Weekly Suggested Events for April 9-15, 2022

Home > Suggested Events > Weekly Suggested Events for April 9-15, 2022
With spring holidays, breeding season for many native animals, and wild spring edibles starting to emerge, learning through the season in early April is a rich time to explore food, habitat, and the humanities in western MA

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!

Hilltown Families’ annual Summer Directory is the region’s go-to online resource for families looking for summer camps, programs, and opportunities in western Massachusetts and neighboring areas! ♦ New listings are added each week, so check back often and be sure to subscribe to our weekly eNewsletter!

The Hilltown Community Development Corporation (Hilltown CDC) offers free, confidential business assistance to Hilltown residents. If you are thinking of starting or growing your business, the Hilltown CDC can help! And thanks to a generous grant from the MGCC, all of their business assistance is FREE. They have experts in a wide range of areas that can help Hilltown entrepreneurs get on their feet, including website help, social media marketing, business tax and accounting, legal assistance, and more. For more information, email Hilltown CDC Economic Development Director Michele Kenney at MicheleK@Hilltowncdc.org, or call 413-354-1055. Sign up for their free virtual classes at hilltowndirectory.com/events

All aboard for the Easter Eggspress at the Connecticut Trolley MuseumApril 9-10 & 15-16 from 10am-4pm. A great opportunity to visit the Easter bunny while learning about transportation & local history! Take a trolley ride operated by period-dressed motormen sharing historical information about the trolley cars & museum. The Easter Bunny will be roaming the grounds posing for pictures. Children will receive a surprise-filled Easter egg when they complete a Scavenger Hunt, make a Bunny Ear Craft, and visit the Fire Truck Museum. Earn up to 3 filled eggs! Cost: $13/Adults; $11/Kids ages 2-12. The Connecticut Trolley Museum is located in East Windsor, CT. For more info and to purchase tickets, visit  www.ct-trolley.org.

Autism Connections’ 31st Annual Autism Conference (virtual) on April 28 includes speakers, exhibitors, and breakout sessions on various topics of interest to people with autism, parents, caregivers, education agency, and education professionals. The two keynote speakers are Alix Generous, an #ActuallyAutistic advocate for advancing mental health reform and institutional treatment of autistic people, and Jed Baker, Ph.D., director of the Social Skills Training Project, an organization serving individuals with autism and social communication problems. Registration for parents/caregivers/people with autism is $50, and for agency professionals and educators, $100. Registrants will have access to the entire recorded conference until 7/29/22. 

The Institute for the Musical Art’s (IMA) residential music programs give girls access to top-notch facilities & instruments, veteran professional musicians & teachers, and musical exploration & collaboration. Explore Rock ‘n Roll (June 29-July3) offers girls 9-12 opportunities to explore instruments, to begin writing songs, and to participate in a concert. Teen Performance Program (Jul 8-17) offers girls 13-19 an opportunity to speak their truth through the medium of rock ‘n roll, gain confidence in performance abilities, improve musicianship, and develop collaborative leadership skills. Studio Recording, Engineering & Production (Aug 4-14) offers a hands-on studio recording seminar for women 16-22 who are ready to record their work and/or interested in engineering and producing. Dates: June 29-August 14, 2022; Age Range: Girls/young women 9-22yrs. Contact: 413-268-3074; info@ima.orgwww.ima.org.

In June of 2021, the Center School moved to a beautiful brand new building, situated on 30 acres of land to explore. Admissions season is underway, and the school is booking more tours than ever. Valley families are drawn to the Center School’s approach– weaving justice, joy, collaboration, innovation, and love into a unique educational experience. If you’re looking for a school where kids are immersed in 21st Century curriculum and in the timeless world of nature and play that is so essential to childhood, visit www.centerschool.net to learn more and to book an in-person tour today! Please email Lauren Obregón, Director of Admissions and Outreach, at l.obregon@centerschool.net with any questions.

FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
River Bend Farm Camps
Saco, ME

River Bend Farm Camps in Saco, Maine
Outdoors.

Join The Ecology School at River Bend Farm for a week of a lifetime along the Saco River in Southern Maine. With delicious farm-fresh food, arts & crafts, and ecosystem exploration, a summer spent on their 105-acre farm is sure to create quintessential Maine summer camp memories that will continue to inspire and encourage for years to come. Weekly youth overnight camp: June 26-July 23, 2022. Family camp: August 7-10, 2022. Dates: June 26-August 10, 2022. Age Range: 8-15yo & Families. Contact: 207-283-9951;  alex@theecologyschool.orgtheecologyschool.org/camps.

FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Berkshire Museum Summer Camp
Pittsfield, MA

Berkshire Museum Summer Camp
Outdoors. Indoors.

Do you have a junior archeologist? A junior curator? A chef? This summer at the Berkshire Museum, they offer classes to ages Pre-K to Grade 8 for all areas of interest! Each program is a weeklong experience catered to specific age groups. Campers will be led through their program by the museum’s expert educators and be immersed in the world of their choosing. The museum’s Junior Curator camp for Grades 6-8 will work hands-on with its Collections Department, exploring their collection and what it takes to create an exhibit. Or maybe your 1st or 2nd grader would enjoy their Kitchen Ka-Boom class, where campers will explore kid-safe chemistry and get messy! Want to learn more? Check out their website for a complete list of camps! Dates: June 27-August 26, 2022; Age Range: PreK-14yo; Contact: 413-443-7171 x360; erome@berkshiremuseum.orgberkshiremuseum.org/programs/camp.

FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Camp Common Ground Family Camp
Starksboro, VT

Camp Common Ground Family Camp Logo
Outdoors. Indoors.

Camp Common Ground (CCG) is an intergenerational family camp designed to provide families with a healthy and happy bonding experience while weaving in elements of nature education, arts, wellness, sports, and fun! CCG is dedicated to celebrating all families and cultivating a sense of community among campers. CCG’s 700-acre site in Starksboro, Vermont, provides campers with hiking trails, streams, ponds, and a low carbon footprint main campus to explore. Sliding scale fees include lodging in a tent, cabin, or lodge; all meals (local, organic, and vegetarian) and all activities. There is something for everyone’s taste – whether you want to ‘rough it’ or are more into ‘glamping’ – CCG has you covered! Dates: July 23-August 12, 2022. Age Range: 0-99yo. Contact: 802-453-2592; info@cgcvt.orgwww.cgcvt.org.

FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
The Bement School
Deerfield, MA

Photograph of three boys posing on the top of a play structure.
Outdoor. Indoor.

The Bement School offers summer programs for children from 4 to 15 years old. Children have the opportunity to enjoy the fun of a traditional day camp and help create their own schedule by choosing from our wide range of unique activities. Digging into Nature at Pine Hill provides outdoor education for ages 6-9. The Junior Camp provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for our youngest campers. The Adventure Day Camp offers activity choices that include sports, nature, arts and crafts, and swimming. The Counselor-in-Training program gives young teenagers experience working with children and developing valuable job skills while still enjoying the fun of summer camp. Summer Program dates are listed on our website. Sign up now as sessions are filling fast!

Dates: Summer 2022. Age Range: 4-15yo. Contact: 413-774-7061; summer@bement.org;  www.bement.org

FEATURED PRESCHOOL
Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Springfield, MA

Prelude Preschool of the Arts
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

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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, APRIL 9, 2022

ORNITHOLOGY/ PHENOLOGY. 7:30-11:30am. Birding Workshop: Spring Waterfowl – Enjoy the courting displays and sounds of ducks and geese as they make their way back to their breeding grounds in the north. Spring is an exciting time to witness some entertaining displays like the hooded merganser or the eerie but beautiful sounds of the wood duck as they settle into their breeding grounds. Take a tour of the Berkshire lakes and ponds, searching for spring’s incredible diversity of waterfowl. Pre-registration is required and hosted by Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA. 

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

ORNITHOLOGY/ PHENOLOGY. 9am-12pm. Birding By Ear – Spring is a time filled with the beautiful sounds of birds, many returning to their breeding grounds. Learn the difference between bird songs and bird call notes and how to identify birds by their songs. Hosted by Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-584-3009. 127 Combs Rd, Easthampton, MA. 

SENSORY-FRIENDLY/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 9-11am. The Springfield Museums offers Sensory Friendly Saturdays, the second Saturday of each month. Sensory Friendly Saturdays provide less noise, less bright light, and cool-down spaces for those who have sensory sensitivity. Sensory-friendly crafts for all ages will be available too. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.  

AGRICULTURE/FARMERS’ MARKET. 9am-1pm.  Pittsfield Farmers’ Market at Zion Lutheran Church. 74 First Street. Pittsfield, MA. 9:30 AM Northampton’s Week of the Young Child Celebration 

MAPLE/ AGRICULTURAL HISTORY. 9:30am-4pm. Join OSV for “Maple Days” when the Village’s working sugar camp demonstrates maple sugaring as it was done in early 19th-century New England. See the entire sugar-making process, from tapping the trees to “sugaring off,” and learn why maple sugar was more commonly used than maple syrup in early New England. Costumed historians will also cook period foods made with maple products, and the tinner and cooper will make maple-related items. Old Sturbridge Village. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA. 

SPRING HOLIDAYS/ EGG HUNT. 10am. South Hadley Easter Egg Hunt & Hat Parade – Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Hat Parade featuring an egg hunt with over 2,000 eggs and a visit from the Easter Bunny! There is also a hat parade where the children show off their finest Easter hats. Hosted by South Hadley Recreation Department at Buttery Brook Park. 123 Willimansett St, South Hadley, MA. 

FOLK ART/ EASTER. 10am-12pm & 2-4pm. Slavic Easter Egg Decorating Workshops – Celebrate the Easter season with a unique opportunity to learn a time-honored Eastern European craft. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum will offer its annual Slavic Easter egg decorating demonstrations and instructional workshops. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. 

BOTANY/ FLORIST. 10am-5pm. Family Day: Festival of Flowers – Explore the world of flowers through hands-on activities, including MYO bouquets, pollinator activity, flower trading cards, STEM, arts & crafts, and more. Takes place at the Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA. 

FOLKTALES. 1030am. Eshu Bumpus Storyteller/Jazz Vocalist – Eshu will tell African-American, African, & world folktales with music, humor, and mystery, a program for the whole family! All ages will be captivated. No pre-registration is needed. South Hadley Public Library. 413-538-5045. 2 Canal St., South Hadley, MA. 

 

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

VERNAL POOLS. 11am-4pm.  In Search of Vernal Pools – This opportunity provides students with fun hikes to vernal pools that need to be inventoried under the protocols of MassWildlife’s Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program. Youth participants will gain an intimate knowledge of the pools’ obligate and facultative species and aesthetic appreciation for this vibrant geomorphic phenomena. It’s a perfect opportunity for students to do something positive for our biome and the creatures we co-inhabit. Biocitizen. Northampton, MA. 

LOCAL HISTORY/ ICE HARVESTING. 12pm. Ice Harvesting and the Natural Ice Industry in New England – The ice harvesting industry began in Massachusetts and became a major U.S. export business in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Dennis Picard, retired director of Storrowton Museum, will discuss this industry and the tools and methods historically used in local ponds and water bodies. South Hadley Public Library. 413-538-5045. 2 Canal St., South Hadley, MA. 

TRANSPORTATION HISTORY/ EASTER BUNNY. 12pm, 1pm, 2:30pm. Bunny Hop Train Ride – HOP ABOARD the Easter Bunny Hop Train Ride! A costumed Easter Bunny will give out colored eggs while greeting kids on the train. Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum. 413-637-2210. 10 Willow Creek Rd, Lenox, MA. 

INDIGENOUS VOICES. 1-2:30pm. Indigenous Voices in the Berkshires – Nipuc/k Cultural Stewards, Liz Coldwind Santana-Kiser and Andre Strongbearheart. (Virtual)

THEATER STUDIES/ MUSICAL. 2pm. Big Fish A New Broadway Musical – Welcoming Big Fish A New Broadway Musical to the triumphant return of the Spring musical at Westfield Theater Group. Westfield Theatre Group.413-572-6838. 28 Court Street, Westfield, MA.  

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY/ CIVIL WAR. 2pm. (Re)telling Stories in Photography About The Black Civil War Soldier – Deborah Willis, the author of The Black Civil War Soldier, explores photography’s role in (re)telling and shaping African American narratives of the Civil War, the first conflict to be extensively documented through photographs. These luminous photographs helped construct a national vision of blackness, war, and bondage. Willis hosts this talk in conjunction with Clark’s exhibition As They Saw It: Artists Witnessing War, on view through May 30. (Virtual) 

ORNITHOLOGY. 7pm. Dance of the American Woodcock – Spring is when male American Woodcocks present a unique aerial courtship dance to attract a female. This spring ritual happens in fields just after sunset. Hosted by Mass Audubon Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary at Park Hill Orchard. Easthampton, MA.  

DANCE STUDIES. 7:30pm. Senior Dance Concert: Etiquette – The Smith College Department of Dance presents its 2022 Senior Dance Concert: Etiquette. The six graduating seniors, Sophia Botrán, Nicky Consales, Helen Danielson, Qingyang Gu, Sheena Kuhn, and Becca Soifer, examine how we choose to embrace or challenge cultural norms and what is considered polite. Mendenhall Center for the Performing Arts. Hallie Flanagan Studio Theatre. 413-585-2787. 122 Green Street. Smith College. Northampton, MA. 

THEATER STUDIES/ MUSICAL. 7:30pm. Big Fish A New Broadway Musical – Welcoming Big Fish A New Broadway Musical to the triumphant return of the Spring musical at Westfield Theater Group. Westfield Theatre Group.413-572-6838. 28 Court Street, Westfield, MA.  

MUSIC STUDIES/ PERCUSSION. 8pm. Mamadou Diabate & Percussion Mania – The internationally acclaimed balafon virtuoso Mamadou Diabate hails from the Sambla people of Burkina Faso where music and language are one in the same. A griot by birth and bandleader by trade, Diabate’s Percussion Mania mixes traditional West African storytelling rhythms and Western rock for a truly explosive stage show and a night to remember. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Colonial Cuisine

Following the Declaration of Independence and the American Revolutionary War, the colonial cuisine of North America changed forever. The early colonial Americans were forced to develop their unique culinary traditions without access to imported foodstuff from Britain and the West Indies. Of course, much of early American colonial cuisine was still linked to its British and European roots. Still, variations on traditional dishes were typical and indigenous cuisine was also a heavy influence. For the Puritans, who had come to the New World, particularly from the region of Anglia in Eastern England, traditional dishes were favored, even though substitutions had to be made. Apple pie, for example, perhaps the most quintessentially colonial American dish, is derived from a typical Anglian preparation. Baked beans and porridge were among the most common early staples among the New England settlers, and the abundant seafood offerings also became integrated. Perhaps the most unique adaptation in early American cuisine was the absence of wheat and the substitution of cornmeal and rye in most baked goods. This development is responsible for the innovation of the “johnnycake,” a flatbread made from cornmeal, which is common throughout North America and the Caribbean to this day. Something families can do together as a pathway to learn about American colonial history and culinary arts. Learn more about the 18th Century lifestyle and food traditions online with Townsends, where interpretive historians share the history and recipes.

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SUNDAY, APRIL 10, 2022

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

MAPLE/ AGRICULTURAL HISTORY. 9:30am-4pm. Join OSV for “Maple Days” when the Village’s working sugar camp demonstrates maple sugaring as it was done in early 19th-century New England. See the entire sugar-making process, from tapping the trees to “sugaring off,” and learn why maple sugar was more commonly used than maple syrup in early New England. Costumed historians will also cook period foods made with maple products, and the tinner and cooper will make maple-related items. Old Sturbridge Village. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA. 

FIBER ARTS/ WEAVING. 10am. Beginning Potholder Weaving Workshop – Wool-ology. 413-350-5158. 242A Greenfield Rd. South Deerfield, MA. 

ECOLOGY/ VERNAL POOLS. 10am-12pm. Vernal Pool Walk – Join the Berkshire Environmental Action Team and BNRC for an early spring walk to learn about vernal pools and why it is essential to protect these vital breeding grounds for amphibians and other fascinating creatures at the Hoosac Range, North Adams, MA. 

SPRING HOLIDAYS/ PASSOVER. 10am-12pm. Passover Story Walk and Chocolate Seder – In this family-friendly program, participants will have the opportunity to create a Seder plate, explore an interactive Passover story walk, and enjoy a chocolate Seder. Springfield Jewish Community Center. 413-739-4715. 1160 Dickinson St, 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.  

MUSEUM ADVENTURES/ FLORAL DESIGN. 11am-5pm. Festival of Flowers – Floral design and botanical whimsy return to the Springfield Museums during the 9th annual Festival of Flowers. Thoughtful interpretations will bring new perspectives to the objects and exhibits of the art, history, and science museums. Embrace the vibrant color and captivating fragrance of fresh flowers as we welcome spring in the galleries and on the Quadrangle Green. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA. 

TRANSPORTATION HISTORY/ EASTER BUNNY. 12pm, 1pm, 2:30pm. Bunny Hop Train Ride – HOP ABOARD the Easter Bunny Hop Train Ride! A costumed Easter Bunny will give out colored eggs while greeting kids on the train. Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum. 413-637-2210. 10 Willow Creek Rd, Lenox, MA. 

FOLK ART/ EASTER. 12-3pm. Pisanki Egg Decorating Class – Learn about the art of Polish & Ukrainian egg decoration at The Polish Center of Discovery and Learning at Elms College, the simple, batik-like process to produce a kaleidoscope of colors in geometric patterns on the surface of an egg. Pisanki (‘peace-AHN-keeh’) is a folk art custom of decorating eggs that has existed for centuries. Free for children under the age of 12. The event will also feature a live music performance by strolling musicians. The Polish Center will be open for viewing during the class. The Polish Center of Discovery and Learning at Elms College. 413-592-0001. 33 South St, Chicopee, MA. 

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

MUSIC STUDIES/ PIANO – 3-5pm. Valley Classical Concert: Richard Goode – Smith College Music Department and Valley Classical Concerts present a piano recital by Richard Goode. Acknowledged worldwide as one of today’s leading classical and Romantic music interpreters, acclaimed pianist Richard Goode performs an unusually varied program featuring music by Mozart, Brahms, Chopin, and Debussy. Sweeney Concert Hall, Sage Hall. Smith College. 51 College Ln, Northampton, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Financial Literacy

Money-saving is a form of delayed gratification, the ability to resist an immediate reward in favor of a later reward. Often, and especially in the case of money-saving, the later reward is also a greater one. Money-saving requires planning ahead, envisioning a goal, and exerting self-restraint. These skills benefit young children just as they benefit adults. Talking to your children about saving up for college or trade school, for example, can get them thinking realistically about their long-term goals and future planning. Learn more with videos from Two Cents.

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MONDAY, APRIL 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 the Meekins Library. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 2 Williams St, Williamsburg, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 10-11:30am. Pelham Playgroup & Music for Little Ones at the Pelham Library. 413-253-0657. 2 S Valley Rd, Pelham, MA. 

ECONOMICS/ HOUSEHOLD BUDGET. 1pm. Spend Smart. Eat Smart. – Do you find that you are overspending on food and groceries? Or do you want to adjust your food budget to cover other necessary bills? In this session, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will: Assess recommended guidelines for spending on groceries; Walkthrough user-friendly tools to help you make informed decisions on grocery purchases; Review planning ideas that can let you take charge of your food budget in a way that works best for your household. Leave the session with access to Spend Smart. Eat Smart. resources that make it easy to eat well on a budget. (Virtual)

CULINARY ARTS. 6pm. Cookbook Club-Perfect Pan Pizza – Becket Athenaeum. 413-623-5483. 3367 Main St, Becket, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Peregrine Falcon Breeding Season

Support interests in ornithology while connecting to where you live through the season … breeding season! Several web cameras around Massachusetts are available to the public to witness the Peregrine Falcon breeding season up close and throughout the spring! Get an inside look at the nests of the fastest birds on Earth through the live nest cameras. These cameras are pointed directly at or are within nest boxes and allow an up-close live look at nesting pairs and their chicks. Getting curious and viewing these native species throughout their breeding season can support learning in ornithology, anatomy, and aerodynamics.

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TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 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.

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)

STORYTIME 10:30am. Story Time at the Tilton Library. 413-665-4683. 75 North Main Street. South Deerfield, MA. 

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. 

GARDENING/ ORNITHOLOGY. 7pm. Gardening for Birds – Discover the joy of attracting your bird neighbors to your yard. Learn about the habitat needs of wild birds and how your landscaping choices can significantly impact bird populations. Native plants, both beautiful and practical to grow, can provide food and shelter throughout the year. Hosted by the Montague Public Libraries. (Virtual)

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Self-Directed Learning: Perspectives from Space

When humans leave earth and travel to space, they return with the universal reward of a new perspective. These videos highlight astronauts’ renewed viewpoints, echoing an embodied awareness through their experiences in outer space that we are all connected. In today’s self-directed learning module, listen deeply to the wisdom of these astronauts, discuss with your family, and share your thoughts on the human connection in contrast to our most recent times of social isolation.

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13, 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. 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) 

STORYTIME/ PLAYGROUP. 10-11:30am. Seasonally themed storytime/playgroups. South Hadley Public Library. 413-538-5045. 2 Canal St., South Hadley, 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. 

STORYTIME/ ANIMAL STUDIES. 10:30am. Spring Preschool Storytime series: Big, Bigger, Biggest! – Weekly storytime about big animals and learning perspective. Best for ages 2-5. Meets on the library lawn, indoors in bad weather. 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. 

MUSIC STUDIES/ PIANO. 12:30pm. Music in the Noon Hour: Tristan Teo – Visiting Artist in Piano Tristan Teo and other esteemed Smith College music faculty members will perform Bach’s thrilling Keyboard Concerto in D Minor, BWV 1052. Sweeney Concert Hall, Sage Hall. Smith College. 51 College Ln, Northampton, MA. 

STEM/ CHEMISTRY. 3:30pm. Monthly Slime Club for ages 8-12. Join the Berkshire Athenaeum for drop-in slime-making fun. Explore a new type of slime each month. Be sure to wear your messy clothes! Berkshire Athenaeum. 413-499-9480, x111. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, 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. 

STORYTIME. 4:15pm. True Tales! Stories about real people & events for 5-8 year olds at the Hubbard Memorial Library. 413-583-3408. 24 Center St. Ludlow, MA. 

ECONOMICS/ WOMEN’S STUDIES. 5:30-7:45pm. – Film Screening: “$AVVY: Women. Money. Freedom.” – $AVVY investigates the historical, cultural, and societal norms around women and money. With incisive humor and captivating honesty, $AVVY questions why women often take a backseat to managing their money and reveals why it’s increasingly critical for women to take the reins of their financial futures. $AVVY explores how and why our financial culture sidelines women and tells a new story about women taking matters into their own hands. How do we break taboos around talking about money? Why do financial gender roles persist? How does the lack of financial education in schools deepen inequities? $AVVY dives into the intersections of money and gender while offering advice from experts in the field about our shared question: What can I do right now to be smarter with my money? The film invites us to reflect on our relationships with money, invest in solidarity and resilience, and recognize that liberating our bank accounts is a step toward building the world we want to live in. Screening begins at 5:30pm, followed by a live Q&A with Dean Massey and film Director Robin Hauser. Register in advance to secure your seat. UMass Amherst. Flavin Auditorium. Amherst, MA.  

CLIMATE CHANGE. 6pm. How to Prepare for Climate Change – Hosted by Athol Public Library (Virtual) 

BOTANY/ WILD EDIBLES. 6:30pm. Edible Wild Plants of the Northeast -John Root will offer a PowerPoint presentation offering a comprehensive introduction to the identification and uses of wild plants for food and beverage. John will discuss the distinguishing characteristics, seasons of availability, habitats, preparation methods, and nutritional and medicinal value of our region’s most common and appealing wild plants. Questions and comments will be welcome after the presentation. Hosted by Emily Williston Memorial Library. (Virtual) 

MUSIC STUDIES/ JAZZ. 7:30-9pm. Jazz Ensemble Spring Concert: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles – Take a trip down memory lane with a travel-themed performance. A family-friendly mix of jazz standards and classic rock. Family-friendly. Sweeney Concert Hall, Sage Hall. Smith College. 51 College Ln, Northampton, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Theater Studies

During the season of high school musicals, let’s learn about the theater through a “behind the scenes” look at technology, choreography, costume design, rehearsal, stories, and the impact a teacher can have “behind the scenes” on a young child’s life. Through the lens of theater: examine the history and techniques of an 18th-century mechanical theaterreview 50 years of costume at the National Theatrebecome intimate with a costume from Disney’s The Lion King on Broadwaytake a tour of The Metropolitan Opera’s home at Lincoln Centerlisten to stories from a winner of a Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award for Best Play; and watch rehearsals with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 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.

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. 

SCIENCE. 10am. Slime Science – Explore the science of slime! Dive into details about polymer science with the Springfield Museums. Museum Educators will guide learners through activities and demonstrate different principles and concepts. Recommended ages: 6-12. (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. 

FOLK SKILLS/ SOAP MAKING. 5:30pm. Intro to Soap Making – This class is a fun and creative combination of science and art of making soap, covering the fundamentals of cold process soap making. Each participant will make and take home one pound of soap (equivalent to 4-5 bars) and will be able to choose their fragrance, colorants, and decorative botanicals to create custom bars. Age limit: 12+ with parent or guardian. LaunchSpace. 978-633-5131. 131 W Main St Suite 342, Orange, MA. 

OENOLOGY/ LIFE-LONG LEARNING. 6-8pm. Ever wonder how wine ‘works’? What am I tasting and why? How do I describe what I like so I can find a wine I can enjoy? Oenology is the science and study of wine and winemaking. Join other adults for a tasting seminar at Black Birch Vineyard. Explore where a wine comes from, what do labels mean, what you’re tasting, and why. Wine and wine tasting can be complex and intimidating. Still, this class will help you understand and break it down step by step. Takes place at Black Birch Vineyard. 413-247-3300. 108 Straits Rd, North Hatfield, MA. 

MUSIC STUDIES/ GUITAR & VOICE. 8:15-10pm. Got That Covered: Voice and Guitar – Vocal Performance and Guitar students collaborate to present unique covers of popular music. Sweeney Concert Hall, Sage Hall. Smith College. 51 College Ln, Northampton, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: American Sign Language

April 14 is national American Sign Language (ASL) Day. ASL was created by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, a minister, in the early 1800s. Before ASL, other forms of visual communication were utilized by deaf individuals in America. Learning a language is crucial to understanding the culture of the people who speak it. ASL is no exception. While learning a verbal and written language can open international possibilities, the learning of ASL opens possibilities within the local community. The pursuit of a second language can be fascinating when supported by valuable resources – and it’s great for hands-on learners! Read more in our post, ASL Support & Resources in Western MA.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 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.

YOGA. 9:30am. Free yoga class at the Chicopee Public Library. 413-594-1800. 449 Front St. Chicopee, 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.

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 STUDIES/ PreK. 10:15am. Caregiver and Child Music Class – Weekly, drop-in music classes for ages 0-5 + caregivers. Each 1-hour class will include fine motor instrument play, gross motor movement through dancing and drumming, and activities that facilitate essential social-emotional development. These include turn-taking, sharing, eye contact, team building, and memory work. The drop-in format will allow for families to join at any time. It will introduce young children to different styles of music, will enable them to experiment with a variety of instruments, and create an atmosphere of community connection through a shared, joyful experience. Meekins Library. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams St, Williamsburg, MA.

STORYTIME/ EASTER. 10:30am. Story Time with the Easter Bunny! – Come by the Wilbraham Children’s Museum playground and enjoy story time with the Easter Bunny! Wilbraham Children’s Museum. 678 Main St., Wilbraham, 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.

WALKING TOUR/ HUMANITIES. 2-4pm. El Corazón Walking Tours – Learn about the history of Main St., enjoy arts & culture, and tell your story with El Corazón/The Heart of Holyoke, a placekeeping and public art project on Main Street that reflects the vital Puerto Rican and Latinx culture of the surrounding neighborhoods. 401 Main Street. Holyoke, MA. 

MUSIC STUDIES/ TEENS. 3pm. Intro to Ukulele for Teens. Instruments are provided. No registration is required. Springfield City Library: Forest Park Branch. 413-263-6843. 380 Belmont Ave, Springfield, MA. 

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

ECOLOGY/ HERPETOLOGY. 6:30pm. Spring Frog and Salamander Search for Families – Search the woods and wetlands for fun and fascinating amphibians of the spring. Spotted Salamanders and Wood Frogs spend their days under logs, stones, and other forest-floor objects, venturing out only on cool, moist evenings. Participants will search for the sights and sounds of amphibians at night. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Good Friday

One of the oldest Good Friday customs is baking and sharing hot crossed buns. These small sweet buns, marked with a cross of white icing, may have originated in pre-Christian times. Early Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans marked their loaves of bread with symbols to honor their gods and goddesses. Many superstitions grew out of this custom, offering a terrific way for learning through the lens of hot crossed buns! So gather up your ingredients (gluten-free recipe) and get busy baking and learning in the kitchen with your kids.

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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, Cummington, Easthampton, Goshen, Granby, Greenfield, Hadley, Hatfield, Heath, Hinsdale/Peru, Huntington, Leyden, Montgomery, Mount Washington, Northern Berkshire, Orange, Otis, Palmer, Pelham, 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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