Hilltown Families 
June is LGBTQIA Pride month! Join Carrie Ferguson of The Grumpytime Club for a joyous celebration of queer history, gender diversity, and community. Featuring a mini Queer Pride dance party!
HFVS Pride Month Episode with Guest DJ, Carrie Ferguson
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: JUNE 25-JULY 1, 2022
SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IDEAS
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
FILM STUDIES. Amherst Cinema. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity St, Amherst, MA.
DANCE STUDIES. Jacob’s Pillow. 413-243-9919. 358 George Carter Road. Becket, MA.
FIBER ARTS. Northampton Wools. 413-586-4331. 29 Pleasant St, Ste 101, Northampton, MA.
SPORTS. Valley Blue Sox. MacKenzie Stadium. 413-533-1100. 500 Beech Street, Holyoke, MA.
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
Hilltown Mobile Market is back for a 4th season! This year, they are operating an online store of products from 20 Hilltown farmers & producers where you can shop weekly for freshly harvested produce, meat, dairy, eggs & pantry items. Ordering will be packed & delivered to 18 pickup locations throughout the Hilltowns with convenient hours. They are also offering choice-based Farm Shares where you can spend down your balance throughout the season whenever & however it works for you! Share options range from $150 – $500, with a fully reimbursable option for those with SNAP/HIP. The Market will also be offering door delivery for residents at Westhampton Woods, Hamblin Court, Highland Village Circle, Hillside Terrance, Nash Hill, & The Maples.
FEATURED FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
Alice’s Kitchen Pavilion
Cummington, MA
Make donations of any size at patronicity.com/aliceskitchenpavilion.
Hilltown Families is a proud supporter of a new initiative coming to the Hilltowns! Alice Cozzolino, owner & operator of Alice’s Kitchen and former co-owner of The Old Creamery in Cummington, has an idea: Build a pavilion, host locally-sourced community meals, offer community-based educational events, and provide a local venue for the community to connect, eat, learn, and gather! With YOUR HELP, Alice’s Kitchen Pavilion at Honey Hill Homestead in Cummington can become a reality. “As we face more challenging times in our world, it’s imperative that our ties are tenacious, and our webs well-woven… I hope the pavilion at Honey Hill Homestead can be a part of that community life,” says Alice. Join us in support of building this community resource at the heart of the Hilltowns! Learn more in this video. Alice’s Kitchen Pavilion fundraising campaign ends July 1, 2022, at 6pm and is eligible for a matching grant. Alice is poised to reach her minimum goal of $20K. Let’s take her all the way to the broader vision!
FEATURED MUSIC FESTIVAL
The Green River Festival
Greenfield, MA
Green River Festival, Western Massachusetts’ most family-friendly music festival, happens at The Franklin County Fairgrounds on June 24-26, 2022, in Greenfield, MA. Kids 10 and under are always free! In addition to an incredible lineup of music for adults featuring Father John Misty, Lake Street Dive, Guster, Galactic, and Waxahatchee, Green River Festival is packed with activities for children and families. Enjoy crafts and music at the Arts Garden tent and stage and explore Delilah, a life-size inflatable whale. Enjoy Flying High Frisbee Dogs, MuZen puppets, a Team BMX bike show, a games tent, and the not to be missed yearly Mardi Gras Parade. For a full lineup of family music and activities, visit www.greenriverfestival.com.
FEATURED CO-OP EVENT
River Valley Co-op’s
Strawberry Ice Cream Social
Easthampton, MA
River Valley Co-op’s popular Strawberry Ice Cream Social is back! Held outdoors at their Easthampton location (228 Northampton St., Easthampton, MA) on Thursday, June 23, from 5-8pm, this family-friendly event will have live music, kids activities, and food for sale prepared by co-op chefs. Enjoy burgers, corn on the cob, potato salad, drinks, and of course, local ice cream served with local organic strawberries! There will be vegetarian and gluten-free options as well. All proceeds from this event will benefit three local nonprofits: Nolumbeka Project, The International Language Institute, and Riquezas Del Campo. Everyone in the community is welcome to stop by and celebrate the official start of summer in the Pioneer Valley! More info: rivervalley.coop.
FEATURED EVENT
Collage Day at The Carle
Amherst, MA
Collage Day at The Carle – On Saturday, June 25, from 11am-4pm, join The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA, for a day of storytimes, gallery talks, and book signings! Meet some of the artists highlighted in Celebrating Collage: A 20th Anniversary Exhibition. Participating artists include Bryan Collier, Nina Crews, Thao Lam, Susan L. Roth, and Elizabeth Zunon. Masks are required for ages 5 and up. The Carle is celebrating 20 years and more than one million art- and book-loving visitors. This event kicks off six months of special exhibitions and activities. Free with Museum admission. For more information, visit www.carlemuseum.org.
FEATURED EXHIBITIONS
Berkshire Museum
Pittsfield, MA
Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA, presents Art of The Hills: Visual Evidence, a Berkshire-Based Artist exhibition featuring a wide array of styles and mediums from artists living within 60 miles of the museum. On display from June 4 – September 11, 2022.
As well as Living Ink: The Art of Tattoos, a look into the artistry, history, and science behind tattooing. On display from June 25 – October 30, 2022.
Find more information and plan your visit at berkshiremuseum.org.
FEATURED PRESCHOOL
Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Springfield, MA
Community Music School of Springfield (CMSS) is a non-profit community arts school in Western MA. Their mission is to provide an equitable & inclusive center of excellence in music education that empowers individuals, inspires creative passion, and promotes well-being in their greater community. They serve over 500 students each year, including the Prelude Preschool of the Arts, a flexible, arts-centered preschool program for children ages 2.9-5yo. In their community partnership programs, they serve an additional 1,000 students. CMSS provides financial aid to support under-served segments of the community & create quality programs & instruction to help all students achieve their highest potential. Learn more at www.communitymusicschool.com.
FEATURED CONFERENCE
2022 Northeast Unschooling Conference
Amherst, MA
Meet your people at the 2022 Northeast Unschooling Conference, July 14-17, 2022 in Amherst, MA! Located on the sprawling grounds of Hampshire College, Northeast Unschooling Conference is excited to welcome unschoolers, eclectic homeschoolers, lifelong learners, and autodidacts from all walks of life! Join them for a weekend filled with workshops for all ages, ranging from tie-dyeing and frog dissections to navigating homeschool reporting, college admissions, and much more. A keynote from Indigenous Filipino researcher Noah Romero on unschooling as radical liberation, panels, discussion groups, hands-on workshops, oh my! On-campus housing and meal plans are provided for all interested!
For more information:
northeastunschoolingconference.com or email neucinfo@gmail.com.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Sun & Roots Outdoor Play and Learn
Westhampton, MA
Sun & Roots Outdoor Play and Learn in Westhampton (14 Shaw Rd) is a 2-week natural outdoor experience for children 3-5yo, rooted in sustainable living & fun! Keeping goals of natural living and sustainability in mind, Sun & Roots will offer a fun environment to explore the world around us and how we can utilize it sustainably. Children will help care for gardens, learn about food growth, play in the brook, and eat healthily. Participants will receive organic, natural snacks & healthy lunch. Offering activities & growth in the following areas: Organic Sustainability; Experiential Education & Play; Health & Wellness; Exploring the Natural World; Responsibility Training; and Creating Bonds & Friendships. Dates: Aug 8-12 and 15-19 (Mon-Fri). Contact: varna.naik@infinityed.us.
FEATURED PROGRAM
Red Mare Farm Horseback Riding Lessons
Hatfield, MA
Is your kid horse crazy or animal crazy? Red Mare Farm provides year-round dressage-based riding lessons for adults and kids ages 8 and older. Red Mare Farm strives to teach riders to be the best partners with the horse that they can be. Safety, respect, and fun are the essential ingredients. Lesson subscription plans are available, including regular unmounted horsemanship classes for learning beyond the saddle. What are the benefits of kids learning with horses? Develop confidence, compassion, emotional awareness, humility and patience, discipline, and responsibility. Learn to accept disappointment and find resilience. And the list goes on. Join Red Mare Farm, and see for yourself what being involved with horses can do for you and your family. For more information: RedmarefarmLLC@gmail.com; 978-739-4707; www.redmarefarm.com.
FEATURED EVENT
Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival
Florence, MA
Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival is an annual family-friendly celebration on Saturday, July 16, 2022, at Look Park in Florence, MA. Events include children’s games, sheep herding, Scottish animals, and a water spray park. The festival also features Celtic music, piping & drumming competitions, Highland & Irish dance demos, Scottish gift & food vendors, 30+ clans, genealogy, and a Celtic Pub. Also, Scottish heavy athletics, where some world record-holders will compete. Appearing on the Main Stage are Albannach, Enter the Haggis, Sarah the Fiddler, and Charlie Zahm. Join the fun from 9am-5pm, w/music in the Celtic Pub until 9:30pm (rain or shine). Admission: Adult $25 (Advance $22); Age 6-12 $5; Under 6 free. More info at www.glasgowlands.org.
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
Kelli Welli shares songs that show how numbers and math pop up in all kinds of ways in our lives. As you listen to the show, maybe you can think about all the fun and interesting places you find numbers all around you too.
HFVS Numbers, Numbers Everywhere Episode
with Guest DJ, Kelli Welli
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: JUNE 18-24, 2022
SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IDEAS
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
NATURAL HISTORY: Great Falls Discovery Center. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
LIVING HISTORY. Hancock Shaker Village. 413-443-0188. 1843 W Housatonic St, Pittsfield, MA.
LITERACY. Jones Library. 413-259-3223. 43 Amity St, Amherst, MA. P
ERFORMING ART. Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle St. Great Barrington, MA.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY. The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
Hilltown Mobile Market is back for a 4th season! This year, they are operating an online store of products from 20 Hilltown farmers & producers where you can shop weekly for freshly harvested produce, meat, dairy, eggs & pantry items. Ordering will be packed & delivered to 18 pickup locations throughout the Hilltowns with convenient hours. They are also offering choice-based Farm Shares where you can spend down your balance throughout the season whenever & however it works for you! Share options range from $150 – $500, with a fully reimbursable option for those with SNAP/HIP. The Market will also be offering door delivery for residents at Westhampton Woods, Hamblin Court, Highland Village Circle, Hillside Terrance, Nash Hill, & The Maples.
FEATURED FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
Alice’s Kitchen Pavilion
Cummington, MA
Make donations of any size at patronicity.com/aliceskitchenpavilion.
Hilltown Families is a proud supporter of a new initiative coming to the Hilltowns! Alice Cozzolino, owner & operator of Alice’s Kitchen and former co-owner of The Old Creamery in Cummington, has an idea: Build a pavilion, host locally-sourced community meals, offer community-based educational events, and provide a local venue for the community to connect, eat, learn, and gather! With YOUR HELP, Alice’s Kitchen Pavilion at Honey Hill Homestead in Cummington can become a reality. “As we face more challenging times in our world, it’s imperative that our ties are tenacious, and our webs well-woven… I hope the pavilion at Honey Hill Homestead can be a part of that community life,” says Alice. Join us in support of building this community resource at the heart of the Hilltowns! Learn more in this video. Alice’s Kitchen Pavilion fundraising campaign ends July 1, 2022, at 6pm and is eligible for a matching grant. Let’s take her all the way to the broader vision!
FEATURED EXHIBITIONS
Berkshire Museum
Pittsfield, MA
Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA, presents Art of The Hills: Visual Evidence, a Berkshire-Based Artist exhibition featuring a wide array of styles and mediums from artists living within 60 miles of the museum. On display from June 4 – September 11, 2022.
As well as Living Ink: The Art of Tattoos, a look into the artistry, history, and science behind tattooing. On display from June 25 – October 30, 2022.
Find more information and plan your visit at berkshiremuseum.org.
FEATURED CO-OP EVENT
River Valley Co-op’s
Strawberry Ice Cream Social
Easthampton, MA
River Valley Co-op’s popular Strawberry Ice Cream Social is back! Held outdoors at their Easthampton location (228 Northampton St., Easthampton, MA) on Thursday, June 23, from 5-8pm, this family-friendly event will have live music, kids activities, and food for sale prepared by co-op chefs. Enjoy burgers, corn on the cob, potato salad, drinks, and of course, local ice cream served with local organic strawberries! There will be vegetarian and gluten-free options as well. All proceeds from this event will benefit three local nonprofits: Nolumbeka Project, The International Language Institute, and Riquezas Del Campo. Everyone in the community is welcome to stop by and celebrate the official start of summer in the Pioneer Valley! More info: rivervalley.coop.
FEATURED MUSIC FESTIVAL
The Green River Festival
Greenfield, MA
Green River Festival, Western Massachusetts’ most family-friendly music festival, happens at The Franklin County Fairgrounds on June 24-26, 2022, in Greenfield, MA. Kids 10 and under are always free! In addition to an incredible lineup of music for adults featuring Father John Misty, Lake Street Dive, Guster, Galactic, and Waxahatchee, Green River Festival is packed with activities for children and families. Enjoy crafts and music at the Arts Garden tent and stage and explore Delilah, a life-size inflatable whale. Enjoy Flying High Frisbee Dogs, MuZen puppets, a Team BMX bike show, a games tent, and the not to be missed yearly Mardi Gras Parade. For a full lineup of family music and activities, visit www.greenriverfestival.com.
FEATURED EVENT
Collage Day at The Carle
Amherst, MA
Collage Day at The Carle – On Saturday, June 25, from 11am-4pm, join The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA, for a day of storytimes, gallery talks, and book signings! Meet some of the artists highlighted in Celebrating Collage: A 20th Anniversary Exhibition. Participating artists include Bryan Collier, Nina Crews, Thao Lam, Susan L. Roth, and Elizabeth Zunon. Masks are required for ages 5 and up. The Carle is celebrating 20 years and more than one million art- and book-loving visitors. This event kicks off six months of special exhibitions and activities. Free with Museum admission. For more information, visit www.carlemuseum.org.
FEATURED CONFERENCE
2022 Northeast Unschooling Conference
Amherst, MA
Meet your people at the 2022 Northeast Unschooling Conference, July 14-17, 2022 in Amherst, MA! Located on the sprawling grounds of Hampshire College, Northeast Unschooling Conference is excited to welcome unschoolers, eclectic homeschoolers, lifelong learners, and autodidacts from all walks of life! Join them for a weekend filled with workshops for all ages, ranging from tie-dyeing and frog dissections to navigating homeschool reporting, college admissions, and much more. A keynote from Indigenous Filipino researcher Noah Romero on unschooling as radical liberation, panels, discussion groups, hands-on workshops, oh my! On-campus housing and meal plans are provided for all interested!
For more information:
northeastunschoolingconference.com or email neucinfo@gmail.com.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Sun & Roots Outdoor Play and Learn
Westhampton, MA
Sun & Roots Outdoor Play and Learn in Westhampton (14 Shaw Rd) is a 2-week natural outdoor experience for children 3-5yo, rooted in sustainable living & fun! Keeping goals of natural living and sustainability in mind, Sun & Roots will offer a fun environment to explore the world around us and how we can utilize it sustainably. Children will help care for gardens, learn about food growth, play in the brook, and eat healthily. Participants will receive organic, natural snacks & healthy lunch. Offering activities & growth in the following areas: Organic Sustainability; Experiential Education & Play; Health & Wellness; Exploring the Natural World; Responsibility Training; and Creating Bonds & Friendships. Dates: Aug 8-12 and 15-19 (Mon-Fri). Contact: varna.naik@infinityed.us.
FEATURED PRESCHOOL
Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Springfield, MA
Community Music School of Springfield (CMSS) is a non-profit community arts school in Western MA. Their mission is to provide an equitable & inclusive center of excellence in music education that empowers individuals, inspires creative passion, and promotes well-being in their greater community. They serve over 500 students each year, including the Prelude Preschool of the Arts, a flexible, arts-centered preschool program for children ages 2.9-5yo. In their community partnership programs, they serve an additional 1,000 students. CMSS provides financial aid to support under-served segments of the community & create quality programs & instruction to help all students achieve their highest potential. Learn more at www.communitymusicschool.com.
FEATURED DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL
Valley Play School
Shelburne Falls, MA
Valley Play School is located in the heart of Shelburne Falls. It is a branch of the Girls Club of Greenfield and offers a variety of full and part time options for parents as well as a variety of subsidies. It operates year round, Monday through Friday from 8am-4:30pm, with breakfast and snack served daily. Two classrooms serve children 8 months to 6 years. VPS’s methods emphasize low teacher/student ratios and a healthy, enriching environment where children learn through their play and process has more importance than product. Children learn by doing in a supportive, nurturing environment that promotes pro-social behaviors. It provides diverse opportunities for quality interactions, connections and school readiness. Daycare. Preschool. ♦ Ages 8mo-6yrs. For more information: ahawk@girlsclubofgreenfield.org; 413-625-2406; www.girlsclubofgreenfield.org.
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
Little Miss Ann, a Chicago-based children’s musician with 6 albums for kids, spins tunes with “Good Vibes” to inspire families to spread “Good Vibes” to all!
HFVS Good Vibes Episode
with Guest DJ, Little Miss Ann
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: JUNE 11-17, 2022
SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IDEAS
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Botany: Rose Garden at Childs Park. 71 N Elm St, Northampton, MA.
Music Studies: Summer Concerts at Energy Park. 50 Miles St, Greenfield, MA.
Culinary Arts: River Valley Co-op. 413-529-4990. 228 Northampton St., Easthampton, MA.
Sports: SteepleCats Baseball. Joe Wolfe Field. 310 State Street. North Adams, MA.
Equine: Blue Rider Stables. 413-528-5299. 15 Farm Ln, Great Barrington, MA.
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
Hilltown Mobile Market is back for a 4th season! This year, they are operating an online store of products from 20 Hilltown farmers & producers where you can shop weekly for freshly harvested produce, meat, dairy, eggs & pantry items. Ordering will be packed & delivered to 18 pickup locations throughout the Hilltowns with convenient hours. They are also offering choice-based Farm Shares where you can spend down your balance throughout the season whenever & however it works for you! Share options range from $150 – $500, with a fully reimbursable option for those with SNAP/HIP. The Market will also be offering door delivery for residents at Westhampton Woods, Hamblin Court, Highland Village Circle, Hillside Terrance, Nash Hill, & The Maples.
Now through June 15, mention “Hilltown Families” and receive $25 off each program.
Yoga Sanctuary has two week-long programs for kids this summer! Yoga Monkey Kids (ages 6–10) weaves yoga and creative movement, mythic storytelling, creative crafts, and games into one fun and enchanting week! Play Practice: Exploring Yoga & Theater (ages 10–13) includes yoga techniques, theater games, and creative exercises designed to unleash each student’s unique expression, as well as foster dynamic group creation. Plus, all the summer fun of daily outdoors time and a special day spent walking and swimming in our beautiful local nature! Both programs include a special sharing for parents on the final day. Yoga Monkey Kids: June 25–29, 9–2 pm. Play Practice: August 1–5, 9–2 pm. www.yoga-sanctuary.com/kids-summer-programs; studio@yoga-sanctuary.com
➡️ Now through June 15, mention “Hilltown Families” and receive $25 off each program.
FEATURED FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
Alice’s Kitchen Pavilion
Cummington, MA
Make donations of any size at patronicity.com/aliceskitchenpavilion.
Hilltown Families is a proud supporter of a new initiative coming to the Hilltowns! Alice Cozzolino, owner & operator of Alice’s Kitchen and former co-owner of The Old Creamery in Cummington, has an idea: Build a pavilion, host locally-sourced community meals, offer community-based educational events, and provide a local venue for the community to connect, eat, learn, and gather! With YOUR HELP, Alice’s Kitchen Pavilion at Honey Hill Homestead in Cummington can become a reality. “As we face more challenging times in our world, it’s imperative that our ties are tenacious, and our webs well-woven… I hope the pavilion at Honey Hill Homestead can be a part of that community life,” says Alice. Join us in support of building this community resource at the heart of the Hilltowns! Learn more in this video. Alice’s Kitchen Pavilion fundraising campaign ends July 1, 2022, at 6pm and is eligible for a matching grant. Alice is poised to reach her minimum goal of $20K. Let’s take her all the way to the broader vision!
FEATURED EVENT
Power of Truths
Florence, MA
June 10-11, 2022
Come to the Power of Truths Conference on June 10-11, 2022, at Bombyx (130 Pine St, Florence, MA) and explore how arts and education can powerfully move us towards a world with racial justice. Friday night will feature: Marcia Gomes and her band of award-winning musicians June Millington, Eugene Uman, Denny Pelletier, and Fumi Tomia; Lox & Keyes Theory, a multi-genre band from Hartford; and Boston Hip-hop legend and UMass-Boston professor Akrobatik. Saturday will be a day-long conference with numerous workshops for people committed to arts, education, and justice. The event will conclude with a keynote speech from Bayeté Ross Smith, the Artist in Residence at Columbia Law School. For more information & to register, visit www.poweroftruths.org.
FEATURED CO-OP EVENT
River Valley Co-op’s
Strawberry Ice Cream Social
Easthampton, MA
River Valley Co-op’s popular Strawberry Ice Cream Social is back! Held outdoors at their Easthampton location (228 Northampton St., Easthampton, MA) on Thursday, June 23, from 5-8pm, this family-friendly event will have live music, kids activities, and food for sale prepared by co-op chefs. Enjoy burgers, corn on the cob, potato salad, drinks, and of course, local ice cream served with local organic strawberries! There will be vegetarian and gluten-free options as well. All proceeds from this event will benefit three local nonprofits: Nolumbeka Project, The International Language Institute, and Riquezas Del Campo. Everyone in the community is welcome to stop by and celebrate the official start of summer in the Pioneer Valley! More info: rivervalley.coop.
FEATURED MUSIC FESTIVAL
The Green River Festival
Greenfield, MA
Green River Festival, Western Massachusetts’ most family-friendly music festival, happens at The Franklin County Fairgrounds on June 24-26, 2022, in Greenfield, MA. Kids 10 and under are always free! In addition to an incredible lineup of music for adults featuring Father John Misty, Lake Street Dive, Guster, Galactic, and Waxahatchee, Green River Festival is packed with activities for children and families. Enjoy crafts and music at the Arts Garden tent and stage and explore Delilah, a life-size inflatable whale. Enjoy Flying High Frisbee Dogs, MuZen puppets, a Team BMX bike show, a games tent, and the not to be missed yearly Mardi Gras Parade. For a full lineup of family music and activities, visit www.greenriverfestival.com.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
At Home in the Woods
Conway, MA
Close your eyes & imagine this: your kids are outside this summer…playing games, building shelters, tracking wildlife, learning & practicing firemaking skills, carving, discovering, foraging for wild edibles, experiencing, mentoring & so much more! An old-fashioned childhood summer in 2022! At Home in the Woods Camps are Mon-Fri, 9 am-3 pm (except during the week of 7/4). There are 4 weeks for ages 5-6; all summer for ages 7+. Contact for information on additional Camps specifically for teens. Some weeks fill quickly so register now. For $50 off, use this code: HTFAM.
Dates: June 20-August 26, 2022
Age Range: 5-17yo
Contact: 413-340-1161
♦ frank@earthworkprograms.com
♦ earthworkprograms.com
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Community Music School of Springfield
Music Lessons
Springfield, MA
Come make music with the Community Music School of Springfield this summer! 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 with you while helping you accomplish your personal musical goals. Offering instruction in over 30 instruments and voice, their registration team can help you decide whether to rent or purchase your instrument. Getting started is easy – your summer music lesson is just a click or phone call away! Dates: June 27-August 19, 2022. Age Range: 4yo+. Contact: 413-732-8428; info@communitymusicschool.com; communitymusicschool.com.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
The Drama Studio
Springfield, MA
The Drama Studio is a unique community where young people grow as artists, leaders, and individuals. This summer, The Drama Studio will be offering a variety of onsite acting and theater programs in a safe environment. These programs include: Stories on Stage, where students will prepare an entire production of “Story Theatre”; and Improv for younger audiences, including a literacy video. In TeenScene: SummerFest teens will present a fully produced festival of “One Acts.” Other programs include Acting Up: Summer Fun Stories, SummerSlam: Improv Week, and Island Improv, Scenes and Myths. No prior acting experience is required. Summer enrollment is now open! Space is limited. Dates: July 5-August 19, 2022; Age Range: 6-18yo; Contact: 413-739-1983; info@dramastudio.org; www.dramastudio.org.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Dan Kane Singing Program
at The Majestic Theater
West Springfield, MA
The Majestic Theater at 131 Elm St in West Springfield is the home of the Dan Kane Summer Singing Enrichment Camp! The theater is gorgeous! It’s a professional theater with a vast audience base, giving students a chance to perform in a professional venue on a professional stage. There will be one Monday-Friday session for the week of Aug 22-26, with 50 openings for children who love to sing. The week will culminate with two concerts, showcasing the talented students & what they learned! Openings are limited as it is always a sell-out, so call the theater as early as possible for details. The cost is $295/student, due with submission of application which prospective families can get from the theater. Dates: August 22-26, 2022. Age Range: 6-16yo. Contact: 413-747-7797; dan@dankanesingers.org; majestictheater.com.
FEATURED DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL
Valley Play School
Shelburne Falls, MA
Valley Play School is located in the heart of Shelburne Falls. It is a branch of the Girls Club of Greenfield and offers a variety of full and part time options for parents as well as a variety of subsidies. It operates year round, Monday through Friday from 8am-4:30pm, with breakfast and snack served daily. Two classrooms serve children 8 months to 6 years. VPS’s methods emphasize low teacher/student ratios and a healthy, enriching environment where children learn through their play and process has more importance than product. Children learn by doing in a supportive, nurturing environment that promotes pro-social behaviors. It provides diverse opportunities for quality interactions, connections and school readiness. Daycare. Preschool. ♦ Ages 8mo-6yrs. For more information: ahawk@girlsclubofgreenfield.org; 413-625-2406; www.girlsclubofgreenfield.org.
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
The ocean covers 71% of our planet and forms 90% of its habitable space, yet we humans have encountered maybe only 1/3 of the life forms that call it home. Guest DJ, Claudia Robin Gunn, invites listeners to take an adventure in the deep blue sea and connect with a whole range of incredible ocean creatures through song and story in this marine biology-themed episode. Music that encourages caring for our environment and understanding the biodiversity in this incredible natural space.
HFVS Marine Biology Episode
with Guest DJ, Claudia Robin Gunn
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: JUNE 4-10, 2022
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
Hilltown Mobile Market is back for a 4th season! This year, they are operating an online store of products from 20 Hilltown farmers & producers where you can shop weekly for freshly harvested produce, meat, dairy, eggs & pantry items. Orders will be packed & delivered to 18 pickup locations throughout the Hilltowns with convenient hours. They are also offering choice-based Farm Shares where you can spend down your balance throughout the season whenever & however it works for you! Share options range from $150 – $500, with a fully reimbursable option for those with SNAP/HIP. The Market will also be offering door delivery for residents at Westhampton Woods, Hamblin Court, Highland Village Circle, Hillside Terrance, Nash Hill, & The Maples.
Now through June 15, mention “Hilltown Families” and receive $25 off each program.
Yoga Sanctuary has two week-long programs for kids this summer! Yoga Monkey Kids (ages 6–10) weaves yoga and creative movement, mythic storytelling, creative crafts, and games into one fun and enchanting week! Play Practice: Exploring Yoga & Theater (ages 10–13) includes yoga techniques, theater games, and creative exercises designed to unleash each student’s unique expression, as well as foster dynamic group creation. Plus, all the summer fun of daily outdoors time and a special day spent walking and swimming in our beautiful local nature! Both programs include a special sharing for parents on the final day. Yoga Monkey Kids: June 25–29, 9–2 pm. Play Practice: August 1–5, 9–2 pm. www.yoga-sanctuary.com/kids-summer-programs; studio@yoga-sanctuary.com
➡️ Now through June 15, mention “Hilltown Families” and receive $25 off each program.
The Bement School offers summer programs for children ages 4-15. Children have the opportunity to enjoy the fun of a traditional day camp and help create their own schedule by choosing from a wide range of unique activities. Digging into Nature at Pine Hill provides outdoor education for ages 6-9. The Junior Camp provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for our youngest campers. The Adventure Day Camp offers activities that include sports, nature, arts and crafts, and swimming. The Counselor-in-Training program gives young teenagers experience working with children and developing valuable job skills while still enjoying summer camp fun. Summer Program dates are listed on their website. Sign up now, as sessions are filling fast!
Performing Arts Camp at Stoneleigh-Burnham School (SBS) in Greenfield is a camp for ages 10-16 interested in theater, voice, and dance! Performing arts is a great way for students to investigate the world around them and cultivate meaning in their lives. At SBS, performing arts classes are community-oriented, nonhierarchical, body-positive, and culturally relevant. Students will spend time learning and rehearsing a fun program of choral music, musical theater, and dance through participation in the performing arts camp. Students will have the opportunity to learn about vocal technique and health, work on acting and emoting, and focus on dance for musical theater. At the end of the week, students will share their learnings in an informal performance. Dates: August 7-13, 2022; Age Range: 10-16yo. Contact: 413-774-2711 ♦ sbschool.org
FEATURED EVENT
Música Franklin’s Annual Fun Fest
Turners Falls, MA
Join Música Franklin for their 4th Annual Fun Fest with musical performances, crafts, and more for all ages on Saturday, June 4 from 12-5pm! Carrie Ferguson’s Grumpytime Band Club opens, followed by student performances, Akwaaba African Dance Ensemble, and Surcari multicultural Latin band. Abenaki storytelling with Willow Greene and professional juggling peppers the stage between bands. Visit our instrument “petting zoo,” where you can touch and try a variety of musical instruments and stop by our make-and-take craft tables. Bring home a rubber band guitar, make a marbled bookmark, stamp a picture using veggie prints, and play with giant bubbles… There’s something for everyone at Fun Fest! Check out their full schedule at MusicaFranklin.org. Rain date is June 5.
FEATURED EVENT
Power of Truths
Florence, MA
June 10-11, 2022
Come to the Power of Truths Conference on June 10-11, 2022, at Bombyx (130 Pine St, Florence, MA) and explore how arts and education can powerfully move us towards a world with racial justice. Friday night will feature: Marcia Gomes and her band of award-winning musicians June Millington, Eugene Uman, Denny Pelletier, and Fumi Tomia; Lox & Keyes Theory, a multi-genre band from Hartford; and Boston Hip-hop legend and UMass-Boston professor Akrobatik. Saturday will be a day-long conference with numerous workshops for people committed to arts, education, and justice. The event will conclude with a keynote speech from Bayeté Ross Smith, the Artist in Residence at Columbia Law School. For more information & to register, visit www.poweroftruths.org.
FEATURED CO-OP EVENT
River Valley Co-op’s
Strawberry Ice Cream Social
Easthampton, MA
River Valley Co-op’s popular Strawberry Ice Cream Social is back! Held outdoors at their Easthampton location (228 Northampton St., Easthampton, MA) on Thursday, June 23, from 5-8pm, this family-friendly event will have live music, kids activities, and food for sale prepared by co-op chefs. Enjoy burgers, corn on the cob, potato salad, drinks, and of course, local ice cream served with local organic strawberries! There will be vegetarian and gluten-free options as well. All proceeds from this event will benefit three local nonprofits: Nolumbeka Project, The International Language Institute, and Riquezas Del Campo. Everyone in the community is welcome to stop by and celebrate the official start of summer in the Pioneer Valley! More info: rivervalley.coop.
FEATURED MUSIC FESTIVAL
The Green River Festival
Greenfield, MA
Green River Festival, Western Massachusetts’ most family-friendly music festival, happens at The Franklin County Fairgrounds on June 24-26, 2022, in Greenfield, MA. Kids 10 and under are always free! In addition to an incredible lineup of music for adults featuring Father John Misty, Lake Street Dive, Guster, Galactic, and Waxahatchee, Green River Festival is packed with activities for children and families. Enjoy crafts and music at the Arts Garden tent and stage and explore Delilah, a life-size inflatable whale. Enjoy Flying High Frisbee Dogs, MuZen puppets, a Team BMX bike show, a games tent, and the not to be missed yearly Mardi Gras Parade. For a full lineup of family music and activities, visit www.greenriverfestival.com.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
At Home in the Woods
Conway, MA
Close your eyes & imagine this: your kids are outside this summer…playing games, building shelters, tracking wildlife, learning & practicing firemaking skills, carving, discovering, foraging for wild edibles, experiencing, mentoring & so much more! An old-fashioned childhood summer in 2022! At Home in the Woods Camps are Mon-Fri, 9 am-3 pm (except during the week of 7/4). There are 4 weeks for ages 5-6; all summer for ages 7+. Contact for information on additional Camps specifically for teens. Some weeks fill quickly so register now. For $50 off, use this code: HTFAM.
Dates: June 20-August 26, 2022
Age Range: 5-17yo
Contact: 413-340-1161
♦ frank@earthworkprograms.com
♦ earthworkprograms.com
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Community Music School of Springfield
Music Lessons
Springfield, MA
Come make music with the Community Music School of Springfield this summer! 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 with you while helping you accomplish your personal musical goals. Offering instruction in over 30 instruments and voice, their registration team can help you decide whether to rent or purchase your instrument. Getting started is easy – your summer music lesson is just a click or phone call away! Dates: June 27-August 19, 2022. Age Range: 4yo+. Contact: 413-732-8428
♦ info@communitymusicschool.com
♦ communitymusicschool.com
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Riotous Youth
Lenox, MA
Riotous Youth, Shakespeare & Company’s summer theater program for children and teenagers, is slated to run from Tuesday, July 5 to Friday, August 19. These one-, two-, and three-week summer theater programs, tailored to different age groups, introduce students ages six to 17 to Shakespeare’s language, stories, characters, and themes, using imaginative and playful methods. To ensure the health of the Shakespeare & Company community, all Riotous Youth and Riotous Company participants who are vaccine eligible must be vaccinated against COVID-19. Financial aid is available; visit them online to learn more, apply, and access necessary program forms. Dates: July 5-August 12, 2022. Age Range: 6-17yo. Contact: 413-637-1199; jstevenson@shakespeare.org; www.shakespeare.org/education/riotous-youth.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
The Drama Studio
Springfield, MA
The Drama Studio is a unique community where young people grow as artists, leaders, and individuals. This summer, The Drama Studio will be offering a variety of onsite acting and theater programs in a safe environment. These programs include: Stories on Stage, where students will prepare an entire production of “Story Theatre”; and Improv for younger audiences, including a literacy video. In TeenScene: SummerFest teens will present a fully produced festival of “One Acts.” Other programs include Acting Up: Summer Fun Stories, SummerSlam: Improv Week, and Island Improv, Scenes and Myths. No prior acting experience is required. Summer enrollment is now open! Space is limited. Dates: July 5-August 19, 2022; Age Range: 6-18yo; Contact: 413-739-1983; info@dramastudio.org; www.dramastudio.org.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
The Westfield State
Boys and Girls Basketball Camp
Westfield, MA
The Westfield State Boys and Girls Basketball Camp runs from July 11-15, 2022. The cost is $210 for the week. All skill levels are welcome! The camp runs from 9am-3:30pm on Monday-Thursday, and Friday from 9am-12pm. The camp is indoors at the beautiful Woodward Center at Westfield State University. All campers must bring water bottles, snacks, and lunch.
Dates: July 11-15, 2022
Age Range: 8-16yo
Contact: 413-572-8105
♦ abertini@westfield.ma.edu
♦ www.westfieldstateowls.com
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Dan Kane Singing Program
at The Majestic Theater
West Springfield, MA
The Majestic Theater at 131 Elm St in West Springfield is the home of the Dan Kane Summer Singing Enrichment Camp! The theater is gorgeous! It’s a professional theater with a vast audience base, giving students a chance to perform in a professional venue on a professional stage. There will be one Monday-Friday session for the week of Aug 22-26, with 50 openings for children who love to sing. The week will culminate with two concerts, showcasing the talented students & what they learned! Openings are limited as it is always a sell-out, so call the theater as early as possible for details. The cost is $295/student, due with submission of application which prospective families can get from the theater. Dates: August 22-26, 2022. Age Range: 6-16yo. Contact: 413-747-7797; dan@dankanesingers.org; majestictheater.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
Join art therapist and Kindie Rockstars Nicole Porter and Wyndham Garnett of You and Us for a fun medley with guided Healing arts tasks designed to increase children’s sense of safety and security. Nicole and Wyndham take the listeners on a musical adventure encouraging creative expression to build a stronger sense of self and community. This sequence uplifts and engages listeners to dance, draw, and sing along!
HFVS Building a Sense of Safety Episode
with Guest DJ, Nicole Porter
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: MAY 28-JUNE 3, 2022
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
LOCAL HISTORY: West Stockbridge Historial Society. 9 Main Street. West Stockbridge, MA.
AGRICULTURE: Black Birch Vineyard. 413-247-3300. 108 Straits Rd, North Hatfield, MA.
LITERACY: Blandford Porter Memorial Library. 413-848-2853. 87 Main St, Blandford, MA.
ART STUDIES: Brushworks Arts & Industry. 413-586-7939. 221 Pine Street. Florence, MA.
MARINE BIOLOGY: Action Sports & Travel. 413-499-7205. 369 North St, Pittsfield, MA.
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
From May 15-31, 2022, enjoy 20% off homeschool curriculum, craft supplies, and educational resources in Oak Meadow’s online bookstore. Oak Meadow’s book-based preschool through grade 12 homeschooling curriculum provides a comprehensive educational experience delivered with imagination and heart. Their approach is compassionate and student-centered because they believe that children are sensitive and intelligent and that we can joyfully integrate learning into life. Choose from complete curriculum packages for PreK-8 or individual courses for high school; or purchase craft supplies, homeschooling resources, books, and more. Shop May 15-31, 2022, at oakmeadowbookstore.com.
The Bement School offers summer programs for children ages 4-15. Children have the opportunity to enjoy the fun of a traditional day camp and help create their own schedule by choosing from a wide range of unique activities. Digging into Nature at Pine Hill provides outdoor education for ages 6-9. The Junior Camp provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for our youngest campers. The Adventure Day Camp offers activities that include sports, nature, arts and crafts, and swimming. The Counselor-in-Training program gives young teenagers experience working with children and developing valuable job skills while still enjoying summer camp fun. Summer Program dates are listed on their website. Sign up now, as sessions are filling fast!
Performing Arts Camp at Stoneleigh-Burnham School (SBS) in Greenfield is a camp for ages 10-16 interested in theater, voice, and dance! Performing arts is a great way for students to investigate the world around them and cultivate meaning in their lives. At SBS, performing arts classes are community-oriented, nonhierarchical, body-positive, and culturally relevant. Students will spend time learning and rehearsing a fun program of choral music, musical theater, and dance through participation in the performing arts camp. Students will have the opportunity to learn about vocal technique and health, work on acting and emoting, and focus on dance for musical theater. At the end of the week, students will share their learnings in an informal performance. Dates: August 7-13, 2022; Age Range: 10-16yo. Contact: 413-774-2711 ♦ sbschool.org
River Valley Counseling Center (RVCC) is a multi-faceted community-based mental health agency changing lives and empowering people throughout the Pioneer Valley since 1953. The offices are located in Easthampton, Chicopee, Holyoke, Springfield, and Westfield. RVCC partners with school districts throughout Hampden and Hampshire Counties to provide therapy to students during the school day. RVCC is hiring clinicians! They offer a flexible schedule, bonuses for licensed and bilingual applicants, $1000 CEU benefit, $5,000 annual tuition reimbursement, generous health benefits, and more! Visit www.rvccinc.org to view current career opportunities and sign up for one of RVCC’s Virtual Hiring Events.
The Hilltown Community Development Corporation (Hilltown CDC) offers free, confidential business assistance to Hilltown residents. If you are thinking of starting or growing your business, the Hilltown CDC can help! And thanks to a generous grant from the MGCC, all of their business assistance is FREE. They have experts in a wide range of areas that can help Hilltown entrepreneurs get on their feet, including website help, social media marketing, business tax and accounting, legal assistance, and Assistance for Farmers! For more information, email Hilltown CDC Economic Development Director Michele Kenney at MicheleK@Hilltowncdc.org, or call 413-354-1055. Sign up for their free virtual classes at hilltowndirectory.com/events
FEATURED EVENT
Música Franklin’s Annual Fun Fest
Turners Falls, MA
Join Música Franklin for their 4th Annual Fun Fest with musical performances, crafts, and more for all ages! Carrie Ferguson’s Grumpytime Band Club opens, followed by student performances, Akwaaba African Dance Ensemble, and Surcari multicultural Latin band. Abenaki storytelling with Willow Greene and professional juggling peppers the stage between bands. Visit our instrument “petting zoo,” where you can touch and try a variety of musical instruments and stop by our make-and-take craft tables. Bring home a rubber band guitar, make a marbled bookmark, stamp a picture using veggie prints, and play with giant bubbles… There’s something for everyone at Fun Fest! Check out their full schedule at MusicaFranklin.org. Rain date is June 5.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Riotous Youth
Lenox, MA
Riotous Youth, Shakespeare & Company’s summer theater program for children and teenagers, is slated to run from Tuesday, July 5 to Friday, August 19. These one-, two-, and three-week summer theater programs, tailored to different age groups, introduce students ages six to 17 to Shakespeare’s language, stories, characters, and themes, using imaginative and playful methods. To ensure the health of the Shakespeare & Company community, all Riotous Youth and Riotous Company participants who are vaccine eligible must be vaccinated against COVID-19. Financial aid is available; visit them online to learn more, apply, and access necessary program forms. Dates: July 5-August 12, 2022. Age Range: 6-17yo. Contact: 413-637-1199; jstevenson@shakespeare.org; www.shakespeare.org/education/riotous-youth.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
The Westfield State
Boys and Girls Basketball Camp
Westfield, MA
The Westfield State Boys and Girls Basketball Camp runs from July 11-15, 2022. The cost is $210 for the week. All skill levels are welcome! The camp runs from 9am-3:30pm on Monday-Thursday, and Friday from 9am-12pm. The camp is indoors at the beautiful Woodward Center at Westfield State University. All campers must bring water bottles, snacks, and lunch.
Dates: July 11-15, 2022
Age Range: 8-16yo
Contact: 413-572-8105
♦ abertini@westfield.ma.edu
♦ www.westfieldstateowls.com
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Miss Leticia Music Summer Camp and Songwriting Camp
Amherst, MA
Miss Leticia Music Summer Camp and Songwriting Camp offers three levels of instruction for three weeks in July, with a beginning group (guitar, ukulele, bass, drums), intermediate, and advanced Rock Band. Week 1: Beginner group, Interm & Adv Rock band- Radio Hits July 11-15, 9-3pm; Week 2: Beginner group, Interm & Adv Rock Band- Rock Week, July 18-22, 9-3pm; Week 3 Songwriting/Recording Camp: July 25-29 Mon – Thurs 9-4pm, Friday 9-6pm. Dates: July 11-29, 2022. Age Range: 6-16yo. Contact: 413-246-7338; missleticia@missleticia.com; www.missleticia.com.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Summer at The Academy at Charlemont
Charlemont, MA
Academy Summer Programs tap into The Academy’s artistic, outdoor, and academic communities by enabling students to explore areas of interest in a safe, in-person, outdoor environment. Offerings are week-long, half or full day for rising 4th-10th graders.
Dates: July 29-August 5, 2022
Age Range: 9-16yo
Contact: 413-339-4912
♦ summer@charlemont.org
♦ www.charlemont.org/2022-summer-programs
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Summer ARPS and Culture
Amherst, MA
Join ARPS and Culture, a new summer program for rising 2nd- 5th graders led by a talented team of Amherst multilingual high school leaders. Enjoy visual arts, theater, dance, photography, and more. Date & Time: August 1-5, 2022. 8:30am-3pm. Location: Amherst Regional High School. More information and registration at tinyurl.com/ARPSandCulture.
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
Now that we have turned the corner from May to June, notice the changes through your senses. Your senses can tell you what time of the year it is without even looking at a calendar. Just the sound the trees make as their young green leaves tussle together in the treetops when it’s breezy before a rainstorm is enough to signal the time of year. The next time there’s a wind, notice the sound of the trees. How does the sound differ from the winter months when the leaves are on the ground, or in the autumn when they are crisp and turning colors? Layer upon this dance between wind and leaves the changing soundscape of the birds, insects, and frogs, and you can observe what time of the year it is merely through sound. Invite your sense of smell to the table and the conversation deepens, accessing memories through the scent of blossoms, dirt, and summer rains.
Matt and Kier from The Relative Minors take you on an adventure to the library in a Children’s Literature Episode! They talk about the best way to read a book, some well-loved works of literature, and how to write your own story!
HFVS Children’s Literature Episode
with Guest DJ, The Relative Minors
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: MAY 21-27, 2022
SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IDEAS
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Local History: East Longmeadow Historical Museum. 413-525-3425. 87 Maple Street, East Longmeadow, MA
Literacy: Cushman Library. 413-648-5402. 28 Church St, Bernardston, MA.
Local History: Keep Homestead Museum. 413-267-4137. 35 Ely Rd. Monson, MA.
Environmental Studies: Millers River Environmental Center. 978-248-9491. 100 Main Street. Athol, MA.
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
From May 15-31, 2022, enjoy 20% off homeschool curriculum, craft supplies, and educational resources in Oak Meadow’s online bookstore. Oak Meadow’s book-based preschool through grade 12 homeschooling curriculum provides a comprehensive educational experience delivered with imagination and heart. Their approach is compassionate and student-centered because they believe that children are sensitive and intelligent and that we can joyfully integrate learning into life. Choose from complete curriculum packages for PreK-8 or individual courses for high school; or purchase craft supplies, homeschooling resources, books, and more. Shop May 15-31, 2022, at oakmeadowbookstore.com.
River Valley Counseling Center (RVCC) is a multi-faceted community-based mental health agency changing lives and empowering people throughout the Pioneer Valley since 1953. The offices are located in Easthampton, Chicopee, Holyoke, Springfield, and Westfield. RVCC partners with school districts throughout Hampden and Hampshire Counties to provide therapy to students during the school day. RVCC is hiring clinicians! They offer a flexible schedule, bonuses for licensed and bilingual applicants, $1000 CEU benefit, $5,000 annual tuition reimbursement, generous health benefits, and more! Visit www.rvccinc.org to view current career opportunities and sign up for one of RVCC’s Virtual Hiring Events.
The Hilltown Community Development Corporation (Hilltown CDC) offers free, confidential business assistance to Hilltown residents. If you are thinking of starting or growing your business, the Hilltown CDC can help! And thanks to a generous grant from the MGCC, all of their business assistance is FREE. They have experts in a wide range of areas that can help Hilltown entrepreneurs get on their feet, including website help, social media marketing, business tax and accounting, legal assistance, and Assistance for Farmers! For more information, email Hilltown CDC Economic Development Director Michele Kenney at MicheleK@Hilltowncdc.org, or call 413-354-1055. Sign up for their free virtual classes at hilltowndirectory.com/events
Yoga Sanctuary has two week-long programs for kids this summer! Yoga Monkey Kids (ages 6–10) weaves yoga and creative movement, mythic storytelling, creative crafts, and games into one fun and enchanting week! Play Practice: Exploring Yoga & Theater (ages 10–13) includes yoga techniques, theater games, and creative exercises designed to unleash each student’s unique expression, as well as foster dynamic group creation. Plus, all the summer fun of daily outdoors time and a special day spent walking and swimming in our beautiful local nature! Both programs include a special sharing for parents on the final day. A discounted two-week price is available for participants ages 10 (or even 11!)! Yoga Monkey Kids: June 25–29, 9–2 pm. Play Practice: August 1–5, 9–2 pm. www.yoga-sanctuary.com/kids-summer-programs; studio@yoga-sanctuary.com
The Hilltown Youth Summer Workshop in Charlemont, MA, offers intensive outdoor training for aspiring actors, artists, dancers, musicians, singers, and circus performers (trapeze, fabrics, stilts, German wheel) with Andrae Green, Scott Halligan, Laura Iveson, Double Edge Theatre, and other luminaries from the Valley’s performing arts community. Perform under the stars on an aerial park, zipline, mountaintop at Berkshire East, ensemble and theatergoers reach by chairlift! Help create their 2022 spectacle “Much Ado About Nothing” guest directed by Knighthorse Theatre—”our mission is to make Shakespeare cool again”—no prior experience required. HS-aged participants can apply for their YouthCore program.
Dates: July 11-August 4, 2022; Age Range: 10-18yo. Contact: 413-625-2100 ♦ hilltownyouth@gmail.com ♦ hilltownyouth.org
Performing Arts Camp at Stoneleigh-Burnham School (SBS) in Greenfield is a camp for ages 10-16 interested in theater, voice, and dance! Performing arts is a great way for students to investigate the world around them and cultivate meaning in their lives. At SBS, performing arts classes are community-oriented, nonhierarchical, body-positive, and culturally relevant. Students will spend time learning and rehearsing a fun program of choral music, musical theater, and dance through participation in the performing arts camp. Students will have the opportunity to learn about vocal technique and health, work on acting and emoting, and focus on dance for musical theater. At the end of the week, students will share their learnings in an informal performance. Dates: August 7-13, 2022; Age Range: 10-16yo. Contact: 413-774-2711 ♦ sbschool.org
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Rowe Youth Camps
Rowe, MA
Rowe is a camp for independent young people ages 8-19 who love to create their own adventures. Their camp counselors are ready to run almost any kind of fun that campers can imagine, from paint wars with water balloons and slip and slide kickball to serious discussions about the important things in life. Their camps are structured so that as campers get older, they have more and more freedom to shape their own camp experience. Rowe Camp likes to say that they make camp with the campers! Camp sessions run from 1 to 3 weeks, June 26 through August 19. Visit their website for their full dates, pricing, and more details. Dates: June 26- August 19, 2022. Age Range: 8-19yo. Contact: 413-339-4954; camp@rowecenter.org; rowecenter.org.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Journey Camp
Deerfield, MA
“Girls Week: Friendship Camp” is June 27-July 1, 2022, 9am-4pm for ages 6-11 ($300 or scholarship) at Woolman Hill in Deerfield, MA. This is a week of fun, kindness, and supportive new friendships. Participants build stick houses on the Pocumtuck Ridge, and choose workshops including art, singing, dance, hikes, writing, games, and story-building. Sarah Pirtle, a national leader in peace education, co-directs with Melanie Meier. The inspiring staff includes four mothers and ten trained teen staff. Camp ratio is one staff member for every two campers to offer individualized support and give a strong sense of belonging and social safety. They teach how to talk things out. This is their 29th year serving creative children. Contact for more info. Dates: June 27-July 1, 2022. Age Range: 6-11yo. Contact: 774-280-2490; melissadelo.journey@gmail.com; sarahpirtle.com/journey-camp.htm.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Camp Lion Knoll
Leyden, MA
Dates: June 27- August 19, 2022. Age Range: 4.5-14yo. Contact: 413-774-7407
♦ nclayton@girlsclubofgreenfield.org
♦ www.girlsclubofgreenfield.org
Camp Lion Knoll provides children from 4.5 to 14 years of age a summer camp experience when the public schools are not in session. Their program allows parents to attend school, work, and/or receive special services while knowing their child is busy and safe. Camp Lion Knoll promotes social and emotional learning and provides children with quality out-of-school time experience that studies show can help stem academic declines typical of a summer break. Campers are also provided with a structured meal schedule and nutritious meals during the summer.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Miss Leticia Music Summer Camp and Songwriting Camp
Amherst, MA
Miss Leticia Music Summer Camp and Songwriting Camp offers three levels of instruction for three weeks in July, with a beginning group (guitar, ukulele, bass, drums), intermediate, and advanced Rock Band. Week 1: Beginner group, Interm & Adv Rock band- Radio Hits July 11-15, 9-3pm; Week 2: Beginner group, Interm & Adv Rock Band- Rock Week, July 18-22, 9-3pm; Week 3 Songwriting/Recording Camp: July 25-29 Mon – Thurs 9-4pm, Friday 9-6pm. Dates: July 11-29, 2022. Age Range: 6-16yo. Contact: 413-246-7338; missleticia@missleticia.com; www.missleticia.com.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Massachusetts Academy of Ballet
Summer Sessions
Holyoke, MA
The Massachusetts Academy of Ballet welcomes dancers of all ages and levels to enroll in its summer sessions. All Academy classes emphasize classical technique, musicality, artistry, and creativity. Workshops for younger dancers (ages 5-7; July 11-15) include ballet, improvisation, crafts, and games. Intensives for dancers (ages 8 to 10; July 25-August 5th) and older dancers (ages 11 & up; July 25-August 19) include pointe, variations, repertory, contemporary, jazz and yoga. Adult Open Classes are also available. The Academy studios are located at the Open Square building, and feature state-of-the-art sprung floors, a dressing room, and a reception area. Dates: July 11-August 19, 2022. Age Range: 5yo-Adult. Contact: 413-536-6200; rflachs@massacademyofballet.com; www.massacademyofballet.com.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Camp Quest Pioneer Valley
Greenfield, MA
Bring Who You Are. Be(come) Who You Are. Join Camp Quest Pioneer Valley this summer for a memorable camp experience celebrating diversity in a supportive and inclusive community. This day camp is held on the beautiful 100-acre campus of Stoneleigh-Burnham school. Programming will include Classic Camp Quest activities such as Socrates Cafe and Invisible Creatures, critical thinking, and humanist values. Campers will also enjoy traditional camp activities of swimming, outdoor fun, arts and crafts, and nature. A values-based community, Camp Quest helps campers forge lasting friendships, cultivate an inclusive worldview, and return home empowered to make an impact in their communities. Financial assistance is available. Dates: July 25-August 12, 2022. Age Range: 6-12yo. Contact: 540-340-9088; camp@campquest.org; campquest.org/pioneer-valley
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Summer at The Academy at Charlemont
Charlemont, MA
Academy Summer Programs tap into The Academy’s artistic, outdoor, and academic communities by enabling students to explore areas of interest in a safe, in-person, outdoor environment. Offerings are week-long, half or full day for rising 4th-10th graders.
Dates: July 29-August 5, 2022
Age Range: 9-16yo
Contact: 413-339-4912
♦ summer@charlemont.org
♦ www.charlemont.org/2022-summer-programs
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Summer ARPS and Culture
Amherst, MA
Join ARPS and Culture, a new summer program for rising 2nd- 5th graders led by a talented team of Amherst multilingual high school leaders. Enjoy visual arts, theater, dance, photography, and more. Date & Time: August 1-5, 2022. 8:30am-3pm. Location: Amherst Regional High School. More information and registration at tinyurl.com/ARPSandCulture.
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
Home > Hilltown Family Variety Show > HFVS Mother’s Day Episode with Guest DJ, Flor Bromley
HFVS Caring for the Earth with Guest DJs, Ruth and Emilia. Award winning mother/daughter children’s duo Ruth and Emilia share their favorite songs about taking care of the environment. Listen in as they play songs about recycling, re-using, reducing, and planting trees and flowers to help mother earth stay healthy!
HFVS Caring for the Earth
with Guest DJs, Ruth and Emilia
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: MAY 14-20, 2022
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
The Hilltown Community Development Corporation (Hilltown CDC) offers free, confidential business assistance to Hilltown residents. If you are thinking of starting or growing your business, the Hilltown CDC can help! And thanks to a generous grant from the MGCC, all of their business assistance is FREE. They have experts in a wide range of areas that can help Hilltown entrepreneurs get on their feet, including website help, social media marketing, business tax and accounting, legal assistance, and Assistance for Farmers! For more information, email Hilltown CDC Economic Development Director Michele Kenney at MicheleK@Hilltowncdc.org, or call 413-354-1055. Sign up for their free virtual classes at hilltowndirectory.com/events
Yoga Sanctuary has two week-long programs for kids this summer! Yoga Monkey Kids (ages 6–10) weaves yoga and creative movement, mythic storytelling, creative crafts, and games into one fun and enchanting week! Play Practice: Exploring Yoga & Theater (ages 10–13) includes yoga techniques, theater games, and creative exercises designed to unleash each student’s unique expression, as well as foster dynamic group creation. Plus, all the summer fun of daily outdoors time and a special day spent walking and swimming in our beautiful local nature! Both programs include a special sharing for parents on the final day. A discounted two-week price is available for participants ages 10 (or even 11!)! Yoga Monkey Kids: June 25–29, 9–2 pm. Play Practice: August 1–5, 9–2 pm. www.yoga-sanctuary.com/kids-summer-programs; studio@yoga-sanctuary.com
The Hilltown Youth Summer Workshop in Charlemont, MA, offers intensive outdoor training for aspiring actors, artists, dancers, musicians, singers, and circus performers (trapeze, fabrics, stilts, German wheel) with Andrae Green, Scott Halligan, Laura Iveson, Double Edge Theatre, and other luminaries from the Valley’s performing arts community. Perform under the stars on an aerial park, zipline, mountaintop at Berkshire East, ensemble and theatergoers reach by chairlift! Help create their 2022 spectacle “Much Ado About Nothing” guest directed by Knighthorse Theatre—”our mission is to make Shakespeare cool again”—no prior experience required. HS-aged participants can apply for their YouthCore program.
Dates: July 11-August 4, 2022; Age Range: 10-18yo. Contact: 413-625-2100 ♦ hilltownyouth@gmail.com ♦ hilltownyouth.org
Performing Arts Camp at Stoneleigh-Burnham School (SBS) in Greenfield is a camp for ages 10-16 interested in theater, voice, and dance! Performing arts is a great way for students to investigate the world around them and cultivate meaning in their lives. At SBS, performing arts classes are community-oriented, nonhierarchical, body-positive, and culturally relevant. Students will spend time learning and rehearsing a fun program of choral music, musical theater, and dance through participation in the performing arts camp. Students will have the opportunity to learn about vocal technique and health, work on acting and emoting, and focus on dance for musical theater. At the end of the week, students will share their learnings in an informal performance. Dates: August 7-13, 2022; Age Range: 10-16yo. Contact: 413-774-2711 ♦ sbschool.org
FEATURED CO-OP
River Valley Co-Op
Northampton & Easthampton, MA
Springtime events at River Valley Co-op! From May 6-9, 2022, the co-op will have select full cases of popular items available for up to 40% OFF! Household items, pantry staples, meat and seafood, and more. Plus, there will be hundreds of individual items on sale throughout the store! Then from May 9-15, 2022, the co-op will have their annual spring plant sale featuring veggie, herb, and flower starts from local farms available for just 2/$7 (4-packs & 4-inch pots). Both events will be happening simultaneously at each co-op location and held outside in their parking lot. Locations include: 30 N King St, Northampton, MA; and 228 Northampton St, Easthampton, MA. Everyone is welcome!
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Springfield, MA
Prelude Preschool of the Arts offers five-day arts-integrated summer learning and play for children ages 2.9-5 years. Full-day and half-day programming feature specialized classes taught by expert musicians and artists in early childhood music, dance, yoga, Suzuki violin, bucket drumming, and visual art. Prelude kiddos take weekly field trips to the Springfield Museums, and fun weekly summer themes support learning, discovery, and social-emotional development. Flexible before and aftercare is available to meet your family’s scheduling needs, and it’s easy to enroll for fall if you fall in love with Prelude this summer! Dates: June 13-August 5, 2022. Age Range: 2.9-5yo. Contact: 413-750-9560; prelude@communitymusicschool.com; communitymusicschool.com/prelude
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Rowe Youth Camps
Rowe, MA
Rowe is a camp for independent young people ages 8-19 who love to create their own adventures. Their camp counselors are ready to run almost any kind of fun that campers can imagine, from paint wars with water balloons and slip and slide kickball to serious discussions about the important things in life. Their camps are structured so that as campers get older, they have more and more freedom to shape their own camp experience. Rowe Camp likes to say that they make camp with the campers! Camp sessions run from 1 to 3 weeks, June 26 through August 19. Visit their website for their full dates, pricing, and more details. Dates: June 26- August 19, 2022. Age Range: 8-19yo. Contact: 413-339-4954; camp@rowecenter.org; rowecenter.org.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Journey Camp
Deerfield, MA
“Girls Week: Friendship Camp” is June 27-July 1, 2022, 9am-4pm for ages 6-11 ($300 or scholarship) at Woolman Hill in Deerfield, MA. This is a week of fun, kindness, and supportive new friendships. Participants build stick houses on the Pocumtuck Ridge, and choose workshops including art, singing, dance, hikes, writing, games, and story-building. Sarah Pirtle, a national leader in peace education, co-directs with Melanie Meier. The inspiring staff includes four mothers and ten trained teen staff. Camp ratio is one staff member for every two campers to offer individualized support and give a strong sense of belonging and social safety. They teach how to talk things out. This is their 29th year serving creative children. Contact for more info. Dates: June 27-July 1, 2022. Age Range: 6-11yo. Contact: 774-280-2490; melissadelo.journey@gmail.com; sarahpirtle.com/journey-camp.htm.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Berkshire Music School’s
Adventures in Music
Pittsfield. MA
Berkshire Music School’s Adventures in Music is designed for young music lovers ages 5-9, giving your budding musician a solid foundation in making music in a fun, engaging atmosphere. Participants will enjoy group introduction classes in music, chorus, creative movement, and puppetry on the tented lawn of Berkshire Music School’s historic campus in Pittsfield, MA. Small group workshops in piano, drama, percussion, visual arts, and more are also offered! Summer classes take place Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm. Extended day options are available. Mini Session: June 27-July 1, 2022. Session 1: July 11-22, 2022. Session 2: July 25-August 5, 2022. For more information, visit www.berkshiremusicschool.org.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Camp Lion Knoll
Leyden, MA
Camp Lion Knoll provides children from 4.5 to 14 years of age a summer camp experience when the public schools are not in session. Their program allows parents to attend school, work, and/or receive special services while knowing their child is busy and safe. Camp Lion Knoll promotes social and emotional learning and provides children with quality out-of-school time experience that studies show can help stem academic declines typical of a summer break. Campers are also provided with a structured meal schedule and nutritious meals during the summer. Dates: June 27- August 19, 2022. Age Range: 4.5-14yo. Contact: 413-774-7407; nclayton@girlsclubofgreenfield.org; www.girlsclubofgreenfield.org
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
HEROES Leadership Project
Greenfield, MA
HEROES Leadership Project is a program of the Treehouse Foundation. A full summer experience for youth and young adults 14 -24 yrs old with lived experience in foster care, kinship care, or adoption in Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties. Prticipants will build leadership and advocacy skills, participate in community service through local summer lunch programs, experience the outdoors through nature walks and camping trips, practice wellness through herbalism workshops, attend recreational activities, engage in expressive arts projects, have access to one-on-one educational support if needed, and build community with people of different ages. Older participants will have the opportunity to serve as peer mentors. This program is fully funded through grants and participation is free. Dates: June 27-August 21, 2022. Age Range: 14-24yo. Contact: 413-302-3590; heroes@treehousefoundation.net;
https://linktr.ee/HEROESyouthleadership
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Holyoke Community College
Summer Youth Programs
Holyoke, MA
Summer fun for teens and kids at Holyoke Community College! Online and in-person activities. Learn to cook, learn to code, create video games, engineer Minecraft, master YouTube, and more. In-person and online classes are available. *Students registering for on-campus activities must submit proof of vaccination. Visit hcc.edu/covid for details.
Dates: June 27-August 26, 2022. Age Range: 8–15yo. Contact: 413-552-2529; wmurphy@hcc.edu; www.hcc.edu/summeryouth
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Massachusetts Academy of Ballet
Summer Sessions
Holyoke, MA
The Massachusetts Academy of Ballet welcomes dancers of all ages and levels to enroll in its summer sessions. All Academy classes emphasize classical technique, musicality, artistry, and creativity. Workshops for younger dancers (ages 5-7; July 11-15) include ballet, improvisation, crafts, and games. Intensives for dancers (ages 8 to 10; July 25-August 5th) and older dancers (ages 11 & up; July 25-August 19) include pointe, variations, repertory, contemporary, jazz and yoga. Adult Open Classes are also available. The Academy studios are located at the Open Square building, and feature state-of-the-art sprung floors, a dressing room, and a reception area. Dates: July 11-August 19, 2022. Age Range: 5yo-Adult. Contact: 413-536-6200; rflachs@massacademyofballet.com; www.massacademyofballet.com.
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Camp Quest Pioneer Valley
Greenfield, MA
Bring Who You Are. Be(come) Who You Are. Join Camp Quest Pioneer Valley this summer for a memorable camp experience celebrating diversity in a supportive and inclusive community. This day camp is held on the beautiful 100-acre campus of Stoneleigh-Burnham school. Programming will include Classic Camp Quest activities such as Socrates Cafe and Invisible Creatures, critical thinking, and humanist values. Campers will also enjoy traditional camp activities of swimming, outdoor fun, arts and crafts, and nature. A values-based community, Camp Quest helps campers forge lasting friendships, cultivate an inclusive worldview, and return home empowered to make an impact in their communities. Financial assistance is available. Dates: July 25-August 12, 2022. Age Range: 6-12yo. Contact: 540-340-9088; camp@campquest.org; campquest.org/pioneer-valley
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
Home > Hilltown Family Variety Show > HFVS Mother’s Day Episode with Guest DJ, Flor Bromley
Join us this week on the Hilltown Family Variety Show where guest DJ Flor Bromley, a bilingual children’s singer-songwriter, storyteller and puppeteer, has compiled a great playlist to praise our mommas. We will be listening to songs our mommas sing, songs from a mom’s perspective and songs about loving our moms.
HFVS Mother’s Day Episode
with Guest DJ, Flor Bromley
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: MAY 7-13, 2022
SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IDEAS
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
DAIRY FARMING: Barstow’s Dairy Store and Bakery. Hadley, MA.
LOCAL HISTORY: West Springfield Town Museum. West Springfield, MA.
NATURE-BASED LEARNING: Greylock Glen. Adams, MA.
LITERACY: Hampden Free Public Library. Hampden, MA.
LOCAL HISTORY: Belchertown Stone House Museum. Belchertown, MA.
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
A Midsummer Night’s Dream is one of Shakespeare’s most fanciful and enchanting comedies, telling the tale of four bewitched lovers as they reckon with jealousy, desperation, and the complications of true love. Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s Stage2 takes up residence at the Strand Theatre in Dorchester to present a 90-minute production of this classic comedy. A Midsummer Night’s Dream will perform 3 open/public community performances: May 7, 2022, at 2pm & 7pm, and May 14, 2022, at 7pm. Tickets are available at commshakes.org. Student Matinee performances will also be available for student groups from May 5-13. Potential patrons should request tickets through this link (also available on their website) or email education@commshakes.org.
In Bloom in Western Mass, Saturday, May 14, 2022, Hitchcock Center for the Environment, is a full day conference for educators and parents of preschool–third grade students. The workshop sessions provide best practices in nature-based early childhood education, cover relevant topics, and take you outside to experience firsthand learning. The morning keynote speaker, Ayana Verdi, founder, and director of Verdi EcoSchool, Melbourne, Florida, will address Cultivating Connection: Using the Community-as-Campus to Build Immersive Learning Experiences for Young Children. The afternoon plenary features Anne Stires of Alna, Maine. Anne will speak on Re-imagining and Co-Creating Change: How a professional learning community (PLC) for Maine administrators is implementing nature-based change in PreK–8 schools. Presented by Antioch University New England in Keene, NH. View the Conference Program to see the workshop descriptions. Contact: Peg Smeltz, msmeltz@antioch.edu
The Hilltown Community Development Corporation (Hilltown CDC) offers free, confidential business assistance to Hilltown residents. If you are thinking of starting or growing your business, the Hilltown CDC can help! And thanks to a generous grant from the MGCC, all of their business assistance is FREE. They have experts in a wide range of areas that can help Hilltown entrepreneurs get on their feet, including website help, social media marketing, business tax and accounting, legal assistance, and Assistance for Farmers! For more information, email Hilltown CDC Economic Development Director Michele Kenney at MicheleK@Hilltowncdc.org, or call 413-354-1055. Sign up for their free virtual classes at hilltowndirectory.com/events
Learn at Morse Hill is an outdoor elementary homeschool program on 85 acres in Shutesbury, MA. As this fully outdoor program plans for its third year of creating hands-on learning experiences under the beautiful hemlocks of Morse Hill, campus tours are now available and filling up quickly! Students enjoy a cozy yurt for warming in the colder months and build resiliency through Morse Hill adventure experiences, including canoeing, hiking, climbing, and a ropes course. Families may select up to four homeschool days per week. To learn more, visit www.learnatmorsehill.com or reach out to Jess Evans, Leadership Team and Enrollment Coordinator, at enroll@schoolatmorsehill.org.
The Bement School offers summer programs for children ages 4-15. Children have the opportunity to enjoy the fun of a traditional day camp and help create their own schedule by choosing from a wide range of unique activities. Digging into Nature at Pine Hill provides outdoor education for ages 6-9. The Junior Camp provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for our youngest campers. The Adventure Day Camp offers activities that include sports, nature, arts and crafts, and swimming. The Counselor-in-Training program gives young teenagers experience working with children and developing valuable job skills while still enjoying summer camp fun. Summer Program dates are listed on their website. Sign up now, as sessions are filling fast!
The Hilltown Youth Summer Workshop in Charlemont, MA, offers intensive outdoor training for aspiring actors, artists, dancers, musicians, singers, and circus performers (trapeze, fabrics, stilts, German wheel) with Andrae Green, Scott Halligan, Laura Iveson, Double Edge Theatre, and other luminaries from the Valley’s performing arts community. Perform under the stars on an aerial park, zipline, mountaintop at Berkshire East, ensemble and theatergoers reach by chairlift! Help create their 2022 spectacle “Much Ado About Nothing” guest directed by Knighthorse Theatre—”our mission is to make Shakespeare cool again”—no prior experience required. HS-aged participants can apply for their YouthCore program.
Dates: July 11-August 4, 2022; Age Range: 10-18yo. Contact: 413-625-2100 ♦ hilltownyouth@gmail.com ♦ hilltownyouth.org
FEATURED CO-OP
River Valley Co-Op
Northampton & Easthampton, MA
Springtime events at River Valley Co-op! From May 6-9, 2022, the co-op will have select full cases of popular items available for up to 40% OFF! Household items, pantry staples, meat and seafood, and more. Plus, there will be hundreds of individual items on sale throughout the store! Then from May 9-15, 2022, the co-op will have their annual spring plant sale featuring veggie, herb, and flower starts from local farms available for just 2/$7 (4-packs & 4-inch pots). Both events will be happening simultaneously at each co-op location and held outside in their parking lot. Locations include: 30 N King St, Northampton, MA; and 228 Northampton St, Easthampton, MA. Everyone is welcome!
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Springfield, MA
Prelude Preschool of the Arts offers five-day arts-integrated summer learning and play for children ages 2.9-5 years. Full-day and half-day programming feature specialized classes taught by expert musicians and artists in early childhood music, dance, yoga, Suzuki violin, bucket drumming, and visual art. Prelude kiddos take weekly field trips to the Springfield Museums, and fun weekly summer themes support learning, discovery, and social-emotional development. Flexible before and aftercare is available to meet your family’s scheduling needs, and it’s easy to enroll for fall if you fall in love with Prelude this summer! Dates: June 13-August 5, 2022. Age Range: 2.9-5yo. Contact: 413-750-9560; prelude@communitymusicschool.com; communitymusicschool.com/prelude
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
The Center School Summer Camp
Greenfield, MA
The Center School is proud to announce its inaugural summer camp! Between cooking and theater, bookmaking and obstacle courses, Dungeons and Dragons, and nature exploration on their campus’ 30 acres, The Center School summer camp is designed to give children space for creative play and mindful exploration. Camp will run for six weeks for children aged 4-12, and families can sign up for as many weeks as they would like. With a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities and their excited staff, your child is sure to make a summer full of memories with The Center School.
Dates: June 21-July 29, 2022
Age Range: 4-12yo
Contact: 413-773-1700
♦ k.mccolgan@centerschool.net
♦ centerschool.net/summer
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
HEROES Leadership Project
Greenfield, MA
HEROES Leadership Project is a program of the Treehouse Foundation. A full summer experience for youth and young adults 14 -24 yrs old with lived experience in foster care, kinship care, or adoption in Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties. Prticipants will build leadership and advocacy skills, participate in community service through local summer lunch programs, experience the outdoors through nature walks and camping trips, practice wellness through herbalism workshops, attend recreational activities, engage in expressive arts projects, have access to one-on-one educational support if needed, and build community with people of different ages. Older participants will have the opportunity to serve as peer mentors. This program is fully funded through grants and participation is free. Dates: June 27-August 21, 2022. Age Range: 14-24yo. Contact: 413-302-3590; heroes@treehousefoundation.net;
https://linktr.ee/HEROESyouthleadership
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Summer @ Artspace
Greenfield, MA
Create sculptures of mythical beasts and magical beings. Dig into environmental art. Make puppets or design your own storybooks. Artspace Community Arts Center in Greenfield is offering a new collection of arts and music programming for children this summer – and it is going to be amazing. From drawing and collage to string ensembles and band camp, Artspace classes give kids the chance to develop their natural creativity, develop new talents, get messy, have fun, make friends, and paint in the summer air. Most classes take place outside in the Artspace Backyard, but they also make use of Artspace’s professional art studios and music rooms. Choose from morning or afternoon sessions or combine the two for a full day of hands-on creating. Dates: June 27 – August 26, 2022. Age Range: 7-14yo. Contact: 413-772-6811; info@artspacegreenfield.com; www.artspacegreenfield.com/summer-programs
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Holyoke Community College
Summer Youth Programs
Holyoke, MA
Summer fun for teens and kids at Holyoke Community College! Online and in-person activities. Learn to cook, learn to code, create video games, engineer Minecraft, master YouTube, and more. In-person and online classes are available. *Students registering for on-campus activities must submit proof of vaccination. Visit hcc.edu/covid for details.
Dates: June 27-August 26, 2022. Age Range: 8–15yo. Contact: 413-552-2529; wmurphy@hcc.edu; www.hcc.edu/summeryouth
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Berkshire Music School’s
Adventures in Music
Pittsfield. MA
Berkshire Music School’s Adventures in Music is designed for young music lovers ages 5-9, giving your budding musician a solid foundation in making music in a fun, engaging atmosphere. Participants will enjoy group introduction classes in music, chorus, creative movement, and puppetry on the tented lawn of Berkshire Music School’s historic campus in Pittsfield, MA. Small group workshops in piano, drama, percussion, visual arts, and more are also offered! Summer classes take place Monday-Friday from 10am-4pm. Extended day options are available. Mini Session: June 27-July 1, 2022. Session 1: July 11-22, 2022. Session 2: July 25-August 5, 2022. For more information, visit www.berkshiremusicschool.org.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Starlight’s Youth Theatre’s Summer Production
Sunderland, MA
Starlight’s Youth Theatre’s summer production of Wizard of Oz takes place July 11-16, 2022. Students in grades 1st-4th can attend from 9am-12pm (Cost: $175), and students in grades 5th-12th attend from 1-5pm (Cost: $210). Two public performances will occur at Maple Ridge Community Center in Sunderland on Saturday, July 16, at 10am and 12pm. Dates: July 11-16, 2022. Age Range: 6-18yo. Contact: 413-335-1274; www.starlights-youth-theatre.com; starlights.yt@gmail.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
Home > Hilltown Family Variety Show > HFVS Mindfulness Episode with Guest DJ, Charity Kahn
Join Kindie rockstar and Certified Mindfulness Instructor Charity Kahn of “Charity and the JAMband” for an exploration of what it means to be mindful. Using songs, teachings, and guided meditations, Charity takes the listener on a journey from presence to compassion — you’ll slow down, pay attention, listen, breathe, be, love, and even change the world!
HFVS Mindfulness Episode
with Guest DJ, Charity Kahn
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 30-MAY 6, 2022
SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IDEAS
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities
In Bloom in Western Mass, Saturday, May 14, 2022, Hitchcock Center for the Environment, is a full day conference for educators and parents of preschool–third grade students. The workshop sessions provide best practices in nature-based early childhood education, cover relevant topics, and take you outside to experience firsthand learning. The morning keynote speaker, Ayana Verdi, founder, and director of Verdi EcoSchool, Melbourne, Florida, will address Cultivating Connection: Using the Community-as-Campus to Build Immersive Learning Experiences for Young Children. The afternoon plenary features Anne Stires of Alna, Maine. Anne will speak on Re-imagining and Co-Creating Change: How a professional learning community (PLC) for Maine administrators is implementing nature-based change in PreK–8 schools. Presented by Antioch University New England in Keene, NH. View the Conference Program to see the workshop descriptions. Contact: Peg Smeltz, msmeltz@antioch.edu
Learn at Morse Hill is an outdoor elementary homeschool program on 85 acres in Shutesbury, MA. As this fully outdoor program plans for its third year of creating hands-on learning experiences under the beautiful hemlocks of Morse Hill, campus tours are now available and filling up quickly! Students enjoy a cozy yurt for warming in the colder months and build resiliency through Morse Hill adventure experiences, including canoeing, hiking, climbing, and a ropes course. Families may select up to four homeschool days per week. To learn more, visit www.learnatmorsehill.com or reach out to Jess Evans, Leadership Team and Enrollment Coordinator, at enroll@schoolatmorsehill.org.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream is one of Shakespeare’s most fanciful and enchanting comedies, telling the tale of four bewitched lovers as they reckon with jealousy, desperation, and the complications of true love. Commonwealth Shakespeare Company’s Stage2 takes up residence at the Strand Theatre in Dorchester to present a 90-minute production of this classic comedy. A Midsummer Night’s Dream will perform 3 open/public community performances: May 7, 2022, at 2pm & 7pm, and May 14, 2022, at 7pm. Tickets are available at commshakes.org. Student Matinee performances will also be available for student groups from May 5-13. Potential patrons should request tickets through this link (also available on their website) or email education@commshakes.org.
The Hilltown Community Development Corporation (Hilltown CDC) offers free, confidential business assistance to Hilltown residents. If you are thinking of starting or growing your business, the Hilltown CDC can help! And thanks to a generous grant from the MGCC, all of their business assistance is FREE. They have experts in a wide range of areas that can help Hilltown entrepreneurs get on their feet, including website help, social media marketing, business tax and accounting, legal assistance, and more. For more information, email Hilltown CDC Economic Development Director Michele Kenney at MicheleK@Hilltowncdc.org, or call 413-354-1055. Sign up for their free virtual classes at hilltowndirectory.com/events
The Bement School offers summer programs for children ages 4-15. Children have the opportunity to enjoy the fun of a traditional day camp and help create their own schedule by choosing from a wide range of unique activities. Digging into Nature at Pine Hill provides outdoor education for ages 6-9. The Junior Camp provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for our youngest campers. The Adventure Day Camp offers activities that include sports, nature, arts and crafts, and swimming. The Counselor-in-Training program gives young teenagers experience working with children and developing valuable job skills while still enjoying summer camp fun. Summer Program dates are listed on their website. Sign up now, as sessions are filling fast!
The Hilltown Youth Summer Workshop in Charlemont, MA, offers intensive outdoor training for aspiring actors, artists, dancers, musicians, singers, and circus performers (trapeze, fabrics, stilts, German wheel) with Andrae Green, Scott Halligan, Laura Iveson, Double Edge Theatre, and other luminaries from the Valley’s performing arts community. Perform under the stars on an aerial park, zipline, mountaintop at Berkshire East, ensemble and theatergoers reach by chairlift! Help create their 2022 spectacle “Much Ado About Nothing” guest directed by Knighthorse Theatre—”our mission is to make Shakespeare cool again”—no prior experience required. HS-aged participants can apply for their YouthCore program.
Dates: July 11-August 4, 2022; Age Range: 10-18yo. Contact: 413-625-2100 ♦ hilltownyouth@gmail.com ♦ hilltownyouth.org
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Barrington Stage Company
KidsAct! & TeensAct!
Pittsfield, MA
In search of a fun and creative in-person outlet for your young people this summer? Join Barrington Stage Company for KidsAct! & TeensAct! Look no further than Barrington Stage Company’s renowned KidsAct! & TeensAct! camps. These exciting camps focus on building acting and communication skills through fun theatre games and building performance skills through ensemble-based work, improvisation, and individualized coaching. Students will create an original musical with their peers to be performed on the final day of the program and experience master classes from professional theatre and performing artists. Spots will fill quickly, so sign up early. KidsAct! (7–11yo): June 27–July 9, August 1–12; TeensAct! (12–15yo): July 11–29. Dates: June 27-August 12, 2022. Age Range: 7-15yo. Contact: 413-997-6117;
education@barringtonstageco.org; barringtonstageco.org
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Summer @ Artspace
Greenfield, MA
Create sculptures of mythical beasts and magical beings. Dig into environmental art. Make puppets or design your own storybooks. Artspace Community Arts Center in Greenfield is offering a new collection of arts and music programming for children this summer – and it is going to be amazing. From drawing and collage to string ensembles and band camp, Artspace classes give kids the chance to develop their natural creativity, develop new talents, get messy, have fun, make friends, and paint in the summer air. Most classes take place outside in the Artspace Backyard, but they also make use of Artspace’s professional art studios and music rooms. Choose from morning or afternoon sessions or combine the two for a full day of hands-on creating. Dates: June 27 – August 26, 2022. Age Range: 7-14yo. Contact: 413-772-6811; info@artspacegreenfield.com; www.artspacegreenfield.com/summer-programs
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Northampton Parks & Recreation Day Camps
Florence, MA
Jump into summer fun with Northampton Parks & Recreation! Safety Village, ages 4-6, is a must to learn safety skills & awareness in a fun setting with visits from fire, police, bike safety, plus more. Starts July 5, runs in 2-week sessions, & ends with a graduation! Kidzone, gr. 1-4, & Camp Hamp, gr. 5-6, are held at Look Park. Camp will offer games, swimming, art projects, special events, field trips, & more! Teen Expeditions, gr. 7-10, is an adventure-based field trip camp filled with daily trips that include hiking, biking, & exciting destination trips! These three camps will run for 7 one week sessions. This is affordable fun that offers something for everyone. All camps are licensed by the Board of Health. Check other programs too. Dates: June 28-August 12, 2022. Age Range: 4-15yo. Contact: 413-587-1040; recreation@northamptonma.gov; northamptonma.gov/902/Summer-Day-Camps
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Camp MacDuffie
Granby, MA
Camp MacDuffie is an exciting summer day camp for rising 1st–8th graders. Participants spend the morning engaged in a program area of their choosing, enjoy lunch by Sage Dining Services (included), and then stay active with a variety of afternoon outdoor/indoor activities and field trips throughout the week. Their program leaders are passionate and experienced, and they all look forward to creating a fun and supportive environment for your child to thrive this summer. So come along and join Camp MacDuffie this summer!
Dates: July 4-August 19, 2022. Age Range: 6-14yo. Contact: 413-255-0000 x110
♦ khamel@macduffie.org
♦ macduffie.org/summer-camp
FEATURED SUMMER CAMP
Hilltown Sleddogs “Sled Dog” Camps
West Chesterfield, MA
Learn to take care of & exercise a world-class athlete – the Alaskan Husky Sled Dog. Choose a dog for the week. Learn to feed, pet, play, clean-up after & train a sled dog. Ride a racing rig, scooter, bike, hike, jog & swim – some of the warm weather activities dogs & campers love to do together. All have fun bonding, playing & mushing with the team! “My daughter loved the week-long camp, really bonded with her dog and plans to return next year. Hilltown Sleddogs is one of Pioneer Valleys’ unique treasures!”(JG) “The hands-on connection with dogs is amazing. At the end of the week, my boys don’t want to come home.” (EM) *New Bonfire/BBQ eve last night Week 4 & Gals Only Week 5, all ages! Successful COVID Safety Protocol continues for 2022. Dates: July 5-August 26, 2022. Age Range: 8-16yo. Contact: 413-296-0187; hilltownsleddogs@gmail.com; www.hilltownsleddogs.com/camps.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Starlight’s Youth Theatre’s Summer Production
Sunderland, MA
Starlight’s Youth Theatre’s summer production of Wizard of Oz takes place July 11-16, 2022. Students in grades 1st-4th can attend from 9am-12pm (Cost: $175), and students in grades 5th-12th attend from 1-5pm (Cost: $210). Two public performances will occur at Maple Ridge Community Center in Sunderland on Saturday, July 16, at 10am and 12pm. Dates: July 11-16, 2022. Age Range: 6-18yo. Contact: 413-335-1274; www.starlights-youth-theatre.com; starlights.yt@gmail.com.
FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Kamp for Kids
Westfield, MA
Kamp for Kids brings together children with and without disabilities in a unique integrated model that promotes understanding and growth. As a fully inclusive summer camp, its mission is to serve a population of both children with disabilities and their typically developing peers. This summer’s Kamp experience will be offered both in-person and virtually and includes art, health, nature, and other inclusive, fun activities. Please note they are operating at a limited capacity this summer. Please call for more information.
Dates: July-August, 2022. Age Range: 3-22yo. Contact: 413-562-5678
♦ Anne.Benoit@bhninc.org
♦ www.bhninc.org
FEATURED SUMMER CSA
Yellow Stone House Farm
Westfield, MA
Yellow Stonehouse Farm, Hampden County’s only certified organic vegetable farm, is offering Summer 2022 crop-shares to Westfield and Hilltown residents. There are different types of shares designed for all households, including Pick-Your-Own veggies, flowers, and herbs at no extra charge. Each share includes recipes, nutritional info, and weekly herbs. Visit on Open Farm Day on April 30, 10am-4pm. How to enroll? Complete a membership form available at
yellowstonehousefarmcsa.com. Payments by check, EBT, Credit/Debit, and SNAP-HIP are accepted. Call for help with your membership form and payment arrangements at 413-562-2164 or email
yellowstonehousefarmcsa@gmail.com.
FEATURED CO-OP
River Valley Co-Op
Northampton & Easthampton, MA
Springtime events at River Valley Co-op! From May 6-9, 2022, the co-op will have select full cases of popular items available for up to 40% OFF! Household items, pantry staples, meat and seafood, and more. Plus, there will be hundreds of individual items on sale throughout the store! Then from May 9-15, 2022, the co-op will have their annual spring plant sale featuring veggie, herb, and flower starts from local farms available for just 2/$7 (4-packs & 4-inch pots). Both events will be happening simultaneously at each co-op location and held outside in their parking lot. Locations include: 30 N King St, Northampton, MA; and 228 Northampton St, Easthampton, MA. Everyone is welcome!
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
Katherine Dines (Hunk-Ta-Bunk-Ta Music) and James Coffey (Bluevision Music) have worked together for several years. In 2020, our two guest DJs decided on an Earth Day theme and hoped it would be a good fit for listeners during a global pandemic and far into the future. The songs they collected encourage everyone to continue making positive changes and spread happiness, harmony, love, peace, hope, and strength worldwide.
