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.

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. — Help us help you!

HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL

The Hilltown CDC’s 5th Annual Hilltown Spring Festival is this Saturday, May 14th from 10am-7pm at the Cummington Fairgrounds! And there are 101 reasons to join us this year! Here are a few highlights:

Hilltown Families Family Stage
This year the will be three music stages, including a new Family Music Stage which will present family-friendly music from 10:30am until 4:30pm, including local stars The Nields, Ben Rudnick and Friends, Mister G, Sarah Pirtle and Lui Collins.

17 Musical Performances on 3 Stages
This is the second year Hilltown Families has been a major sponsor of the festival, and this year we are delighted to sponsor a third stage at the festival, The Hilltown Families Family Stage! On the other two stages, impressive, locally based musicians with dazzle your day, including Appalachian Still, Boxcar Lilies, Gaia Roots, Misty Blues, Swing Caravan, Radio Free Earth, Institute for the Musical Arts (IMA) and many others!

An Eclectic Mix of Dancing, Creating and Workshops
Maypole and maypole dance lead by EarthSpirit of Worthington, followed by drumming workshops with Tony Vacca and Aimee Gelinas of Gaia Roots, intergenerational yoga with Prakasa Yoga Studio of Goshen, River Poetry Workshop with Piti Theatre Company of Shelburne, and a Kids Songwriting Workshop with Mister G!

Local Food with International Flare
The eclectic nature of the Hilltown Spring Festival speaks true to the diversity of our community. This year even the food matches the diversity of our community serving up local food, often times with an international flare! On the menu: Polynesian Wedding Cake; Lokoum and Cornmeal Halva; Wood-Fired Pesto Pizza; German Bratwurst; Vegetable Lo Mein; hot dogs & veggie hamburgers; locally brewed beer; and Local Maple Cream Ice Cream… just to name a few!

Hilltown Spring Festival is Solar Powered!
Sustainable energy will be broadcasting all of the music from 18 performances — powered by the solar electric and battery system of The Solar Store of Greenfield.

Learn About Our Solar System, Discover Musical Instruments, Identify Wildlife, Recycling Activities and More
With music filling the air, families will have many opportunities to discover new things. Featured educational opportunities include a Scale Model Solar System Walk, solar-filtered telescopes for solar observances, a “Musical Petting Zoo,” hands-on wildlife & survival skill demos, games, and much more!

Morris Dancers & Maypole Dancing:
Joining the festival this year will be the Juggler Meadow Morris Men and the lovely ladies from the Wake Robin Morris Dancers! Maypole and maypole dance lead by EarthSpirit of Worthington.

Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar
The Kids-Made Craft Bazaar allows children to participate directly in the Festival, rewards them for their creativity, and gives them some real-world experience showing and selling their work.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

On Saturday, May 21st from 12noon-6pm – STREET PERFORMANCE: The Royal Frog Ballet and C3 Northampton present the Busker’s Ball!  All afternoon, performers will be singing, playing music, hosting games, dancing, doing interactive projects, and much more!  There will be musicians, puppeteers, artists, and jugglers!  Main Street.  413-585-0373.  Northampton, MA.  (DONATION)

On Sunday, May 22nd from 2-5pm – GROUNDBREAKING CELEBRATION: Join GrowFood Northampton in celebrating the official groundbreaking at the new Northampton Community Farm, which is part of 180 acres of land in Florence that has been preserved.  The celebration will include live music from Rani Arbo & Daisy Mayhem, along with horse-drawn rides, a riverwalk, refreshments, and games.  233 Spring Street.  413-584-0081.  Florence, MA.  (FREE)

BULLETIN BOARD

MEET THE DOULAS DAY: Meet the Doulas Day! Sunday, May 15th, 2-4 PM at Cradle, Third Floor, Thornes Marketplace, Northampton. Drop in any time to meet birth and postpartum doulas and other professionals in a relaxed atmosphere. Free refreshments, free raffle, and free 15-minute massages for pregnant mamas! Learn more at www.greenriverdoulas.org.

SHIPROCK & ANCHORDOG: This original musical is a collaboration between local children and artists from around the Pioneer Valley. Shiprock and Anchordog tells the tale of two lovable pups who leave their home in the desert to embark upon an epic quest in search of food security. In the production, the audience will journey across a beautiful piece of farmland, moving through a labyrinth of cargo trains, blueberry fields, oceans, and forests. The adventure incorporates live music, dance, and puppetry. Performances will be held at 81 Rocky Hill Rd. in Hadley on May 27th at 5pm and May 28th & 29th at 4pm. Tickets sold on a sliding scale: $10-25. Picnic dinner included in the price! Children 4 & under free.

Emily Jawadekar writes: I am a certified Children’s Yoga teacher. I teach yoga for ages 3-15 in the Northampton area. I can teach at my house or yours, or outdoors if it is a nice day! $25.00/hour for a private lesson. Groups classes are cheaper. Lessons start asap. Be prepared to have a lot of fun! If interested, please e-mail Emily asap at emilyj416@yahoo.com

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: The South Hadley Family Center is searching for a Part-Time Coordinator. The position entails facilitating a parent-child playgroup three morning a week, networking within the community, developing parent leadership, training and overseeing volunteer playgroup facilitators, and helping parent volunteers with fundraising events. There will also be a few afternoon and evening meetings each month. The South Hadley Family Center is a parent cooperative which receives limited funding through grants and fundraising. Experience with families and children 5 and under is preferred for applicants, as well as a background in early childhood. Pay is $14.50 per hour. Send a resume and cover letter to cklimczak@collaborative.org by May 20th to apply for the position.

HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW

Tune in every Saturday from 9-10am. Encore episodes are aired every Sunday from 7-8am. 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 | Forecast | Free Museum Passes | Playgroups & Family Centers | Farmers’ Markets | Listen Here | Pick Your Own | Movies in the Valley | Movies in the Berkshires | Donate to HF | Weekly eNewsletter

Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ♦ On-going Events

Saturday, May 14th, 2011

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.

10am-7pm – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: The 5th Annual Hilltown Spring Festival happens at the Cummington Fairgrounds. 18 performances on three stages, including the Hilltown Families Family Stage with The Nields, Mister G, Ben Rudnick & Friends, Sarah Pirtle and Lui Collins. Entertaining and educational workshops, local food and local brew, Maypole and Morris Dancers, hot air balloon launch, solar powered, solar observations & walk, drumming workshops, petting zoo, artisans, sustainability vendors, local businesses… and much more! An event not to be missed. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

8-11am – PANCAKES: Have breakfast at the World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast as part of the City of Springfield’s birthday celebration! Main Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

8am-4pm – TAG SALE: Florence Hardware will be holding a tag sale event of discounted items! Open packages, discontinued items, slightly damaged items, lawn and garden items, and special hardware items will all be on major sale! Proceeds will benefit Jessica’s Boundless Playground, an initiative to create a playground at Chestnut Hill Community School that is nearly maintenance free and that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy. 12 North Maple Street. 413-584-8867. Florence, MA. (FUNDRAISER)

9am-12noon – CLOTHES SALE: Visit the Westhampton Elementary School for their annual Children’s Clothing Sale! Pay $15 to fill a bag, or buy items individually. 37 Kings Highway. 413-527-0561. Westhampton, MA. (FREE)

9:30am – BIRDS: Take part in this workshop at the Bullitt Reservation on barn swallows, and learn why barns provide a valuable habitat for them! 332 Bullitt Road. 413-628-4485. Ashfield, MA. (FREE)

9:30am-12:30pm – SCIENCE WORKSHOP: Visit the Springfield Museums to take part in a workshop about robots and how they’re used to help humans! The workshop will look specifically at the robotic arm. 21 Edwards Street. 800-625-7738. Springfield, MA. ($$)

10am- PUPPETS: See the Tanglewood Marionettes perform “The Fairy Circus” at Hatfield Elementary School! Sponsored by the Collaborative for Educational Services. 33 Main Street. 413-277-9514. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)

10am – BALLET: Take part in an Angelina Ballerina and Friends presentation at the Westhampton Library! The program, which is for kids in Pre-K and K, will include storytime, a craft, and a demonstration of ballet steps. 1 North Road. 413-527-5386. Westhampton, MA. (FREE)

10-11am – ANIMAL ADVENTURE: Learn all about animal homes! Through story time and art and science activities, kids will learn about why animals all have different homes and how their homes are specifically suited to them. 100 Main Street. 978-248-9491. Athol, MA. (FREE)

10-11am – BUBBLES: Parents and children can explore and learn about science hands-on at this program about wind and bubbles! 210 State Street. 413-664-4821. North Adams, MA. (FREE)

10am-12noon – BIKES: Head to Westfield for a bicycle rodeo! The event will take place at the Southampton Road School and there will be lots of fun and prizes! 330 Southampton Road. Westfield, MA. (FREE)

10am-5pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURE: Celebrate Springfield’s birthday at the Springfield Museums! There will be a scavenger hunt in the history museum, live traditional valley music, a visit from a Civil War soldier, art activities, and an opportunity to meet the Cat in the Hat! 21 Edwards Street. 800-625-7738. Springfield, MA. (FREE with museum admission)

10:30am-3pm – STREET PERFORMANCE: Students and faculty of the Northampton Community Music Center will perform Springfest, an annual music performance that takes place outside on the streets of Northampton! The event will feature music of many styles and numerous instruments. 413-585-0001. Northampton, MA. (FREE)

11am-12noon – STORYTELLING: Habiba Addo bring traditional African stories to life at North Star! There will be drumming, costumes, dance, and songs! 135 Russell Street. 413-256-6982. Hadley, MA. ($)

11am-1pm – PARADE: See Springfield’s birthday parade! State Street to Main Street to Mill Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

11am-1pm – ZOO ADVENTURE: Learn all about exotic pet care at the Zoo in Forest Park! Parrots, for example, can have between 7 and 17 owners during their lifetime, and tortoises can live to be 100 years old! 302 Sumner Avenue. 413-733-2251. Springfield, MA. ($)

10:45am – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: Family concert with Lui Collins on the Hilltown Families Family Stage, followed by Sarah Pirtle. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

11:45am & 2:15pm – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: Arunah Hill astronomers will lead a walk to create a scale model of the solar system. Starting with the Sun scaled down to the size of a volleyball, the walk will place appropriately sized planets at the correct “scale” distance from the sun. Earth will be the size of a peppercorn, some 26 paces away from the Sun. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

12noon-4:30pm – HISTORY: Visit Historic Deerfield to learn about the importance of sewing and mending in early New England times! Make your own sewing kit, called, “A Housewife” to take home with you! 84 Old Main Street. 413-774-5581. Deerfield, MA. (FREE with museum admission)

12:30pm – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: Maypole and a maypole dance followed by Morris Dancers. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

1-3pm – GADGET EXPO: Visit the Milne Library to learn all about gadgets like the Wii, iPad, Nook, netbooks, Nintendo 3D, etc. Space is limited, so please RSVP. 1094 Main Street. 413-458-5369. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)

1-4pm – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: Josh Watchtel from Radio Free Earth will be visiting with a “Musical Petting Zoo,” displayng of a variety of instruments, including a mountain dulcimer, Turkish choombush, Moroccan bongoes, guitar, space crickets, melodica, one-stringed plastic bottle plucker, and a few other instruments.  He will be sharing their history and showing kids how to make music on each one. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

1pm & 3pm – FAMILY THEATER: Visit the Eric Carle Museum for a performance by the Berkshire Theater Festival called History’s Mysteries Revealed! The show will teach kids why there are giant statues on Easter Island, whether or not the Yeti is real, why there is a Sphynx in the Egyptian desert, and more! 125 West Bay Road. 413-658-1100. Amherst, MA. ($)

1-5pm – ARMORY DAY: As part of Springfield’s 375th birthday, visit the Springfield Armory for a living history demonstration of how armory workers created the weapons that won America’s freedom. 1 Armory Square. 413-734-8551. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

1:15pm – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: Drumming workshop with Tony Vacca followed by drumming workshop with Gaia Roots co-founder and drummer/singer Aimee Gelinas and dancer Marie Georgefils in an intergenerational and interactive Afro-Caribbean drum, song and dance workshop. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

1:30m – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: Family concert with Ben Rudnick & Friends on the Hilltown Families Family Stage, followed by Mister G at 2:30pm. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

2pm – OPENING CELEBRATION: Celebrate the season opening of Bascom Lodge! There will be fun events such as storytelling, dancing, and opportunities to learn about the history of the lodge and Mt. Greylock. There will be a prix fixe dinner at 7, for which reservations are required. Mt. Greylock. 413-743-1591. Adams, MA. (FREE)

2:30m – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: River poetry workshop with Piti Theatre Company for Riverfest at the Hilltown Spring Festival. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

3pm – DANCE PARTY: Dance your heart out to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Northampton Community Music Center! The event will feature live music from Vivi Quetzel, as well as delicious food! The event will take place at First Churches Northampton. 129 Main Street. 413-585-0001. Northampton, MA. (FUNDRAISER)

3:30pm – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: Family concert with The Nields on the Hilltown Families Family Stage, followed by Misty Blues at 4:45pm. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

4pm – HILLTOWN SPRING FESTIVAL: Kids songwriting workshop with Mister G at the Hilltown Spring Festival. Cummington Fairgrounds Cummington, MA (>$, Kids under 12 FREE)

6pm – MOVIE NIGHT: It’s Family Movie Night at Owl and Raven! Watch Mary Poppins and enjoy tea, hot chocolate, and popcorn. 2 Conz Street #42. 413-341-3581. Northampton, MA. (>$)

7pm – FAMILY THEATER: Visit Hampshire Regional HIgh School for a performance of Treasure Island! Fun for all ages. 19 Stage Road. 413-527-7680. Westhampton, MA. ($)

7:30pm – FIREWORKS: Celebrate Springfield’s birthday at Blunt Park with fireworks and live jazz music! Fireworks will start at 9. 2460 Roosevelt Avenue. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

---

Sunday, May 15th, 2011

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- BIKE RIDE: Take part in the second annual Hotel Bridge Bike Ride! The ride will raise money for the preservation of Hotel Bridge in Leeds. There are 10, 25, and 50 mile routes offered, as well as seperate kids activities (including bike decorating and a bike parade). 1 River Road. 860-803-0134. Leeds, MA. (FUNDRAISER)

10am – BIKE RIDE: Head to Southwick for a free (light) breakfast followed by a bike ride! The start location is Rails to Trails, and participants are urged to bike there. The Southwick Police Department will be on hand with bike safety information and free helmets for kids. Miller Street. Southwick, MA. (FREE)

11am-12noon – DANCE CLASS: Take an African dance class at Amherst Ballet! Learn dance, rhythm, and stories from Habiba Addo, a native of Ghana. 29 Strong Street. 413-256-6982. Amherst, MA. ($)

12noon-4:30pm – HISTORY: Visit Historic Deerfield to learn about the importance of sewing and mending in early New England times! Make your own sewing kit, called, “A Housewife” to take home with you! 84 Old Main Street. 413-774-5581. Deerfield, MA. (FREE with museum admission)

1pm & 3pm – FAMILY THEATER: Visit the Eric Carle Museum for a performance by the Berkshire Theater Festival called History’s Mysteries Revealed! The show will teach kids why there are giant statues on Easter Island, whether or not the Yeti is real, why there is a Sphynx in the Egyptian desert, and more! 125 West Bay Road. 413-658-1100. Amherst, MA. ($)

2pm – FAMILY THEATER: Visit Hampshire Regional HIgh School for a performance of Treasure Island! Fun for all ages. 19 Stage Road. 413-527-7680. Westhampton, MA. ($)

2pm – FAMILY CONCERT: Take the family to the 22nd Annual Suzuki String Serenade! There will be classical, latin, and folk music, along with birthday songs to celebrate Springfield’s 375th birthday! 52 Sumner Avenue. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

2-4pm – MEET THE DOULAS: Meet the Doulas Day happens a at Cradle. Drop in any time to meet birth and postpartum doulas and other professionals in a relaxed atmosphere. Free refreshments, free raffle, and free 15-minute massages for pregnant mamas. 3rd Floor of Thornes Market. Northampton, MA (FREE)

3pm- FAMILY CONCERT: Visit the Wistariahurst Museum to see the wisteria in bloom and to hear a concert from Belchertown’s New Valley Singers! There will be a raffle and bake sale at the concert as well. 238 Cabot Street. 413-322-5660. Holyoke, MA. ($)

---

Monday, May 16th, 2011

10am – GOLF: Take part in the 35th Annual Carson Center/Kamp for Kids Golf Tournament! The goal of the tournament is to raise $25,000 to cover budget gaps left by cuts in state funding. There will be a raffle and auction, as well as prizes for winners. The tournament will take place at Tekoa Country Club. 459 Russell Road. 413-572-4108. Westfield, MA. (FUNDRAISER)

10-11:30am – FARM ADVENTURES: Visit Red Gate Farm for their Mornings on the Farm program! Meet the animals, tour the farm, and do hands on activities centered around a new theme every week. 4 Norman Road. 413-625-9503. Buckland, MA. (>$)

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)

MONDAY OTHER ONGOING

• Greenfield ♦ 2-3:50pm: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
• Holyoke ♦ 12-2:20pm: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
• 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)
• Northampton ♦ 6-11pm: Owl and Raven host an intergenerational game night every Monday. Bring a game or come learn a new one. Tea and snacks. 2 Conz Street, Unit #42 413-341-3581 (FREE)
• Springfield ♦ 11am-12:50pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
• Williamsburg – 2:30-5pm: Teen and Tween Scene at Meekins Library! Visit for snacks, internet, homework help, Xbox, and Wii… as well as great books and movies! 2 Williams Street. 268-7472. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE!)

---

Tuesday, May 17th, 2011

10:30-11:30am – KIDS MUSIC: Happy Dan the Music Man at Jones Library! Music, movement, instruments, and fun for 0-2 year-olds and their caregivers. 43 Amity Street. 413-259-1808. Amherst, MA. (FREE!)

6-7:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: The Springfield Parent Academy presents, “Beyond Saying ‘NO!’” a workshop on what to do if your teenager is using drugs and alcohol. Learn strategies to dealing with teen substance abuse and conducting interventions, and also get information about treatment. The workshop will be held at Kiley Middle School. 180 Cooley Street. 413-787-7485. Springfield, MA. (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)
• Goshen ♦ 10:30-11:30am: Mommy & Me yoga storytelling class at Prakasa Yoga Studio. 152 Ball Rd. 413-268-7151
• 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)
• 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)
• Chicopee ♦ 5-7:15pm: Grandparents as Parents at the Chicopee Senior Center (7 Valley View Ct.). Meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month. 534-3698 (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, May 18th, 2011

9am-5pm – FISH: Visit the Turners Falls Fishway to observe migratory fish during their upstream journey for spawning through underwater viewing windows! Located behind Town Hall. 1 Avenue A. 413-659-3714. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

9:30am-12noon – FARM ADVENTURES: It’s Homeschool Half Day at Red Gate Farm! Take part in learning and play (both structured and unstructured) centered around a new theme every week. 4 Norman Road. 413-625-9503. Buckland, MA. ($)

1:15-2:15 – SCIENCE: Learn all about rocks and minerals at the Carnegie Library! Try out simple ways of classifying rocks and observe crystal formations. 1 Avenue A. 413-863-3214. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

5:30-7pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Attend a workshop called, “Bullying Prevention and Intervention,” which will teach strategies for dealing with bullying when your children experience it. Hosted by the Springfield Parent Academy, the workshop will take place at the Rebecca Johnson School. 55 Catherine Street. 413-787-7485. Springfield, MA.

5:30-7:30 – WELLNESS: Parents are invited to attend a workshop about health, fitness, and wellness! There will be light refreshments, prizes, and free childcare. Call ahead to register. 210 State Street. 413-664-4821. North Adams, MA. (FREE)

6pm – GARDENING: Attend a plant swap and garden combing event! Dig up some plants from the Herbal Meet-up Garden to take home or share with others, and bring some of your own plants to contribute/share! 14 Northern Avenue. Northampton, MA. (FREE)

6-8pm – BIRTH CIRCLE: A drop in support group, the Birth Circle provides a safe space for pregnant women and their support system to explore the different aspects of pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Parents who wish to share and understand their own birth experience and the changes a new baby brings are welcomed to attend. Infants in arms. Emphasis is on birth as a positive and transforming experience in the life of a woman and her family, and healing from difficult birth circumstances. Held at Bizzy B’s Boutique. 6 Burbank St. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)

7pm – ICE CREAM: Head to Owl and Raven for a Community Skillshare night were you can learn how to make your own ice cream! Bring your favorite toppings. 2 Conz Street #42. 413-341-3581. Northampton, 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)
• 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 ♦ 12Noon-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 ♦ 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, May 19th, 2011

9am-5pm – FISH: Visit the Turners Falls Fishway to observe migratory fish during their upstream journey for spawning through underwater viewing windows! Located behind Town Hall. 1 Avenue A. 413-659-3714. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

9:30am & 11am – STORYTIME: Visit the Westfield Athenaeum for the Terrific Twos and Threes program! Today’s program will be a storytime followed by crafts- siblings welcome! Registration required. 6 Elm Street. 413-568-7833. Westfield, MA. (FREE)

5-8pm – FAMILY PERFORMANCE: Head to Pittsfield for the first Third Thursday of the season! There will be live outdoor performances for families, as well as the great shops and restaurants of downtown Pittsfield. 413-499-9348. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)

5:30-7pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Attend this workshop to make and learn about activities to do with kids based on children’s books! 210 State Street. 413-664-4821. North Adams, MA. (FREE)

6-7:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: The Springfield Parent Academy hosts, “You Want to Know About WHAT?!” The workshop, which will take place at the Frederick Harris School, will teach parents strategies for having conversations with their children about sex and other personal issues. 58 Hartford Terrace. 413-787-7485. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

6:30pm – CIRCUS: Learn all about the Ringling Brothers circus at the Huntington Public Library! Munch on animal crackers, read circus stories, and make a 3-ring circus mobile! 7 East Main Street. 413-667-3506. Huntington, MA. (FREE)

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 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)
• 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)
• 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)

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 ($)
• Northampton ♦ 6pm: Community potluck dinner at Owl and Raven. Bring entree or dessert to share (include list of ingredients). Casual gathering. 2 Conz Street, Unit #42 413-341-3581 (POTLUCK)
• Springfield ♦ 10:45am-12:35pm: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.). Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)

---

Friday, May 20th, 2011

9am-5pm – FISH: Visit the Turners Falls Fishway to observe migratory fish during their upstream journey for spawning through underwater viewing windows! Located behind Town Hall. 1 Avenue A. 413-659-3714. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

1-2pm – KID YOGA: Do some yoga in a baby-friendly setting at Forbes Library! Babies of any age are welcome so long as they can be cared for while parents are practicing yoga. 20 West Street. 413-587-1011. Northampton, MA. (FREE)

2-4pm – HOMESCHOOL PLAYGROUP: Head to Worthington for a homeschool playgroup gathering! Bring some of your own activities to share. Route 112. 413-238-4424. Worthington, MA. (FREE)

3:30-4:30pm – LITERACY: Be part of the Kids’ Reading Club at the Greenfield Public Library! Each month’s meeting features books chosen by the participants. Open to kids ages 7-9. 402 Main Street. 413-772-1544. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)

3:30-4:45 – LITERACY: Join the Young Adult Book Club at Forbes Library! There will be tons of fun crafts and activities, and the book for next month will be voted on at the end of the meeting. 20 West Street. 413-587-1011. Northampton, MA. (FREE)

4-4:45pm – FARM ADVENTURES: Visit Red Gate Farm for the Young Farmers program! Help the farmers out with afternoon chores, meet the animals, and explore the farm. 4 Norman Road. 413-625-9503. Buckland, MA. (FREE)

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

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 ♦ 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(>$)