2011
Lynne Guyette, Easthampton Family Center Coordinator writes: The Easthampton Family Center will hold its first parent meeting this year on Friday, March 4, 2011. The meeting will take place at the family center during its egular playgroup time from 10:30am to 12:00pm. All family center members are invited to attend this meeting. There will be extra supervision and activities for the children while the meeting takes place. I hope to see you all there on the 4th of March. This is your opportunity to be heard and to help support the growth of the Easthampton Family Center.
9:30am: SPANISH FOR PREK: Pre-school Spanish immersion program for kids under 6yo at the First Baptist Church. (954) 829-5233 (FREE)
10-11am: SING WITH YOUR BABY: 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 Belchertown, MA (>$ DONATION)
3-4pm – TEEN/TWEEN: Join Teenstitch at East Springfield Branch Library! Learn to knit or crochet with materials provided, or come armed with your own projects-in-progress and help new knitters. 21 Osborne Terrace. http://www.springfieldlibrary.org. 263-6840. Springfield, MA. (FREE!)
6-8pm – FAMILY GAME NIGHT: First Friday Family Game Night at North Hadley Hall. Play foosball, air hockey, and board games of all sorts! Snacks provided. Parents encouraged (but not required!) to stay, please pre-register. 239 River Drive. http://www.hadleyma.org. 586-6375. Hadley, MA. (>$)
6-8pm – FAMILY FITNESS: Zumba for Haiti at Allendale Elementary School! Dance ‘til you drop (or just until 8 o’clock) to raise money for Haiti. Tickets can be purchased at the door. 180 Connecticut Avenue. 448-2650. Pittsfield, MA. (FUNDRAISER)
6-10pm – POTTERY FUNDRAISER: 32nd Annual Pottery and More Seconds Sale sponsored by the Artspace Community Center. Proceeds from the sale go to support community art and music programs as well as the Strings for Kids program in the Greenfield Public Schools. 1 Lenox Street. http://www.franklyarts.com. 772-6811. Greenfield, MA. (FUNDRAISER)
7pm- FAMILY THEATER: See “Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical” at The Academy of Music. Knuffle Bunny is the story of a simple family trip to the laundromat and the things that go unexpectedly horribly wrong. The show is full of adventure, songs, and, of course, gigantic dancing laundry. 274 Main Street. 584-9032. www.academyofmusictheatre.com. Northampton, MA. ($)
7:30pm – STARGAZING: Join the Springfield Stars Club for Stars Over Springfield at the Springfield Science Museum. Learn how to properly observe the night sky with a simple backyard telescope, see samples of moon rocks from NASA, and use the museum’s observatory. 21 Edwards Street. 800-625-7738. www.springfieldmuseums.org. Springfield, MA. (>$)
7:30pm – FAMILY THEATER: Amherst Regional High School presents the musical “City of Angels.” Good seats go fast, so get tickets while you still can! 21 Mattoon Street. www.arhsparentcenter.org. 362-1701. Amherst, MA. ($$)
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)
- 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)
- 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)
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
- Northampton ♦ 9:30am: La Leche League of Northampton meets at Cradle.
OTHER FRIDAY ONGOING
- 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 ♦ 1-2:50pm: 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(>$)
Open class day at The Hartsbrook School, Thursdsy, March 3rd, 8:15am to 10:30am.
All school Open House at The Hartsbrook School, Saturday, March 26, 10am-noon. Pre-school through High School.
193 Bay Road, Hadley, 413-584-3198