Hilltown Families 
Weekly Suggested Events for April 8-14, 2023
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!
SUGGESTED EVENTS: APRIL 8-14, 2023
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
The Institute for the Musical Arts (IMA) in Goshen, MA. IMA’s residential music programs give girls access to top-notch facilities & instruments, veteran professional musicians & teachers, and musical exploration & collaboration. Explore Rock ‘n Roll (Jun 28-Jul 2 & Aug 16-20) offers girls 9-12 opportunities to explore instruments, begin writing songs, and participate in a concert. Teen Performance Program (Jul 7-16 & 21-30) offers girls 13-19 an opportunity to speak their truth via rock ‘n roll, gain confidence in performance abilities, improve musicianship, and develop collaborative leadership skills. Studio Recording, Engineering & Production (Aug 3-13) offers a hands-on studio recording seminar for women 16-24 who are ready to record their work and/or interested in engineering and producing. Contact: 413-268-3074. info@ima.org; www.ima.org.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
The Hilltown Youth Theatre Summer Workshop offers intensive leadership training in the arts for aspiring actors, artists, musicians, singers, and circus performers (flying trapeze, aerial fabrics, lyra, stilts & more!). Join Hilltown Youth faculty & guest artists Matthew Glassman, Seth Glier, Andrae Green, Scott Halligan, Arlie Hart, Laura Iveson, Larry Sampson, and other luminaries from the Valley’s social justice & performing arts communities under the stars to create this year’s outdoor, traveling spectacle, CORALINE. No experience is necessary. HS-aged participants can apply for the paid YouthCorps program. Sign up for a pre-workshop Recovery Intensive. (See Hilltown Youth Recovery Theatre.) Hilltown Youth are pay-what-you-can programs. Contact: 413-625-2100. hyrt@hilltownyouth.org; hilltownyouth.org.
FEATURED SCHOOL
In June of 2021, the Center School in Greenfield, MA, moved to a beautiful brand new building, situated on 30 acres of land to explore. Valley families are drawn to the Center School’s approach, weaving justice, joy, collaboration, innovation, and love into a unique educational experience. Admissions season is underway, and the school is booking more tours than ever. If you’re looking for a school where kids are immersed in 21st Century curriculum and the timeless world of nature and play that is essential to childhood, visit www.centerschool.net to learn more and book an in-person tour today! For more information, email Lauren Obregón, Director of Admissions and Outreach, at l.obregon@centerschool.net with any questions.
FEATURED SERVICE
GreenLove Eco Cleaning is a socially responsible cooperative business committed to providing high-quality jobs and high-quality green cleaning services to the residents and businesses of the Pioneer Valley community. When you hire GreenLove Eco Cleaning, you are making the healthy, toxin-free choice for your home and our environment, and you are supporting quality, fair-wage employment in your community. GreenLove Eco Cleaning also offers a specialized service assisting families with newborns through their Postpartum Support Program, which offers cleaning services on a sliding scale discount during the transitional fourth trimester. Learn more: www.greenloveclean.com.
FEATURED MUSEUM
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
Amherst, MA
Head to The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art for April vacation week! Open Tuesday, April 18-Sunday, April 23, their galleries showcase an exhibition by award-winning artist Christian Robinson and a new exhibition, Eric Carle Loves Japan. Move your body with Yoga for Kids (April 15), and laugh with Happier Family Comedy (April 15). Enjoy a musical storytime with Hannah Moushabeck (April 16), or attend CactusHead Puppets’ performance of The Breman Town Musicians (April 22). Make art, enjoy films, and explore outside in Bobbie’s Meadow. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is at 125 W Bay Road in Amherst, MA. For more information on scheduled events, visit www.carlemuseum.org. (Image credit: ©2017 Christian Robinson.)
FEATURED APRIL VACATION CAMP
STEAM Camp at LaunchSpace
Orange, MA
April Vacation STEAM Camp at LaunchSpace in Orange, MA. Join their makers, artists, and inventors for a week of STEAM maker fun! Campers will be immersed in their 13,000 sq foot makerspace to explore slime, robotics, hands-on engineering, and two days of pottery. These workshops are designed for kids ages 9-12 and are held April 17-21, from 10am-12:30pm. Through the generous sponsorship of community partners at the Community Foundation of Western Mass, LaunchSpace can offer the camp series for $50 for all five days. If you are part of the Mass Cultural’s Card to Culture Program (EBT, WIC, or ConnectCare card holders), camp is $40 for the week. To register, visit www.launchspace-orange.com/classes. Questions? Email sid@launchspace-orange.com
FEATURED EVENT
Earth Day Week Festival
Easthampton, MA
Join World and Eye Arts for a full week of workshops, parade and performance around Earth Day. The Earth & Fire Arts Fest runs April 19-23, 2023, at CitySpace in Easthampton. Sign up for workshops run by professional artists, including visual arts, storytelling, and multi-disciplinary experiences about sustainability and our relationship with nature. Evening shows for teens and adults include exhibits, environmental groups and performances of storytelling, puppetry, dance, and music about care for the planet that sustains us. The weekend also includes a free giant puppet parade. For more info. visit www.worldandeye.com/earth-and-fire-arts-fest.html.
FEATURED FUNDRAISING EVENT
Runway 5K to benefit Treehouse Foundation
Northampton, MA
Be part of families helping families! Runway 5K, a race and family fun run-walk, happens Sunday, April 23, at the Northampton Airport to support the work of Treehouse Foundation. All proceeds from this fundraiser support Treehouse Foundation and their intergenerational community in Easthampton, where they invest in three generations: kids who have experienced foster care, foster/adoptive families, and older adults in a vibrant community.
Space is limited, so register soon at www.PledgeReg.com/Runway-5K.
More info about Treehouse Foundation at www.treehouse foundation.net.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Bement Camp
Deerfield, MA
Come to Bement for summer camp! A variety of programs, from day camp to outdoor adventure with AdventureEast to musical theater to digital storytelling, and much more, is offered for students entering kindergarten through grade 8. Check out their website Bement.org/Summer for information about all their programs. Registration is open, and programs are filling quickly. Contact the summer program coordinator at summer@bement.org with any questions.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Roots Vacation Camps
East Longmeadow & Westfield, MA
Roots Vacation Camps provide a safe place for kids to grow, learn and succeed. Campers enjoy access to state-of-the-art aquatics, gymnastics, athletic facilities, and the great outdoors. Summer activities include swim lessons, gymnastics/ninja lessons, turf sports, water activities, crafts, STEM, and special guests. Each week has a unique theme and dress-up day to spice things up! Roots offer weekly registrations and extended day options for those with long workday schedules. Contact: 413-729-0740. info@rootsvacation.com; www.rootsvacation.com.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Biocitizen: Our Place Summerschool
Westhampton, MA
Off the Screen and Into the Green! For five days, we roam our place—the valley and hilltowns—investigating our natural and cultural history with all of our senses while enjoying the whole-being stimulation of deep biotic immersion. Field Environmental Philosophy is what we engage in: the gentle unforced spontaneous student-prompted opening of the question, “how do we fit into all that’s around us?” Our Place activities are fun! They’re designed to increase students’ perceptual abilities, activate their critical thinking skills, inspire their creative imaginations, and counteract “nature deficit disorder.” Through active physical and mental engagement with “our place,” students gain a deep & lasting appreciation of it—and themselves. Contact: 413-320-0522. kheidinger@biocitizen.org; ma.biocitizen.org.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Sports Camp at Stoneleigh-Burnham School
Greenfield, MA
Franklin County’s YMCA Sports Camp is perfect for kids who love to be active & enjoy playing & learning various sports while making friends & memories! Campers ages 9-14 will have a specific sport focus every week, while the Sports Sampler will introduce younger campers to different sports, swimming, and hiking. All campers will learn, practice, and build upon skills for various sports. Led by high school & college students who have a passion for coaching, they will reinforce the importance of sportsmanship & fair play, all while excelling as role models. Campers will develop strength, endurance, and self-confidence through activities that promote teamwork & healthy habits, all while having fun! Sports Camp: Good friends & great adventures! Contact: 413-773-3646. dgarappolo@your-y.org; www.your-y.org/camps.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Northampton Parks & Recreation Day Camps: Safety Village, Camp Kidzone, Camp Hamp, & Teen Expeditions
Florence, MA
Jump into summer fun! Northampton Parks & Recreation offers a variety of day camps, sports skills & specialty programs for ages 4-15. Safety Village is a must for ages 4-6 to learn valuable safety skills and awareness in a fun setting with visits from fire & police, ambulance, bike and swim safety, plus more. KidZone (gr. 1st-4th) & Camp Hamp (gr. 5th & 6th) are held at Look Park and include games, weekly field trips, swimming, art projects & Pines Theater shows. Enjoy great theme weeks like Wacky Water, Under the Big Top, MVP Zone, Treasure Hunters, and more! Teen Expeditions (gr. 7-10) enjoys daily trips, including hiking, biking, and exciting destination trips. Northampton Parks & Rec is affordable fun that offers something for everyone! Contact: 413-587-1040. recreation@northamptonma.gov; northamptonma.gov/902/Summer-Day-Camps
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Academy of Music Theatre
Summer Musical Theater Workshops
Northampton, MA
Summer Musical Theater Workshops at the Academy of Music offer every child the thrill of participating in a show on the historic Academy of Music stage. This fun-filled and enriching summer program nurtures each child’s self-esteem. It fosters self-discipline and art appreciation through performance and movement-based experiences in a creative and collaborative environment. Workshop directors are accomplished educators and performers passionate about the craft and learning process behind every theater experience. “First Act!” (Ages 5-7) happens Jun 26-30. “Second Act!” (Ages 8-11) happens July 3-14. “Encore!” (Ages 12-15) happens July 17-28. “Reprise!” (Ages 5-11) happens July 31-Aug 4. “Spotlight Intensive” (Ages 13-16) happens Aug 7-11. Contact: 413-584-9032. education@aomtheatre.com; www.aomtheatre.com.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMPS
Girl Scouts of Central & Western MA
Harvard, Otis, and South Hadley, MA
Nature lover? Passion for science? Enthusiastic about art? Girl Scout camp has it all and is open to all girls–no prior Girl Scout experience needed to attend! Camping has been a cornerstone of the Girl Scout experience for more than a century. While girls are swimming, hiking, sailing, paddling & honing their skills on the archery range, they’re also achieving valuable life skills. Day camp at Lewis Perkins in South Hadley, overnight camp at Bonnie Brae in Otis, or Green Eyrie in Harvard. Stay a few days, a week, or longer at overnight camp. Girl Scouts’ dedication to progression in outdoor programming means campers practice age-appropriate skills & gain experience they need to feel confident taking the next step in their outdoor journey. Contact: 413-584-2602. info@gscwm.org; www.gscwm.org.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Summer at The Academy at Charlemont
Charlemont, MA
Calling all rising 7th-10th graders! Join The Academy at Charlemont July 24-28 for their Whitewater Kayaking & Hiking program w/Zoar Outdoor, or their Ultimate Frisbee sports camp experience w/Academy Coach Will Miller. Learn to navigate the hills & rapids of the Deerfield River Valley w/Zoar staff through an intro to whitewater kayaking, or hone your Ultimate skills w/a combo of agility, endurance & other Ultimate-specific exercise training, fundamental disc handling skills, cutting-edge offensive & defensive formations & strategies, & spirited engagement in low-stakes competitive games, all in a safe, supportive & enthusiastic environment. Transportation available from Greenfield & Shelburne Falls. www.charlemont.org/2023-summer-programs
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Community Music School of Springfield
Springfield, MA
This summer, make music with the Community Music School of Springfield (CMSS)! CMSS offers high-quality music instruction for students of all ages and levels, and their summer session features flexible scheduling and a choice of online or in-person learning. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned musician, CMSS takes the time to match you with a teacher who will connect to you while helping you accomplish your personal musical goals. Offering instruction in over 30 instruments and voice, their registrar team can help you decide whether to rent or purchase your instrument. Getting started is easy — your summer music lesson is just a click away! To learn more, call 413-732-8428 or visit communitymusicschool.com.
See Your Ad Here
Partner with Hilltown Families in your online advertising! Delivering your message each week to over 35,000 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.
Preschool Directory
Find what you’re looking for in our Preschool & Daycare Directory for Western MA
List of Weekly Suggested Events
SATURDAY, APRIL 8, 2023
FAMILY RADIO: 9-10am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio)
ART STUDIES. 9am-5pm. Mead Art Museum. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Dr, Amherst, MA.
EASTER/ EGG HUNT. 10am. Easter Egg Hunt – New Life Church. 317 Westwood Ave. East Longmeadow, MA.
EASTER SOUP & BAKE SALE. 10am-3pm. Haydenville Congregational Church – Come stock up on delicious homemade soups and baked goods for Easter! Frozen soups in pint and quart containers to be reheated at your convenience. Baked pies, cakes, cookies and more… and don’t leave without some of our famous Hot Cross Buns! Haydenville Congregational Church. 413-268-9344. 143 Main Street. Haydenville, MA
EGG HUNT. 10am-4pm. Eggstravaganza – The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center. 413-733-2251. 293 Sumner Ave. Springfield, MA.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM. 10am-4pm. The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES: 10am-5pm. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-5pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
LANGUAGE ARTS/ MOVEMENT. 10:30am. Dancing Stories – Participants ages 4-12 will be able to enhance their reading and story-telling skills through fun and engaging movement activities. Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA.
EGG HUNT. 10:30am. Eggstravaganza – Annual egg scramble. The Common. 100 First Street. Pittsfield, MA.
EASTER/ EGG HUNT. 10:45am. Easter Egg Hunt – The Episcopal Church of the Atonement. 36 Court St. Westfield, MA.
EASTER/ EGG HUNT. 11am. Easter Egg Hunt – Pre-register. 807 Wilbraham Rd, Springfield, MA.
EASTER/ EGG HUNTS. 11am. Easter Egg Hunt – Mary, Mother Of Hope Church. 840 Page Blvd. Springfield, MA.
ART STUDIES. 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
PLAYGROUP. 11:30am. Bouncing Babies – Music class for caregivers with littles birth-2yo. North Adams Public Library. 413-662-3133. 74 Church St, North Adams, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 1-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA. [
THEATER STUDIES/ MUSICAL. 2pm. Godspell – Celebrate and be inspired by this classic rock musical! Unity House Players. 245 Porter Lake Dr, Longmeadow, MA.
EASTER/ PASTRY ARTS. 2pm. Easter Cookie Decorating Class – Sweetwood. 1611 Cold Spring Rd. Williamstown, MA.
ART STUDIES/ DIVERSITY. 3-4pm. Drawing Differences Art Workshop – A curriculum created by Embrace Race for ages 9-11. Jones Library. 413-259-3223. 43 Amity St, Amherst, MA.
MORE EVENTS: Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
Self-Directed Learning: Food Studies/Hot Cross Buns
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.
SUNDAY, APRIL 9, 2023
FAMILY RADIO: 7-8am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio)
EASTER/ EGG HUNT. 12pm. Easter Egg Hunt – Former Cheshire School Grounds. Chester, MA.
MORE EVENTS: Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
Self-Directed Learning: Easter Kindness
You may have heard of the spreading of joy and creativity via yarn bombs, seed bombs, art bombs, play bombs … but how about kindness bombs? This spring holiday season, rather than plastic eggs filled with sweet treats made out of corn syrup and artificial ingredients, consider swapping them out with little notes of kindness! Make it a part of your family tradition, donate a basket of kindness-filled eggs to a community egg hunt tradition, or place your kindness eggs in a nearby park or playground for the joy of discovery by others. Brighten someone’s day while supporting values of kindness and community engagement.
MONDAY, APRIL 10, 2023
PLAYGROUP. Northampton Parents Center.
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS. Home. City. Families. in Springfield
MORE EVENTS: Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
Self-Directed Learning: Salamanders
In Massachusetts, there are 11 native salamander species. The most common salamanders in New England’s vernal pools are the spotted salamander, Jefferson salamander, and blue-spotted salamander. Take the time this early spring to look at the edges of vernal pools. Salamanders can sometimes be seen in the same areas where eggs are laid but are often found in clear, leaf-filled shallows. On the Big Night, salamanders can be found making their way to vernal pools, so tread with caution as you approach any likely habitat. You can identify spotted salamanders based on markings and body size. Spotted salamanders have bright yellow spots, blue-spotted salamanders have large blue spots, and Jefferson salamanders have small blue speckles and purple-y skin. Learn more about these native species!
TUESDAY, APRIL 11, 2023
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUP. Northampton Parents Center
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS. Home. City. Families. in Springfield
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM. 9am-4pm. The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
ART STUDIES. 9am-5pm.Mead Art Museum. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Dr, Amherst, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-3pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES: 10am-4pm. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES. 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
STORYTIME/ EGG HUNT. 10:30am. Egg Hunt Storytime – Bring your spring basket for a fun-filled storytime and egg hunt! Kids can enjoy making bunny ears crafts in the library or take them home! Ware Library. 413-967-4858. 37 Main St., Ware, MA.
LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10:30am. Story Time – All ages and abilities are welcome! Drop in for a relaxed story hour, listen to books, play, make a seasonal craft, and chat with other grown-ups. Tilton Library. 413-665-4683. 75 North Main Street. South Deerfield, MA.
ART STUDIES. 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 11am-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
MORE EVENTS: Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 2023
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUP. Northampton Parents Center
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS. South Berkshire County.
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County.
PLAYGROUPS. Home. City. Families. in Springfield
BOTANY. 9am-4pm. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.
ART STUDIES. 9am-5pm. Mead Art Museum. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Dr, Amherst, MA.
HOMESCHOOL/ NEW ENGLAND HISTORY 9:30am-4pm. Homeschool Days at Old Sturbridge Village. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA.
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4:30pm. Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES: 10am-4pm. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, MA.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES. 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, 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.
LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10:30am. Storytime – Westhampton Public Library. 413-527-5386. 1 N Rd, Westhampton, MA.
ART STUDIES. 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 11am-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
MORE EVENTS: Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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.
THURSDAY, APRIL 13, 2023
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUP. Northampton Parents Center
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS. Home. City. Families. in Springfield
BOTANY. 9am-4pm. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM. 9am-4pm. The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
ART STUDIES. 9am-10pm. Mead Art Museum. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Dr, Amherst, MA.
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4:30pm. Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES: 10am-4pm. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, MA.
ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES. 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, 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 STUDIES. 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
THEATER STUDIES/ HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL. 7pm. Shrek the Musical – Come along with the Westfield High School Drama Club on an exciting adventure to the swamp with Shrek the Musical! Westfield High School. 177 Montgomery Rd, Westfield, MA.
ROLLER SKATING. 7-9:30pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA.
MORE EVENTS: Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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 theater; review 50 years of costume at the National Theatre; become intimate with a costume from Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway; take a tour of The Metropolitan Opera’s home at Lincoln Center; listen 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.
FRIDAY, APRIL 14, 2023
On Friday, April 14, from 9:30–10:30am, join Playdates, an artful adventure program at Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA), designed for 2–5 year olds and their caregivers. Play-based activities, with museum educator Gina Hall and early childhood educator Ashley Miller, invite toddlers and preschoolers to respond to sculptures and paintings in the SCMA collection. The theme for the April 14 program will be “Lines and Curves.” To request an accommodation, email: museduc@smith.edu. Registration requested: www.bit.ly/ECCpresents. Image: Edgar Degas, French (1834–1917). Dancer on the Stage (detail), ca. 1877–1880. Oil on canvas. Gift of Paul Rosenberg and Company
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUP. Northampton Parents Center
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS. Home. City. Families. in Springfield
BOTANY. 9am-4pm.The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM. 9am-4pm. The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
PARENTING SUPPORT GROUP. 10am. New Baby, New Feelings – A free, safe, confidential drop in support group for mothers with infants. Community Action Family Center. 413-475-1555. 90 Federal Street. Greenfield, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES. 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 11am-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
PLACEMAKING/ ART STUDIES. 5-8pm. Arts Night Out – Northampton’s monthly gallery walk and art event. Downtown Northampton, MA.
THEATER STUDIES/ HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL. 7pm. Shrek the Musical – Come along with the Westfield High School Drama Club on an exciting adventure to the swamp with Shrek the Musical! Westfield High School. 177 Montgomery Rd, Westfield, MA.
MORE EVENTS: Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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.
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.
Subscribe ♦ Advertising & Partnership Opportunities ♦ Learning Opportunities ♦ en Español
Hilltown Families’ list of Suggested Events is supported in part by grants from the Agawam, Amherst, Bernardston, Buckland, Chester, Goshen, Greenfield , Hadley, Heath, Huntington, Lee, Montgomery, Northern Berkshire, Orange, Pelham, Plainfield, Rowe, Shelburne, Shutesbury, South Hadley, Southampton, Springfield, Tolland, Washington, Westhampton, Windsor, and Worthington Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
