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 community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families 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/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: HILLTOWN FAMILIES EVENT

Space is limited and we’re filling up fast! All participants must pre-register for this free event. Don’t miss your chance!

On Saturday, May 4th from 10am-1pm: FAMILY COMMUNITY SERVICE EVENT: Join Hilltown Families for a Saturday morning of volunteering together with your family during our spring Family Community Service Event to be held at Leeds Elementary School. We will be offering seven volunteer stations for families to participate in hands-on service projects for ALL AGES that support animal welfare organizations, conservation efforts and food security. Find out more and preregister here: Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event: May 4th! Northampton, MA (FREE)

BULLETIN BOARD

Apr 4-18

Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival returns April 4-18 to Lander  Grinspoon Academy in Northampton,  MA. 20 Films / 8 Towns: International films  that entertain, educate & inspire. Especially  for families is last year’s favorite, DAVID on April 7. In this film a lonely Brooklyn  Muslim boy pretends to be Jewish with his new found friends in this tender drama that bridges culture & religion. Ages 8+ (Families with younger sibs welcome  to school library & playground). Buy a bag lunch/film ticket combo at  www.pvjff.org. Film-only tickets at the door. Lunch at 12noon; film at 1pm. Kidcentered discussion & activities.  Visit web site for all films: coming-of-age,  romantic comedy, ‘60s cult classic, documentaries of masters of the graphic  novel.

Apr 6 & 7

Quilt Show for the Family -Introduce your family and children to the exciting art and craft of quilting at the Hands All Around Biennial Quilt Show, April 6 and 7, at the UMass Amherst Campus Center. In recent years, many artists have expanded the rich American tradition of quilting to create exquisite works of arts. This show, featuring 300+ quilts, showcases the best contemporary quilting has to offer – traditional blocks and patterns next to pictorial and abstract quilts. Demos, kids activities, a special World War II quilt exhibit, fabric vendors, a mini-quilt exhibit and much more. $8 for adults, kids 5 and under for FREE, kids ages 6-12 – $2, students and military or veterans $4. 10am-4pm both days. handsacrossthevalley.org/quilt-show

Apr 6 & 7

Pioneer Valley Ballet presents an original ballet, The Little Mermaid. April 6 & 7 at The Academy of Music in Northampton. Set to Camille Saint Saens’ musical score and based on the fairy tale by the Danish author Hans Christian Andersen about a young mermaid willing to give up her life in the sea for a human soul and the love of a human prince. An opulent production with all-new choreography: flirty Nereids delicately kicking their way through the crashing Waves, tiny swimming Sea Turtles, a towering Sea Witch accompanied by Sea Monsters and menacing Angler Fish, and, of course, The Little Mermaid, played by returning dancer Meghan Mangsen. Tickets available online or in person. More information at www.pioneervalleyballet.org.

Apr 9

Open House: The Deerfield Academy Children’s School is hosting an Open House on Tuesday, April 9th from 5:45-7pm. Come see the school, meet the teachers and learn about The Children’s School nurturing philosophy. Fall slots available for toddlers and preschoolers. Call Elizabeth Bertini-Franseen at 413-774-6626 for more information. 488 Greenfield Rd., Deerfield, MA (RT 5&10 across from Williams Sugar House).

Apr 10

Cultivating Compassion–A Powerful Agent of Change. Got conflict in your life? Whether it’s tension with co-workers, your children, your spouse or anyone who touches your life, cultivating compassion eases the suffering.  Attend this FREE workshop to find out how!  In this interactive program, various research, exercises and discussion topics will be presented to highlight how compassion transforms relationships and reduces conflict. All are welcome to attend on April 10th, 2013 from 6-8pm at Forbes Library in Northampton, MA. Please register to reserve a seat @ Coaching-with-Compassion.com. This event is created and facilitated by Shana Hiranandani, M.A., BCC Board Certified Life and Career Transition Coach

Apr 14 & 15

The Academy of Music Theatre will present their fifth annual Puppet Festival, April 14th and 15th. There will be two performances to delight young children and their families. Tanglewood Marionettes will stage the first show, The Dragon King, on April 14th at 2 p.m. The acclaimed, award-winning National Marionette Theatre will perform their production of Pinocchio, on April 15th at 10 a.m. All shows are approximately fifty minutes and puppeteers will answer questions from the audience following the performance. All tickets are $5 (box office fees apply) – Academy Box Office,Tuesday-Friday from 3pm-6pm or by phoning 413-584-9032 x105 or online at www.academyofmusictheatre.com. For ages 4 and up.

Apr 16

On Tuesday April 16, CityStage in downtown Springfield, Massachusetts will turn into a live petting zoo like no other with Erth’s Dinosaur Petting Zoo! With the Springfield Museums onsite with an interactive Dinosaur exhibit between the 10am and 2pm performances, and near-by restaurants, it’s the perfect Spring Break Day Trip for Hilltown Families! Erth’s awesome prehistoric creatures, from cute baby dinos to teeth-gnashing giants, will take to the stage for three performances only at 10am, 2pm and 6pm! Dinosaur Petting Zoo allows heaps of interaction for kids and adults while they travel with Erth’s multi-faceted performers on a journey through prehistoric ages. Tickets are $20 and are available by phone at (413) 788-7033 or online HERE.

SUMMER CAMP: Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA?  Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs are featured! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event,  workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

Hilltown Families is accepting applications for our Fellowship Program. The Fellowship will afford the opportunity to identify the place-based educational value of local events and the importance of community engagement while gaining a better understanding of how community based resources and local organizations can work together to create a network that promotes learning and sustainability of local resources. The program is a two year position open to students or graduates living in Western Massachusetts with an ability to attend weekly meetings in Northampton, MA. Hours per week 10-15. Stipend/Wage: $100/week.

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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
April 6th-12th, 2013

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

Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter

Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ♦ On-going Events

Saturday, April 6th, 2013

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. – Steve Roslonek of SteveSongs is our Guest DJ with a show on the theme of “Sunshine” for this start of Spring! – Encore of Saturday’s broadcast airs Sunday morning from 7-8am and podcast is posted here on Hilltown Families immediately following  Sunday’s broadcast. Listen to the Hilltown Family Variety Show podcasts anytime. Click here to choose from nearly 6 years of archived shows!

9am-1pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Do you sometimes wish there were a better way to manage discipline in your family?  Are you sick of dishing out ultimatums?  Learn some strategies for implementing a discipline system that is free of both rewards and punishments today at Grow!  Parenting educator Aletha Solter will facilitate the workshop, which is open to parents and anyone else who works with children.  Participants will learn about the pitfalls of a system of rewards and punishments, and will gain insight into the benefits of alternative practices.  Babies under 6 months old can come along with parents.  413-341-5282.  Main Street (Thornes Marketplace, 3rd floor).  Northampton, MA.  ($$$)

10am – MARIONETTES: The Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School’s marionette troupe presents The Frog Prince at the school’s early childhood building.  Performed by educators from the program, the show features beautifully crafted and expertly manipulated puppets.  Playtime will follow the show, and while kiddos explore, parents can learn more about GBRSS’ programs.  413-528-4015.  35 West Plain Road.  Great Barrington, MA.  (FREE)

10am-12:30pm – LITERACY: Deerfield Elementary School will be hosting a Children’s Festival and Literacy Fair in their cafetorium for families with children ages 0-8yo.  Events include early literacy activities and family concert & storytelling with Roger Tincknell. 413-665-8928. 21 Pleasant St. Deerfield, MA (FREE) 

10am-2pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURE: The Springfield Museums’ Festival of Flowers is being presented this week at the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts!  The show pairs fine art and flowers, and celebrates the beautiful blooms of springtime.  Families can visit the museum to view and learn about the art, and there will be a special paper flower art activity today, too!  800-625-7738.  21 Edwards Street.  Springfield, MA.  (FREE with museum admission)

10am – LITERACY:  Family literacy program, Wee Read, takes place at TREEHOUSE.  Parents can help their children with literacy development by engaging in literacy practices. Call by 4pm on Friday, 4/5, to RSVP. 413-344-4435. 305 North Street. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)

11am – KIDS’ CONCERT: Beethoven’s Wig comes to the Eric Carle Museum this morning!  The show is part of the Northampton Community Music Center’s Kids Concert Series, which helps to raise money to fund the center’s scholarship programs.  The NCMC Youth Orchestra will play alongside the Grammy-nominated children’s music group, pairing fun and educational music with the talent of local youth musicians!  413-658-1100.  125 West Bay Road.  Amherst, MA.  ($)

11am-12noon – KIDS’ CONCERT: Terry a la Berry presents a show just for kids at the Spectrum Playhouse!  Enjoy fun kids’ music as part of the theater’s Family First Saturday series.  20 Franklin Street.  Lee, MA.

12noon-3pm – PROM PREP: Mother Mary’s Thrift Store is hosting a special event for teens preparing for prom season: “Prom for Pennies!“  The shop sells clothes of all kinds, but the focus for the event is the dress selection – families can buy gently used dresses on the cheap!  Recycled dresses are a practical way to go for prom – much cheaper than new dresses, and buying consignment is a great way to find unique, interesting clothes.  There will also be a raffle for prom-related prizes and information on prom-related services available locally.  413-536-5200.  364 High Street.  Holyoke, MA.  (SALE)

1 and 4:30pm- BALLET: Pioneer Valley Ballet presents The Little Mermaid at The Academy of Music!  The production was a smash hit during the ballet’s 2008 performance season, and it’s back again for a second round of beautifully choreographed dance, paired with extraordinary costumes and scenery.  413-527-6363.  274 Main Street.  Northampton, MA.  ($$)

1-3pm – NATURE STUDIES: Spring means new life – animals, insects, and plants all fill the outdoors once the snow melts and the air warms.  One of the first sure signs of spring are vernal pools, which can be found all over western Massachusetts.  Learn about vernal pools today at Fitzgerald Lake!  Sponsored by the Kestrel Trust, this exploration will be lead by Brandon Abbott, a conservation biologist and teacher.  Young scientists will learn about the many different species who depend on vernal pools to survive, as well as the unique type of habitat that the pools provide.  Registration required.  413-549-1097.  Northampton, MA.  (FREE)

1-4pm – HEALTH AND SAFETY: In celebration of the 15th anniversary of Gateway Regional’s School-Based Health Center, families are invited to a health, wellness, and safety fair this afternoon in the school’s cafeteria.  There will be representatives from numerous community organizations and resources on hand to share information about their services, as well information on keeping kids and families healthy and safe!  Families can get up close and personal with emergency response vehicles, including an ambulance and a fire truck.  Along with offering information, the event includes tons of fun family activities like yoga, line dancing, story-telling and read alouds, massage therapy, physical therapy, balance screening, and more.  For families with older children, there will also be information about drug and tobacco awareness and substance abuse prevention.  Fun and educational for all ages!  413-685-1000.  12 Littleville Road.  Huntington, MA.  (FREE)

1:30pm – MARIONETTES: Local (but nationally touring!) marionette troupe, The Tanglewood Marionettes, present Cinderella in the auditorium at Ware High School.  The event is the Ware Family Center’s annual fundraiser – it’s great fun for kids, and support a good cause.  237 West Street.  Ware, MA.  (<$)

2pm – HISTORY: Before television, radio provided all sorts of entertainment for people all over the world.  Learn about the heyday of radio today at the Dickinson Library!  Mel Simons will present, “The Golden Age of Radio,” a presentation including historical information, sound bytes, and unusual facts and anecdotes about radio entertainment.  413-498-2455.  Main and Dickinson Streets.  Northfield, MA.  (FREE)

2pm – BALLET: Students from the Massachusetts Academy of Ballet’s Training Association will perform a show this afternoon as a benefit for Kate’s Soup Kitchen, a valuable community resource.  The skilled dancers will show off their hard work and talent at the association’s studio at Open Square.  413-536-6200.  4 Open Square Way.  Holyoke, MA.  (FUNDRAISER)

2pm and 7:30pm – THEATER: Wahconah Regional High School’s Apollonian Players present Legally Blonde, a musical stage version of the movie and novel of the same name.  Follow ditsy-yet-successful California girl Elle Woods on her quest to win back her law-school-bound boyfriend – her mishaps and misguided decisions always miraculously work out in her favor, and she learns some important lessons, too.  Takes place at the school’s auditorium.  413-684-1330.  150 Windsor Road.  Dalton, MA.  ($)

2-4pm – TEEN ART SHOW: The Cummington Community House hosts an opening reception for an exhibit of black and white photography produced by local students from the Academy at Charlemont.  Open to students in their sophomore-senior years of school, the program begins by teaching students to develop and print film, and then teaches them to develop a personal style and portfolio.  The exhibit will be open from April 1st-27th, but today is your chance to meet the artists!  Younger students can learn about pursuing photography in high school (no matter where they enroll), as the show will stand as an example of what they can accomplish as students!  413-634-5354.  33 Main Street.  Cummington, MA.  (FREE)

3:30-5pm – CHESS CLUB: The Jones Library hosts a Chess Club for youth ages 7yo and older with Andy Morris-Friedman in the Amherst Room. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity St. Amherst, MA (FREE)

3:30pm – KIDS’ PERFORMANCE: Berkshire Theater Group presents Pinocchio at the Eric Carle Museum!  This theatrical production of the classic children’s tale follows a wooden boy through many obstacles on his quest to becoming real.  413-658-1126.  125 West Bay Road.  Amherst, MA.  ($)

4-8pm – AUDITIONS: Have your kids ever dreamed of singing for a huge audience?  Now is the time for them to get their start!  Kids ages 7 and older (as well as adults of all ages!) are invited to audition for Berkshire Idol, and annual singing competition that helps to raise money for community organizations.  The final competition will be divided into age categories, which helps to lay the competitive playing field.  Those interested should prepare a song to sing a capella for a panel of judges.  Tonight’s auditions will be held at All Saints Episcopal Church.  59 Summer Street.  North Adams, MA.  (FREE)

7-9pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION/AFRO-CUBAN: La Noche Cubana: A fundraiser for Casa Latina, happens at the Florence Community Center.  Bring the family for an evening of Afro-Cuban dance, song and rhythm while raising money for Casa Latina. Pine Street. Florence, MA (FUNDRAISER)

7-10pm – INTERGENERATIONAL DANCE: Come to a family dance with Katherine First and KITCHEN PARTY, and dance caller Gretchen Burdick! Kick up your heels with friends and neighbors young and old. All ages welcome. Refreshments will benefit the New Hingham Elementary School 6th grade class trip. Takes place a the Chesterfield Senior Center. 400 Main Street. Chesterfield, MA (FREE)

7-11pm – FAMILY NIGHT OUT: Disco and bowling are so fun that combining the two should be almost criminal – but it’s not!  The Mt. Greylock After Prom Committee is hosting disco bowling tonight at Greylock Bowl and Golf – tickets include three games, shoes, and one drink ticket.  Tickets available in advance.  41 Roberts Drive.  North Adams, MA.  ($$)

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Sunday, April 7th, 2013

7-8am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) airs encores the Hilltown Family Variety Show every Sunday morning. commercial-free family radio. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Listen to the Hilltown Family Variety Show podcast anytime. Click here to see over 5 years of archived shows.
10am-10pm – FILM/ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: Project Native, a non-profit farm dedicated to environmental education and sustainability, is hosting their annual film festival today at the TriPlex Cinema.  Films will be screened all day long, offering a variety of opportunities for families to learn about a variety of environmental issues, international projects, and more.  The morning screening is a kids’ screening, and includes a few short kid-friendly nature films, and films for older students will be shown throughout the rest of the day.  Whether you see one film or all of them, the festival is an opportunity to learn about important issues facing communities worldwide.  413-528-8885.  70 Railroad Street.  Great Barrington, MA.  ($)

10:30am – ROAD RACE: Join Helping Hearts for Hadley Schools for a Sunday morning 5k race or 2 mile family walk!  Get exercise as a family and enjoy the warming spring air, while helping to raise money for integrating more technology into local public schools.  Takes place at Hadley Elementary School.  Register before the race online.  21 River Drive.  Hadley, MA.  (FUNDRAISER)

12noon – FILM/CULTURAL STUDIES: The Pioneer Valley Jewish Film Festival is again bringing a host of screenings to the valley through April 18th!  Today’s screening is the popular film DAVID, about a lonely young Muslim boy in Brooklyn who, after becoming inadvertently immersed in Orthodox Jewish culture, pretends to be Jewish in order to fit in better with his peers.  He cannot keep it up forever, though, and eventually ends up in a position where he is forced to reexamine his true identity.  The film is family-friendly, and can be a great conversation started on identity, belonging, and being true to yourself.  It’s also a great way to learn more about Jewish culture!  Lunch and games begin at 12noon, film will be screened at 1pm.  Takes place at Lander Grinspoon Academy.  413-584-6622.  Prospect Street.  Northampton, MA.  ($)

12noon-5pm – AUDITIONS: Have your kids ever dreamed of singing for a huge audience?  Now is the time for them to get their start!  Kids ages 7 and older (as well as adults of all ages!) are invited to audition for Berkshire Idol, and annual singing competition that helps to raise money for community organizations.  The final competition will be divided into age categories, which helps to lay the competitive playing field.  Those interested should prepare a song to sing a capella for a panel of judges.  Tonight’s auditions will be held at Lichtenstein Center for the Arts.  28 Renne Avenue.  Pittsfield, MA.  (FREE)

1 and 3pm – KIDS’ PERFORMANCE: Berkshire Theater Group presents Pinocchio at the Eric Carle Museum!  This theatrical production of the classic children’s tale follows a wooden boy through many obstacles on his quest to becoming real.  413-658-1126.  125 West Bay Road.  Amherst, MA.  ($)

1-4pm – COLLEGE FAIR: Are you interested in exploring college options for your teens?  Do your teens want to see what is available to apply to?  The Big E hosts a college fair in The Young Building.  Find out which colleges will be there HERE.  413-737-2443. 1305 Memorial Avenue. West Springfield, MA (FREE)

1 and 4:30pm- BALLET: Pioneer Valley Ballet presents The Little Mermaid at The Academy of Music!  The production was a smash hit during the ballet’s 2008 performance season, and it’s back again for a second round of beautifully choreographed dance, paired with extraordinary costumes and scenery.  413-527-6363.  274 Main Street.  Northampton, MA.  ($$)

2-3pm – HISTORY/NATIVE AMERICAN: The DCR Quabbin Visitor Center hosts, “Around Pottequadic: A Story of the First Peoples of Central MA.”Join Don Duffy, the author of Around Pottequadic as he discusses the story of Hendrick Kequoquau and the Native Americans who called the Swift River Valley their own. Appropriate for all ages. Reservations suggested. 413-323-7221. Quabbin Park Visitor Center (Route 9). Belchertown, MA (FREE)

2pm – CONCERT: Jimmy Sturr, winner of 18 Grammy awards, bring his genre-changing Polka music to the Colonial Theater this afternoon!  Treat yourself to a Sunday matinee of the best Polka in the country.  Sturr, sometimes called the King of Polka, has performed with more mainstream artists like Arlo Guthrie and Willie Nelson, and brings his Polka orchestra to today’s show.  Supplement music studies with this great show!  413-997-4444.  111 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  ($$$)

10am-2pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURE: The Springfield Museums’ Festival of Flowers is being presented this week at the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts!  The show pairs fine art and flowers, and celebrates the beautiful blooms of springtime.  Families can visit the museum to view and learn about the art, and there will be a special paper flower art activity today, too!  800-625-7738.  21 Edwards Street.  Springfield, MA.  (FREE with museum admission)

2pm and 5pm – FILM: Amherst Cinema is hosting a Miyazaki Film Festival this spring, and each week brings a new film.  This week’s offering is Howl’s Moving Castle, which tells the story of a teenage girl on a quest to rid herself of a curse, and the magical man she meets.  413-253-2547.  28 Amity Street.  Amherst, MA.  ($)

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Monday, April 8th, 2013

9-11:30am – COLLEGE FAIR: Are you interested in exploring college options for your teens?  Do your teens want to see what is available to apply to?  The Big E hosts a college fair in The Young Building.  Find out which colleges will be there HERE.  413-737-2443. 1305 Memorial Avenue. West Springfield, MA (FREE)

6pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Wistariahurst Museum is hosting a series of talks on the history of various forms of transportation in the Pioneer Valley this spring.  Tonight’s event will focus on the role of the railroad in the development of local industry and travel.  Visitors will learn about the numerous rail lines that once brought engine after engine to the valley, and the reemergence of rail transportation in recent years.  413-322-5660.  238 Cabot Street.  Holyoke, MA.  (<$)

6-8pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Making healthy choices for kids can be difficult, and for lots of reasons!  Busy families may have a hard time finding time to cook fresh foods, kids with food allergies sometimes face limited options, and clever food marketing and packaging can be incredibly deceptive!  Luckily, the Community Network for Children is offering a workshop for parents on making nutritionally sound food decisions when feeding your family.  Alicia Walter will facilitate the workshop, and parents will learn about lots of foods that are great for kids.  Takes place at Leverett Elementary School.  Registration required.  978-544-5157.  85 Montague Road.  Leverett, MA.  (FREE)

6:30pm – HISTORY/CHEMISTRY: Older students interested in the history of early explorations in scientific principles can learn about early chemistry tonight at Williams College!  Lawrence Principe, professor of chemistry and the history of science and technology at Johns Hopkins University, will present a lecture titled, “Alchemy’s Secrets Revealed.”  Though alchemy is now viewed as a somewhat ridiculous pursuit, based on its emphasis on magical properties, the practice does have some scientific legitimacy – and it’s fairly fascinating!  Takes place in Room 3, Griffin Hall.  413-597-4277.  Main Street.  Williamstown, MA.  (FREE)

ONGOING FOR MONDAYS (As always, please confirm before heading out to these suggestions.)

10-11:30am – DANCEMEDITATION: Healing Through Inward Focused Movement. Delight in dance as meditation, celebration, and self- restoration. Drop out of over-active mind into intuitive embodiment, and awaken your Heart to healing! Held at The Wild Life Sanctuary through May 6th. inneropening@gmail.com. 413-822-2405. 221 Pine Street. Florence, MA ($13 Drop-in)

• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Northampton Parent Center is a drop-in Center for children (birth-K) and their caregivers. Everyone is welcome. Located in the lower level of Edwards Church at the corner of State and Main Streets in Northampton. Please use the back door and public parking. Northampton, MA (FREE)
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the South Hadley Family Center. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11am – STORYTIME: At the MN Spear Memorial Library, sponsored by the Community Network for Children through June 2013! 413-259-1213. 10 Cooleyville Road. Shutesbury, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11am – STORYTIME: The Greenfield Library hosts Sunshine Storytime! 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the Williamstown Youth Center! Sponsored by Childcare of the Berkshires. 413-458-5925. 270 Cole Avenue. Williamstown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Easthampton Family Center at the Flywheel space in the Old Town Hall building. 413-527-5496. Main Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am-12:20pm – ICE SKATING: Smead Arena offers a public skating session this morning – great for families with kids who are still learning to skate, daytime skating sessions offer low-key and less crowded ice time. Open ice times take place at the same time Monday-Friday. 413-781-2599. 1780 Roosevelt Avenue. Springfield, MA. (<$) ♦
• 11am – 12:30pm – SUPPORT GROUP: There is a MotherWoman group in the Hilltowns at St. John’s Corner. The support group is for pregnant and postpartum mothers, and childcare is available for kids up to age 4. 413-625-6948. 469 Main Street. Ashfield, MA. (FREE)
• 2:30-4pm – PLAYGROUP: Toddler group (siblings welcomed) at Shima Boutique. 413-346-1055. 65 Main St. North Adams, MA (FREE)
• 2:30-5pm – TEEN/TWEEN: Meekins Library’s Teen/Preteen Time takes place this afternoon! Teens can visit the library to hang out with friends, work on homework, play games, use computers, and check out awesome new books, movies, and music. 413-268-7473. 2 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:30-4:30pm – BREAK DANCE: Learn to break like a b-boy! The Lichtenstein Center for the Arts offers a weekly break dance class, taught by Joshua McHugh, accomplished dancer and dance teacher. 413-499-9348. 28 Renne Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. ($) ♦
• 3:30-5pm – ANIME: The Springfield Central Library hosts Anime and Manga Club on Monday afternoons! Kids enthusiastic about the popular Japanese style of animation and cartooning can visit the library to read new manga and watch great anime! 413-263-6828. 220 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 5:30-7pm – SCRABBLE: Enjoy an evening of friendly Scrabble at the Berkshire South Regional Community Center! Open to anyone ages 8+, the game night offers families an opportunity to practice fair play and basic sportsmanship while allowing kids to expand their spelling, vocabulary, and basic practical math skills. Sponsored by Bobbie Halig and Jenny and Adam Hersch. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 5:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires holds gym group at the Haskins Center! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6-7pm – MUSIC: Learn to drum, Afro-Carribbean style! The Lichtenstein Center for the Arts offers a weekly drum class, lead by Aimee Gelinas of Gaia Roots. Drums available to borrow. 28 Renne Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. ($) ♦
• 6-8pm – BIRTH CIRCLE: Gathered Resources of Women (GROW) offers a drop in support group for pregnant women and their support team to explore the different aspects of pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Hosted at Shima Boutique on the 2nd Monday of the month. 413-346-1055. 65 Main St. North Adams, MA (FREE)
• 6-8pm – BIRTH CIRCLE: Gathered Resources of Women (GROW) offers a drop in support group for pregnant women and their support team to explore the different aspects of pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Hosted at TREEHOUSE on the 3rd Monday of the month. 413-344-4435. 305 North Street. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)
• 7pm – MOTHER SUPPORT: MotherWoman bi-monthly meetings at Cradle, 3rd floor of Thornes Marketplace. 413-341-5282. Main Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
• 7-8:30pm – TEEN: Visit Longmeadow High School for open gym time! Basketball equipment will be provided by Longmeadow Rec Dept, and the event is open to anyone ages 13-20. Runs through 11/12. 413-565-4163. 95 Grassy Gutter Road. Longmeadow, MA. ($) ♦

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Tuesday, April 9th, 2013

6:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Money is an important topic in families – parents have to figure out how to manage it (and spread it out to cover lots of things!), and kids have to learn its value and skills for saving it.  Community Health Programs is offering a workshop tonight titled, “Moneysense: Family Finance,” where parents will learn about everything from successful budgeting strategies to teaching their kids about savings and wise spending.  Registration required, childcare available by request.  413-464-5095.  444 Stockbridge Road.  Great Barrington, MA.  (FREE)

7-8:30pm – ANIMAL ADVENTURE: Looking for sure signs of spring?  Visit Northfield Mountain tonight to learn about the unusual mating rituals of the woodcock.  Also known (at sillier times) as the Timberdoodle, the bird performs acrobatics and shares a concert of calls around dusk – the program will include some learning time inside, as well as an adventure to the out-of-doors to listen and look for the birds.  Registration required.  800-859-2960.  Millers Falls Road.  Northfield, MA.  (FREE)

ONGOING FOR TUESDAYS (As always, please confirm before heading out to these suggestions.)

• 9am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center. 413-545-0865. 428 Student Union Building (Campus Center Way). Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Community Health Coalition hosts Toddler Steps Playgroup at the CHP building. 413-644-0104. 442 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30-11am – PLAYGROUP: At Farmington River Preschool for kids 5 and under, sponsored by the Community Health Coalition. 413-664-0104. 555 North Main Road. Otis, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30 or 11am – STORYTIME: The Westfield Library hosts storytime for kids 6 months – 3 years today. Registration required. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Northampton Parent Center is a drop-in Center for children (birth-K) and their caregivers. Everyone is welcome. Located in the lower level of Edwards Church at the corner of State and Main Streets in Northampton. Please use the back door and public parking. Northampton, MA (FREE)
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the Belchertown Family Center! 413-283-7594. 720 Franklin Street. Belchertown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30 – PLAYGROUP: It’s Baby Day at the South Hadley Family Center! 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: At the Berkshire Athenaeum! 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: At the Dickinson Library! 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11am – PARENT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts a mother’s group for Spanish-speaking moms at Brightwood Health Center. 413-796-8365. 380 Plainfield Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Preschool playgroup learning experiences at the Haskins Center! Takes place on the lower level. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11am – STORYTIME: At the Greenfield Library. 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by the Palmer-Monson Family Network. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE) ♦10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Easthampton Family Center at the Flywheel space in the Old Town Hall building. 413-527-5496. Main Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:15am – STORYTIME: At the Lanesborough Library! Stories, crafts, and music for all ages. 413-499-5981. 83 North Main Street. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:15am-12:15pm – SUPPORT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts a Postpartum Support Group for mothers. The group is a safe space for those adjusting to motherhood and is lead by trained facilitators. Takes place at Berkshire Children and Families. Childcare available. 413-253-8990. 220 Russell Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30-11:30am – ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE: Visit the Great Falls Discovery Center for Kidleidescope, an environment-themed program for kids! Interactive learning opportunities and crafts always included. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Springfield Central Library’s preschool storytime takes place this morning. 413-263-6828. 220 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
•  11am – NEW MOMS: Tea time for new moms at the CHP Family Services Building.  Chat with other new moms, gain reassurance and resources while making new friends. A facilitated support group.  413-528-0721. 442 Stockbridge Rd. Great Barrington, MA (FREE) ♦
• 11am – STORYTIME: The Goodwin Memorial Library hosts a preschool story time. 413-584-7451. 50 Middle Street. Hadley, MA (FREE)
• 11am – STORYTIME: The Lenox Library offers storytime for kids 18 months-3 years. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 2:30-6pm – TEEN: The Belchertown Teen Center is open this afternoon, offering a safe, drug-free, semi-supervised environment where kids can play games, socialize, watch movies, etc. 413-323-8728. 66 State Street. Belchertown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:30-5pm – PARENT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts a support group for young mothers and expecting women between the ages of 13 and 19. Group meetings are held bi-weekly and are drop-in. Babies welcome! Takes place at Mercy Care Holyoke. 413-886-0410. 306 Race Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
• 4pm – READING: Do you ever wish that you could recommend your favorite books to other library visitors? The Forest Park Branch Library invites Forest Park Reads, a special series where families can read new books (or chapters of books) and then rate them using a star system so that other library visitors can choose great new things to read! Takes place on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 413-263-6843. 380 Belmont Avnue. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
• 5:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by Childcare of the Berkshires in the gym at the Abbot School. 56 North Country Road. Florida, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6:30pm – BREASTFEEDING: The La Leche League of North/Central Berkshires meets every third Tuesday at The Montessori School of the Berkshires. 21 Patterson Road. Lenox Dale, MA. (FREE)
• 6:30-8pm – MUSIC: The Berkshire South Regional Community Center hosts a free ukulele group tonight! Beginners and kids without any knowledge of music reading can join in – the class will teach basic chord progressions and styles of playing from around the world. Registration requested but drop-in is OK. Sponsored by Bobbie Hallig and Jenny and Adam Hersch. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE) ♦

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Wednesday, April 10th, 2013

10am – KIDS’ CONCERT: The South Hadley Family Center welcomes Miss Leticia for a concert this morning!  Kids songs of all kinds will fill St. Patrick’s Church in celebration of the Week of the Young Child.  413-533-7096.  Main Street.  South Hadley, MA. (DONATION)

4pm – READING: Do you ever read a great book and wind up wishing you could share it with everyone in the world?  The Springfield Library has an activity just for your family – it won’t let you share the book with the world, but it will help you share it with other library patrons!  Family Reads at the East Forest Park Branch offers families a chance to formally review their reading choices so that others can find good books.  Families can read picture books or chapters of longer stories, then rate what they’ve read using a system of stars.  When else can you be a literary critic?  413-263-6843.  380 Belmont Avenue.  Springfield, MA.  (FREE)

6-8pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Have you ever found yourself chalking up your child’s social challenges to shyness?  Learn about ways to encourage friendship building and curiosity for new experiences in children who tend to be quiet and cautious.  Often called “just shy,” such kids have lots of unique and useful personality traits.  She/He’s Shy, That’s All, takes place at the Palmer-Monson Family Network, and is hosted by the Collaborative for Educational Services.  Registration required for childcare.  413-570-3061.  4 Springfield Street.  Three Rivers, MA.  (FREE)

6:30pm – TEEN/TWEEN: The Sunderland Library hosts chess club tonight!  Practice and hone playing skills while exercising your brain!  413-665-2642.  20 School Street.  Sunderland, MA.  (FREE)

7 and 9:30pm – FILM: Amherst Cinema is hosting a Miyazaki Film Festivall this spring, and each week brings a new film.  This week’s offering is Howl’s Moving Castle, which tells the story of a teenage girl on a quest to rid herself of a curse, and the magical man she meets.  413-253-2547.  28 Amity Street.  Amherst, MA.  ($)

ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAYS (As always, please confirm before heading out to these suggestions.)

• 9am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center. 413-545-0865. 428 Student Union Building (Campus Center Way). Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Palmer-Monson Family Network hosts infant and toddler play group! 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Bi-weekly in the community room at Becket Town Hall, sponsored by Community Health Programs. 413-664-0104. 65 Walker Street. Becket, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the Lenox Community Center, sponsored by Community Health Programs. 413-644-0104. 65 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Northampton Parent Center is a drop-in Center for children (birth-K) and their caregivers. Everyone is welcome. Located in the lower level of Edwards Church at the corner of State and Main Streets in Northampton. Please use the back door and public parking. Northampton, MA (FREE)
• 9:30am or 1:30pm – STORYTIME: Fantastic Fours and Fives takes place today at the Westfield Library! Registration is required for storytime. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the Belchertown Family Center! 413-283-7594. 720 Franklin Street. Belchertown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30 – PLAYGROUP: At the South Hadley Family Center. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:45-11:15am – SUPPORT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts, “Getting Real about Motherhood,” a support group designed to help mothers share the stress and adjustments of motherhood and work to find ways to feel renewed, valued, and energized. Takes place at the Amherst Family Center, in the basement of the Unitarian Society. Childcare available. 413-256-1145. 121 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the Wendell Free Library hosted by the Community Network for Children through June 2013. 978.544.5157. 7 Wendell Depot Road. Wendell, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: Preschool storytime at the Westhampton Library! 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – PARENT GROUP: Enjoy coffee and a chat with other parents at the Westhampton Library – stop in after dropping kids off at school through the end of Sept.! 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by the Palmer-Monson Family Network. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – ART: The Norman Rockwell Museum hosts, “Creating Together: A Parent-Child Experience,” an art workshop featuring a gallery tour and hands-on art making. Each week brings a new theme and art style to explore. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183 Stockbridge, MA. ($) ♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: In the gym at Erving Elementary School, hosted by the Community Network for Children through June 2013. 413- 423-3326. 18 Northfield Road. Erving, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:15-11am – STORYTIME: Hosted by the Mason Library – also includes stories, songs, and crafts. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the New Marlborough Library, sponsored by Community Health Programs. 413-644-0104. 1 New Marlborough-Great Barrington Road. New Marlborough, MA. (FREE)
• 10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: At the Leverett Library, sponsored by the Community Network for Children through June 2013. 413-548-9220. 75 Montague Road. Leverett, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30: SINGING: Sing with Your Baby with Wendy happens at the Jones Library. For preK kids and younger, and their parents/caretakers. Takes place in the Woodbury Room. Runs through Dec. 18. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity St. Amherst, MA (FREE)
• 11-11:30am – STORYTIME: Toddler Time with Stephanie at the Forbes Library! 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am-12noon – GYMNASTICS: Whip City Gym hosts homeschool open gymnastics! The event is not a formal class, but offers kids unstructured play time physical activity amongst true gymnastics equipment. Great for kids interested in gymnastics, dance, or cheerleading, and gym playtime can also help kids work on balance and coordination. Takes place through the school year. 413-569-3231. 320 College Highway. Southwick, MA. (<$) ♦
• 1-3pm – CHESS: Drop-in chess games in the mezzanine at Forbes Library. All ages, BYO chess set or borrow one. Playing chess can help kids develop logic and analytical skills. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 2:30-4pm – PLAYGROUP: Toddler group (siblings welcomed) at Shima Boutique. 413-346-1055. 65 Main St. North Adams, MA (FREE)
• 2:30-6pm – TEEN: The Belchertown Teen Center is open this afternoon, offering a safe, drug-free, semi-supervised environment where kids can play games, socialize, watch movies, etc. 413-323-8728. 66 State Street. Belchertown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:30pm – LEGOS: The Berkshire Athenaeum hosts LEGO Club on the third Wednesday of each month. Kids can use LEGOs to experiment with basic principles of architecture, physics, and design. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. ♦ (FREE)
• 3-5pm – MOVIE: The Mason Library screens classic films every Wednesday afternoon! The “Mason Matinee” is best for tweens/teens and adults – call to find out what’s playing. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:30-4:30pm – STORYTIME: The Ramsdell Library hosts Time for Tots, and special story, craft, etc. time for littlest kiddos. 413-274-3738. 1087 Main Street. Housatonic, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 3:50-4:30pm – ICE SKATING: Visit Fitzpatrick Arena for an afternoon of skating! The rink offers daily public skating sessions at the same time, Monday-Friday. 413-532-2929. 575 Maple Street. Holyoke, MA. (<$) ♦
• 4pm – CHESS: Visit the East Longmeadow Library for some afternoon chess! Playing chess can help kids develop analytical skills and logic. 413-525-5432. 60 Center Square. East Longmeadow, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 4-5pm – STORYTIME: At the Cushman Library! 413-648-5402. 28 Church Street. Bernardston, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 5:30-7:30pm – KNITTING: The Wednesday Night Knitters meet tonight at the Cushman Library! Knitters with any level of experience are welcome to join – bring a project to work on! No formal instruction is offered, but if help is needed, there will be many experienced knitters on hand. Great intergenerational opportunity for kids learning how to knit. 413-648-5402. 28 Church Street. Bernardston, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 7-8:30pm – TEEN: Sing your heart out with Berkshire Sings!, a community singing group at the Berkshire South Regional Community Center. Singers of all abilities welcome (adults, too) to sing pop, jazz, folk, showtunes, and more. Sponsored by Bobbie Hallig and Jenny and Adam Hersch. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 7-8:30pm – TEEN: Visit Longmeadow High School for open gym time! Basketball equipment will be provided by the Longmeadow Rec Dept, and the event is open to anyone ages 13-20. 413-565-4163. 95 Grassy Gutter Road. Longmeadow, MA. ($) ♦

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Thursday, April 11th, 2013

12:15pm – NATURE STUDIES: The Springfield Museums host a weekly lunch talk series called Museums a la Carte – each week brings a unique new topic of study.  This week, the event will focus on the biodiversity of Madagascar, an island whose plant and animal life has developed in genetic isolation of mainland Africa for thousands of years.  Older students can learn about the many species found on the island (and nowhere else in the world!), as well as the traditional culture, history, and current issues in Madagascar.  800-625-7738.  21 Edwards Street.  Springfield, MA.  (<$)

3-4pm – COMICS: Modern Myths, a local comic store, is hosting a month-long comic drawing series for kids!  Part of the Paint and Pixel Festival, the series offers weekly hands-on workshops where kids will be able to work on making their own original comics, with the guidance of comic pros!  Ages 5+.  Kids can attend one or all of the events!  413-582-6973.  34 Bridge Street #4.  Northampton, MA.  (FREE)

6:30-8pm – GOVERNMENT: Residents of Lenox are invited to attend “You Make the Difference: Lenox Town Government 101”  at The Lenox Library. Participants can learn from this interactive event the workings of town government, find out how to get questions answered, and learn about the volunteer committees and boards that Lenox relies on to keep the town running.   The hands-on evening will include a scavenger hunt between the public and committee members to discover the process of working with and being a part of town government. 413-637-2630. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA (FREE)

7pm – LITERARY HISTORY: The Pelham Library hosts a talk on author Clarence Hawkes, perhaps the most read author from the Pioneer Valley.  After spending his childhood overcoming blindness and an amputated leg, Hawkes composed over 60 collections of poetry, novels, and essays, and his work has been translated into numerous languages all around the world.  Given by Dr. Jim Freeman, a UMass professor, the talk will teach about the reasons behind Hawkes’ disappearance from prominence and his role in Pioneer Valley history.  413-253-2929.  2 South Valley Road.  Pelham, MA.  (FREE)

7pm – DANCE: PVPA’s dance troupe The Catalyst Dancers perform Dancing in the Eye of the Storm tonight at the Academy of Music Theatre.  The show – which celebrates 15 years of dance from the school’s pre-professional troupe – includes performances crcafted by world renowned choreographers, as well as the students themselves.  413-584-9032.  274 Main Street.  Northampton, MA.  ($$)

ONGOING FOR THURSDAYS (As always, please confirm before heading out to these suggestions.)

12noon – BYOBABY! PILATES: A breast & bottle feeding friendly Pilates Mat Class modified to accommodate for fussiness. Best for babies up to 6mos old, however any age is welcome. 413-586-3504. The Pilates Studio. 104 Russell St (Route 9). Hadley, MA ($15 Drop-in)

1pm – INFANT MOVEMENT: Learn touch and movement based practices & tactical with Lenore Grubinger, tried & true principles to help support your child’s comfort & development. The Pilates Studio. 104 Russell St (Route 9). Hadley, MA ($15 Drop-in)

• 9am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center. 413-545-0865. 428 Student Union Building (Campus Center Way). Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Community Health Coalition hosts Toddler Steps Playgroup at the CHP building. 413-644-0104. 442 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30 or 11am – STORYTIME: Westfield Athenaeum hosts Terrific Twos and Threes – storytime for kids ages 2 and 3! Registration required. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11am – PLAYGROUP: The Ludlow Community Center/Randall Boys and Girls Club hosts playgroup this morning, including snack, stories, playtime, music, and crafts. 413-583-3527. 488 Chapin Street. Ludlow, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the Belchertown Family Center! 413-283-7594. 720 Franklin Street. Belchertown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP/MUSIC CLASS: The Northampton Parents Center is open this morning! Thursday mornings feature music class at 11a with Felicia Sloin or Tom Knight (alternating weeks). Located in the basement of Edwards Church. 413-582-2636. Main and State Streets. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP/MUSIC CLASS: Northampton Parent Center is a drop-in Center for children (birth-K) and their caregivers. Thursday morning music classes will be from 11 to 11:30 am with Felicia Sloin and Tom Knight alternating weeks. Everyone is welcome. Located in the lower level of Edwards Church at the corner of State and Main Streets in Northampton. Please use the back door and public parking. Northampton, MA (FREE)
• 10am – PLAYGROUP: Music and Movement Group meets at the Millers Falls Library! 413-863-3214. 23 Bridge Street. Montague, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am – STORYTIME: Springfield Central Library hosts storytime for kiddos 6 months-3 years. 413-263-6828. 220 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11am – SUPPORT GROUP: Longmeadow Rec Dept hosts a New Moms Group at the Greenwood Center! 413-794-5515. 231 Maple Road. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by the Palmer-Monson Family Network. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30-11:30am – TALES AND TUNES: At the New Salem Public Library, sponsored by the Community Network for Children through June 2013! 978-544-5157. 23 South Main Street. New Salem, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: At the Williston Memorial Library! Stories, snacks, and more. 413-529-1605. 9 Park Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Preschool story time at the Jones Library in the Children’s Room. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity St. Amherst, MA (FREE)
• 11am – STORYTIME: Lenox Library offers storytime and crafts for kids 3-5 years old. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am – STORYTIME: At the Hatfield Library, just for preschoolers! 413-547-9237. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am-12:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Baby group (siblings welcomed) at Shima Boutique. 413-346-1055. 65 Main St. North Adams, MA (FREE)
• 11:30am-12:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires holds gym group at the Haskins Center! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 12noon-1pm: PILATES: BYOBaby! A Pilates Mat Class for Moms and Babies – modified to accommodate for fussiness! Drop-in class with Anneliese Mordhorst at The Pilates Studio. 104 Russell St. 413-586-3504. Hadley, MA ($15/class)
• 1-3pm – PLAYGROUP: Baby playgroup at the Forbes Library! In the children’s room with Judy. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 1-2:30pm – SUPPORT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts a post-partum support group for mothers with babies up to a year old. Childcare available. Takes place at Midwifery Care of Holyoke. 413-534-2700. 230 Maple Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 2:30-6pm – TEEN: The Belchertown Teen Center is open this afternoon, offering a safe, drug-free, semi-supervised environment where kids can play games, socialize, watch movies, etc. 413-323-8728. 66 State Street. Belchertown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 5-8pm – ART WALK: On the first Thursday of every month, the Amherst Art Walk takes place. Families can enjoy arts and culture, entertainment, shopping and dining. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA (FREE)
• 6-10pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURE: Visit the Beneski Museum of Natural History at Amherst College! It’s home to a large variety of natural wonders, including the world’s largest collection of dinosaur tracks and lots of exhibits on local natural history. 413-542-2165. 11 Barrett Hill Road. Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 8pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Sing some chanteys and bar songs at the Brewmaster’s Tavern– and order some food and drinks while you sing! Takes place on the first and third Thursdays of each month. 4 Main Street. 413-268-7741. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ♦

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Friday, April 12th, 2013

5:30pm – EARTH DAY: Celebrate Earth Day and the one year anniversary of the Creative Community Central (C3)!  Families can pot their own plant starts, learn about fun “green” projects to do together, and enjoy a potluck dinner.  Cook a dish to share as a family using local ingredients!  71 North Main Street.  South Deerfield, MA.  (<$)

7pm – DANCE: PVPA’s dance troupe The Catalyst Dancers perform Dancing in the Eye of the Storm tonight at the Academy of Music Theatre.  The show – which celebrates 15 years of dance from the school’s pre-professional troupe – includes performances crafted by world renowned choreographers, as well as the students themselves.  413-584-9032.  274 Main Street.  Northampton, MA.  ($$)

7pm – PERFORMANCE: Great Barrington Waldorf High School presents William Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale. A Winter’s Tale is an idle tale with a happy ending, told round the fire in the old days in winter time, when there was peaceful indoor work to do such as mending and repairing.  The script has been edited from the original and is suitable for ages 8 and up. Performances Friday-Sunday at 7pm. Sunday matinee performance at 2:30pm. Takes place at Berkshire South Community Center. Great Barrington, MA ($)

7:30-8:30pm – ASTRONOMY: Students from Williams College’s astronomy program present a planetarium show tonight!  Held at the Milham Planetarium, the show will teach families about the many shiny things they see in the sky at night – they’re not all stars and planets!  Depending on weather conditions, observing may take place after the show.  413-597-3131.  829 Main Street.  Williamstown, MA.  (FREE)

8pm – MUSIC STUDIES: UMass welcomes Mohan Veena and Tabla, a performance by Vishwa Bhatt, one of the best slide guitar players in the world.  The concert, which will take place at the university’s Fine Arts Center Music Concert Hall, will include lots of traditional Hindustani music – beautiful, and from a fascinating culture! Best for older students or children with audience skills. 800-999-8627.  151 President’s Drive.  Amherst, MA.  ($$)

ONGOING FOR FRIDAYS (As always, please confirm before heading out to these suggestions.)

• 9-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: In the gym at Shutesbury Elementary School, sponsored by the Community Network for Children through June 2013. 413-259-1212. 23 West Pelham Road. Shutesbury, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 9am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center. 413-545-0865. 428 Student Union Building (Campus Center Way). Amherst, MA. (FREE) ♦
• F9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At Whole Children, for little ones up to age five. 37 Russell Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE)
• 10am – MOVIE: The Berkshire Athenaeum shows short kids’ movies every Friday morning. Call to check what’s playing! 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Easthampton Family Center at the Flywheel space in the Old Town Hall building. 413-527-5496. Main Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10-11:30am – SUPPORT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts a postpartum support group for mothers with babies up to a year old at the Community Action Family Center. Childcare available. 413-475-1566. 90 Federal Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: On the first and third Fridays of each month, the YMCA of Greenfield hosts Jump Into Fitness playgroup! Lots of fun physical activity. Snack provided. 413-475-1543. 451 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:15-11am – STORYTIME: The Mason Library hosts Young Children’s Storytime this morning! 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: For little ones at the Pelham Library! 413-253-0657. 2 South Valley Road. Pelham, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: The Monson Library’s baby group takes place this morning – kiddos ages 0-2 and their caregivers can visit for stories, songs, and playtime. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: The Heath Library offers bi-weekly storytime throughout the fall. 413-337-4934. 1 East Main Street. Heath, MA. (FREE)
• 11am – STORYTIME: Pre-school storytime at the Griswold Memorial Library! 413-624-3619. 12 Main Road. Colrain, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am – PLAYGROUP: The Haskins Center hosts baby group! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by Childcare of the Berkshires in the community room at the Lanesborough Town Hall. 413-664-4821. 83 North Main Street. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11am – AQUARIUM ADVENTURE: Meet an animal at the Berkshire Museum! Friends from the aquarium will be shared, and kids can learn all about them through stories and activities. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (<$) ♦
• 11-11:40am – STORYTIME: The Greenfield Library hosts Mother Goose on the Loose, a special lap-sit story hour for kids under the age of 3. 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11-12:50: ICE SKATING: There will be an ice skating session at the Mullins Center for homeschoolers through June ’13. Some skate sessions can be bumped due to UMass ice hockey, so call to confirm before heading out. 413-230-6516. UMass Mullins Center. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA (>$)
• 2:30-4pm – PLAYGROUP: Toddler group (siblings welcomed) at Shima Boutique. 413-346-1055. 65 Main St. North Adams, MA (FREE)
• 7-10pm – TWEEN: Kids in grades 6-8 can enjoy a fun night out with friends at the Greenwood Center! Hosted by Longmeadow Rec Dept, the event features DJ dance music, and will be supervised by adults. Dress code is the same as school, and students must sign in before entering. Takes place on the second and fourth Friday of each month. 413-565-4163. 231 Maple Road. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 7:30pm – ASTRONOMY: Williams College’s Milham Planetarium offers free shows on Friday evenings! Using the planetarium’s Zeiss Skymaster, Williams students will teach visitors about all sorts of astronomical phenomena, including phases of the moon, retrograde planetary motion, varying colors/temperatures of stars, constellations and zodiac signs, and more! Reservations recommended but not required. 413-597-2188. 829 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 8:30pm-12:30am – DANCE: Dance the night away at Dance Spree, a family-friendly, substance free, barefoot community night of dancing! Kids of all ages are welcome, but young children must be accompanied by adults. Takes place on the 4th floor of the Fitzwilly’s building. 25 Main Street. Northampton, MA. (<$) ♦

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