Weekly Suggested Events for January 29-February 4, 2022

Home > Suggested Events > Weekly Suggested Events for January 29-February 4, 2022
The last weekend of January is full of outdoor winter adventures and indoor learning opportunities, perfect for cold wintery days in #WesternMass! #edchat #edchatma

Are you looking for things to do in western Massachusetts? Seeking place-based learning ideas? Are you a self-directed, life-long, and/or experiential learner? Are you curious or wanting to support the interests of your family? Our weekly Suggested Events list includes suggested learning ideas, resources, and fun events for all ages, each week!

Scroll down to discover featured events, learning opportunities, and educational videos to support learning from home. And be sure to subscribe to our free weekly eNewsletter so you never miss out!

Featured School: Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School (South Hadley, MA)

The Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School (PVPA) in South Hadley, MA, is accepting applications for the 2022/2023 school year for students entering grades 7-11. As a Public Charter school with 400 students from 60+ communities, PVPA offers a free, college-preparatory education with the arts at the heart of all they do. Students are encouraged to think critically and work collaboratively in a supportive learning environment with small class sizes. Arts concentrations include Music, Dance, Theater, and Visual Arts. Enrollment to PVPA is open to all MA residents on a space-available basis. Tuition-free, no audition required. Application Deadline: Feb 1, 2022. Enrollment Lottery: Feb 14, 2022. Apply now at www.pvpa.org/admissions. For more info, call 413-552-1580 x134 or email admissions@pvpa.org.

FEATURED SUMMER CAMP: Hartsbrook Farm Camp. Hadley, MA.

Hartsbrook Farm Camp. Hadley, MA. Spend the summer safely and joyfully outside! For almost two decades, children have loved Farm Camp: the animals, the crafts, and the feeling of being part of something meaningful. Children feel grounded and inspired while exploring the natural world. In these times, children need nature more than ever. This summer, Hartsbrook Farm Camp invites your child to tend the goats, feed the chickens, work with wool, play under the trees and enjoy unhurried time outside in 55 acres of fields, farm, and forest. The caring camp staff makes all children feel welcome. This year, spend some time on the farm! (For everyone’s safety, COVID protocols will be in place.) Dates: June 27 – July 29, 2022; Age Range: 4-15yo. Contact: 413-586-1908; farmcamp@hartsbrook.org; www.hartsbrook.org.

FEATURED EVENT
Paper Airplane Guy at the
New England Air Museum

Windsor Locks, CT

Logo for The Experimentory at Deerfield Academy Periscope program.
Sunday, February 20 @ 11am & 1pm

On Sunday, February 202022, come to the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, CT, to meet John Collins, the Paper Airplane Guy! Collins holds a Guinness World Record in paper airplane distance and will be teaching visitors of all ages how to build their very own amazing paper airplanes, including the record-breaking “Suzanne” design! Collins will hold performances at 11am and 1pm and will be available for demos and hands-on instruction throughout the day. This event is included with the price of admission. For more information, visit neam.org

FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
The Experimentory at Deerfield Academy
Deerfield, MA

Logo for The Experimentory at Deerfield Academy Periscope program.
Outdoors, Indoors.

The Experimentory is a fantastic opportunity for students currently in sixth, seventh, and eighth grade to sample Deerfield Academy. The Experimentory is an innovative program that allows students to delve into project-based creative learning and focus on collaboration, communication, fostering creativity, building character, and developing how we look at the world.

Dates: July 5-23, 2022
Age Range: 11-14yo 
Contact: 413-774-1498
♦ experimentory@deerfield.edu 
♦ deerfield.edu/experimentory

FEATURED PRESCHOOL
Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Springfield, MA

Amherst Montessori School
Ages 2.9-5 years

Prelude Preschool of the Arts is now enrolling for summer and fall 2022! Full-day & half-day programming options feature specialized classes taught by expert musicians & artists in the areas of early childhood music, dance, yoga, Suzuki violin, bucket drumming, and visual art. Prelude Preschool’s arts-centered curriculum fosters creativity and a lifelong love for learning while supporting students’ social-emotional development. Flexible before & aftercare is available to meet your scheduling needs, and regularly scheduled family nights facilitate connection & collaboration among students, their families, and their teachers. To learn more or schedule your tour: 
prelude@communitymusicschool.com; 413-750-9560; communitymusicschool.com/prelude

FEATURED PRESCHOOL
New Hingham Regional Elementary School
Chesterfield, MA

Indoor Program

Preschool, Early Childhood Education Program ♦ Ages 3-5yrs. For more information: jmcmillan@hr-k12.org; 413-296-0000; www.newhingham.org.

The mission of New Hingham’s PreK program is to develop successful learners through positive relationships with students, high-quality instruction in a student-centered, integrated learning environment, and strong partnerships with families. In its picturesque rural setting, New Hingham is proud to offer a tuition-free program with highly-qualified and experienced teachers, full-time or part-time availability, small class sizes, special education services, play-based experiences, developmentally appropriate materials, and additional classes in art, physical education, and technology. Interested families can submit an application on the school website. All applications will be reviewed in March, and decisions will be mailed in April.

FEATURED JOB OPPORTUNITY
Summer Camp Nurse
New England Air Museum
Windsor Locks, CT

Logo for The Experimentory at Deerfield Academy Periscope program.
Seasonal Position: June 27-Aug 19, 2022

Looking for a fun-filled summer job? The New England Air Museum is hiring a Summer Camp Nurse for their new camp, New England Aviation Academy, a day camp for children 9 -12 in Windsor Locks, CT. Must be a registered, licensed nurse in the state of Connecticut, with current CPR and First Aid Certifications. Experience working with children and youth required; this is an ideal position for a school nurse! This is a seasonal, temporary position and pays $30 per hour. Hours are 8am-4pm from June 27 – August 19, 2022. Interested applicants can find a full job description here. Send your resume to tdarling@neam.org to apply.

See Your Ad Here

Partner with HIlltown Families!

Partner with Hilltown Families in your online advertising! Delivering your message each week to over 25,000 subscribers, web visitors, and social media followers each week, Hilltown Families can bring your message to thousands of families in Western Massachusetts. Serving the region since 2005, Hilltown Families is an award-winning, online communication network, recognized as a leading family strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” A trusted partner in your online marketing! To find out how we can partner together in your online marketing and outreach, contact us for info on our affordable options and packages: swildfield@hilltownfamilies.org. Have an event, resource, or opportunity you’re ready to promote? Click HERE to submit your information.

2022 Class Directory

Class Directory

Discover virtual & adapted programming in our Class Directory for Western MA

2022 Preschool & Daycare Directory

Preschool Directory

Find what you’re looking for in our Preschool & Daycare Directory for Western MA

Annual Handmade Valentine Swap

Handmade Valentine Swap

Join us!
Registration deadline: Friday, Jan 28, 2022

List of Weekly Suggested Events

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29, 2022

ICE FISHING. 6am-2pm. Ice Fishing Derby at Pontoosuc Lake. Hosted by the Lanesborough Fire Department. Behind the park on Narragansett Ave. Lanesborough, MA. 

FAMILY RADIO: 9-10am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio) 

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice rink is open at Beacon Field. Greenfield, MA. 

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice skating rink open at Lee Athletic Field. Lee, MA. 

NATURALIST SKILLS/ TRACKING. 9am-12pm. Winter Wildlife Tracking – Enjoy a crisp winter’s day exploring nearby woodlands, meadows, and streams in a guided hike. Ages 8+. Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA. 

TRANSPORTATION/ LOCOMOTION. 9am-5pm. Railroad Hobby Show – Everything related to rail travel, from real-life railroad pieces to scale models and extensive hobby train set-ups. There will be displays from railroad historical societies, hobby builders, suppliers, and more – the event has something for everyone, whether you’re new to studying railroads and model trains or a seasoned enthusiast! Families can learn about the history of rail travel and the numerous types of trains and their uses. Kids can also learn about the history of railroad use in the area and how their community has changed over the years—hosted by the Amherst Railway Society at the Eastern States Exposition. 413-267-4555. 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA. 

INTERGENERATIONAL/ PUZZLES. 9:30am-1pm. National Puzzle Day – The Athol Public Library have puzzles set out on tables all over the second floor of the library. A great day for honing your puzzle skills in preparation for the Children’s Room Family Puzzle Competition coming up on February 23, 2022! Prefer to puzzle in private? Visit the library and choose a puzzle to borrow and take home. Athol Public Library. 978-249-9515. 568 Main St, Athol, MA. 

 

ANIMAL STUDIES/ BEAVERS. 10-11:30am. Beavers in Winter – Discover what the winter lives consist of in the day of ever-busy beavers at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a short walk over sloping and sometimes wet or rocky trails to explore the beaver ponds and wetlands that they have constructed. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA. 

ECOLOGY. 10am-12pm. Changes to Life and Landscape in Winter – How do freezing temperatures, snow, and ice affect our local wildlife and the land each year? And how might climate change alter those effects? Explore both the science and crystalline beauty of ice, find evidence of active animals, and learn about some of the incredible survival techniques of critters seen and unseen in winter. Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-584-3009. 127 Combs Rd, Easthampton, MA. 

FIBER ARTS/ SEWING. 10am-12pm. Machine Sewing Basics – Do you have a Sewing Machine but do not know how to use it? Learn to love your sewing machine! Join C.A.Sizemore for Machine Sewing Basics. Make a pillowcase and a set of Pajamas. All you need is your machine, some fabric, and time. LaunchSpace. 978-633-5131. 131 W Main St, Orange, MA. 

INTERGENERATIONAL/BOARD GAMES. 10am-12pm. Board Games – Having new board games to explore with our kids opens up opportunities for families to spend time together while allowing children to practice skills and concepts. Meekins Library. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams St, Williamsburg, MA. 

ROLLER SKATING. 11am-12pm. Learn to roller skate at Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA. 

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. 12noon. Grand opening of Hadley Park and Rec Department outdoor ice skating rink. South Hadley, MA. 

CULINARY ARTS. 12-1pm. Soft Pretzel Saturday – Work with Chef Rob and make Twisted Soft Pretzels and a Cider Dijon Dip via Zoom. This is perfect for all ages to work together. Hosted by the Hubbard Memorial Library. (Virtual) 

FUNDRAISER. 12pm. Penguin Plunge – At the 18th annual Penguin Plunge, participants will brave the icy water of Hampton Ponds to raise money for hands-on learning at Amelia Park Children’s Museum. Costumes are encouraged. Prized are awarded. And spectators are welcome. Hampton Ponds State Park. 1048 N Rd, Westfield, MA. 

WOODWORKING. 12-4pm. Intro to Woodworking for Beginners – This beginning woodworking is a challenging beginner project. Participants will make a shaker-style side table with tapered legs and one drawer with no experience necessary. LaunchSpace. 978-633-5131. 131 W Main St, Orange, MA. 

ORNITHOLOGY/ BIRDWATCHING. 1-3pm. Winter Birding Workshop: Winter Bird Feeding and Birding Basics – Winter is a perfect time to start birdwatching. Birds often come close to our feeders, and hardy winter birds can become familiar friends. Spend time at Pleasant Valley viewing the feeders, learning how and what to feed birds, as well as going for a short walk, and learning some great tips for beginning your birdwatching journey. Explore how to use shape, size, color, and sounds to learn different groups and species of birds. These tools, combined with behavior and habitat clues, will help you get to know our beautiful avian neighbors in no time at all. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA. 

ARTS & CRAFTS. 2pm- Make Your Own Flying Fish – In this online class, learners will make a flying fish inspired by Japanese carp streamers, called koinobori, using basic craft items like glue sticks and gift tissue paper, with a cardboard toilet paper tube as the base, using whatever colors and materials they choose. Hosted by Print Shop (Virtual) 

COMMUNITY-BUILDING. 2:30pm. We’re Not Really Strangers! Meet your Community – This event is about relationship building and storytelling! Play a game called “We Are Not Really Strangers,” a purpose-driven card game about creating meaningful connections. Register in advance. Hosted by Stone Soup Cafe. (Virtual) 

SPORTS/ ICE HOCKEY. 6pm. Belchertown Ice Hockey. UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave, Amherst, MA. 

MUSIC STUDIES. 6-10pm. Get Down with your Hometown: A Musical Event. (Virtual) 

ASTRONOMY. 6:30-8:30pm.  A Night Under the Stars. A planetarium show by Kevin Collins at Black Birch Vineyard. 108 Straits Road, Hatfield, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Puzzles

In honor of National Puzzle Day, let’s look through the lens of this relaxing and sometimes challenging pastime as a way of supporting interests and values. Socially, puzzles are a great intergenerational activity to do with the entire family and friends on lazy summer days and cold winter nights. But did you know that puzzles also support cognitive function? Up to 8 different cognitive functions are simultaneously activated when doing a puzzle. Getting curious about what happens in the brain when engaging with puzzles can support learning about neuroscience. Historically, affluent families used puzzles to teach children geography, while contemporary puzzles support multidisciplinary learning, including visual art, biology, anatomy & physiology, and even manufacturing. All of this and more is our self-directed learning suggestions for National Puzzle Day!

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SUNDAY, JANUARY 30, 2022

FAMILY RADIO: 7-8am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio) 

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice rink is open at Beacon Field. Greenfield, MA. 

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice skating rink open at Lee Athletic Field. Lee, MA. 

TRANSPORTATION/ LOCOMOTION. 9am-5pm. Railroad Hobby Show – Everything related to rail travel, from real-life railroad pieces to scale models and extensive hobby train set-ups. There will be displays from railroad historical societies, hobby builders, suppliers, and more – the event has something for everyone, whether you’re new to studying railroads and model trains or a seasoned enthusiast! Families can learn about the history of rail travel and the numerous types of trains and their uses. Kids can also learn about the history of railroad use in the area and how their community has changed over the years—hosted by the Amherst Railway Society at the Eastern States Exposition. 413-267-4555. 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA. 

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA. 

ECOLOGY/ SNOWSHOE HIKE. 1-3pm. Boreal Spruce-Fir Forest Ecology, Trees and Tracking Snowshoe – This 1-2 mile trek will feature the unique high elevation ecology of the boreal forest in winter and wildlife tracking and tree ID. If conditions allow, this will be a snowshoe program (or a hike). Tamarack Hollow Nature & Cultural Center. aimee@gaiaroots.com. 1515 Savoy Hollow Rd, Windsor, MA. 

ROLLER SKATING. 1-5pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA. 

PASTRY ARTS/ KINDNESS. 2pm. Bake for Good – King Arthur Flour has generously donated baking kits! It’s through their Bake for Good program. Support neighbors who can’t bake for themselves or who need a pick-me-up. Hosted by Erving Public Library. (Virtual)

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Self-Directed Learning: Winter Festivals

In the 19th century New England, the winter season was a time for gathering and socializing with family, friends, and neighbors. As the fields lay dormant in anticipation of the agricultural season, rural New Englanders used the cold season as a time for meeting friends, having conversations, and visiting with one another. Before the telephone or telegraph, visiting a friend’s home was a way to share news, gossip, and stories. With the invention of social media, automobiles, and blended fabrics, how do communities gather in the winter months, celebrating local culture and strengthening their sense of place? Find out in our post, Winter Festivals: Living Seasonally through History, Culture & Art.

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Self-Directed Learning: Ice Harvesting

Ice harvesting is an industry of the past whose roots lie only in cold climates – like western Massachusetts! Done both as a necessity in early New England and as a profitable industry more recently, ice harvesting plays an important role in local history, literature, and New England culture. In the days of western Massachusetts past, when refrigerators weren’t standard kitchen equipment, ice was quite a luxury during the summer. Early New Englanders would have to harvest and strategically store ice from local lakes and ponds to have ice after the spring thaw began. Kept in the proper conditions, the harvested ice would last much longer than the cold weather did. Learn more about this first (historically) harvest of the year and the forgotten history of ice!

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2022
Application deadline is today!

BOTANY. 9am-4pm. There is much to see at the Smith College Botanic Garden. You can spend many hours exploring the Lyman Plant House exhibitions, the Lyman Conservatory plant collections, the Campus Arboretum, and Campus Gardens. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.

PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley 

PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County 

PUPPETS. 10am. Puppets, songs, music, and dancing with Tom Knight! Geat for all ages. Join via Zoom. Hosted by South Berkshire Kids. (Virtual) 

PLAYGROUP. 10-11:30am. Otis Explore & Play. Join South Berkshire Kids or this caregiver/child program. Activities will include free play, crafts, stories, and songs. No registration is required. Masks will be required, except for children under 2. Held at the Otis Town Hall. Otis, MA.

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA. 

MUSIC PROGRAM/ PreK. 10:30am. Sing With Me preschool music program, hosted by the Hubbard Memorial Library. (Virtual) 

PLAYGROUP. 10:30-11:30am. For ages 0-5 at the Edwards Public Library. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 30 East Street, Southampton, MA.

STE(A)M/ PreK. 1pm. Pre-School STEAM Program. Learn how to inspire your kids to engineer, create, design, explore, and build at home. Becket Athenaeum. 413-623-5483. 3367 Main St, Becket, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 3:30-4:30pm. For ages 0-5 at the Westhampton Public Library. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 1 N Rd, Westhampton, MA.

ROLLER SKATING. 5-8pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA. 

ANIMAL STUDIES. 6:30pm. Understanding Your Best Friend – Love your dog, but not their bad behavior? Want to know why they bark or chew on your shoes? Why do they do what they do? Phil Klein, Certified Dog Listener, will teach participants to think like their dog and ‘speak’ the language of canines. Phil will go over the four key drivers of canine behavior, including the surprising cause of common issues like anxieties, excessive barking, aggression, jumping, pulling, destructive chewing, etc. Learn the simple, dog-friendly changes in interacting with your dog to transform its behavior in a kind, lasting way. Hosted by Montague Public Libraries. 413-863-3214. (Virtual)

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Self-Directed Learning: Lunar New Year

Let the Lunar New Year be your lens for learning about music and food traditions that are part of the celebrations surrounding the Lunar New Year! The Chinese calendar is lunisolar, meaning that the date indicates both the current moon phase and the time of the solar year. Because of this, the Lunar New Year (also referred to as the Chinese New Year and Spring Festival) takes place on a different date on our calendars each year and is always held between 30-45 days after January 1st New Year’s celebration. There are many traditions found in the celebration of the Lunar New Year. Learning about the food and practices, plus taking day trips to regional cultural celebrations, can support interests while making community connections. 

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2022

BOTANY. 9am-4pm. There is much to see at the Smith College Botanic Garden. You can spend many hours exploring the Lyman Plant House exhibitions, the Lyman Conservatory plant collections, the Campus Arboretum, and Campus Gardens. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.

PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley 

PLAYGROUPSSouth Berkshire County. 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County.

PLAYGROUP. 9:30am. Grow play & learn group. Join Pathways for Parents CFCE for Grow Play Learn on Zoom. This program is geared for 4-5-year-old children with a caregiver. This group will include a storytime curriculum, activities, and the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. A set of books (one per family) will be provided and picked up in the Discovery Room. Hosted by the Storrs Library. (Virtual) 

PLAYGROUP. 10-11am. For ages 0-5 at St. Philip’s Church Parish Hall. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 126 Main St., Easthampton, MA.

LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10am. Storytime with the Montague Center Library. (Virtual) 

PLAYGROUP. 10am. Learn n’ Playgroup with Community and Family Engagement West Springfield at Unico Building. 1 Unico Way. West Springfield, MA.

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA. 

LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10:30am. Preschool Storytime at the Hubbard Memorial Library. 413-583-3408. 24 Center St, Ludlow, MA.

LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10:30am. Storytime at the Westhampton Public Library. 413-527-5386. 1 N Rd, Westhampton, MA.  

STORYTIME & CRAFT. 10:30am.Storytime at the Becket Athenaeum. 413-623-5483. 3367 Main St, Becket, MA. 

NEW PARENT GROUP. 10:30am & 1pm. Beyond Birth groups meet weekly. New babies birth-6mos are at 1pm and older babies 6mos-1 yr are at 10:30am. Amherst, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 3:30-4:30pm. For ages 0-5 at Goshen Town Hall. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 42 Main St., Goshen, MA. 

GARDENING. 6:30pm. Gardening Preparation -February isn’t too early to begin thinking about garden prep, seeds, and seed starting. Learn about ways to get your garden prep going. Hosted by Southwick Public Library. To register, email southwicklibrary@comcast.net. (Virtual) 

ORNITHOLOGY/ HABITAT. 6:30pm. Iconic Birds of Massachusetts and their Habitat – Massachusetts is home to a fascinating array of birds with a wide range of available habitats. Join an experienced naturalist from Mass Audubon for an engaging talk about the noteworthy birds of Massachusetts and their incredible life histories. From migration to surviving the cold winters, we will explore the brilliance and challenges of our northeastern birds. This talk will include a captivating slideshow and discussion from a life-long naturalist passionate about birds. Learn more about these avian friends and where to find them. Hosted by Berkshire Botanical Garden. (Virtual) 

PASTRY ARTS/ GLUTEN-FREE. 6:30pm. Gluten-Free Pound Coffee Cakes – Learning that you or your child might have Celiac Disease or be gluten-intolerant can feel overwhelming and confusing when learning how to bake and purchase food for your family. With the ever-growing demand for gluten-free solutions, more bakers are trying to find the perfect flour formula that gives them the texture and crumb we are looking for in baked goods. Baker, Simona Pozzetto, has tirelessly developed a flour formula and baking techniques to create no-fail gluten-free pastries and cakes that truly rival traditional baked goods. Learn more with The Baker’s Pin. (VIRTUAL) 

MUSIC STUDIES/ MISSISSIPPI DELTA. 6:30pm. Music of the Mississippi Delta with Matthew – Celebrate Black history with a unique, educational music program tailored to all age groups that will have your feet tappin’ and your hands a clappin’! Travel along the Mississippi Delta and explore genres such as Ragtime, Stride, Boogie Woogie, and New Orleans Blues. Hear how they imparted their influence on Swing, Country, Rock n’ Roll, and other musical styles that forever reshaped how we think about music and the emotional response it triggers within us. Hosted by South Hadley Public Library. (Virtual) 

MUSIC STUDIES/ DOCUMENTARY. 7pm. Poly Styrene: I Am A Cliché – Poly Styrene was the first woman of color to front a successful rock band in the UK. She introduced the world to a new sound of rebellion, using her unconventional voice to sing about identity, consumerism, postmodernism, and everything she saw unfolding in late 1970s Britain, with a rare prescience. As the frontwoman of X-Ray Spex, the Anglo-Somali punk musician was also a key inspiration for the riot grrrl and Afropunk movements. This documentary follows Celeste as she examines her mother’s unopened artistic archive and traverses three continents to better understand Poly the icon and Poly the mother. Amherst Cinema. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity St, Amherst, MA. 

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Self-Directed Learning: Groundhog Day

The midpoint of winter in the United States is marked by Groundhog Day, a day with rich European history, “clouded in the mists of time with ethnic cultures and animals awakening in specific dates,” writes Bill Anderson in his book Groundhog Day: 1886 to 1992. Anderson also writes, “The groundhog tradition stems from similar beliefs associated with Candlemas Day and the days of early Christians in Europe. For centuries, the custom was to have the clergy bless candles and distribute them to the people.” Even then, Groundhogs Day marked a milestone in the winter, and the weather on that day was significant. Let this annual observation day support your learning not only in religious studies but also in animal studies and community traditions!

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2022

BOTANY. 9am-4pm. There is much to see at the Smith College Botanic Garden. You can spend many hours exploring the Lyman Plant House exhibitions, the Lyman Conservatory plant collections, the Campus Arboretum, and Campus Gardens. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.

PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley 

PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County 

PLAYGROUP. 10-11am. For ages 0-5 at St. Philip’s Church Parish Hall. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 126 Main St., Easthampton, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 10am. Join South Berkshire Kids for a parent-child program that will include free play, storytime, songs, and more. Best for families with children 0-5yo. No registration is required; however, masks are. Monterey Public Library. 413-528-3795. 452 Main Rd, Monterey, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 10am. Join South Berkshire Kids for a virtual playgroup. This program is full of music and movement! Be sure to register for a Zoom link and get up with the kids to move and sing during the winter months. (Virtual) 

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA. 

NEW PARENT GROUP. 10:30am & 1pm. Beyond Birth groups meet weekly in both Northampton (Thurs) and Amherst (Wed)! New babies birth-6 mos are at 1pm and older babies 6 mos to 1 year are at 10:30am. Northampton & Amherst, MA. 

ARTS & CRAFTS. 11am & 2pm. Crafts at Amelia Park Children’s Museum. 413-572-4014. 29 S Broad St, Westfield, MA.  

 

ART CLASS/ PASTELS. 1-3pm. Marshes and Lily Ponds in Pastel – Pastel is a fun and forgiving medium with a natural luminescence perfect for painting water. During the workshop, participants will use pastel as both a wet and dry medium. Students will learn unique color application techniques that lend themselves beautifully to this subject and color theory, value, and perspective principles that students can apply to all types of landscape painting. This class is suitable for self-directed learners of all experience levels! To register, please email programs@nohoarts.org with your name, address, phone number, preferred payment method, and any questions you may have. Hosted by Northampton Center for the Arts (Virtual) 

 

FOLK TOYS/ PLAY. 5pm. Kendama Club with the Pioneer Valley Movement Collective at Pulaski Park in Northampton, MA. 

ROLLER SKATING. 7-9:30pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Winter Bird-Feeding

February is National Bird-Feeding Month, a month dedicated to bird feeding and watching. This national observation month gives us an opportunity to support community- and place-based learning about native species and our local environment. In February, families are encouraged to learn together about winter bird-feeding, identifying visitors to their feeders, and the importance of habitat conservation. Read more in our post, February is National Bird-Feeding Month.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2022

BOTANY. 9am-4pm. There is much to see at the Smith College Botanic Garden. You can spend many hours exploring the Lyman Plant House exhibitions, the Lyman Conservatory plant collections, the Campus Arboretum, and Campus Gardens. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA. 

WINTER CARNIVAL. 9am-7pm. Greenfield Winter Carnival: Centennial Celebration. Hosted by Greenfield Recreation. Greenfield, MA. 

NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4pm. Home School Day – Learn by exploring a New England winter at Old Sturbridge Village. Warm-up by the fire while cooking over the open hearth, participate in winter chores, and learn about winter pastimes. In honor of Black History Month, some of the workshops and tours during this Home School Day will feature information about 19th-century African American figures in New England, from recipes to craft traditions. Old Sturbridge Village. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA. 

PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley 

PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County 

PLAYGROUP. 10-11am. For ages 0-5 at St. Philip’s Church Parish Hall. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 126 Main St., Easthampton, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 10am. Baby Lapsit at the Montague Center Library. 413-367-2852. 17 Center Street, Montague, MA. 

LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10am. Storytime with the Cushman Library (Virtual) 

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA.  

LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10:30am. Story time at the Gaylord Memorial Library. 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, MA. 

GRANDPARENTING SUPPORT. 1pm. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Tea Time, every 1st & 3rd Friday of the month, with Community Action’s Family Center. 413-475-1555. 90 Federal Street, Greenfield, MA.  

ICE SKATING. 11am-1pm. Homeschool Ice Skating. Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA. 

MINDFULNESS. 1pm. Mountain Mindfulness. A winter walk that incorporates elements of forest bathing, mindful breathing, nature connection, tree identification, and tracking, and meditation skills culminating in a fire ceremony and time for sharing and reflection. Leave with inspiration and skills for accessing the healing benefits of nature back home! Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA.  

 

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. 4-6pm. Family ice skate happens every Friday evening, sponsored by the Worthington Parks and Recreation Committee. Town Pond Park. Worthington, MA

ROLLER SKATING. 6-9pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA. 

NORDIC SKIING. 5pm. Notchview Friday Night Ski and Fire – An evening of nordic skiing followed by winter treats by the campfire. Headlamps and ski rentals are available. Ages 14+ Arrive 30 minutes early to allow time to receive ski rentals. Check their website for information on facilities and what to wear. Notchview. 413-684-0148. Old Route 9. Windsor, MA. 

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Self-Directed Learning: African American History/Poetry

February is National African American History Month in the United States. It is a time to honor African Americans’ work, achievements, and contributions. Literature, art, and community-based resources share stories and help us remember the struggle for civil rights and the importance of equality, civic action, social justice, history, and solidarity. Looking through the lens of poetry, Langston Hughes and Audre Lorde are two African American poets who illustrate the power of voice and words.

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Weekly eNewsletter

Online and in-person events and resources shared above are done so as a courtesy and not as an endorsement. While we do our best to share accurate and up-to-date information, please take the time to confirm information, age appropriateness, registration requirements, safety protocols, and associated costs.

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Hilltown Families’ list of Suggested Events is supported in part by grants from the Agawam, Amherst, Buckland, Chicopee, Colrain, Goshen, Granby, Greenfield, Hadley, Heath, Huntington, Northern Berkshire, Orange, Palmer, Shelburne, South Hadley, Tyringham, Windsor, and Worthington Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

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