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

The annual Massachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair takes place this weekend, May 26th & 27th, 2012 at the Cummington Fairgrounds! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)

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.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout Western Massachusetts while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS

Enter to win a pairs of tickets to see Michael Franti and Spearhead at the Calvin Theater in Northampton, MA at 8pm on Thursday, May 31st, 2012. Deadline to enter to win is Monday, 05/28/12 @ 7pm (EST).

Saturday, May 26th & Sunday, May 27th from 9:30am-5pm – HISTORY/WOOL: Learn about sheep shearing and sheep farming at Old Sturbridge Village’s Wool Days! Visitors can see sheep getting sheared, then view demonstrations of the entire process of turning the freshly cut wool into yarn, then woolen clothing! There will also be demonstrations of sheep dog herding (and duck and goat herding, too!), and exhibits and demonstrations of other animals farmed for fibers, like angora rabbits. Kids can learn about the history of textiles, as well as 19th century life in general. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. ($)

Saturday, May 26th & Sunday, May 27th from 9am-5/4pm – ANIMAL ADVENTURE/STUDIES: The Massachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair takes place this weekend at the Cummington Fairgrounds! The event is a great opportunity to learn about all things sheep-related – there will be tons of sheep around to visit, competitions of all sorts (including sheep dog herding), workshops galore, and fiber arts to view and/or purchase. Combine a trip to the festival with studies of local farming, local ecology and geology (why is our climate good for raising sheep?), and art (try out some fiber art of your own!). Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. (<$)

Tuesday, May 29th from 7-9pm – COMMUNITY TALK: 93% of the American public wants the American government to require that GMO foods be labeled in grocery stores – however, despite this, it is not required. Learn about the reality of GMO foods on Tuesday, May 29th at the Meekins Library. Hilltown Families is presenting, Safe and Healthy Food Choices: Educating and Empowering Families in an Era of High-Tech Food Production, a community conversation with local food advocates Ed Stockman, Tony(a) Lemos, and Jennifer Hartley. The event will provide attendees with information on identifying GMO foods and making good choices for their families. 413-268-7473. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE)

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Saturday, June 2nd from 1-3pm – HISTORY/GAMES: Enjoy an afternoon of Victorian lawn games at the Wistariahurst Museum! Families can play and learn about many different games enjoyed by Victorian children. 413-322-5660. 238 Cabot Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)

Sunday, June 3rd from 11am-3:30pm – ECOLOGY/HISTORY: Today is the 5th annual Fort River Celebration Day! There will be educational activities and displays, all designed to teach the community about the river’s history, the organisms it is home to, and its role within the community. There will also be a rubber ducky race, and a canoe ride from 2-3:30. Takes place at Groff Park. Mill Lane. Amherst, MA. (FREE)

BULLETIN BOARD

FAMILY DAY: Don’t miss Family Day at Katywil Farm Community (katywil.com) in Colrain, MA on May 26 from 10am-1pm. See for yourself why ‘it takes a farm community to raise a child’. Come to info session and Q&A from 10-11. At 11am, Trevor the Games Man will entertain preK-adults, all ability levels, by leading games outdoors, guaranteed to be fun for all! Noon-1pm you will be ready for lunch after an active hour of games! The folks at Katywil will be making fire roasted pizzas in their cob oven (gluten-free pizzas available). If interested, tours available of the beautiful community and homes. Families are discovering why cohousing is a great way to raise a family!

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL: Experience the World on the Amherst Common, Memorial Day Weekend at the Cultural Survival Bazaar. A FREE Admission, International Festival of Native Arts & Culture Featuring artisans, products, & performers from around the world. Shop handmade, fairly traded art, jewelry, clothing, crafts, decor, tribal rugs & more. Enjoy FREE music performances, presentations, Native American storytelling, educational displays, craft-making demos and Tibetan cuisine. Click Here for Preview. Proceeds support Native artisans, fair trade & Cultural Survival’s non-profit work worldwide. For special features, artisan profiles, performance schedule, and other dates & locations visit their website at bazaar.cs.org. Amherst Common on Boltwood Ave. 10am-6pm.

MotherWoman writes, “Join our “MOMS ARE WORTH A MILLION!” Campaign. When you support a mother, you uplift her family. When you uplift her family, you strengthen their community. When you strengthen their community, you change the world. Want to help us change the world? Help us raise $10,000 towards scholarships for women leaders from low-income communities and professionals working for nonprofits to take the MotherWoman Support Group Facilitator Training. Watch this short video in which four mothers tell you how the Training has changed their lives as they navigated the struggles of motherhood. Each woman shares why she is now giving back to other mothers by leading a MotherWoman Support Group in her community. www.MotherWoman.org.”

“Hilltown Families continues to be my go to place for family events. I really appreciated the organized list of summer camps.” – Dawn Cordeiro (Holyoke, MA)

SUMMER CAMP: Are you looking for a great summer experience for your kids? Check out our post Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA which highlights opportunities happening throughout the region. With a great variety of themes, there are many summer camp/programs your family can choose, including: farm & gardening, music, art, technology, nature, personal development, science, theater, sports, ballet, preK, college… as well as a good old fashion summer camp! Discover what’s being offered near you, and find out how you can add a camp to this growing list too!

SUMMER BOWLING: The Kids Bowl Free Summer Bowling Program: Each child receives 2 FREE games of bowling every day, all summer. To register your family, go to www.KidsBowlFree.com, click on MA (or places you may be traveling to this summer) and then select the bowling centers at which you’d like to participate. There are three centers in Western MA that are participating, including: Canal Bowling Lanes in Southampton, Diamond Junction Bowling Lanes in Palmer, and French King Bowling Center in Erving. Register your kid(s) to receive free bowling passes. You can also sign up the adults and/or your older kids for the optional Family Pass which allows up to 4 adult family members including parents, grandparents, older siblings or an adult babysitter to join in the bowling fun too.

SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. See your event, camp, workshop, business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter! Find out more about our Enhanced Publicity options and how we can help with your marketing.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including DIY posts, seasonal cooking, and community-based educational opportunities. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

CYCLING: MASS MoCA has discovered a way to provide environmentally friendly transportation for its visitors to explore North Adams and Williamstown with- bicycles! The museum now has a fleet of easy-to-ride bikes designed specifically for urban environments. There are even a couple kid-sized bikes! Rental is only $3 per hour- helmet included. There are plans in the works for a paved bike trail to Williamstown in the future. Enjoy a lovely morning touring the museum’s galleries, then head out on a bike into North Adams and explore the town! For more information, visit massmoca.org.

LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS:
May 26th-June 1st, 2012

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

Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Farmers’ Markets
Weekly eNewsletter | Events for Working Parents | Workshops for Parents

Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ♦ On-going Events

Saturday, May 26th, 2012

Farmers’ Markets

“I was so pleased to find Hilltown Families. I had been searching for a resource in the area to find out about activities for my four year old daughter, parenting ideas and support, and being a part of the local community. Hilltown Families is exactly what I had been searching for! I only wish I had found it sooner!” – Elizabeth Grow

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.

9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. – Secret Agent 23 Skidoo the King of Kid Hop, brings along the First Funkiest Family to guest DJ a crazy diverse hour of power! MC Fireworks and Bootysattva join in the rockin rollercoaster ride fulla funk, fun, stories and songs. And get a big fat 4 song sneak peek leak of the brand new Secret Agent 23 Skidoo album, Make Believers! Soul Fried Family Funk for the whole Tribe! – Listen to the most recent episodes of the Hilltown Family Variety Show anytime you want. Click here to see our current select of episodes, and be sure to subscribe to the podcast too.

7:30-9:30am – ANIMAL STUDIES: Go on a bird walk designed just for beginner birders at Jackson Pond! Sponsored by the Berkshire Natural Resource Council, the event will teach visitors how to identify feeder birds, as well as birds often found on a walk through a field or woods. Great for kids with an interest in avian friends. Meet at the town boat launch. Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)

8am-1pm – COMMUNITY SERVICE: Bring the family to help spruce up the grounds of the Amelia Park Children’s Museum. Bring rakes and gloves and join the Junior Girl Scouts for a morning of community service with your kids. 413-572-4014. 29 South Broad St. Westfield, MA (VOLUNTEER)

9am-5pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: During the spring, anadromous fish (those who live in rivers but spawn in the ocean) make their way to their Atlantic breeding grounds – watch them make their way down the Connecticut River at the Turners Falls Fishway! The fishway offers kids a chance to see directly into the river through a special viewing window, an experience that can serve as the foundation for building an understanding of the life cycle of fish and/or river ecosystems. 800-859-2960. 1 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

9am-5pm – ANIMAL ADVENTURE: The Massachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair takes place this weekend at the Cummington Fairgrounds! The event is a great opportunity to learn about all things sheep-related – there will be tons of sheep around to visit, competitions of all sorts (including sheep dog herding), workshops galore, and fiber arts to view and/or purchase. Combine a trip to the festival with studies of local farming, local ecology and geology (why is our climate good for raising sheep?), and art (try out some fiber art of your own!). Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. (<$)

9:30am-5pm – HISTORY/WOOL: Learn about sheep shearing and sheep farming at Old Sturbridge Village’s Wool Days! Visitors can see sheep getting sheared, then view demonstrations of the entire process of turning the freshly cut wool into yarn, then woolen clothing! There will also be demonstrations of sheep dog herding (and duck and goat herding, too!), and exhibits and demonstrations of other animals farmed for fibers, like angora rabbits. Kids can learn about the history of textiles, as well as 19th century life in general. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. ($)

10am-1pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: Katywil Farm Community’s Family Day is today! There will be a visit from Trevor the Games Man, fire roasted pizza (yum!), and tours of the farm and a chance to learn about the community and their current projects. 413-624-3040. 43 Stetson Brothers Road. Colrain, MA. (FREE)

10am-2pm – COMMUNITY SERVICE: Help to clean up trails around Glendale Falls! Families can help out with all kinds of trail work, and help to preserve a beautiful natural community resource. Meet at the parking area. Middlefield, MA. (FREE)

10am-6pm – CULTURAL STUDIES: Visit the Amherst Common this weekend for the Cultural Survival Bazaar! This event is a festival of native arts and culture from all around the world, and features food, performances, exhibits, and vendors from a variety of cultures and countries, and is a great opportunity for kids to learn about native customs and art of many different groups at once! The event is designed to not only celebrate the cultures represented, but to share information about their traditions and help raise money for cultural preservation. North Pleasant and Main Streets. Amherst, MA. (FREE)

10:30am-2pm – GEOLOGY: Learn about local geologic features and learn about special geologic features found in the area. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

1pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURES/HISTORY: Join a Mount Greylock state park ranger for a guided interpretive hike along the Bradley Farm Trail exploring remnants of its agricultural past. Easy ability, 1.8 mile distance, 2-hour duration. Wear comfortable shoes, dress appropriately for the weather and bring a snack and water. Event is held rain or shine. Meet at the Mount Greylock State Reservation Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA (FREE)

2pm – PUPPETS: Anna Sobel of Talking Hands Theatre will be at the Jones Library performing “The Little Red Hen” and “The Monkey and the Crocodile.” Ages 3-8. 413-549-1511. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)

2-4pm – COMMUNITY SERVICE: Volunteer to help clean up and repair the playground behind the West Stockbridge Town Hall! Families can help pull weeds or hammer nails back into the playground wood. Contribute your time to maintaining and community resource, and gain a new appreciation for its existence! 413-232-4322. 21 State Line Road. West Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)

3pm – HISTORY: May is National Preservation Month! Historic Deerfield is hosting tours focused on the architecture of the buildings that make up the museum, paired with a discussion of the buildings’ locations and important history. Learn about early New England architecture, and how the style reflected the culture of the time! 413-775-7127. 80 Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. ($)

4:30-5:30pm – PHYSICS/GAMES: Learn yo-yo tricks at A2Z this afternoon! Lead by world class pros, Yo-Yo School teaches kids basic yo-yo tricks. Learning to yo-yo is a great supplement to studies of motion and physics! 413-586-1611. 57 King Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)

7pm – THEATER: “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare will be performed at Piening Hall on the Hartsbrook School campus by the eight grade class. 193 Bay Road. Hadley, MA

7:15-10:30pm – CONTRA DANCE: Family contra dancing tonight at the Munson Library! The night starts with beginner dances and gets progressively more advanced as the night goes on. 413-259-3095. 1046 South East Street. Amherst, MA. (<$)

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Sunday, May 27th, 2012

“I’ve been using Hilltown Families to identify summer camps in the area for cousins in Spain, and love the mix of EVERYTHING you could want to know about supporting family in the Valley. Stumbled on your Michael Franti concert link on a gorgeous Amherst day, and it reminded me how lucky we are to live here!” – Elisa Martinez (Amherst, MA)

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.

8-9am – ANIMAL STUDIES: On Sundays in May, the Forbes Library is hosting community bird walks! Participants can meet at the front door of the library, and adventure through the Smith College Campus and around Paradise Pond. Kids can spot birds, and get help identifying their markings and songs. Bring binoculars! 413-587-1017. 50 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)

9am-5pm – ANIMAL ADVENTURE: The Massachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair takes place this weekend at the Cummington Fairgrounds! The event is a great opportunity to learn about all things sheep-related – there will be tons of sheep around to visit, competitions of all sorts (including sheep dog herding), workshops galore, and fiber arts to view and/or purchase. Combine a trip to the festival with studies of local farming, local ecology and geology (why is our climate good for raising sheep?), and art (try out some fiber art of your own!). Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. (<$)

9am-5pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: During the spring, anadromous fish (those who live in rivers but spawn in the ocean) make their way to their Atlantic breeding grounds – watch them make their way down the Connecticut River at the Turners Falls Fishway! The fishway offers kids a chance to see directly into the river through a special viewing window, an experience that can serve as the foundation for building an understanding of the life cycle of fish and/or river ecosystems. 800-859-2960. 1 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

9:30am-5pm – HISTORY/WOOL: Learn about sheep shearing and sheep farming at Old Sturbridge Village’s Wool Days! Visitors can see sheep getting sheared, then view demonstrations of the entire process of turning the freshly cut wool into yarn, then woolen clothing! There will also be demonstrations of sheep dog herding (and duck and goat herding, too!), and exhibits and demonstrations of other animals farmed for fibers, like angora rabbits. Kids can learn about the history of textiles, as well as 19th century life in general. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. ($)

10am-4pm – HISTORY/TRANSPORTATION: Check out tons of cool antique and classic cars at Chesterwood’s annual car show! Kids can learn about the history and evolution of automobile transportation, and will also be able to explore the museum and its grounds. Older students interested in design can use the show as an illustration of changes in design and function as a reflection of cultural changes. 413-298-3579. 4 Williamsville Road. Stockbridge, MA. ($$)

10am-6pm – CULTURAL STUDIES: Visit the Amherst Common this weekend for the Cultural Survival Bazaar! This event is a festival of native arts and culture from all around the world, and features food, performances, exhibits, and vendors from a variety of cultures and countries, and is a great opportunity for kids to learn about native customs and art of many different groups at once! The event is designed to not only celebrate the cultures represented, but to share information about their traditions and help raise money for cultural preservation. North Pleasant and Main Streets. Amherst, MA. (FREE)

1pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURES/HISTORY: Join a Mount Greylock state park ranger for a guided interpretive hike along the Bradley Farm Trail exploring remnants of its agricultural past. Easy ability, 1.8 mile distance, 2-hour duration. Wear comfortable shoes, dress appropriately for the weather and bring a snack and water. Event is held rain or shine. Meet at the Mount Greylock State Reservation Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA (FREE)

1-2pm – CONCERT: Dixieland Stomp performs at the Central Library! The group plays New Orleans-style Dixieland jazz and blues – fun for the whole family! Learn about the historic roots of the music before attending the show to make it an educational experience. 413-263-6828. 220 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

2-4pm – HISTORY: Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Sojourner Truth statue and the commemoration of her important role within local history and the Civil War! The celebration takes place at the Sojourner Truth memorial, and will include walking tours highlighting historic places, a reception, learning opportunities, and more! Park and Pine Streets. Florence, MA. (FREE)

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Monday, May 28th, 2012

MEMORIAL DAY PARADES

• 8am in Huntington
• 9am in West Springfield (Begins St. Thomas Parking lot, ending on the Town Common)
• 9:30am in North Adams (Begins at 91 American Legion Drive, travels up Main St, Eagle St. to Veterans Memorial.)
• 9:35am in Amherst (Begins at the Town Common and moves up North Pleasant Street towards the War Memorial Pool.)
• 10am in Chicopee (Begins at Dana Park)
• 10am in Chester
• 10am in Westfield (Begins at the Westfield State University commuter lot on Western Ave., marching east on Western Avenue to West Silver Street and proceed to Parker Memorial Park.)
• 10am in Florence (Beginning at Trinity Row Park, the parade will proceed down Main Street and end at the Park Street Cemetery.)
• 10am in Pittsfield (Begins at City Hall, travels down Fenn St., North St., to Wahconah St.)
• 10:30am in Holyoke (Begins at 310 Appleton St.)
• 10:30am in Easthampton (American Legion Post on Pleasant St. to Williston Library on Park St.)
• 11am in Blandford
• 12noon in Montgomery
• 12noon in Lenox (Begins at the Church on the Hill)
  
• 1pm in Russell
• 1pm in Ware (Begins at Veterans Park on Main St.)

9:30am-5pm – HISTORY/WOOL: Learn about sheep shearing and sheep farming at Old Sturbridge Village’s Wool Days! Visitors can see sheep getting sheared, then view demonstrations of the entire process of turning the freshly cut wool into yarn, then woolen clothing! There will also be demonstrations of sheep dog herding (and duck and goat herding, too!), and exhibits and demonstrations of other animals farmed for fibers, like angora rabbits. Kids can learn about the history of textiles, as well as 19th century life in general. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. ($)

10am-6pm – CULTURAL STUDIES: Visit the Amherst Common this weekend for the Cultural Survival Bazaar! This event is a festival of native arts and culture from all around the world, and features food, performances, exhibits, and vendors from a variety of cultures and countries, and is a great opportunity for kids to learn about native customs and art of many different groups at once! The event is designed to not only celebrate the cultures represented, but to share information about their traditions and help raise money for cultural preservation. North Pleasant and Main Streets. Amherst, MA. (FREE)

1pm – HABITAT STUDIES: Explore Warner Farm in Cummington and learn to identify spring flowers and about the importance of beaver swamps as habitats. The hike is roughly 1.5 miles and is pretty much flat – appropriate for most ages. RSVP requested. 413-628-4485. 11 Porter Hill Road. Cummington, MA. (FREE)

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Tuesday, May 29th, 2012

9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Northampton Parents Center hosts playgroup at the Florence Safety Village! North Farms Road. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦

10-11am – FARM ADVENTURE: Go on a field trip to Diemand Farm with the Community Network for Children! Kids can explore and learn about the farm’s chickens and egg production. Call to register. 978-544-5157. 126 Mormon Hollow Road. Millers Falls, MA. (FREE)

10:30am – SPANISH: Laurie and Tom from Mucho Gusto Spanish perform at the Sunderland Elementary School for an end of the year party.  413-475-1553. 28 Old Amherst Rd.  Sunderland, MA (FREE)

5:30-8pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Take part in “Guiding Good Choices,” a five-week series of workshops (beginning May 22nd) for parents on helping kids make good choices when offered substances, teaching healthy beliefs, and helping kids learn to recognize their strengths and encourage family involvement. Dinner, transportation (if necessary), and childcare provided. Sponsored by SPIFFY and the Collaborative for Educational Services. Takes place at JFK Middle School. Call to register. 413-584-5690 ex. 102. 100 Bridge Road. Florence, MA. (FREE)

7-9pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: 93% of the American public wants the American government to require that GMO foods be labeled in grocery stores – however, despite this, it is not required. Learn about the reality of GMO foods tonight at the Meekins Library. Hilltown Families is presenting, “Safe and Healthy Food Choices: Educating and Empowering Families in an Era of High-Tech Food Production,” a community conversation with local food advocates Ed Stockman, Tony(a) Lemos, and Jennifer Harley. The event will provide attendees with information on identifying GMO foods and making good choices for their families. 413-268-7473. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE)

TUESDAY PLAYGROUPS

• 9am-1pm – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse. Use rear entrance. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Northampton Parents Center hosts playgroup at the Florence Safety Village! North Farms Road. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11am: PLAYGROUP – Drop-in playgroups for preK kids at the South Hadley Family Center, located in the All Saints’ Episcopal Church. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge St. South Hadley, MA (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Interactive Literacy and playtime at the Sunderland Elementary School for preK kids. All welcomed. 413-475-1553. 28 Old Amherst Rd. Sunderland, MA (FREE) ♦
• 10-11am – PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires hosts a pre-school play-and-learn group in the after school room at the Haskins Center for kids ages 2.5-5! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am-12Noon – PLAYGROUP: Easthampton Family Center, located at Flywheel Arts in the Old Town Hall. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA (FREE)♦
• 5:30-6:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires hosts a gym group at Florida Elementary School! There will be free play, circle time, and a snack. 413-664-4821. 56 North Country Road. Florida, MA. (FREE) ♦

TUESDAY STORYTIME

• 9:30 and 11am – STORYTIME: Westfield Athenaeum hosts Little Ones Library Time. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: Lilly Library hosts Kulp Memorial Storytime- it’s a lap sitting hour for kids newborn-18 months old. 413-587-1500. 19 Meadow Street. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: Berkshire Athenaeum. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA (FREE) ♦
• 10-11am – STORYTIME: The Greenfield Public Library hosts Pre-School Story Hour. There will be stories, songs, and fingerplay for little ones and they caregivers. 413-587-1011. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Toddler storytime at the North Adams Public Library. 413-662-3133. 74 Church Street. North Adams, MA (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: For pre-schoolers and toddlers at the Lanesborough Public Library. 413-442-0222. 83 North Main Street. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Pre-school storytime at the Milne Library! 413-458-5369. 1095 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Kids ages 3-5 are invited to storytime at the Central Library! There will be stories, songs, and a craft. 413-263-6828. 220 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Toddler storytime takes place at the North Adams Library this morning! 413-662-3133. 74 Church Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – SINGING: Wendy will lead “Sing with Your Baby” at the Jones Library (large meeting room). 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA (FREE) ♦
• 11am – TODDLER TIME: Lilly Library hosts Toddler Time in the Kids’ Room. Little ones can hear stories, do crafts, sing, and play games. 413-587-1500. 19 Meadow Street. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:30-4:45pm – LIBRARY CLUB: The Millers Falls Library offers a weekly drop-in club for kids of all ages with stories, art and crafts. 413-659-3801. 23 Bridge Street. Millers Falls, MA (FREE)♦

TUESDAY ONGOING

• 9:15-10:30am – YOGA: Drop off the kids at school then come enjoy a yoga class at the library. Yoga teacher Kellie Finn teaches yoga this morning at the Meekins Library. This is a fun class for those at any level. Call beforehand to check on available space. 413-268-7473. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:15 – GRANDPARENTS: Weekly group at the Amherst Family Center for grandparents through June- connect with other grandparents and talk about issues of parenting grandchildren or helping children parent. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:45-11:15am – BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT: Amherst Family Center hosts a breastfeeding group for families. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9am-3pm – BOWLING: Special rates for Homeschool Bowling today! 413-525-7198. 168 Shaker Road. East Longmeadow, MA. (<$)
• 10am – BREASTFEEDINGSUPPORT: Childcare of the Berkshires hosts a breastfeeding group for mothers at the Haskins Center! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – RHYME TIME: The Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School hosts Rhyme Time this morning at Matrushka Toys! Designed for kids who are infants, crawlers, or toddlers, the program involves finger play, fun rhymes, circle games, and puppets and is lead by early childhood teachers. 413-528-4015. 309 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 1-2:30pm – NEW MOTHERS CIRCLE: Cradle hosts a gathering of moms and babies in a comfortable and supportive environment. Share your experiences with other moms and bond over the transformations that come with motherhood. 413-341-5282. Thornes Marketplace, 3rd Floor. Main Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 1-5pm – ART: The Art Garden has drop-in art making every afternoon! Kids can experiment with new mediums and materials- it’s an art adventure! 413-625-2782. 14 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (<$) [CLOSED ON MAY 1 & 2]
  
• 1:30-6:30pm – FARMERS’ MARKET: The Tuesday Market is today! It takes place behind Thornes Marketplace, and there are tons of locally grown and produced foods and goods to be had. Live music, fun for kids, and more! Armory Street. Northampton, MA. (MARKET) ♦
• 2pm – FILM: Amherst Cinema has baby-friendly screenings today! Call to confirm as screen times change. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (<$) ♦
• 2:15-4pm – ANIME: The Goodwin Library hosts an afternoon of anime! Kids who are enthusiastic about the Japanese cartoon-style movies and shows can explore all things anime amongst a group of other anime enthusiasts. 413-584-7451. 50 Middle Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3pm – CRAFTS: Craft Club at the Hatfield Library! There’s a new activity every week. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3-4:30 – CRAFTS: Drop-in crafts at the Liberty Branch Library. 413-263-6849. 773 Liberty Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:30-4:30pm – STORYTIME: Read and share stories with Addie, the Lee Library’s visiting therapy dog! She’s a German Shepherd, and her favorite people are kids – especially ones who read to her. 413-243-0385. 100 Main Street. Lee, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 4:30-5:30pm – PHYSICS: Learn yo-yo tricks at A2Z this afternoon! Lead by world class pros, Yo-Yo School teaches kids basic yo-yo tricks. Learning to yo-yo is a great supplement to studies of motion and physics! 413-586-1611. 57 King Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6pm – GAMES: The 4th Tuesday of every month is Scrabble night at the Monson Library! All ages are welcome. Scrabble can help kids practice spelling an work on their vocabulary. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6:30pm – BINGO: The Hinsdale Lions Club hosts Bingo every Tuesday evening. Though it’s generally an adult game, your kids can come too for a fun intergenerational evening. If they’re learning to count, they can get some great practice matching numbers on your card. Doors open at 5, and dinner is available inexpensively beforehand. 413-655-2973. Maple Street (Route 143). Hinsdale, MA. (<$) ♦
• 7-11pm – CHESS: The Pittsfield Chess Club meets every Tuesday night! Kids of all chess abilities can join for an intergenerational opportunity to learn and practice the game. Meets in the cafeteria at Hillcrest Hospital. 413-448-6165. West Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)♦

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Wednesday, May 30th, 2012

9am-5pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: During the spring, anadromous fish (those who live in rivers but spawn in the ocean) make their way to their Atlantic breeding grounds – watch them make their way down the Connecticut River at the Turners Falls Fishway! The fishway offers kids a chance to see directly into the river through a special viewing window, an experience that can serve as the foundation for building an understanding of the life cycle of fish and/or river ecosystems. 800-859-2960. 1 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

6pm – LIBRARY ADVENTURES: The Shelburne Falls Arms Library will host an evening with Ed the Wizard. Kicking of the summer reading program, Ed the Wizard will combine suspense, comedy and audience participation. 413-625-0306. Shelburne Falls, MA (FREE)

WEDNESDAY PLAYGROUPS

• 9am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center- downstairs in the Unitarian Meeting house. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30-11am: PLAYGROUP – Drop-in playgroups for preK kids at the South Hadley Family Center, located in the All Saints’ Episcopal Church. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge St. South Hadley, MA (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Cummington Family Center playgroup in the rear of the Cummington Community House. 33 Main St. Cummington, MA (FREE)♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the Westhampton Library, every second and fourth Wednesday. 413-527-5386. 3 South Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Community Network for Children holds playgroup for kids ages 0-5 at Erving Elementary School! There will be activities for gross motor skills, stories, and art activities. 978-544-5157. 28 Northfield Road. Erving, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Wendell Free Library hosts the Community Network for Children’s playgroup for kids ages 0-5. There will be activities for gross motor skills, stories, and art activities. 978-544-5157. 7 Wendell Depot Road. Wendell, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The second Wednesday of every month at the Edwards Library! 413-527-9480. 30 East Street. Southampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am-12Noon: PLAYGROUP – Baby Hour at the South Hadley Family Center, located in the All Saints’ Episcopal Church. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge St. South Hadley, MA (FREE) ♦

WEDNESDAY STORYTIMES

• 9:30 and 11:30 – STORYTIME: Fantastic Fours and Fives at the Westfield Athenaeum! 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: Tales and Tunes at the Northfield Library! 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: At the Westhampton Library! 413-527-4386. 3 South Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: Sunshine Story Time for preK kids at the Greenfield Public Library. Reading, singing and play intertwine as Kay Lyons leds a fun half hour of story time followed by play time. Lover Level in the LeVanway Meeting Room. 413-772-1544 x5. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA (FREE)
• 10am – STORYTIME: The Mason Square Library hosts pre-school storytime! 413-263-6853. 765 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:15am – STORYTIME: Stories, activities, crafts and music at Carnegie Library. 413-863-3214. 201 Avenue “A” Turners Falls, MA (FREE) ♦
• 10:15am: STORYTIME: The Chesterfield Public Library has a children’s story hour. 413-296-4735 Route 143. Chesterfield(FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Pre-school storytime at the North Adams Public Library. 413-662-3133. 74 Church Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30 – STORYTIME: The Meekins Library hosts pre-school storytime this morning. 413-268-7473. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Pre-school storytime at the Milne Library! 413-458-5369. 1095 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Pre-school storytime is this morning at the North Adams Library! 413-662-3133. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: Visit the Leverett Public Library for the Community Network for Children’s story hour! Kids ages 0-5 can enjoy stories, hands-on science activities, and art projects! 413-548-9220. 75 Montague Road. Leverett, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30 – STORYTIME: Bring your preK kids to the Monson Library for stories, songs, and fun! 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE)
• 2pm – STORYTIME: At the Arms Library! Toddlers and pre-school aged children can visit the library with their caregivers for stories, socializing, and a snack! 413-625-6194. Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 4-5pm – STORYTIME: Visit the North Amherst Library for storytime and crafts! 413-259-3099. 8 Montague Road. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
• 4-5pm – STORYTIME: At the Cushman Library! Stories, crafts, snack. 413-413-648-5402. 28 Church Street. Bernardston, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6:30pm – STORYTIME: Hop into your pajamas and visit the East Longmeadow Library for Pajama Night Storytime before bed. For kids ages 3-6. 413-525-5432. 60 Center Square #2. East Longmeadow, MA. (FREE) ♦

WEDNESDAY ONGOING

• 9:30am-12noon – FARM ADVENTURE: Red Gate Farm hosts Homeschool Halfdays on most Wednesdays. The event includes farm exploration both in and out of doors. 413-625-9503. 4 Norman Road. Buckland, MA. (<$) ♦
• 9:45-11:15 – NEW MOTHERS: New and expecting mothers group with MotherWoman at the Amherst Family Center. Share experiences and get help with adjusting to motherhood. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Hike at Mt. Greylock! Every Wednesday, there’s a “Nice and Easy” family-friendly hike – it’s about two hours long and will cover 1-2 miles of trail. Call to find out meeting place. 413-499-4262. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 12noon – FILM: Pleasant Street Theater has a baby-friendly screening today! Call to confirm, as screening times change. 413-584-5848. 27 Pleasant Street. Northampton, MA. (<$) ♦
• 12noon-3pm – BOWLING: Special rates for Homeschool Bowling today! 413-525-7198. 168 Shaker Road. East Longmeadow, MA. (<$) ♦
• 1-5pm – ART: The Art Garden has drop-in art making every afternoon! Kids can experiment with new mediums and materials- it’s an art adventure! 413-625-2782. 14 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (<$) [CLOSED ON MAY 1 & 2]
• 1-5pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Visit the Crane Museum of Papermaking to learn about the history of papermaking at Crane since the early 1800’s. Located on the banks of the Housatonic River, the building itself is a museum! This is a great opportunity to learn about local history. If you can’t make it today, the museum is open all weekdays during the same hours. 413-684-2600. 30 South Street. Dalton, MA. (FREE)
• 2-6pm – FARMERS’ MARKET: Shop for local food and goods at the Florence Famers’ Market! Takes place on the lawn at the Florence Civic Center. North Maple Street. Florence, MA. (MARKET) ♦
• 2:30pm – CHESS: Play chess at the Pelham Library! Practice your own skills or teach a friend. 413-253-0657. 2 South Valley Road. Pelham, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3-4:30pm – CRAFTS: Drop-in crafts at the East Springfield Branch Library. 413-263-6840. 21 Osborne Terrace. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:15-4:30pm – LEGOS: Dickinson Memorial Library offers an afterschool LEGO program on the first Wed. of the month for school-age kids. 413-498-2455. 115 Main St. Northfield, MA (FREE)
• 3:30-5pm – CRAFTS: Drop-in crafts at the Indian Orchard Branch Library. 413-263-6846. 44 Oak Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 4:45-6pm – KNITTING: Is your yarn all knotted? Do your needles refuse to behave? Get some help (or, if you’re a skilled knitter, offer support) at Forbes Library’s Knitting Clinic. Knitters of all ages and abilities are welcome- no pattern problem is too big or small. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6pm – SUPPORT GROUP: Treehouse hosts a New Moms Group where new mothers can connect with other moms and babies can spend time with other babies. Intended for moms with babies 6mos and under. 413-344-4435. 305 North Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6-9pm – VOLUNTEER: On the first Wednesday of every month, there is a community sew for BagShare! Donate your time to help promote the use of reusable bags and to help sustain a community resource. No experience necessary! Takes place at Eastworks. 413-584-2633. Pleasant Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

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Thursday, May 31st, 2012

9am-5pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: During the spring, anadromous fish (those who live in rivers but spawn in the ocean) make their way to their Atlantic breeding grounds – watch them make their way down the Connecticut River at the Turners Falls Fishway! The fishway offers kids a chance to see directly into the river through a special viewing window, an experience that can serve as the foundation for building an understanding of the life cycle of fish and/or river ecosystems. 800-859-2960. 1 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Northampton Parents Center at the Little Playground at Look Park. 300 North Main Srteet. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦

3-4:30pm – CRAFTS: Kids ages 11-14 can visit the Hatfield Library this afternoon to make their very own hippy-dippy tie-dyed shirts! Kids can select one item, provided by the library, to dye and bring up to three of their own. Registration required. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)

THURSDAY PLAYGROUPS

• 9am-1pm – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse. Use rear entrance. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Northampton Parents Center at the Little Playground at Look Park. 300 North Main Srteet. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am-12Noon – PLAYGROUP: Baby playgroup for pre-walking children with the Cummington Family Center. Located in the rear of the Cummington Community House. 3 Main Street. Cummington, MA (FREE)
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Every third Thursday for adoptive families with kids 4 and under! RSVP required. 413-320-4680. 28 North Maple Street. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Goshen Library hosts facilitated playgroup every 1st and 3rd Thursday. 413-230-8552. 42 Main Street. Goshen, MA. (FREE) ♦

THURSDAY STORYTIME

• 9:30 and 11am – STORYTIME: Terrific Twos and Threes at the Westfield Athenaeum! 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:45am – STORYTIME: The Central Library hosts toddler storytime this morning! 413-263-6828. 220 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: Visit the Sixteen Acres Library for pre-school storytime! 413-263-6858. 1187 Parker Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: The Greenfield Public Library hosts Pre-School Story Hour! There will be stories, songs, and fingerplay for little ones and they caregivers. 413-587-1011. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The fourth Thursday of every month at the Edwards Library! 413-527-9480. 30 East Street. Southampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: Come and enjoy stories and songs with Julie Stepanek at the New Salem Library on Thurs. through January 26. 978-544-5157. 21 South Main St. New Salem., MA (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Williston Memorial Library hosts storytime! With each month comes a new seasonal theme. 413-529-1605. 9 Park Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Meekins Library with Rochelle. 413-268-7473. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Lilly Library with Lisa. 413-587-1500. 19 Meadow Street. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Take kids to storytime this morning at the Emily Williston Memorial Library! 413-529-1605. 9 Park Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Jones Library in the Children’s Room. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA (FREE)♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Pre-school storytime is today at the Lilly Library! 413-587-1500. 19 Meadow Street. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: Come and enjoy stories and songs with facilitator, Julie Stepanek, at the New Salem Library on Thurs. through Dec. 15th. 978-544-5157. 21 South Main St. New Salem., MA (FREE)
• 11am-12noon – STORYTIME: Visit the Hatfield Library for story hour! 39 Main Street. 413-247-9097. Hatfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:30-4:30pm – STORYTIME: Special afternoon storytime at the Lee Library! Walk-in is OK but registration is encouraged. 413-243-0385. 100 Main Street. Lee, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:30pm – STORYTIME: Martha Speaks storytime takes place today at the Brightwood Branch Library- kids can learn about the power of words through stories about dogs, crafts, and more! 413-263-6805. 359 Plainfield Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦

THURSDAY ONGOING

• 9:30-11:15 – GRANDPARENTS: Weekly group at the Amherst Family Center for grandparents through June- connect with other grandparents and talk about issues of parenting grandchildren or helping children parent. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – MUSIC: Montague Center Library hosts a music and movement class for kids! 413-367-2852. 17 Center Street. Montague, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11am – SUPPORT GROUP: New mothers support group meets at the Greenwood Center today! 413-794-5515. 231 Maple Road. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 1-3pm – FATHERS’ GROUP: Amherst Family Center hosts a fathers’ group! 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 1-5pm – ART: The Art Garden has drop-in art making every afternoon! Kids can experiment with new mediums and materials- it’s an art adventure! 413-625-2782. 14 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (<$)
• 2:30-4pm – LIBRARY CLUB: Hatfield Library hosts library club! Each week, kids will explore a new topic and do hands-on activities relating to it. Registration required. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:30-5pm – CRAFTS: Drop-in crafts at the Brightwood Branch Library. 413-263-6805. 359 Plainfield Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 4:30-5:30pm – PHYSICS: Learn yo-yo tricks at A2Z this afternoon! Lead by world class pros, Yo-Yo School teaches kids basic yo-yo tricks. Learning to yo-yo is a great supplement to studies of motion and physics! 413-586-1611. 57 King Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 5-7pm – KNITTING: Dottie’s Coffee Lounge host a beginner’s knitting group every Thursday. All ages and experiences welcomed. 444 North Street. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)
• 5:30-7pm – CHESS: The Monson Library’s chess club meets on the 4th Thursday of every month. Kids in middle school and older can participate! 413-287-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE) ♦

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Friday, June 1st, 2012

9am-5pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: During the spring, anadromous fish (those who live in rivers but spawn in the ocean) make their way to their Atlantic breeding grounds – watch them make their way down the Connecticut River at the Turners Falls Fishway! The fishway offers kids a chance to see directly into the river through a special viewing window, an experience that can serve as the foundation for building an understanding of the life cycle of fish and/or river ecosystems. 800-859-2960. 1 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

9:30am – BREASTFEEDING – La Leche League of Northampton meets first Friday of every month. Topics cover breastfeeding benefits, nutrition and weaning, home care of your infant, and support. 413-570-0684 150 Main St. 3rd Floor. Northampton, MA (FREE)

4-7pm – PLAYGROUP/PICNIC: The school year is coming to an end – celebrate with the Easthampton Family Center! The annual year-end picnic will take place at Nonotuck Park – please bring an item to share. 413-527-5496. 1 Daley Field Road. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)

5-9pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: The annual Strolling of the Heifers takes place this weekend! Tonight’s activities include a gallery walk and a street fair featuring food, live entertainment, and more! Artwork featured in the gallery walk focuses on agriculturally themed work by local artists. Brattleboro, VT. (FREE)

6:30-8pm – OUTDOOR CONCERT: Easthampton’s Arts in the Park summer concert series features great live music at Millside Park every Friday throughout the summer! Check the schedule for a list of performers. 2 Ferry Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

7-9pm – DANCE: Visit Green River Yoga to take part in the Sacred Circle Dance, an event that teaches community members traditional folk dances from many different traditions and blends them together in a group dance. All dances will be taught at the beginning, all levels welcome. 516-766-0008. 158 Main Street suite 6. Greenfield, MA. ($)

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

5:30-7pm – Taste delicious wines, cheeses, and types of chocolate at the Gaylord Library! The event is a fundraiser for the library’s programs. There will also be an opportunity to buy some of the library’s own wine label! 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, MA. ($$)

FRIDAY PLAYGROUPS

• 9-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: Visit Shutesbury Elementary School for the Community Network for Children’s playgroup! Kids ages 0-5 can take part in stories, motor skills play, and art activities! 413-259-1212. 23 West Pelham Road. Shutesbury, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center- downstairs in the Unitarian Meeting house. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30-11am – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup at Whole Children! 413-587-1471. 41 Russell Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Gross motor activities at the Sunderland Elementary School gym for preK kids. All welcomed. 413-475-1553. 28 Old Amherst Rd. Sunderland, MA (FREE) ♦
• 10am – PLAYGROUP: At Lanesborough Elementary School! 413-443-0027. Summer Street. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – PLAYGROUP: Infants, toddlers, and their caregivers are invited to Crawl Talk at the East Longmeadow Library. 413-525-5432. 60 Center Square #2. East Longmeadow, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Greenfield YMCA hosts an indoor obstacle course playgroup for kids 7 and under! Kids can play and move throughout a series of play-obstacles (tunnels, foam blocks, etc.). 413-475-1543. 451 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
• 10:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Bring the kids for a morning playgroup at the Chesterfield Senior Center. Held on the second and fourth Friday of the month. Route 143. Chesterfield, MA (FREE)
• 10am-12Noon – PLAYGROUP: Easthampton Family Center, located at Flywheel Arts in the Old Town Hall. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA (FREE)♦
• 10-11am – PLAYGROUP: Visit Lanesborough Elementary School for gym group! 413-443-0027. Summer Street. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
• FRIDAY – 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Greenfield YMCA hosts an indoor obstacle course playgroup for kids 7 and under! Kids can play and move throughout a series of play-obstacles (tunnels, foam blocks, etc.). Takes place on the first and third Fridays of each month. 413-475-1543. 451 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am- BABY GROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires hosts at the Haskins Center. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦

FRIDAY STORYTIMES

• 9:30am – SPANISH STORYTIME: Forbes Library hosts Spanish storytime- great for Spanish speaking families or kids learning the language. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORY/CRAFT: Stories, songs and crafts for preK kids and their guardians. 413-298-5501. 46 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA (FREE) ♦
• 10-10:45am – SIGN LANGUAGE STORYTIME: The Westfield Athenaeum hosts sign language storytime this morning. Kids can sign, sign, and read along to stories- there will be lots of movement, music, and of course, American Sign Language. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:15am – STORYTIME: Kids 2-3.5 years old can go to storytime at the East Forest Park Branch Library! 413-263-6836. 122 Island Pond Road. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Brightwood Branch Library hosts storytime for kids ages 2-3.5. 413-23-6805. 359 Plainfield Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30 – STORYTIME: Baby storytime. Bring littlest ones to the Monson Library for stories, songs, and fun! 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE)
• 10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: Great Falls Discover Center hosts a story hour for kids 3-6yo. Held the 4th Friday of every month. 413-863-3221 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA (FREE)
• 11am – STORY/CRAFT: Preschoolers can take part in story/craft time this morning at the Sunderland Public Library. 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am – STORYTIME: PreK story hour with snack and crafts at the Griswold Memorial Library. 413-624-3619. 12 Main Road. Colrain, MA (FREE) ♦
• 11am – STORYTIME: Lap-sit story hour for kids 3yo and younger at the Greenfield Public Library for Mother Goose on the Loose. Kay Lyons leads a half hour of structured story time, followed by 15 mins of visiting time. Kids will enjoy movement games, rhythm and song as Kay reads and leads the group with puppets and hand rhymes. Lower Level in the LeVanway Meeting Room. 413-772-1544 x5. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA (FREE) ♦

FRIDAY ONGOING

• 10-10:30am – ART: Visit the Eric Carle Museum for Materials Play in the Morning, a program where kids can experiment with art making in new and nontraditional mediums that are not only great for creativity but are fun to play with! 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. (<$) ♦
• 10am – MOVIE: Pre-school movies at the Berkshire Ahtenaeum! Usually 20-30 minutes. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:15am – ESL: Amherst Family Center hosts an ESL group- families can connect withother ESL families and work on language acquisition and parenting skills together. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am-5pm – CRAFTS: Drop-in crafts at the Pine Point Branch Library. 413-263-6855. 204 Boston Road. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The KidSpace at Mass MoCA is open today- explore an exhibit designed just for young people and make some art of your own! 413-664-4481. 1040 Mass MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 1-5pm – ART: The Art Garden has drop-in art making every afternoon! Kids can experiment with new mediums and materials- it’s an art adventure! 413-625-2782. 14 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (<$)
• 3:15-4:45pm – KNITTING: Drop-In Stitches knitting group at the Storrs Library. Grades 4+, all abilities welcome. 413-565-4181. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 4-4:45pm – FARM ADVENTURE: Red Gate Farm hosts Young Farmers- a chance help out with afternoon chores including egg collection! 413-625-9503. 4 Norman Road. Buckland, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 5-8pm – ART WALK: First Fridays Artswalk happens in the Upstreet Cultural District. First Friday of the month. 413-281-6665. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)
• 6-7pm – BABY SIGN LANGUAGE: Sign Loud and Clear presents an info session on the benefits of baby sign language! Babies are sometimes able to begin communicating via sign language before they are able to communicate verbally- learn how to start signing with your baby! Takes place at Baystate Medical Center. Springfield Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
• 6:30-8pm – OUTDOOR CONCERT: Easthampton’s Arts in the Park summer concert series features great live music at Millside Park every Friday throughout the summer! Check the schedule for a list of performers. 2 Ferry Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6:30-9pm – COFFEEHOUSE: Hilltown Coffeehouse happens every Friday night at the Village Church. Bring the family to enjoy and participate in music and games. An excellent intergenerational opportunity for families in the Hilltowns to meet their neighbors in a casual and creative environment. BYOB. 413-563-1981. Cummington, MA (FREE)
• 6:30-8:30pm – SUPPORT GROUP: GROW and MotherWoman host a postpartum support group for mothers in need of a supportive space to share, receive help, and grow. The group takes place at the Community Room. 413-822-6043. 48 Elizabeth Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 7-9pm – YO-YOS: A2Z’s Dogbite Yo-Yo club meets on the second Friday of each month for a night of yo-yo skill sharing and learning. Meets at the College Church. 48 Pomeroy Terrace. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 7-10pm – TWEEN: Friday nights at the Greenwood Center are just for tweens! Kids in grades 6-8 can enjoy a supervised night of dancing, games, and DJ music! 413-565-4163. 231 Maple Road. Longmeadow, MA. (<$) ♦
• 7:30pm – ASTRONOMY: Milham Planetarium at Williams College hosts an observatory show tonight! The planetarium’s Zeiss Skymaster can show phases of the moon, retrograde motions of planets, temperatures of planets and stars, the location of nearby galaxies, and more! The show is entertaining and also a great learning opportunity. 413-597-2188. 829 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 8:30pm-12:30am – COMMUNITY DANCE: Dance Spree is a community family-friendly (and barefoot!) dance event – kids of all ages are welcome to attend with guardians. Great way to get moving! 25 Main Street, 4th Floor (above Fitzwilly’s). Northampton, MA. (<$) ♦

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