September thru December 2014          
FIRST CONNECTIONS' FALL NEWSLETTER
Playgroups, Support Groups, Parenting Seminars, Special Events

First Connections received the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care Coordinated Family and Community Education grant on July 1st to serve the towns of Acton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury and Westford. We are now an Early Childhood Division Program of Justice Resource Institute, our lead agency.

The town of Stow is now served by the Nashoba Regional School District's Community Partnership for Children Program. If you live in Stow, please be sure to contact Cyndie Maxfield and get on the mailing list for this program: [email protected] or 978-779-5547.

The town of Groton is now served by a CFCE grant for the first time, through Community Teamwork. Residents should be sure to contact Debbie Berthiaume to receive a newsletter: [email protected] or 978-654-5704

 

We are looking for parents to serve on the First Connections Advisory Council that meets four times per year and oversees our grant components. If you are a parent living in one of our 11 catchment towns with a child under age 9, we'd love to have you on the Council. Meetings will be held at First Connections in Concord on October 29, January 28, March 25 and June 3 from 9:30-11:00. Childcare and parking will be free for parents attending the meeting. For more information on the Council or to volunteer, please contact Mary Beilman ([email protected], 978-287-0221, x201).

 

In addition to their matching grant last spring, Cahn Funds for Social Change has awarded First Connections a $600 mini-grant to enable all parents attending a playgroup or support group between September and December to park at no cost to themselves or our program! 

  ALL FIRST CONNECTIONS PROGRAMS REQUIRE REGISTRATION BEFORE ATTENDING

 

Email:
or call
978-287-0221
We will confirm your registration!
           
Thank You! 

 

Parent and Child

Learning Activity


 

Visit the Butterfly Place in Westford

 

Choose a book to take home!
 

For Ages 3 thru 8

 

See New England and tropical species of butterflies freely flying in a natural habitat indoor garden. Explore exhibits and learn about the caterpillar/butterfly life cycle. Have your questions answered at the show & tell bench. Koi fish and quail also live in the garden.
 

Saturday, October 25

10:30 or 11:00

 

Limited to 44 individuals

 brain building   

OUTDOOR EXPLORATIONS WITH MISS ELLIE

 

held at

 

Mt. Misery Conservation Area in Lincoln

 

For Ages 3 thru 6

 

In this 8-week program we will explore the great outdoors using our five senses. The children will each get a nature journal to record their findings and a backpack to carry some especially exciting specimens home. We will take short walks around the conservation area exploring all we see, hear, smell and feel around us. We will especially focus on the changing seasons, and will read a book together each week. (FYI, many people walk their dogs here, so it is not ideal for a child with a fear of dogs.) Sibling Policy: The trails are not accessible for strollers, so only "worn" or steadily walking siblings, please.
  
Tuesdays,  2:00-3:00 September 16 thru   November 4           

Intergenerational Event

 

SENIORS AND

SMALL FRIES

 

Bring your grandparent or other important senior in your child's life, or share the fun with one of our senior guests!

 

We will start with a circle time that includes a seasonal story and some songs, then we'll work on simple craft activities. This is a great opportunity for seniors to participate in a program with the young children in their lives, or for seniors without grandchildren nearby to take part in an entertaining afternoon.  
  
Wed., October 15: 1:30-2:30: Pumpkins
Wed., November 12: 2:00-3:00: Placemats
Wed., Dec. 17:
1:30-2:30: Snow
 
You may sign up for 1, 2 or 3 dates. Projects will be geared toward 2-5 year olds.
 
Held in Carlisle in conjunction with the Carlisle Council on Aging. Families from any town are welcome to participate.
    

Is Your 2-5 Year Old Child Learning Two Languages?


 

Your opinions, experience and expertise as a parent are importat to a new project being develped by the Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care and WIDA Early Years Program  to help dual language learner children when they enter school.
  
You are Invited to a Family Focus Group
Saturday, Sept. 20
10:30-12:30
Maynard Public Library
  
At this group, you will learn:
*What will be expected of your child's language skills at school?
*How does spoken language relate to reading abilities?
*How does a child's home language affect ability to learn English?
*What are The Mass. Early Learning Guidelines?
 
At this group we will learn from you:
*How your family nurtures language development at home.
*How your language is connected to your culture.
*What would help teachers communicate with families whose first language isn't English?
*What would help you communicate with your child's teachers?
  
Parents can choose a free book for their child in appreciation for their help with this program!
 
To participate in this important project, email: [email protected]
Thank you!  
  

Parent-Child and Drop-off Playgroups for Children 18-39 Mo.
      

Minute Man Early Intervention holds Community Playgroups in West Concord staffed by licensed early childhood educators, therapists and specialists. The groups provide children enrolled in EI a place to be with peers and develop social skills, as well as encouraging all children to master social, emotional, cognitive, motor and language development skills. One-hour parent-child groups are held in the afternoon. 90-minute drop-off groups are available for 2 and 3 year olds beginning at 9 or 11:00 a.m. Ten sessions are $150.

 

MMEI enrolls children year-round. For registration  information, contact Susan at:
978-287-7903.
           
  

 Screening Begins for Raising Challenging Children

 

Does your child...

  • struggle to develop appropriate interactions with peers?
  • have tantrums about seemingly insignificant matters?
  • resist your efforts to comfort and calm?
  • behave well in a structured environment but not at home?

Our free 8-week Raising Challenging Children workshop will begin as soon as we have 10 group members. If you are experiencing daily challenges with your 3 thru 5 year old child we invite you to participate in a phone screening for this highly rated workshop facilitated by Patricia Marquis, LICSW.

 

To speak with Mary Rowlinson, R.N. for a phone screening, please let us know a good time to reach you:

[email protected]

 

For a flyer with a full description of the program:

[email protected]

  

New Time-Limited Group!

 

WORKING PARENT GROUP

 

Want to connect with other parents, but find it hard to make weekday groups because of your work schedule?
We're offering a 6-week group facilitated by Laurie Ganberg, LICSW, on Saturdays where you can meet other working parents to share resources and support while the kids play in our playroom.
You must be able to commit to attending at least 5 of the 6 dates, and we need a minimum of 5 families to register in order to run the group. FATHERS are welcome!
Childcare offered with advance notice for crawlers thru age 8. Nonmobile babies welcome in group.
September 13 & 27, October 11 & 25, November 15 and December 6
10:00-11:30 a.m.
Held at First Connections  

Family Support Specialist & Playgroup Facilitator

Needed

 

First Connections is seeking an additional member of our team with a degree in Education, knowledge of early childhood development, ability to interact with parents from all cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds, and with skills in facilitating groups for parents and children - especially during the first year of life. The position is for 8-10 hrs. per week with programs taking place in various towns.

 

For a full description, please contact Mary Beilman, 978-287-0221, ext. 201 or [email protected] or go to www.jri.org under Careers. 


  

Parents Helping Parents Support Group Now Meeting in Harvard

 

Parents Helping Parents Support Groups are co-led by a parent and volunteer facilitator. You will meet other parents who understand the challenges you may be encountering. The group is free, confidential and anonymous.  

 

  
Sundays, 3:00-4:30
St. Theresa's Church
Contact Joseph for more information:
978-798-2190
 
The 24-Hour Parental Stress Line is:
1-800-632-8188
           

  Fall Parent Education Seminars

 

You're Not the Boss of Me! Helping Your Child be a Flexible Thinker by Being a Flexible Thinking Parent Presented by Donna Shea from The Peter Pan Center. We've all experienced our kids "digging in," wanting his/her own way. As a parent maybe you've noticed that the more you try to force an issue or attempt to get your child to comply, the harder he fights back and the more rigid he becomes. Where is that fine line between necessary parental authority and letting your child be their own person? "Choosing battles" often feels like either being a tyrant yourself or giving in. Donna will discuss laying the early foundations of teaching your child the important life skills of frustration tolerance and flexible thinking by using a "You-Me-We" problem-solving approach. 

Thursday, September 18, 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Reuben Hoar Library, Littleton 

 

Keeping Kids Safe: A Children's Trust Fund Special Presentation, Co-sponsored by Bedford Youth and Family Services

"How can I keep my children safe without scaring them?"

"How do I know I'm saying the right thing?"

While parents' instincts are to protect their children from any and all harm, it is also important to prepare them for the real world. This program is appropriate for parents and caregivers of children age 4-10, and will provide the information and skills needed to face the sensitive issue of child sexual abuse. The training will include how and when to bring up the topic with children, the language needed to take an active role in protecting children from abuse and dangerous situations, and what to do if a child discloses something happened to them. Some sobering statistics regarding sexual abuse include almost half of victims being under age 7, one in 5 girls and one in 10 boys being sexually abused before reaching age 18, and children with disabilities being nearly two times more likely than non-disabled peers to be abused.

Thursday, October 9, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Bedford Town Center

               

First Year of Life Support Programs

 

Preparing for Parenthood

Pregnant women and their partners or support persons are invited to this workshop to meet other parents-to-be, create a postpartum plan of support, and learn about the "fourth trimester." This is a great adjunct to a childbirth education class and is geared to those expecting their first or who are new to the area. Held on Saturdays at First Connections in Concord from 1-3:00.

Sept. 13, October 11, November 15, or December 6

 

Gentle Sleep Support Workshop

with Sarah Kerrigan, M.A.

Are you expecting a baby or parenting an infant? Learn about  supportive strategies to help your baby sleep. Sarah is a Child Development Specialist and Pediatric Sleep Consultant who will teach you about the foundations of infant sleep. You will leave the program with information to help you understand:

  • Why babies and toddlers sleep the way they do
  • How biology and psychology affect your child's sleep
  • Developmentally appropriate expectations for your baby's sleep
  • Gentle techniques to support the sleep learning process
  • Tools and strategies you can apply with your own child and family

This workshop does not promote a "right way" to help a child sleep; rather it will provide information and tools that can empower parents to make choices that are right for their own families. In the 2nd hour of the class there will be time for discussion, questions and answers.

Thursday, November 13, 7:00-9:00 p.m.

Sargent Memorial Library, Boxborough

 

 

New Mothers Support Group

Any mother with a pre-crawling baby is welcome to attend this ongoing weekly support group facilitated by Emerson Hospital and First Connections. Open discussion group is a forum for you to share experiences and resources, connect with other new mothers, and seek guidance about any concerns you might have. Facilitators certified in lactation support. Held at Emerson Health & Wellness Center, Concord. No registration required. Directions can be emailed ([email protected]).

Every Wednesday, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. in the Yoga Studio

 

First-Time Mothers Group

6-week, small-group setting includes a different topic each week such as: adjusting to your new role, changes in relationships, work/family life balance, sleeping, feeding, crying and infant development. Emerson Center for Sports Rehab & Specialty Services provides our motor development guest speaker, Mary Evans, DPT, MA, Held at Emerson Health Center, Westford.

Our next group begins October 28, 12:00-1:30 p.m.

 

Emotional Wellbeing After Baby Group

Emotional challenges are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, yet mothers often feel isolated and ashamed if they are struggling. Mothers experiencing anxiety or depression in the postpartum year can come together in this supportive, nonjudgmental, confidential group to share stories and learn from each other. While this is an ongoing, weekly group, before attending for the first time please contact the facilitator, Laurie Ganberg, LICSW at [email protected] or 978-287-0221, ext. 219. Childcare provided for older siblings with advance notice.

Every Monday, 10:00-11:30 a.m. at First Connections, Concord

               
  

Post-Adoption Support Programs

Adoption Learn & Play
This program is a facilitated support and education group for parents of children age 0-5. We have a different discussion topic each month:
Sept. 10: Defining Your Adoption Story
Oct. 8: Keeping Our Children Safe
Nov. 12: Holidays and Celebrations
Dec. 10: Handling Transitions and Disappointments
To attend, or be added to the monthly email reminder list: [email protected]. To contact the facilitator: [email protected] or 978-287-0221, x218. Childcare is provided during the discussion time.
Wednesdays, 9:30-11:00 a.m. at First Connections
 
We Are Family Support Group for Parents of Children Over Age 5
This group is for parents of any school-age adopted child, especially those whose child may be experiencing challenging behavioral or emotional repercussions that may or may not be related to their adoption. The group is supportive and full of resources and guidance. To attend, or if you have questions, please contact Mary Rowlinson, R.N., [email protected].
3rd Thursdays, 7-9:00 p.m., 9/18, 10/16, 11/20, 12/18

  

Playgroups begin the week of Sept. 15 and end the Week of Dec. 8 unless otherwise stated. Registration is required for all groups: [email protected] or 978-287-0221. No fees. Children may be registered for one 12-week group. All groups require participation of a parent or caregiver.

  

"No Siblings" Groups:

  

Baby Playgroup Description: Group includes developmental discussions and handouts, playtime, circle time with finger plays, rhymes and songs, and a take-home board book at the last session.
 

0-11 Month Non-mobile Baby Playgroup

Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 at Boxborough Library 

6-13 Month Mobile Baby Playgroup

Fridays, 12:00-1:00 at Maynard Public Library

September 19 & 26 take place at First Connections

 

18-30 Month Large Motor Playgroup

This group combines story and song circle time with gross motor activities such as climbing, running, ride-ons, and balancing. We will also work on literacy and social skill building. Ideal for helping children get some energy out while continuing to develop school-readiness skills.

Fridays, 10-11:00 at WoodsEdge Preschool, Sudbury 

 

Groups where non-mobile infant siblings are welcome if "worn" or secured in a carrier, due to space constraints and safety:

 

14-17 Month Playgroup

This group is for walking young toddlers and includes free play, story time with songs, snack time, and outdoor play weather permitting. Your choice of book at the end of the session. Not appropriate for crawling siblings. Let us know of any anaphylactic allergies, please.  

Tuesdays, 9:30-11:00 at First Connections, Concord

 

2 & 3 Year Old Science-Themed Playgroup

This group will explore the STEM concepts through fun indoor and outdoor activities geared toward 2 & 3 year olds. We will meet in the classroom building next to the museum, and will also spend some time in the museum's outdoor space. Books and songs will relate to activities. Not appropriate for crawling or toddling siblings. Museum is closed Mondays.

Mondays, 2:30-3:30 at Acton Discovery Museums

 

Groups where Siblings are Welcome

 

1-5 Years Sing & Play in Spanish Group

This playgroup is for parents and children who already speak or understand Spanish. All songs, stories and conversation will be in Spanish, led by Ibeliza Tovar, a Venzuelan Spanish Montessori Teacher. Free Spanish book at the last group.

Thursdays, 1:30-3:00 at Reuben Hoar Library, Littleton

Sept. 11 & 25, Oct. 16 & 30, Nov. 13, Dec. 4 & 18

 

18-35 Month Storytime and Activities

Come enjoy some songs, stories and activities that are just right for your toddler or young preschooler. Each session we will sing songs, read a few books and do an art activity designed for an adult to do with their child. Older siblings can stay with the group and observe. Younger siblings are welcome to observe big brother or sister, but the room is not baby-proofed and could be tempting to mobile babies.

Thursdays, 2-2:45 at Reuben Hoar Library, Littleton

Sept. 18, Oct. 2, 9, 23, Nov. 6, 20, Dec. 11

 

2-5 Year Paint and Playgroup

Weekly play time including an art project developmentally appropriate for children aged 2-5. We will also have circle time with songs and stories, as well as snack time. Let us know of any anaphylactic allergies, please.  

Mondays, 10-11:30 at Village Nursery School, Harvard

 

Multiples Playgroup?

We are happy to host a self-directed multiples playgroup on Friday mornings, 10-11:30 if there are 5 families who are interested in meeting on a regular basis. We would need one parent to take responsibility for the group (canceling if snow, locking up when leaving occasionally, taking attendance, etc). Let us know if you'd like us to put this on the calendar. It's a good way for parents of twins & triplets to share common interests. Email [email protected] with your contact info and ages of children if you might be interested in this group.

  

Community Happenings

 

The Pumpkin Roll and Family Fest
Sunday, October 20, 2-4:00
Free fun family activities will include games, crafts, food, a costume parade, pumpkin bowling, pumpkin hay hunt, pumpkin shot put, tattoos, face painting, pumpkin decorating, pumpkin baking contest. Wear your costume! Rain date October 27. Held at Emerson Field in Concord. Info: [email protected]
 
"Raising a Compassionate and Caring Child: Easy Ways to Help Your Kids Develop Compassion, Responsibility and Respect"
Tuesday, September 23, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Presented by Heather Jack, Founder of The Volunteer Family and Future Philanthropists. In today's fast-paced, materialistic, technology-driven culture, it can be easy for kids to lose their innate sense of empathy. Heather will share what she has learned about how best to help kids relate to others, find their place in the larger community, and help them develop their individual sense of compassion and responsibility. Part of The Discovery Museums Speaker Series, 177 Main Street, Acton. Free. Refreshments served. Registration Required online: www.discoverymuseums.org
 
"Multilingualism: The Best Gift" presented by Maria Luisa Parra, PhD
Wednesday, September 10, 7:00 pm, at Acton Memorial Library
In this program for parents, Dr. Parra will speak on the benefits of raising children to be multilingual and the best practices for supporting family languages and cultures. Dr. Parra is the founder of the Multilingual Family Resource Center.
 
Acton Family Network Fall Kid's Tag Sale - Saturday, October 4
Recycle the old and come find the new from 8 a.m. to 12 Noon at the Parker/Damon School upper parking lot (rain location in the cafeteria). If you're interested in selling, or have questions about buying, contact Jennifer at [email protected]  

Fireworks in September? 
Celebrate Littleton's 300th Birthday on September 6!
Watch a parade with 100 floats, military units, bands & more beginning at 10:00 on King Street. Octoberfest begins at noon, bands start to play at 3:15, and fireworks will be held from 8:15-8:45, all at Nashoba Valley Ski Area. $5 fee is waived for Littleton residents. See all the details at www.littleton300.org.
Celebrate Sudbury's 375th Birthday also on September 6!
Fun family day activities take place on the Lincoln-Sudbury High School field, with fireworks at 8:30 p.m. www.sudbury375.org/#!

College Planning Workshop presented by Joelle Spear, CFP
Sunday, September 21, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at Jam Time, Maynard
Do you worry about saving for your child's education? In this workshop you will learn what it costs for college, savings plan options, and how to get started. The event is free, and your kids will have fun with Jam Time staff while you learn. Space limited: RSVP to Joelle at 617-721-7177.

Indian Hill Music School Open House Activities for All Ages
Saturday, September 13, 10:00-1:00
Hands-on instruments, early childhood Kindermusik class demos, meet faculty & staff, and tour the school. 36 King Street, Littleton. Info: 978-486-9524 

Free Family Drop-in Days at Emerson Umbrella in Concord
Saturdays, Sept. 13, Nov. 8, Dec. 13, and Monday, October 13, 1-4:00
An opportunity for families to engage in art-making activities designed and taught by talented instructors. Use a variety of art materials, professional artists' tools and mediums, and incorporate seasonal considerations. Projects take 30-60 minutes. www.emersonumbrella.org/classes/free-drop-in-days/
  
Donate or Purchase Halloween Costumes or Dress-Up Items at Maynard Farmer's Market on September 20 to benefit Open Table
Donations can be dropped off on the porch at 37 Brooks Street. The Farmer's Market is held from 9-1:00 at the Mill Pond Parking lot at Clock Tower Place on Main Street (Route 62).
  
First Friday Nights Free at Acton Discovery Museums
October 4, November 7, December 5, 4:30-8:30 p.m.
Food donations for the Acton Food Pantry and Open Table of Concord and Maynard are voluntary and gratefully accepted. www.discoverymuseums.org 
 
Pay As You Will Admission Week at Acton Discovery Museums
Tuesday, September 16-Sunday, September 21
To thank the community for their year-round support, the museum will let you decide how much to pay when you visit this week. $1, full price, something in between or nothing at all!
 
ASD-Friendly Afternoon at Acton Discovery Museums
Tuesdays, October 7, November 4, and December 2, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
No school groups or birthday parties will be scheduled during these hours to avoid overcrowding and support accessibility of exhibits. A dedicated room will be available to welcome families, orient them to the campus and programs, and provide a quiet space for children needing a break from the museum stimulation. Food, including gluten-free options, generously provided by Not Your Average Joe's of Acton. Pre-register at www.discoverymuseums.org/especiallyforme

Evening for Families w/ Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder
Saturdays, September 13, November 8, December 13, 5:00-8:30 p.m. 
Pre-registration is required and space is limited for this program which includes a drop-in workshop with Romy Wilhelm, a practicing music therapist. Music therapy is a tool for reaching children with autism, studies show, as it engages and fosters their capacity for flexibility, creativity, variability and tolerance of change. To register: www.discoverymuseums.org/especiallyforme 177 Main St., Acton.

Program for Families with Deaf or Hard of Hearing Children
Monday, September 29, 9:30-12:30 or Saturday, October 11, 5:00-8:30
ASL interpreters will be available during these special times at Acton Discovery Museums, 177 Main Street, which are closed to the public. Pre-register at: www.discoverymuseums.org/especiallyforme

OCD Mass. Lecture Series Fall Topics at McLean Hospital, Belmont
Sept. 9: OCD & ADHD by Roberto Olivardia, PhD
Oct. 7: Parenting an Anxious Child by David Stember, PhD
Nov. 4: Understanding Your Health Insurance to Access Care, Diane Davey, MBA
Presentations are held from 7-8:00 pm in the DeMarneffe Bldg., Room 132. Free.
For more information go to: www.iocdf.org or [email protected]

Peter Pan Center for Social & Emotional Growth Information Night
Thursday, Sept. 11, 6:30 p.m., 60 Willow Rd., Ayer MA 978-772-1255
Curious about the types of programs available at this great resource for families? This open house evening for grownups will give an overview of programs such as social groups for ages 3-15, groups for parents of preschoolers thru teens, social coaching groups based on themes such as theater, science and art, and more. RSVP if attending to: [email protected]
 
Parent-Child Programs through Concord Community Education
Ages 12-24 Months: Fridays 9:30-11:00, Sept. 19 to Dec. 12, $150
While children play, parents participate in a discussion about parenting one year olds. Includes snack time, outdoor or gym play, fun interactive singing time.
Ages 24-36 Months: Thursdays 9:30-11:30, Sept. 18 to Dec. 18, $335
Children play together in a nursery school classroom and learn what it's like to be part of a group and what "school" is like. Parents take turns helping in the classroom assisting their child's teacher. When not parent helping, moms/dads meet separately with their own facilitator for a parenting group and refreshments. Non-mobile siblings welcome. www.ace.colonial.net/parentchild/home.html  
 
Monthly Support for Parents of Children on the Spectrum for Autism, Aspergers, & PDD meets in Westford on Sept. 9, Oct. 9, Nov. 4, Dec. 4
This group is a collaborative effort to meet the unique needs of all parents that share in the successes and challenges of raising children on the Autism Spectrum. Meets at Pediatrics West, 133 Littleton Road, Suite 301, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
 
Expectant Parents invited to Tiny Fingers Tiny Toes: All About Your Newborn and Everything You Should Know! One day, 9:00-4:00
Informational, hands-on classes include newborn appearance, baby care basics, safety, immunizations, and what to expect from pediatrician visits. Healthy lunch  provided. Free bag of goodies and information. Call 978-577-0472 to register.
Held in Westford October 11 or December 13, in Fitchburg Sept. 13 or Nov. 8.
 
ARTfull Play at Decordova Museum in Lincoln for Ages 2-5
10:30-11:30 on Sept. 10 & 24, Oct. 8 & 22, Nov. 5 & 19, Dec. 3 & 17
Engage with art, materials, the environment and new friends in this program for children and their caregivers. Free with admission. Library passes will admit up to 4 to the museum for free. www.decordova.org
 
Fruitlands Celebrates its Centennial on Sept. 6 with Free Admission
From 10:00-5:00 enjoy family-friendly  live music, craft activities, art demonstrations, games and more. Fruitlands was the summer home of the Alcotts, has a Native American exhibit, and nature trails.  www.fruitlands.org
 
Celebrate Siegfried the Stegosaurus's 50th Birthday on Sept. 27!
Siegfried's having a Birthday Bash from 11:30-4:00 with cupcakes, and stegosaurus science discovery programs at the Ecotarium in Worcester. Admission with a library pass is half price ($7 adults, $4 over age 2, under 2 free), or see below. www.ecotarium.org
 
Free Museum Day courtesy of Smithsonian Magazine September 27
The 10th Annual Museum Day Live gives free admission for two to those who download a ticket from: www.Smithsonian.com/museumdaylive. One ticket per household. Local museums include: Discovery Museums, MFA, Harvard Museum of Natural History, Concord Museum, Garden in the Woods, Fruitlands, Salem Witch Museum and the Ecotarium.   
 
Fall Festival & Science Center Grand Opening at Animal Adventures
On September 13, 10-5:00, participate in games, raffles, animal interactions, and shows at 11:00, 1:00 & 3:00. Alligator feeding at 4:00. All proceeds go toward a new roof! www.animaladventures.net Ages 4 & up $12, ages 2 & 3 $6, 1 and under free, located in Bolton.