Weekly Suggested Events for February 5-11, 2022

Home > Suggested Events > Weekly Suggested Events for February 5-11, 2022

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!

Learn at Morse Hill is an outdoor elementary homeschool program on 85 acres in Shutesbury, MA.
Now enrolling for the 2022-2023 school year!

Learn at Morse Hill is an outdoor elementary homeschool program on 85 acres in Shutesbury, MA. As this fully outdoor program plans for its third year of creating hands-on learning experiences under the beautiful hemlocks of Morse Hill, tours of the campus are now available and filling up quickly! Families may choose a full-time academic year program or select up to three homeschool days per week. Students enjoy a cozy yurt for warming in the colder months and build resiliency through Morse Hill adventure experiences, including canoeing, hiking, climbing, and a ropes course. To learn more, visit www.learnatmorsehill.com or reach out to Jess Evans, Leadership Team and Enrollment Coordinator, at enroll@schoolatmorsehill.org

Hartsbrook Farm Camp. Hadley, MA.
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

On Sunday, February 20, 2022, come to the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, CT, to meet John Collins, the Paper Airplane Guy! 
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 PRESCHOOL
New Hingham Regional Elementary School
Chesterfield, MA

FEATURED PRESCHOOL: New Hingham Regional Elementary School in 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 SCHOOL
Amherst Montessori School
Amherst, MA

FEATURED SCHOOL: Amherst Montessori School in Amherst, MA.
Ages 3mo-12yrs

Amherst Montessori School believes your child is inherently intelligent and that hands-on learning is critical to their developing brains. In mixed-age classrooms, your child is empowered to explore, discover, and learn through all five senses. In a beautiful new building designed uniquely for children, classrooms are filled with sunlight, natural materials, and views outside to playgrounds. Trained Montessori teachers nurture each child’s innate curiosity and independence. For more information: 413-253-3101; kedreich@amherstmontessori.org; amherstmontessori.org.

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

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.
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

List of Weekly Suggested Events

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2022

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

ANGLING/ ICE FISHING. 6am-2pm. South Hadley Sporting Club Ice Fishing Derby. On the Oxbow. South Hadley, MA.  

ANGLING/ ICE FISHING. 6am-2pm. Lanesborough Ice Fishing Derby @ Pontoosuc Lake. Lanesborough, MA. 

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. 

WINTER CARNIVAL. All Day. Greenfield Winter Carnival: Centennial Celebration Downtown Greenfield, MA. 

FANTASY/ DINOSAURS & DRAGONS. 8:30am-4:30pm. Dino & Dragon Stroll – Walk-thru and get up close to life-size and life-like dinosaurs and dragons that are so realistic, you will think they are alive! Also, enjoy dinosaur rides and dinosaur and dragon activities, including storytime and crafts. Use promo code to get $10 off: DINO10. (Sensory-Friendly @ 8:30am). Eastern States Exposition. 413-737-2443. 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA. 

ARTISAN SKILLS/ LEATHERWORK. 9am-12pm. Leather Gift Making for Valentine’s Day – Participants will learn how to cut, punch stitching holes in, add hardware, and hand-stitch leather in this workshop. Make the piece(s) uniquely yours or follow the templates provided by the instructor. LaunchSpace. 978-633-5131. 131 West Main Street. Suite 342. Orange, MA. 

LOCAL & HANDMADE. 10am. Love & Roses Craft Fair. 149 Exchange St, Chicopee, MA. 

NATURALIST SKILLS/. TRACKING. 10am-12pm. Tracking Workshop Series: Weasels and Rodents – Hoppers and bounders, like squirrels and weasels, leave behind fascinating tracking mysteries that reveal their secretive habits and survival strategies. Explore the trails at Pleasant Valley, searching for tracks, scat, chews, and other evidence of rabbits, squirrels, mink, fisher, and weasels, and unravel the mysteries discovered. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA. 

AGRICULTURE/ LOCAL FOOD. 10am-2pm. Grow Food Northampton Winter Market. Northampton Senior Center. 67 Conz St, Northampton, MA. 

AGRICULTURE/ LOCAL FOOD. 10am-2pm. Winter Farmers Market. Pick up supplies for family dinner night! Cooking together with the kids supports learning while strengthening family connections. 310 Appleton St, Holyoke, MA. 

ENGINEERING/ LEGOS. 10:30am-12pm. LEGO / Construction Club – Drop-in for A monthly Lego / Construction Club. Practice your craft, and become a LEGO Master. All are welcome. 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. 

ART STUDIES/ PLEIN AIR. 12-3pm. Land and art have been intertwined for hundreds of years. In fact, the historical tradition of landscape painting in Western Massachusetts by artists like Thomas Cole contributed to the American land conservation movement in the 19th century. In celebration of the historical tradition of landscape painting in Western Massachusetts, the Amherst Plein Air Society and Kestrel Land Trust present the first in a seasonal Plein Air Landscape Painting series. Artists will begin painting at noon. Then starting at 1:30 pm, viewers will be invited to wander the area and watch participating artists at work. Kestrel Land Trust House. 413-549-1097. 37 Bay Road. Amherst, MA. 

ANIMAL STUDIES/ BEAVERS. 1pm. Beavers in Winter – Discover what the winter lives of the ever-busy beavers consist of at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Participants will take a short walk over sloping and sometimes wet or rocky trails to explore the beaver ponds and wetlands they have constructed. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA. 

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES/ SNOWSHOEING. 1-3pm. Introduction to Snowshoeing – Add a new activity to your winter repertoire. This low-cost winter activity can change your relationship with winter. Perfect for all ages, it has surprising health benefits. Learn tips on equipment, technique, and clothing and why “snowshoeing is the best bang-for-the-buck, fat-burning workout in winter,” according to Dr. Ray Browning at the University of Colorado’s Health Science Center. Participants must be 18 years or older and comfortable hiking over moderate terrain. Snowshoes are available to rent. Northfield Mountain. 413-659-3714. 99 Millers Falls Road, RT 63, Northfield, MA. 

ARTISAN SKILLS/ CANDLE MAKING. 1:30pm. Candle Making Workshop for Teens at the West Springfield Public Library. 413-736-4561. 200 Park St, West Springfield, MA. 

LOCAL HISTORY. 3:30pm. Forgotten Trailblazing Woman of Lenox’s Gilded Age – Local historian and author Cornelia Brooke Gilder will tell the story of Constance Cary Harrison, theatrical producer and best-selling author in Lenox’s Gilded Age via Zoom. In the late 1860s, penniless but well-connected, she came to New York from Richmond, Virginia, after her husband’s release from solitary confinement in a military prison. Together they reinvented their lives, and she became one of the most popular novelists of her day. From their rented summer house on the Old Stockbridge Road in Lenox, Harrison staged plays at the Lenox Library and incorporated Berkshire scenes in her scores of effervescent short stories and novels. Hosted by Ventfort Hall. (Virtual) 

FILM STUDIES/ SILENT FILM. 6pm. The Man From Beyond (1922), starring Harry Houdini – Go back in time 100 years to 1922 when the incomparable Harry Houdini is Howard Hillary, a man who has been frozen in ice for 100 years, now thawed and revived. See the magic of the age of silent movies with accompanist Jeff Rapsis giving a live score. Greenfield Garden Cinema. 413-773-9260. 361 Main St. Greenfield, MA. 

WINTER CARNIVAL. All Day. Greenfield Winter Carnival: Centennial Celebration Downtown Greenfield, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Winter Tracking

Many wild creatures are tucked away in their winter homes during the dark winter months, but several remain active in the cold, camouflaged to blend with bark, leaf litter, or snow. You can learn about their behavior and activity by tracking them. Budding naturalists can learn to look for and identify signs, like tracks, scatdens, and nests. Tracking is a fun and educational way to learn about wildlife habits near you. Learning basics tracking skills help young naturalist read their environment and open up the winter landscape to curiosity and discovery. Read more in our post, Western Mass Winter Brings Tracking Opportunities.

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY, 6 2022

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

WINTER CARNIVAL. All Day. Greenfield Winter Carnival: Centennial Celebration Downtown Greenfield, MA. 

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.  

FANTASY/ DINOSAURS & DRAGONS. 10am-3:30pm. Dino & Dragon Stroll – Walk-thru and get up close to life-size and life-like dinosaurs and dragons that are so realistic, you will think they are alive! Also, enjoy dinosaur rides and dinosaur and dragon activities, including storytime and crafts. Use promo code to get $10 off: DINO10. Eastern States Exposition. 413-737-2443. 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. 

FILM STUDIES/ ANIMATION. 11am. Be My Valentine Charlie Brown – It’s Valentine’s Day again, and Charlie Brown dreams the seemingly hopeless dream of receiving a valentine from anyone. All the while, the rest of the gang have their trials, whether Linus struggles to get the biggest card he can for his beloved teacher or Lucy trying to get some token from Schroeder, while Snoopy and Woodstock are having fun spearing valentines on each other’s nose. Greenfield Garden Cinema. 413-773-9260. 361 Main St. Greenfield, MA. 

FIBER ARTS/ NEEDLE FELTING. 12-4pm. Needle Felted Landscape Workshop: Farm in Winter – Make a painterly needle felted landscape. You will learn how to transfer an image from a picture, blend wool colors, and manipulate your needle to achieve certain effects. Wool-ology. 413-350-5158. 242A Greenfield Rd. South Deerfield, MA. 

ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 1-4pm. First Sunday: Illuminating Illustration – Celebrate the art of illustration with free gallery admission and an afternoon of activities! Check out some examples of poster illustrations by browsing the special exhibition Hue & Cry. Visit the Manton Study Center for Works on Paper to view a pop-up display of works on paper. Stop by the Conforti Pavilion to meet an artist and try your hand at some illustration activities! Clark Art Institute. 413-458-2303. 225 South St., Williamstown, MA. 

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

ORNITHOLOGY/ CROWS. 4-5:30pm. Winter Crow Roost – Crows are among the most intelligent of birds, and wintertime presents an opportunity to observe crows at their urban winter roost sites. Springfield hosts one of the largest roosts in the state, with over 10,000 birds gathering each evening around sunset. Hosted by Mass Audubon Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. Springfield, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Chocolate

Chocolate (the seed of the plant, Theobroma cacao) takes a long journey before you buy it wrapped up at a store in heart-shaped boxes of Valentine candy. This delicious seed is rich in learning opportunities, supporting various interests, including food science, biochemistry, geography, chocolate history, economics, and social justice. Discover how chocolate is manufactured for Valentine’s Day by comparing and contrasting how artisanal chocolate is made in New York and Guatemala. Read more about seeds in our post, Mindful Engagement through the Seasons: Seeds, and check out a real-life Theobroma cacao at the Smith College’s Lyman Conservatory.

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2022

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  

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. 

PLAYGROUP. 10-11:30am. Learn n’ Play Playgroup – Open to all families with children ages 0-5yo Playgroup is a great way to support your child’s growth and development, social-emotional skills, and prepare them for preschool and kindergarten. Children will explore art, dramatic play, math, science, and literacy activities. West Springfield Public Library. 413-736-4561. 200 Park St, West Springfield, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 10-11am. For ages 0-5 at the Meekins Library. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 2 Williams St, Williamsburg, MA.  

AVIATION/ HELICOPTERS. 10am-3pm. Homeschool Days at the New England Air Museum – Helicopters 101: Meet an engineer & climb inside our fully restored Sikorsky CH-54B Skycrane. Themed scavenger hunts, hands-on Build and Fly Challenges, open cockpits in historic aircraft, and family-friendly tours. New England Air Museum. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Rd, Windsor Locks, CT. 

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Self-Directed Learning: Soup

A warm bowl of soup on a cold New England winter’s eve can not only nourish your body, but it can also be a catalyst for learning! Soup recipes from across the world and across time are great for learning about history, agriculture, and culinary arts. Mediterranean White Bean Soup, French Onion Soup, and Mushroom Barley Soup are examples of soups with which New Englanders might be familiar. Still, there are soups from all over the world and across the country that can satiate curiosity about nutritional anthropology, world history, and food studies. Let soup be your lens for learning and nourishing your body, and your mind!

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2022

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   

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. 

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. 5:30pm. Wonders of Winter: Owls of the Berkshires – Explore the chilly winter world of the many animals that live among us, including owls! Hosted by Mass Audubon with the Lenox Library. 413-637-0197. (Virtual) 

ANGLING/ ICE FISHING. 6pm. Ice Fishing Clinic – If you have ever been curious about this fun wintertime activity, now is your chance to learn. MassWildlife’s Angler Education Program will host this online one-hour ice fishing clinic on Zoom. Learn what safe ice is, how to test for it, how to appropriately dress for the experience, as well as all the necessary gear and tips to get you started. Hosted by Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. (Virtual) 

FOOD HISTORY. 6:30pm. A Perky Pairing with Kim Larkin – Join Kim Larkin for a talk highlighting the history and health benefits of coffee and dark chocolate (cacao), with insights from Kim’s experience as a commercial chocolatier. Samples will be available. West Springfield Public Library. 413-736-4561. 200 Park St, West Springfield, MA. 

ART HISTORY. 7pm. Discovery of a Masterpiece – Mallory Mortillaro serves as the Curator of Collections for the Hartley Dodge Foundation in Madison, NJ. While she was cataloging the artwork housed inside the Hartley Dodge Memorial, she uncovered a masterpiece that had been lost to the art world since the 1930s. After a year of research, the piece was authenticated as an official work by Auguste Rodin. Via Zoom, Mallory will share the story of how a simple art cataloging project evolved into a search for a mysterious piece’s provenance and became one of the most significant art finds in recent history. Hosted by the Jones Library. (Virtual)

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Self-Directed Learning: National Kite Day

For National Kite Day, let’s learn through the lens of kites! Kites lend themselves to lessons in geometry, physics, measurement, design, history, culture, literature, and more – and such lessons can be exciting and informative for kids of all ages. The best way to learn is by building and flying your very own kite! Kite Plan Base offers a database of over 1,500 kite plans. Their designs often require a basic understanding of geometry, measurement, and perhaps a little bit of physics to understand how the kite will fly. Carrying out one of their plans is an excellent way for older students to practice these concepts and expand their understanding. Families can also make a simple construction paper kite using sticks found outside. Other DIY ideas include taking leftover wax or tissue paper to create a  colorful flying creature, stapling together printer paper for a  binoculars-shaped flying object, or turning paper shopping bags into uniquely decorated kites. These projects present an opportunity to practice cooperating, reading and following directions, motor-related skills like tracing and cutting, and using measurement tools, and allow plenty of space for kiddos to exercise their imagination and creativity!

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2022

PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley 

PLAYGROUPSSouth Berkshire County. 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County  

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. 

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. 

MINDFULNESS/ FOREST BATHING. 10am. Forest Bathing/Shinrin Yoku – Shinrin Yoku is the Japanese practice of taking in the forest atmosphere. A guide will lead participants on a slow, intentional walk into the woods to de-stress and reconnect with nature. Intergenerational/ages 8+ Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA. 

 

FILM MAKING/ STOP MOTION. 2:15pm. Teen Stop Motion Animation – Create a short stop motion animation film! For self-directed learners ages 12-18. Southwick Public Library. 413-569-1221. 95 Feeding Hills Road. Southwick, MA. 

STEM/ CHEMISTRY. 3:30pm. Monthly Slime Club for ages 8-12. Explore a new type of slime each month. Bring your curiosity and wear your messy clothes! Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA. 

ANGLING/ ICE FISHING. 6pm. Introduction to Ice Fishing – Are you interested in giving ice fishing a try but maybe don’t know where to start? Join the MassWildlife Angler Education Program, Tatnuck Brook Watershed Association, and Indian Lake Watershed Association for an introductory, all ages, ice fishing how-to program. This two-part event will begin with a virtual learning class hosted by MassWildife to provide participants with an overview of ice fishing equipment, techniques, rules, and the safety elements required to enjoy winter fishing. Hosted by Worcester Dept. of Sustainability and Resilience. (Virtual) 

HISTORY/ JAPAN. 6:30pm. Culture of Japanese Toilets – Learn about the history of Japanese toilets and their appearance throughout Japan’s literary and visual history tradition. A truly memorable and enlightening talk by Sharon Domier from UMass. Email tiltonlibrary@cwmars.org to register & receive Zoom link. (Virtual)

PARENTING WORKSHOP. 7pm. Parent Workshop with Scott Noyes on Zoom. Topic, Parent/Child Interactions & Self-Esteem – By evaluating the phrases children are told daily, parents and care providers understand the impact of their words. This workshop looks at ten common expressions adults use with kids. Discovering language flaws and finding ways to express ourselves better supports healthy relationships with children. Avoiding the pitfalls in communicating with children is the primary focus of this exciting session. Hosted by South Berkshire Kids. Email southberkshirekids@gmail.com for Zoom link. (Virtual)

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Self-Directed Learning: Letter Writing

While it seems easy to explore a multitude of activities in the summertime, the wintertime provides the space for quieter activities, new hobbies, or creative outlets that encourage reflection. The intense winter storms and their impact on travel keep us inside to discover new activities or pastimes. Winter days feel quiet and reflective as our time indoors beckons us to think more about spending our time intentionally. Let’s look at the art of letter writing and how Epistolary Novels can help us connect our interest in correspondence with literature. Read more in our post, The Art of Letter Writing.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2022

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  

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. 

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.   

LITERACY/PreK. 10:30am. Puppet Show with Talking Hands Theater – An electric car, a hybrid car, and a gas-powered car have a race. Who will win the mystery prize? Everyone will have to work together to spell out the prize no matter who wins. This show focuses on early literacy and potty training. For ages 2-6. Hosted by the Southwick Public Library. (Virtual) 

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

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

BIOLOGY/ BEARS. 4pm. All About Black Bears – Learn about black bears in the Berkshires and beyond with MassWidlife Black Bear & Furbearer Biologist Dave Wattles. Dave will discuss their habitat needs, population dynamics, and bear safety. Hosted by Berkshire Natural Resources Council. (Virtual) 

SOCIAL STUDIES. 5:30pm. Fashion, Subculture, and Cosplay: A Conversation with Frenchy Lunning and Christopher Bolton – A discussion about the way that fashion, fandom, and self-expression play a role in cultural and community formation, inspired by the exhibition Repro Japan: Technologies of Popular Visual Culture at Williams College Museum of Art. (Virtual) 

MUSIC HISTORY. 7-8:30pm. The Beatles – 50 Years Later – A respected musicologist once described The Beatles as “One of the most transformative entities of 20th-century music” and claimed that they changed the course of popular music forever. Can that possibly be true? Musician and educator Barry Wiesenfeld will illustrate why they really were music pioneers via Zoom. Hosted by the Great Barrington Libraries. (Virtual) 

NATIVE AMERICAN HISTORY. 7pm. Learn about the indigenous people of our area. The Forge Project is an Indigenous-led organization focusing on Indigenous communities who work for land justice, climate activism, and cultural awareness. Heather Bruegl, Director of the Forge Project, will speak on Native American History in Berkshire County via Zoom. (Virtual) 

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

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Self-Directed Learning: Ice Fishing

As part of our local heritage, ice fishing has a long history linked to food and survival. In the mid-winter, opportunities to learn about and participate in ice fishing occur in the region. Sporting clubs, environmental organizations, and civic groups often host ice fishing derbies and clinics. Get curious about the techniques of hardwater fishing, why fish don’t freeze in frozen lakes, what’s life like under ice in other regions, how to prep and cook fish, and what to do if you fall through the ice. (And how to stay safe, to begin with!) Learning through the lens of ice fishing, supporting your interests in angling, biology, culinary arts, and naturalist & survivalist skills.

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2022

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  

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.  

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.  

ICE SKATING. 12-2pm. Homeschool Ice Skating. Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA. 

PLAYGROUP/ MUSIC & MOVEMENT. 1:30pm. Music and Puppets with Tom Knight – Join other families for singing, jumping, and playing led by Tom Knight and Allie the Alligator! Hosted by Home City Families. (Virtual) 

STEM. 3:30pm. Science Rocks! – Science concepts and a fun project too! Minerals and crystals – making borax snowflakes. For ages 9-12. Registration required. West Springfield Public Library. 413-736-4561. 200 Park St, West Springfield, MA. 

ARTS & CRAFTS. 3:30-6:30pm. Card Stamping Workshop – Learn how to create two beautiful handmade greeting cards at the Sunderland Public Library. 20 School Street, Sunderland, 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. 

ANIMAL STUDIES/ HIKING. 6:30pm. Starlight Owl and Wildlife Prowl – Enjoy a starlit evening listening and watching for owls and other nocturnal wildlife. Participants will explore fields, forests, and wetlands, learning about animal adaptations for night hunting. This program will enjoy a gentle walk over sometimes uneven terrain, but with plenty of stopping and listening. Lime Kiln Farm Wildlife Sanctuary. Sheffield, MA. 

SPORTS/ BASKETBALL. 7pm. The Harlem Globetrotters will be at the MassMutual Center. 413-787-6610. 1277 Main St, Springfield, MA. 

DANCE STUDIES/ BALLET. 7:30pm. Russian Ballet Theatre presents Swan Lake, a new production of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s timeless classic. Academy of Music Theatre. 413-584-9032. 274 Main St., Northampton, MA. 

THEATER. 7:30pm. KoFest presents Piti Theatre Company’s Canary in a Gold Mine. (Virtual)

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Self-Directed Learning: Owls

Mid to late winter, many conservation and environmental organizations host Owl Prowls, an opportunity to go on a guided hike at night with a local naturalist, listening for and learning about owls! Check with Mass Audubon, The Trustees of Reservations, DCR, and local nature centers for upcoming events, and learn a bit about owls before participating. Get curious about the calls of different owl species, why they are active in the winter, how they fly so silently, what is an owl pellet (and what’s inside!), and how you can support owl populations as a citizen scientist. — Be sure to check out our literary guide for Owls in the Family too. This story is much more than just an animal story. The book also challenges readers to think about their connection to the natural world surrounding them and question the relationship humans have with wild animals.

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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, Becket, Bernardston, Buckland, Chicopee, Colrain, Easthampton, Goshen, Granby, Greenfield, Hadley, Hatfield, Heath, Huntington, Montgomery, Northern Berkshire, Orange, Palmer, Rowe, Shelburne, Shutesbury, South Hadley, Tolland, Tyringham, Windsor, and Worthington Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

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