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
SUGGESTED EVENTS: MAY 6-12, 2023
Saturday, May 6, 2023
Sunday, May 7, 2023
Monday, May 8, 2023
Tuesday, May 9, 2023
Wednesday, May 10, 2023
Thursday, May 11, 2023
Friday, May 12, 2023
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IDEAS
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES & OPPORTUNITIES
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities FEATURED MUSEUM EVENT
Playdates at Smith College Museum of Art in Northampton: Artful adventures in & around the museum for 2-5 year-olds & their caregivers! Play-based activities led by museum educator Gina Hall & early childhood educator Ashley Miller invite toddlers & preschoolers to respond to sculptures & paintings in the SCMA collection. The program theme for Fri., May 5 @ 9:30am is “Color and Texture.” This free program is created in collaboration with Northampton Public Schools Early Childhood Center. Registration requested: www.bit.ly/ECCpresents . To request accommodation, email: museduc@smith.edu . – Image: Louisa L. Chase, American (1951–2016). Fire and Rain , 1981. Acrylic on cotton canvas. Gift of Nancy K. Smith, class of 1953, in honor of 55th reunion.
FEATURED THEATER EVENT
This Spring, Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s Stage2 is taking you to another world unlike any you’ve seen before. Your destination is the planet of Verona, where a familiar tale will unfold. Directed by Associate Artistic Director Bryn Boice, this production of Romeo & Juliet Homeschool groups may book through the booking form for student matinee performances or at commshakes.org/rj23 for their general audience weekend performances.
FEATURED PRESCHOOL
Amherst Montessori School For more information: 413-253-3101; kedreich@amherstmontessori.org ; amherstmontessori.org .
FEATURED SUMMER THEATER PROGRAM The Recovery Theatre offers intensive leadership training in the arts for young people overcoming trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and other behavioral health challenges. This 6-day camp is for any teen living with barriers that prevent them from becoming their fullest self. Their innovative, strength-based, holistic model incorporates families and social support & emphasizes peer interaction. They integrate therapeutic horseback riding, circus (flying trapeze, silks, lyra), outdoor adventure (ziplines, aerial park, whitewater rafting), and the gorgeous natural landscape of West County. No prior experience necessary. Join the summer spectacle! (See Hilltown Youth Theatre Summer Workshop .) Hilltown Youth are pay-what-you-can programs. Contact: 413-625-2100. hyrt@hilltownyouth.org ; hilltownyouth.org .
Does your child want to make art this spring? Sign them up for a free Spring Art Studio Series at Amelia Park Children’s Museum Westfield , designed to enrich the artistic talents and sensibilities of local 4 to 8-year-olds . Participants will create masterpieces in watercolor, acrylic, mixed media, and fiber arts for four Thursday afternoons in May ! Each session will feature a local artist and APCM staff teaching a different medium. APCM Art Studio will offer all supplies for classes. This series will conclude on Thursday, June 1, with a student exhibition. Spaces are limited. Click here to register today!
A showcase of horticulture and garden design and a “museum of living things,” Berkshire Botanical Garden’s 24 acres feature dozens of display areas that are educational, functional, and highly ornamental , with plant collections emphasizing plants that are native to the Northeast or that thrive in Zone 5b. Online and on-campus classes , workshops , lectures , exhibits , and special events are offered year-round. Berkshire Botanical Garden . 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge, MA.
Archery classes all summer! At Look Memorial Park, Sattva Center for Archery Training offers outdoor target archery classes all week, all summer. Sattva’s experienced coaches provide a welcoming and professional atmosphere for participants of all levels. All classes are multi-generational and multi-level: an excellent experience for family groups and friends! Classes meet once a week for five weeks. Private lessons and custom groups are also available. Equipment included. Para-athletes are welcome. For youths ages 9+ through adults. Inner Strength Through Archery. Contact: 413-485-4313. hello@sattvaarchery.com ; sattvaarchery.com .
FEATURED SUMMER CAMPBecket Day Camp
June 26-August 18, 2023. Ages 5-12yo.
Becket Day Camp YMCA is a full-day program for campers ages 5-12 looking for exciting activities in a rustic camp setting. Activities include – Swimming, Canoeing, Archery, Sports, Arts and Crafts, Outdoor Living Skills, Hiking, and More! Extended hours and bus transportation are included in the price.
Contact: 413-623-8991. hduval@bccymca.org . www.bccymca.org .
The Children’s Chorus of Springfield (CCS) Summer Sing at the Community Music School of Springfield (CMSS) will be a “triple treat!” Taking place July 10-21 (M-F only) from 10am-1pm, students will sing, move and collaborate on an art mural project for the two weeks of the program. The program will culminate with a performance at the “Jazz and Roots Festival” on July 21 and a colorful, student-art-inspired mural on permanent display at CMSS. Students will literally be able to leave their mark on CMSS this summer! Faculty includes CMSS Children’s Chorus Director, Laurie Ellington. Financial Aid/Scholarship is available. Contact: 413-732-8428. info@communitymusicschool.com ; www.communitymusicschool.com .
The Tree of Life Forest School offers hands-on, place-based, healing education for children ages 4.5-8. They are located on a small homestead with nearby trails on unceded Nipmuc and Pocumtuck land. Days are full of the wonder of nature, creative play, purposeful work, and artistic activity. Nature’s tranquility, beauty, and harmony allow children to fully experience life, themselves, and each other. Authentic sensory experience creates the foundation for learning. As children feel, listen, and move in nature, they build a living inner experience that will remain at their core. Nature is an inclusive place for all children to learn and grow. Rachel is a loving and insightful teacher with 15 years of Waldorf teaching experience. For more information: 413-658-4182; treeoflifeforestschool@gmail.com ; www.treeoflifeforestschool.com
The Common Schoo l, serving children ages 3-12 , has selected elementary openings for the ‘23-24 school year . Come see how students are engaged in a transformative education that cultivates a love of learning, critical thinking, compassion for others, and a deep commitment to social justice and the environment. Book a campus tour today and visit www.commonschool.org .
FEATURED LOCAL BUSINESS 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 .
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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.
List of Weekly Suggested Events
SATURDAY, MAY 6, 2023
🐦 ORNITHOLOGY. 8-10am. Enjoy the Birds of Spring – Get ready to explore the diverse bird species! This workshop is an excellent opportunity for anyone who wants to learn more about birds and their habitat. Participants will focus on identifying birds by sight and sound while walking through the park’s woodlands. Stephen Svec, a naturalist with 30 years of experience leading trips and teaching bird biology, will guide participants through spotting Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Baltimore Orioles, and several species of warblers, making it a perfect chance to immerse in nature and learn more about the local ecosystem. Stanley Park. 413-568-9312. 400 Western Ave, Westfield, MA.
FAMILY RADIO : 9-10am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio )
🐦 ORNITHOLOGY . 9-11am. Returning Migrant Bird Walk – As the weather warms, migrating birds return to the area, making it the perfect time to learn about these winged visitors. The walk will provide an opportunity to identify birds by their songs, habitat, and behaviors while learning about their migration patterns’ ecological importance. Connect with nature and expand your knowledge of the local bird species. Meet at the Pulaski Park parking lot for the start of the walk. Holyoke Heritage State Park. 413-534-1723. 221 Appleton Street, Holyoke, MA.
🌱 BOTANY/ SPRING EPHEMERALS. 9-11am. Spring Wildflower Walk – Embark on a guided Spring Wildflower Walk with Ed Neumuth to explore the local habitats of New England during the spring season. Take a stroll and catch a glimpse of the stunning and diverse flora that thrives in the region during this time. With the guidance of a knowledgeable leader, attendees can learn to identify various wildflowers, including trout lily, spring beauty, blue cohosh, wild ginger, hepatica, bluets, and red trillium. This walk provides an excellent opportunity to gain insight into the unique ecosystem of New England and develop a deeper appreciation for its natural beauty. Hosted by Becket Athenaeum. 413-623-5483. 3367 Main St, Becket, MA.
🍞 LOCAL HISTORY/ CULINARY ARTS. 9am-4pm. Baking in the Beehive Oven – Experience baking in a traditional beehive oven, an essential piece of early American culinary history. Participants will work alongside experienced hearth cooks to prepare and bake a variety of traditional New England baked goods, such as crusty bread, pie, and biscuits. Learn about the history and technology behind the beehive oven, and gain hands-on experience with traditional cooking methods. All ingredients and materials will be provided. Suitable for all skill levels. Take advantage of this opportunity to immerse yourself in early American culinary history! Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
ART STUDIES . 9am-5pm. Mead Art Museum – Search for secret doors in a seventeenth-century paneled room. Puzzle over a cuneiform inscription that praises a powerful Assyrian king. Marvel at a hanging sculpture spinning in a still gallery. Visitors to the Mead Art Museum do so much more than see objects—at the Mead, art is experienced, investigated, and explored. The Mead offers a world of resources for connecting art across countless cultures, mediums, and eras, set on Amherst College’s beautiful main quadrangle and flanked by a fascinating, stand-alone stone steeple. Mead Art Museum. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Dr, Amherst, MA.
🌱 BOTANY/ WILD EDIBLES. 9:30am-12pm. Plants of Spring: Wild Edibles – Participating in a guided walk to learn about wild spring edibles can be an excellent opportunity to support learning about botany and food security. Led by experienced forager and author Blanche Cybele Derby; attendees can discover how many plants considered weeds can be nutritious and delicious additions to their diet. Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-584-3009. 127 Combs Rd, Easthampton, MA.
🌟 LIVING HISTORY/ MILITARY. 9:30am-5pm. Muster Day – Today is full of hands-on opportunities to engage with history and learn about military life during the 19th century through reenactments, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits while deepening one’s understanding and appreciation of historical events and social dynamics. Families can observe and participate in historical activities integral to military life, such as drills, musket firing, and cannon demonstrations while engaging with historical interpreters, who can provide context, answer questions, and share stories that bring history to life. Old Sturbridge Village. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA.
🧘 NATURE STUDIES/ MINDFULNESS . 10-11:30am. Revive Outside with Kestrel Land Trust – Join other families for sensory walks and mindful exploration in conserved places where children and caregivers can relax and recharge outdoors. Dyer Conservation Area. Hadley, MA.
🧩 COLLABORATIVE CONSUMPTION/ PUZZLE SWAP. 10am-12pm. J igsaw Puzzle Swap – Jigsaw puzzle swaps can foster social connections and shared problem-solving among families while engaging cognitive skills such as visual-spatial reasoning and fine motor skills. By expanding their puzzle collection through the event’s swapping aspect, families can explore new themes and challenges while enjoying the benefits of shared learning experiences and fostering teamwork and communication. Exchange your 500 to 1000-piece puzzles for puzzles of a similar size at the swap! South Hadley Public Library. 413-538-5045. 2 Canal St., South Hadley, MA.
💥 LITERACY/ COMIC BOOKS. 10am-1:30pm. Comic Books – Interest in comics can support literacy by fostering a love of reading, improving comprehension, and expanding vocabulary through an engaging and accessible medium. Comics’ use of visual aids can help children understand the context of words. At the same time, the genre can introduce new topics and challenge reading skills. Today, pick up a free comic book and participate in a craft activity at the library. Although costumes are encouraged, they are not mandatory. Carnegie Public Library. 413-863-3214. 201 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
🏺 HISTORY/ ARTS & CRAFTS . 10am-4pm. Historic Trades Demonstrations: Redware Pottery and Silversmithing – This a unique opportunity to observe and learn from skilled artisans as they demonstrate the techniques and methods used in creating beautiful redware pottery and intricate silver pieces. Participants can watch and ask questions as the artists shape and mold clay into unique pieces or work silver into stunning designs. Learn about the history of these crafts in early America and see how they have evolved over time. Great opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistry and history of pottery and silversmithing! Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
🎨 ART STUDIES . 10am-4pm. ArtiCulture Westfield is a community event celebrating various art forms, including music, dance, and visual arts. Children can learn about and express themselves through different art forms by participating in this event. They can develop their creative skills and learn to communicate their ideas and emotions through various artistic mediums. Takes place at Amelia Park Arena. 413-568-2503. 21 South Broad St. Westfield, 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. The Beneski Museum of Natural History – One of New England’s largest natural history museums, featuring three floors of exhibits with more than 1,700 specimens on display. Step inside the museum, and you’ll find: Dramatic displays of fossil skeletons, from fish to dinosaurs to Ice Age megafauna, an extraordinary collection of local dinosaur footprints, geological specimens and immersive exhibits that tell the history of the local landscape through geologic time, including when dinosaurs inhabited the area, and dazzling mineral specimens from around the world and meteorites from beyond Earth. 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.
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. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
ART STUDIES . 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) – SCMA is recognized as a leading academic museum. Their collection comprises 27,000+ objects, representing the diversity of art and material culture across periods and geographies. Visitors can discover artworks from across periods and geographies in their permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibitions, engaging people with first-hand experiences of art, artists, and museum practice. The museum’s collection ranges from ancient Greek vases to contemporary video art. The works in their permanent collection galleries are regularly rotated, so there’s something new to see each time you visit. Special exhibitions highlight a dynamic range of artworks and artists. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
🐄 ANIMAL HUSBANDRY/ DAIRY COWS. 11:30am-2pm. Pasture Day – Join the celebration as the dairy cows are released from their winter barns to romp in the green spring grass—a perfect opportunity to connect with the community while supporting interests in dairy farming and animal husbandry. The celebration includes walking farm tours, food, wagon rides, and live music. Barstow’s Dairy Store and Bakery. 413-586-2142. 172 Hockanum Rd, Hadley, MA.
🏛️ LOCAL HISTORY. 1-3pm. David Ruggles Center Founders’ Day Symposium – Lydia Maria Child, a great unsung hero of the 19th century, will be celebrated during Founders Day with a talk by Professor Lydia Moland from Colby College. Child was a powerful anti-slavery worker who founded the first juvenile magazine in the US, the “Juvenile Miscellany.” She also wrote the controversial novel, Hobomok , which explores a white woman’s marriage to a Wampanoag man and their child. Child’s farming of sugar beets in Florence was part of a movement founded on the refusal to purchase goods produced by slave labor. Attendees can enjoy a reception at the David Ruggles Center after the event. Bombyx Center for Arts & Equity. 130 Pine St. Florence, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES . 1-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
ICE SKATING. 4-5:50pm. Public Ice Skate – Ice skating sessions for the public at UMass Mullins Center. Skate rentals are provided. Great opportunity to get moving on cold New England days! UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA.
🎳 SPORTS/ BOWLING. 4-11pm. Vintage Candlepin Bowling & Bar – Bowling is a fun way to practice math skills and statistics while observing physics concepts, such as friction, torque, velocity, and gravity. Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley. 413-625-6179. 43 Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA.
🎭 THEATER STUDIES/ HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL . 7pm. Once Upon a Mattress is a musical comedy that tells the story of Princess Winnifred, who arrives at Prince Dauntless’s castle to compete for his hand in marriage. However, Winnifred is deemed unsuitable by the queen, who sets a series of impossible tests for her to pass. Along the way, the prince and princess fall in love, and the court is thrown into chaos as they try to overthrow the queen’s unfair rule. With catchy songs, hilarious antics, and a heartwarming love story, Once Upon a Mattress is a fun and entertaining musical that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Takes place at Easthampton High School. 413-529-1585. 70 Williston Ave, Easthampton, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Three Sisters Garden
Growing a “three sisters garden” is a great way to support learning by integrating knowledge and skills across different subject areas, including science, history and culture, math, language arts, and social studies. Kids can learn about plant biology, the rich history and cultural significance of Native American agriculture practices , and the positive impact of sustainable farming practices on the environment. Furthermore, by utilizing their math skills, they can effectively plan and measure the garden layout, accurately calculate the required amount of water and fertilizer, and maintain a journal to record their observations and experiences. A “three sisters garden” provides an excellent opportunity for learners to understand better how different fields of study are interconnected!
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SUNDAY, MAY 7, 2023
A showcase of horticulture and garden design and a “museum of living things,” Berkshire Botanical Garden’s 24 acres feature dozens of display areas that are educational, functional, and highly ornamental , with plant collections emphasizing plants that are native to the Northeast or that thrive in Zone 5b. Online and on-campus classes , workshops , lectures , exhibits , and special events are offered year-round. Berkshire Botanical Garden . 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge, MA.
FAMILY RADIO : 7-8am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio )
🌸 BOTANY/ FLOWERS. The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls – A former trolley bridge converted into a pedestrian walkway in 1929, is a beautiful and unique attraction in the Hilltowns. Covered in beautiful blooming flowers and plants with interpretive signage and plaques that provide information about the plants and their history, a visit can provide an opportunity to learn about different plant species, their characteristics, and their uses. Bridge of Flowers. Corner of Main St. & Water St. Shelburne Falls, MA.
🌳 BOTANY/ TREES. The Hahn-Warner Arboretum offers – An excellent resource for learning about botany, trees, and conservation efforts. The arboretum features 30 species of trees, providing a diverse and rich environment for exploring dendrology. Visitors can learn about the different types of trees, their growth patterns, and how they are affected by environmental factors such as weather and pollution. A self-guided visit to the arboretum can support a broad range of learning goals related to botany, ecology, and environmental science. Hahn-Warner Arboretum. Mosier Street. South Hadley, MA.
ART STUDIES . 9am-5pm. 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.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES . 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, 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-6pm. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
ART STUDIES . 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES . 11am-5pm. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM . 12-4pm. The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 12-5pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
🏛️ LOCAL HISTORY/ ARCHITECTURE. 12:30-2pm. Wistariahurst House Tours – Take advantage of this chance to step back in time and explore one of Holyoke’s most treasured landmarks by taking a tour of the stunning Wistariahurst House! Built in 1874, this mansion features beautiful architectural details and provides a glimpse into the lives of Holyoke’s prominent Skinner family. Learn about the family’s history and impact on the community while admiring the exquisite decor and furnishings. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide fascinating insights into the family and the house’s history. Wistariahurst Museum. 413-322-5660. 238 Cabot St, Holyoke, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES . 1-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
🏞️ HABITAT/ WATERSHED. 1:30-4pm. Visions of the Connecticut River Valley – A celebration of the nature of the Connecticut River watershed! Starting at 1:30pm at Peskeompskut Park, musicians, artists, and puppeteers will gather to begin a parade down Avenue A to Great Falls Discovery Center. After the parade, guests can enjoy the group art show “Visions of the Connecticut River Valley” in the Great Hall. A reception will begin at 2pm featuring performances by Stephen Katz, The Panthalasa Trio, and more, along with storytelling and poetry interludes. This event offers an exciting opportunity to learn about the Connecticut River watershed and connect with the community. Great Falls Discovery Center. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
🎭 THEATER STUDIES/ HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL . 2pm. Once Upon a Mattress is a musical comedy that tells the story of Princess Winnifred, who arrives at Prince Dauntless’s castle to compete for his hand in marriage. However, Winnifred is deemed unsuitable by the queen, who sets a series of impossible tests for her to pass. Along the way, the prince and princess fall in love, and the court is thrown into chaos as they try to overthrow the queen’s unfair rule. With catchy songs, hilarious antics, and a heartwarming love story, Once Upon a Mattress is a fun and entertaining musical that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Takes place at Easthampton High School. 413-529-1585. 70 Williston Ave, Easthampton, MA.
ART STUDIES/ GALLERY . 2-5pm. Hampshire College Art Gallery – The Hampshire College Art Gallery is a dynamic space for contemporary art and collections-based exhibitions, uniting innovative curatorial approaches with a focus on teaching and learning. Families can visit the gallery to check out traditional exhibitions, along with more interactive programs. Many objects in their small, eclectic permanent collection were donated when founders first built the college, so there are among them some quintessentially “’60s” artworks, alongside fine art photography. The gallery is located in the Harold F. Johnson Library Building, Ground Floor, on the campus of Hampshire College. 893 West Street. Amherst, MA.
ICE SKATING. 2:50-4:40pm. Public Ice Skate – Ice skating sessions for the public at UMass Mullins Center. Skate rentals are provided. Great opportunity to get moving on cold New England days! UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA.
🎉 FOLK TRADITIONS/ MAYPOLE. 3pm. Maypole Celebration – Families are invited to May Day festivities to learn about the Maypole Dances tradition! There will be music, traditional garland dancers, and opportunities to sing and dance. The Maypole will be ceremonially brought in and set up, and there will be room for 45 people to weave the Maypole with the ribbons. (Participation is encouraged but not required.) Gather your brightly colored ribbons and join in this annual tradition in honor of May Day! The event will be held in the field across the street from Grow Food Northampton Organic Community Gardens. 145 Meadow St. Florence, MA.
🎳 SPORTS/ BOWLING. 4-8pm. Vintage Candlepin Bowling & Bar – Bowling is a fun way to practice math skills and statistics while observing physics concepts, such as friction, torque, velocity, and gravity. Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley. 413-625-6179. 43 Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Bones
May is National Osteoporosis Month , an excellent opportunity to teach children about the importance of bone health while engaging them in hands-on activities, like creating models of bones , measuring bone density, and conducting experiments . Learning why incorporating healthy habits like regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D supports interest in nutrition; understanding safety measures to prevent bone injuries; and exploring different aspects of bone health , such as the role of genetics and the effects of aging, are all integrative, are all great ways to support interests and education during National Osteoporosis Month.
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MONDAY, MAY 8, 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
PLAYGROUP . 8:30-11am. Hilltown Family Center Infant & Toddler Play Group – Starting with Infant Playgroup at 8:30am and families with children 9mo-5yo joining at 9:45am. Families are welcome to eat breakfast at 8:30am for a nominal cost. Takes place at R.H. Conwell Elementary School. 413-667-2203 x311. 147 Huntington Rd, Worthington, MA. 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.
ECOSYSTEMS. The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls – A former trolley bridge converted into a pedestrian walkway in 1929, is covered in beautiful blooming flowers and plants from April through October. As an ecosystem in its own right, with a diverse array of pollinating insects, visitors can support an interest in learning about the interactions between plants and insects and the potential roles cultivated gardens can play in our broader local ecosystem. Bridge of Flowers. Corner of Main St. & Water St. Shelburne Falls, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
ART STUDIES/ GALLERY . 10:30am-4:30pm. Hampshire College Art Gallery – The Hampshire College Art Gallery is a dynamic space for contemporary art and collections-based exhibitions, uniting innovative curatorial approaches with a focus on teaching and learning. Families can visit the gallery to check out traditional exhibitions, along with more interactive programs. Many objects in their small, eclectic permanent collection were donated when founders first built the college, so there are among them some quintessentially “’60s” artworks, alongside fine art photography. The gallery is located in the Harold F. Johnson Library Building, Ground Floor, on the campus of Hampshire College. 893 West Street. Amherst, MA.
MAKERSPACE . 2-4:30pm. Makerspace Collaboratory Drop-In – The East Forest Park Branch Makerspace is a place you can visit for free to use their selection of equipment to create, craft, tinker, and experiment! From traditional crafts to digital tinkering. The East Forest Park Makerspace is your place to create, invent, and learn. Each week there is a drop-in project or two based on a theme. All ages. East Forest Park Branch. 413-263-6836. 136 Surrey Road. Springfield, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Farmers’ Markets
Shopping at a farmers’ market can provide a terrific opportunity for community-based education, allowing kids to connect knowledge and skills across various subjects such as science, math, social studies, language arts, and health education. Children can learn about the growing conditions and science behind organic farming practices, use math skills to calculate prices, and understand farmers’ markets’ cultural and historical significance. By exploring fresh, locally-grown produce, they can learn about the nutritional benefits of a healthy and balanced diet while engaging in sustainable local agriculture. Ultimately, shopping at a farmers’ market is an excellent way for learners to understand the interconnectedness of different fields of study while supporting sustainable farming practices and connecting with their community. Read more in our posts, Learning Ahead: Farmers’ Markets.
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TUESDAY, MAY 9, 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
BRIDGES/ ENGINEERING. The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls – A former trolley bridge converted into a pedestrian walkway in 1929, is a beautiful and unique attraction in the Hilltowns. Offering stunning views of the Deerfield River and the surrounding hilltowns, the Bridge of Flowers also offers an excellent opportunity to learn about bridges, including their construction, the different types of bridges and their uses, and the important role they play in our communities. Bridge of Flowers. Corner of Main St. & Water St. Shelburne Falls, MA.
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.
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.
PLAYGROUP . 9:30-11:30am. School-readiness program for ages 3-4yo + caregiver. Engagement with young children is modeled through songs, books, circle time, literacy activities, StoryWalks, crafts, STEM activities, free play, cooperative games, take-home activities, and outdoor play. Hilltown Family Center. 9 Russell Road. Huntington, MA .
🌟 COMMUNITY SERVICE. 10am-12pm. Walk-In Volunteer Day – Mumbet’s Freedom Farm is a black and brown-led farm and community sanctuary that offers families a unique opportunity to volunteer their time. Families can join the farm’s volunteer activities, from planting and harvesting crops to caring for the animals and tending to the gardens. Named in honor of Elizabeth ‘Mumbet’ Freeman, an African-American woman who was enslaved in Massachusetts until she sued for and won her freedom in court in 1781, the farm is a beacon of hope for the local community, providing a space for healing and connection and offering a chance to learn, grow, and create a better world for all. Mumbet’s Freedom Farm. 896 S Undermountain Rd. Sheffield, 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.
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.
MAKERSPACE . 2-4:30pm. Makerspace Collaboratory Drop-In – The East Forest Park Branch Makerspace is a place you can visit for free to use their selection of equipment to create, craft, tinker, and experiment! From traditional crafts to digital tinkering. The East Forest Park Makerspace is your place to create, invent, and learn. Each week there is a drop-in project or two based on a theme. All ages. East Forest Park Branch. 413-263-6836. 136 Surrey Road. Springfield, MA.
GRANDPARENTING SUPPORT . 4-6pm. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group – A group for grandparents actively parenting their grandchildren. A safe and confidential space to share similar experiences with other grandparents. All groups are on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month. Free pizza and childcare provided. Questions or to register: 413-663-7588. Northern Berkshire Community Coalition. 61 Main Street. Ste 218. North Adams, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Kitchen Scrap Gardening
Composting and growing food from food scraps is a fun way for self-directed learners to integrate their interests. For example, they can learn about the science behind composting and the nutrient cycle and how to create the ideal conditions for decomposition. They can also learn about the different types of food scraps that can be composted, such as fruits, vegetables, and eggshells, and how they can be used to grow new plants. This provides an opportunity to learn about plant growth and biology as they witness the transformation of scraps into new plants. Additionally, by creating mini-gardens, families can engage in hands-on experiential learning, allowing children to develop essential skills such as problem-solving, planning, and collaboration. Finally, by enjoying delicious homegrown foods, children can learn about the importance of healthy eating habits and the environmental benefits of reducing food waste. Read more in our post, 17 Kitchen Scraps Born Anew for Experiential Learning
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WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 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
CREATIVE PLACEMAKING/ PUBLIC GARDENS. The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls – A former trolley bridge converted into a pedestrian walkway in 1929, is a beautiful and unique attraction in the Hilltowns. Covered in beautiful blooming flowers and plants, the Bridge of Flowers is a beautiful example of a work of art and design, featuring a delightful central pathway and small alcoves for sitting and contemplating. A visit can provide an opportunity to experience the artistic and design principles used to create a beautiful space that supports placemaking. Bridge of Flowers. Corner of Main St. & Water St. Shelburne Falls, MA.
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 – Dedicated to enhancing children’s educational and cultural awareness through the arts, sciences, and the world around them. The Museum’s participatory exhibits and educational programming invite children and adults to interact and enjoy learning and self-discovery while at play. Young children almost always want to start on the Curvy Climber. And then, throughout the Museum, there are several other activities that older children might spend more time with, including the Legos Table, The Magna Tile Table, Maxi Rollways, and the Imagination Playground. There is also a state-of-the-art World of Motion room that stimulates children and adults’ curious minds. This room is STEM-based and encourages learning and play. Discover more at The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
🐟 HABITAT STUDIES/ ICHTHYOLOGY. 9am-5pm. Robert E. Barrett Fishwa y – Explore the fascinating world of fish migration at the Robert E. Barrett Fishway, located at the Holyoke Dam. This free event offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand how fish navigate upstream through the manufactured fish ladder to spawn. Learn about the fish species that inhabit the Connecticut River and the conservation efforts being made to protect them. Knowledgeable guides will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. Robert Barrett Fishway. 413-536-9460. 1-3 County Bridge. Holyoke, MA.
ART STUDIES . 9am-5pm.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.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. 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 – 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.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES . 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, 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.
ICE SKATING. 12:30-1:50pm. Public Ice Skate – Ice skating sessions for the public at UMass Mullins Center. Skate rentals are provided. Great opportunity to get moving on cold New England days! UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Plant Sales
Plant sales & swaps happen all over western Massachusetts this time of year. From big to small events, many raising funds for valuable community resources, plant sales are an excellent opportunity for sourcing your plants (and gardening knowledge) locally. They are terrific community events for learning tips on plants and gardening from home gardeners and experts in the field! Bring your family to a plant sale this spring and unearth the embedded learning they hold for the entire family! Read more in our post, Plant Sales & Swap Support Local Causes & Embedded Learning.
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THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2023
This Spring, Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s Stage2 is taking you to another world unlike any you’ve seen before. Your destination is the planet of Verona, where a familiar tale will unfold. Directed by Associate Artistic Director Bryn Boice, this production of Romeo & Juliet Homeschool groups may book through the booking form for student matinee performances or at commshakes.org/rj23 for their general audience weekend performances.
Does your child want to make art this spring? Sign them up for a free Spring Art Studio Series at Amelia Park Children’s Museum Westfield , designed to enrich the artistic talents and sensibilities of local 4 to 8-year-olds . Participants will create masterpieces in watercolor, acrylic, mixed media, and fiber arts for four Thursday afternoons in May ! Each session will feature a local artist and APCM staff teaching a different medium. APCM Art Studio will offer all supplies for classes. This series will conclude on Thursday, June 1, with a student exhibition. Spaces are limited. Click here to register today!
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
LOCAL HISTORY/ TRANSPORTATION. The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls – A former trolley bridge converted into a pedestrian walkway in 1929, is a beautiful and unique attraction in the Hilltowns. Covered in beautiful blooming flowers and plants from April through October, a visit can provide an opportunity to learn about the bridge’s history and the community that created and maintains the garden. Bridge of Flowers. Corner of Main St. & Water St. Shelburne Falls, MA.
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.
🐟 HABITAT STUDIES/ ICHTHYOLOGY. 9am-5pm. Robert E. Barrett Fishwa y – Explore the fascinating world of fish migration at the Robert E. Barrett Fishway, located at the Holyoke Dam. This free event offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand how fish navigate upstream through the manufactured fish ladder to spawn. Learn about the fish species that inhabit the Connecticut River and the conservation efforts being made to protect them. Knowledgeable guides will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. Robert Barrett Fishway. 413-536-9460. 1-3 County Bridge. Holyoke, MA.
🌳 OUTDOOR ADVENTURES/ WALKING. 9:30am-12:30pm. Walk Around the Park – Join Stanley Park’s Health Initiative for a guided walk, offering exercise and education while discovering the beauty and history of various park sites. This event promotes healthy living in a picturesque environment, perfect for fitness enthusiasts or those looking for a relaxing outdoor experience. Stanley Park. 413-568-9312. 400 Western Ave, Westfield, MA.
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4:30pm. Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
🌟 COMMUNITY SERVICE. 10am-12pm. Walk-In Volunteer Day – Mumbet’s Freedom Farm is a black and brown-led farm and community sanctuary that offers families a unique opportunity to volunteer their time. Families can join the farm’s volunteer activities, from planting and harvesting crops to caring for the animals and tending to the gardens. Named in honor of Elizabeth ‘Mumbet’ Freeman, an African-American woman who was enslaved in Massachusetts until she sued for and won her freedom in court in 1781, the farm is a beacon of hope for the local community, providing a space for healing and connection and offering a chance to learn, grow, and create a better world for all. Mumbet’s Freedom Farm. 896 S Undermountain Rd. Sheffield, 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.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art – A museum devoted to the art of picture books, especially children’s books. The Carle’s picture-book exhibitions showcase various artists, themes, and styles. Their three galleries host six original shows a year, so there is always something new! In addition to exploring art in the galleries, drop into the art studio to experience the creative joy of making art; explore new picture books, and rediscover old ones in their library. 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. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, 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.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES . 11am-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum – Located on the Mount Holyoke College campus, this Museum is one of the oldest teaching museums in the country, dedicated to providing firsthand experience with works of significant aesthetic and cultural value. The Museum offers pre- and post-visit educational materials designed for kids of all ages to maximize their learning potential while exploring the galleries and connecting art with their personal experiences, including walking and activity guides and educator resources. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
🌊 LOCAL HISTORY/ MILL RIVER. 6:30pm. The Mill River: Stan Sherer Documentary Film Screening and Discussion – Premiere screening of “The Mill River,” a 43-minute documentary by local filmmaker Stan Sherer. The film explores the 13.5-mile-long waterway’s significant role in western Massachusetts’s economic, cultural, and recreational history. Learn how it powered over 70 mills until catastrophic events wiped most of them out. After the screening, a panel discussion and Q&A will delve deeper into this fascinating history. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the rich history of the Mill River and its impact on the local community. Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West St, Northampton, MA.
🌊 LOCAL HISTORY/ MILL RIVER. 6:30pm. The Mill River: Stan Sherer Documentary Film Screening and Discussion – Premiere screening of “The Mill River,” a 43-minute documentary by local filmmaker Stan Sherer. The film explores the 13.5-mile-long waterway’s significant role in western Massachusetts’s economic, cultural, and recreational history. Learn how it powered over 70 mills until catastrophic events wiped most of them out. After the screening, a panel discussion and Q&A will delve deeper into this fascinating history. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the rich history of the Mill River and its impact on the local community. Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West St, Northampton, 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.
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Self-Directed Learning: Kitchen Chemistry
People often talk about “chemicals” in our food, water, or hygiene products in reference to possibly toxic or carcinogenic ingredients. Some chemicals certainly are dangerous to humans, but EVERYTHING is made up of chemicals! But what is the exact definition of a chemical, anyway? The Merriam-Webster definition of “chemical” reads, “A substance obtained by a chemical process or producing a chemical effect.” C hemistry is the study of how chemicals interact and react with one another. Cooking is often used as an example of an everyday activity that involves chemistry. When you apply heat to a piece of steak in a pan, water content leaves the muscle fibers. This is why the filet is smaller after it has been cooked. Think about some other interesting reactions which occur in the kitchen. Why does corn pop? Corn contains water, which turns to steam, creating pressure inside the hard outer shell and eventually exploding. Another way to ask this question would be, why don’t other grains pop? Learn more about these types of reactions and get curious in the kitchen!
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FRIDAY, MAY 12, 2023
This Spring, Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s Stage2 is taking you to another world unlike any you’ve seen before. Your destination is the planet of Verona, where a familiar tale will unfold. Directed by Associate Artistic Director Bryn Boice, this production of Romeo & Juliet Homeschool groups may book through the booking form for student matinee performances or at commshakes.org/rj23 for their general audience weekend performances.
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
COMMUNITY SERVICE. The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls – A former trolley bridge converted into a pedestrian walkway in 1929, is a beautiful and unique attraction in the Hilltowns. Covered in beautiful blooming flowers and plants from April through October, the Bridge of Flowers is a community project maintained by volunteers and supported by donations. A visit can provide an opportunity to learn how to join their team of volunteers and the importance of community support in maintaining public spaces like the Bridge of Flowers. Bridge of Flowers. Corner of Main St. & Water St. Shelburne Falls, MA.
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.
🐟 HABITAT STUDIES/ ICHTHYOLOGY. 9am-5pm. Robert E. Barrett Fishwa y – Explore the fascinating world of fish migration at the Robert E. Barrett Fishway, located at the Holyoke Dam. This free event offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand how fish navigate upstream through the manufactured fish ladder to spawn. Learn about the fish species that inhabit the Connecticut River and the conservation efforts being made to protect them. Knowledgeable guides will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. Robert Barrett Fishway. 413-536-9460. 1-3 County Bridge. Holyoke, MA.
ART STUDIES . 9am-5pm. Mead Art Museum – Search for secret doors in a seventeenth-century paneled room. Puzzle over a cuneiform inscription that praises a powerful Assyrian king. Marvel at a hanging sculpture spinning in a still gallery. Visitors to the Mead Art Museum do so much more than see objects—at the Mead, art is experienced, investigated, and explored. The Mead offers a world of resources for connecting art across countless cultures, mediums, and eras, set on Amherst College’s beautiful main quadrangle and flanked by a fascinating, stand-alone stone steeple. Mead Art Museum. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Dr, Amherst, MA.
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4:30pm. Historic Deerfield – Founded in 1952, Historic Deerfield is an outdoor museum that interprets the history and culture of early New England and the Connecticut River Valley. Visitors can tour twelve carefully-preserved antique houses dating from 1730 to 1850 and explore world-class collections of regional furniture, silver, textiles, and other decorative arts on display in the authentic period houses; as well as the Flynt Center of Early New England Life, a state-of-the-art museum facility featuring exhibitions and a visible storage area. Support interests in history through the lens of architecture, New England antiques, arts and crafts needlework, ironware and basketry, cooking and baking, gardening, textiles, fashion, furniture, and much more! Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, 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.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES : 10am-4pm. The Beneski Museum of Natural History – One of New England’s largest natural history museums, featuring three floors of exhibits with more than 1,700 specimens on display. Step inside the museum, and you’ll find: Dramatic displays of fossil skeletons, from fish to dinosaurs to Ice Age megafauna, an extraordinary collection of local dinosaur footprints, geological specimens and immersive exhibits that tell the history of the local landscape through geologic time, including when dinosaurs inhabited the area, and dazzling mineral specimens from around the world and meteorites from beyond Earth. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, 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. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
🐟 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE/ FISH. 10:30am. Kidleidoscope Story Hour – Children between the ages of 3-6 are invited to learn about the wildlife neighbors that share our home. Each month, a different animal will be featured, with this month’s focus being on fish. This story hour provides an excellent introduction to the field of ichthyology and includes a story, activities, and a craft. The activities are both indoors and outdoors, weather permitting. By participating in this program, young children can learn more about and engage with the natural world, which can deepen their understanding and appreciation of the environment around them. Great Falls Discovery Center. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
ART STUDIES . 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) – SCMA is recognized as a leading academic museum. Their collection comprises 27,000+ objects, representing the diversity of art and material culture across periods and geographies. Visitors can discover artworks from across periods and geographies in their permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibitions, engaging people with first-hand experiences of art, artists, and museum practice. The museum’s collection ranges from ancient Greek vases to contemporary video art. The works in their permanent collection galleries are regularly rotated, so there’s something new to see each time you visit. Special exhibitions highlight a dynamic range of artworks and artists. 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.
PLACEMAKING/ ART STUDIES. 5-8pm. Arts Night Out – Northampton’s monthly gallery walk and art event. Downtown Northampton, MA.
ICE SKATING. 5:30-7:20pm. Public Ice Skate – Ice skating sessions for the public at UMass Mullins Center. Skate rentals are provided. Great opportunity to get moving on cold New England days! UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA.
🐦 CITIZEN SCIENCE/ ORNITHOLOGY. 6-8pm. Bird-a-thon’s Birding in Place Evening Program – Get ready for an exciting virtual evening of birding with Mass Audubon’s Bird-a-Thon’s “Birding in Place” – Join an informative session on how to bird-watch from the comfort of your home and discover the incredible diversity of birds found in your backyard. This evening program will be led by expert naturalists who will provide fascinating insights into the world of birds and share their knowledge on identifying different species. You’ll also learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect these beautiful creatures. Deepen your appreciation for birds and connect with fellow bird enthusiasts! Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-584-3009. 127 Combs Rd, Easthampton, MA.
🎳 SPORTS/ BOWLING. 6-11pm. Vintage Candlepin Bowling & Bar – Bowling is a fun way to practice math skills and statistics while observing physics concepts, such as friction, torque, velocity, and gravity. Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley. 413-625-6179. 43 Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Seed Bombs
Creating seed bombs can be a fun and engaging way to support lessons in botany, ecology, and entomology. Seed bombs are small balls of soil and native wildflower seeds that can be covertly tossed into areas that need more plants, such as abandoned lots or roadsides. Through creating seed bombs, kids can learn about plant reproduction and growth, the importance of biodiversity and habitat restoration, and the role of insects in pollination and ecosystem health. They can also investigate which plants are native to their area, which insects are attracted to different types of plants, and how they support other organisms. Overall, creating seed bombs promotes environmental stewardship and community engagement while encouraging intergenerational learning.
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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, Bernardston, Buckland, 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.
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