Spring Newsletter


April-June 2026

CENTER-BASED CHILD CARE*LICENSED FAMILY CHILD CARE*PRESCHOOLS*

BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE

Updated List for All 11 Towns Available! Click HERE

Spring Parent Education Topics

Thursday, April 16, 7:00 p.m.

Held in Person at

Village Nursery School

40 Poor Farm Road, Harvard


We all want to raise children who grow up to be kind, empathetic adults who are able to genuinely apologize, take responsibility for their mistakes, and work well with others. You might be surprised to learn that forcing children to say they're sorry or to share toys is actually counter-productive. But if you don't do that, what do you do to raise emotionally healthy adults? Join Ms. Ellie, Emilie Staiger, and Maureen Bajko, directors of the Village Nursery School in Harvard, to learn why forcing apologies and sharing is not helpful and what to do instead.


Email lmatthews@jri.org to attend

Thursday, April 30, 7-8:00 p.m.


Presented by

Early Childhood Educators from Concord Children's Center,

drawing on real classroom experience and teacher insights.


Email for zoom link: lmatthews@jri.org

Transitioning Your Child to Preschool

Starting preschool is a major milestone—for both children and their families. As children enter preschool at different ages and times of year, many parents are left wondering: When is my child ready? What should I be looking for? How can I make this transition easier?

Join veteran early childhood educators from Concord Children’s Center for an informative and reassuring webinar designed to help families navigate the transition into preschool with confidence. We’ll explore key questions and common concerns, including developmental readiness, toileting, easing separation anxiety, and how preschool programs can prepare children for kindergarten.

We’ll also share real-life scenarios from CCC teachers, including how they support children through challenges and help them build confidence in a preschool setting. Whether your child is your first or you’re navigating a new situation, this session will provide guidance, reassurance, and actionable tips to help your family take this important next step.

SPRING STORYWALKS

Same, Same but Different

at Bedford Public Library

April 4-13

7 Mudge Way, Bedford


Elliot and Kailash are pen pals. By exchanging letters and pictures they learn that, although their worlds look different, they have a lot in common!

The Hike

on Westford Town Common

April 28-May 5


A story of 3 friends & their dog as they hike through the woods using their a sketchbook & map, while identifying plants and animals. Trials and tribulations ensue with lots of fun too!

StoryWalk© was created in 2007 by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT, and is a registered service mark of the Kellogg-Hubbard Library.

StoryWalks promote early literacy, physical activity, and family time together in nature!

Spring New Parent Support Programs: Prenatal to 12 Months

Starting Solids

Presented by Julia Hurd, SLP

Tuesday, May 26, 1:00-2:00 pm

Curious about when and how to introduce solid foods to your baby? Join us for an informative and reassuring presentation led by Julia Hurd, pediatric feeding specialist at Emerson Health. We’ll explore the signs of readiness, simple first‑food ideas, safety considerations, and ways to make mealtimes enjoyable for both you and your baby. Whether you’re feeling excited, unsure, or somewhere in between, this session will give you clear guidance and confidence as you begin this new stage of your baby’s development. Email for zoom link: lmatthews@jri.org

NEW! Feeding Support Group

Facilitated by Lactation Counselor Mary Beilman

Held at First Connections, Acton

May 4 or June 1, 12:30-1:30

There are many ways to feed your baby: breast feeding, chestfeeding, pumping, bottles, formula or a combination of these. Do you have questions about feeding or want to check in with a Certified Lactation Counselor about your current feeding routine, weaning, returning to work? Sign up for one of our Feeding Group sessions where you can meet in a safe judgement-free space to get support, connect, share and learn. Please RSVP to lmatthews@jri.org to attend either or both dates. 

The First Year of Life Group is facilitated by Emily Fiorini, LMHC, a mental health counselor specializing in infant-parent mental health. The group meets over zoom with one monthly in-person session at Goodnow Library in Sudbury if participants RSVP that they are interested in this format (April 9, May 14, June 11).

All parents in the postpartum year can join this free weekly group to get support for their own emotional wellbeing, recovery and transition into parenthood. In addition, you will learn about baby's development, feeding and sleep support.

Participants receive a weekly follow-up email filled with expanded resources based on what was discussed in group that week, as well as upcoming community events. Register Here

Whether you are attending this group or not, you are welcome to connect with Emily for an individual consultation relating to your postpartum year, mental health, or other resources. Contact efiorini@jri.org

Navigating the 4th Trimester: Supporting Your Postpartum Journey

This workshop offers a supportive place for expecting parents to explore the physical, emotional, and relational challenges that accompany the first 3 months after birth. In this program you will learn evidence-based strategies to support your postpartum journey. You will create a personal postpartum plan that includes practical strategies for adjusting to life with a newborn, coping with challenges related to sleep and feeding, managing changes in your relationships, and nurturing your own wellbeing during this transformative time. Join us for this interactive session facilitated by lactation counselor and infant sleep consultant, Mary Beilman, who draws from over 20 years supporting new parents, and Emily Fiorini, LMHC, who specializes in infant and parent mental health and is First Connections' program director. Helpful postpartum community resources are included. Birthing person and a support person are welcome to attend free of charge.

Mondays, May 4, 6:30-8:00 pm

Register Here

REGISTER HERE

Appropriate for babies 0-6 mos.

Free 4-Week Infant Massage Class

Wednesdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 11:15-12:00

Held at Belmont Public Library, 336 Concord Ave.

As as Certified Educator of Infant Massage, Mary Beilman will teach new strokes each week that combine Swedish and Indian massage in addition to reflexology. Massage can help babies with sleep, gas, and fussiness. It also enhances the connection between caregiver and baby. Classes include discussion, demonstration of strokes, and Q&A. Mary co-facilitates our Navigating the 4th Trimester workshop. Funded by Friends of the Belmont Public Library.

Free Introduction to Infant Massage Class

Monday, June 15, 10:30-11:30

Held at Sargent Memorial Library, Boxborough

Infant Massage is a form of loving communication that fosters bonding and trust between parent and child. It has been shared with babies, parents, and educators for almost 40 years in over 50 countries. The strokes used in infant massage are a combination of Swedish and Indian style massage, as well as reflexology. Learn about the benefits for you and your baby, practice some strokes, and have your questions answered. Appropriate for babies 0-6 months. Open to parents and baby's other caregivers. Email Linda at First Connections to RSVP: lmatthews@jri.org

The above programs are made possible through additional generous support from Nordblom Family Foundation, Concord Carlisle Foundation, Emerson Community Benefits Grant, Commonwealth Children's Fund and the Community Foundation for Metrowest.

Emerson Health provides free space and a registration platform for the 4th Trimester.

SPRING PLAYGROUPS


Although our playgroups don't begin until the end of April, be sure to check out the many library programs happening during school vacation week and honoring Earth Day during April at the end of the newsletter!

First Connections playgroups are free of charge and priority registration is given to families in the towns our CFCE grant includes: Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury, Westford, and Hanscom AFB. If a group is full, you will be put on a wait list. If you remain on the wait list, you will be given priority registration for the next session.


To register, email lmatthews@jri.org with:

Your First and Last Name

Your Child's Name

Child's age on April 27

The town you live in

Name of playgroup you'd like to be in

Ages and Stages Playgroup for 3-11 Months

Mondays, 10:30-11:30, April 27 to June 8

Held at Reuben Hoar Library, Littleton

This group will start with some songs and a book for the babies, and then caregivers will have a chance to check in, ask questions of each other and the facilitator, and share their wins and challenges. Babies will have the chance to play with some age-appropriate toys to support their development, based on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. All caregivers are welcome, but please make arrangements for older siblings to keep babies safe.

Little Learners Multiage Playgroup

Tuesdays, 10-11:00, April 28 thru June 9

Held at Youth Center Gym, Hanscom Air Force Base

For mobile babies through 5 years

This group will provide opportunities for children to play with peers, learn or practice new skills, and explore different toys. Caregivers will have the chance to play with their children and to connect with other families on the base. Each group will include a circle time with songs and a book. Come see old friends and meet new ones! Infant siblings in carriers welcome. Participants must have access to the base to attend this group.


Outdoor STEM and Sensory Playgroup ages 3 thru 5

Wednesdays 10:00-11:00, April 29 thru June 10

Held at Roudenbush Community Center, 65 Main St., Westford

This group will meet on a playground for gross motor play like climbing, running, and digging, and each week we'll have a hands-on activity to explore concepts in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math. We will also explore some sensory activities, so be prepared to get messy! Each group will end with circle time with songs and a book. (We will meet in a classroom in the community center in inclement weather.) Younger siblings welcome, but be aware activities and materials will be appropriate for older children.


Ages & Stages Playgroup for 24-35 Months

Thursdays, 10:00-11:00, April 30 thru June 11

Held at First Connections, 179 Great Road, Acton

In this playgroup, children will be able to play with the toys in our playroom, including the perennial favorites: a play kitchen, vehicles, and baby dolls. Each week we will have an activity that will support an area of development based on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, including some art and sensory activities. At the end of each meeting, we will have a circle time with songs and a book. Please dress your child in clothes that can get dirty. Infant siblings in a carrier are welcome.


Outdoor Ages & Stages Playgroup for Ages 12-23 Months

Fridays, 10:00-11:00, May 1 thru June 12

Held at Village Nursery School, 40 Poor Farm Road, Harvard

This group will meet on a fenced-in grassy toddler playground (or at First Connections in Acton in inclement weather). Children will have a chance to play with balls, dig in the sand, and "cook" in the mud kitchen. Each week we will also have other activities designed to foster the children's gross motor development, their social skills, confidence in taking appropriate risks, fine motor and language development. We will end each group with a circle time with songs and a book.

Infant siblings in carriers welcome.

Live Mandarin Story Times with Jasmine for Ages 2-5


Ms. Jasmine's popular program includes read aloud stories, language facial exercises, introduction to Chinese characters and pronunciations, and virtual activities. Jasmine Wang graduated from Communication University of China with a Master's Degree in Language Arts and a Certification of Mandarin Grade A. She has years of experience teaching Mandarin, specializing in vocalization, speech, recitation, and debate. This is a Mandarin immersion experience.


Saturdays, 9:00-9:30 a.m.

Register in advance for this meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/JxWMPJMSTo-u7CZF8yx0Jw

Limited Openings for Ages 18 Months to 3 Years

The Parent-Child+ program brings fun and engaging early learning experiences right to your home. Each week an Early Learning Specialist visits, bringing a high-quality book or toy for you to keep. The specialist models reading, conversations, and play activities for parents, which are designed to promote literacy and school readiness. The program is designed to begin with children ages 18-36 months and is offered for 23 to 46 weeks. Bilingual Spanish and Mandarin specialists are available. The program is especially helpful for families who cannot easily attend our playgroups due to lack of transportation, a language barrier, having multiple children under age 6, single parenting, or other challenging circumstances. If you would like to learn more, contact Jasmine at text/call 978-505-4227, firstconnections@jri.org, or fill out this form.

Focus on Child Development
If you would like to know more about your child's development: their strengths, where they might need support, and what to expect at their age, the Ages and Stages Questionnaire is a great tool. It is a caregiver-completed screening that should only take 15 minutes or so and can be done at home with things you have around the house. One questionnaire screens your child's development in areas like communication and motor skills, and the other screens your child's social and emotional development.

ASQ Developmental/Communication


ASQ Social Emotional


Questions about the ASQ?

Watch this video

Read this information

or email Elinor Springer

Early Intervention screenings do not require a referral from your doctor, and are free of charge or paid thru insurance. They are available to children newborn to age 2.9.

Here are the E.I. programs serving our catchment area:


Residents of Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Hanscom

Minute Man Arc Early Intervention

Residents of Harvard

Lipton Early Intervention

Residents of Sudbury

Criterion Early Intervention or MENTOR South Bay

Residents of Westford

Thom Anne Sullivan Center or BEAM E.I. or MENTOR South Bay or Partners in Child Development

Is Your 2026 Kindergarten Student Registered? If not, click for more information:

Acton & Boxborough Schools

Bedford Public Schools

Carlisle Public Schools

Concord Public Schools

Harvard Public Schools

Lincoln & Hanscom Public Schools

Littleton Public Schools

Maynard Public Schools

Sudbury Public Schools

Westford Public Schools

English In Kindergarten

Spanish In Kindergarten

Portuguese In Kindergarten

If you haven't signed up for First Connections' monthly "Getting Ready for Kindergarten" Newsletter yet, you can do so HERE. Articles and activities are geared toward children who will begin Kindergarten in September 2026.


We have some In Kindergarten books available at the office free of charge to those who request them. These books offer gentle transition activities to help you and your child prepare during June, July and August for this new adventure (going to kindergarten!). If you would like a copy, send an email to lmatthews@jri.org and we will notify you when it's ready for pickup!


<---This book is also available for FREE online through the Berkshire Museum.

Public School Preschool Screenings
Public school preschool screenings do not take place over the summer, so if you have any concerns or questions about your currently 2.9-4 year old child's preschool readiness or development, please contact the Early Childhood Program in your town as soon as possible to schedule a screening.

Acton & Boxborough

jgibowicz@abschools.org or 978-264-4700 X3948

Bedford

jaime_doucette@bedfordps.org or 781-275-6804 x4917

Carlisle

lbruce@carlisle.k12.ma.us, 978-369-3758

Concord

kjesman@concordpublicschools.org, 978-318-1500

Littleton

978-486-3959

Harvard

klancey@psharvard.org

Lincoln & Hanscom AFB

Lynn Fagan, 781-259-9889

Maynard

978-897-8246

Sudbury

Fill out this form for a screening

Westford

gcoughlin@westfordk12.us, 978-692-5560 x2111

NEW RESOURCES

Upcoming Professional Parenting Support Programs

Free Parent Support Group Open to All

Fri. Apr 17, May 15, Jun 12, 12-1:00

Facilitated by Eliza O'Brien, LICSW

Does it feel like you're shouting for help and no one can hear? Family, work & relationships can be overwhelming. You're trying to be everything to everyone, but losing yourself along the way. Join others who get it, learn practical tools and find space where you can be heard and supported while discussing common child rearing and relationship struggles.

Offered by Roudenbush Community Center, 65 Main St., Westford. Registration Links Here

Parenting in America: A Supportive Program for Immigrant Families

Begins April 14 in Spanish

Tuesdays at 12:00

This FREE virtual group is designed for immigrant parents and caregivers navigating life in the U.S. while honoring your cultural roots. This program helps you build confidence, strengthen parenting skills, and access the resources you need to thrive.

Translation/Registration Here

Offered by Wayside Family Resource Center

April 11, 15, 29, May 13 and 27

Attend one or all topics

Offered by MARE free of charge

TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) is a therapeutic parent training designed to help children who have experienced trauma such as abuse, neglect or multiple foster care placements. It focuses on building trust, meeting your child's physical and emotional needs, and guiding appropriate behavior through compassionate caregiving. It is an attachment-based model that aims to address the unique challenges faced by children from hard places. Attend one or all sessions. Register Here.

Raising Brave Kids in an Anxious World: A Connection-Based Approach to Helping Children Through Fear and Anxiety

FREE, Live Virtual Workshop

2:00 Tuesday, April 9

If your child struggles with fear, worry or anxiety, you may feel torn between pushing them to face their fears and protecting them from distress. Julie Johnson, founder of the Parent Child Connection will present information using attachment research, neuroscience, practical and relationship-based strategies. You will learn:

1) What's really driving your child's fear

2) The BRAVE Method

3) What to say and do in the moment

More Information & Register HERE

Autism Acceptance Touch a Truck

Hosted by Knights of Columbus

15 Winslow Street, Arlington


This event serves to welcome and include all members of the community help neurodivergent children become more comfortable with the uniforms, vehicles, lights and sirens that may be a challenge in an emergency situation. It also helps police and fire personnel get more expertise working with these wonderful kiddos!

Saturday, April 11, 9:00-11:30 a.m.

Drop in any time - no registration required

Details Here

Cost-Saving Ways to Find Spring & Summer Clothes for Your Family!

These options do not require residency in a particular town.

Cleaning Out Your Closets?

Donate to Bessie's Closet April 1-25

If you'd like to help local families in need of gently-used clothing, bring them to the lobby of The Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton on Tuesdays-Fridays 9-4:30. They will be given to adults and children in your community free of charge. Volunteers needed for sorting.


Is Your Family in Need of

Spring and Summer Clothing?

You can find them at Bessie's Closet at the Discovery Museum. *The museum will be free on Friday May 1, 4:30-8:00 if you're picking up clothing on that day. Admission not included on the 2nd or 3rd. Available clothing is based on donations.

FREE 

Clothing for Adults & Children

Friday, May 1*, 3:30-7:30

Saturday, May 2, 10;00-3:00

Sunday, May 3, 10:00-3:00

Saturday, May 2, 9-1:00

Half price 12-1:00

Admission $2 or canned good

Chelmsford Mother's Club Consignment Sale

Kids Clothes, Gear and Toys

Held at Greater Visions Child Care Center

180 Old Westford Rd, Chelmsford

Please leave children at home, no strollers, food or drink. Please bring your own shopping bags.

All the Details HERE

LexFun Consignment Sale

Sizes Newborn to 12 Clothes, Gear and Toys

Held at Lexington H.S. Field House, 251 Waltham St, Lexington

April 25, 10:00-4:00*

*Volunteers can shop 8-9:30, Regular sale 10-1:00, Half-price 1:30-2:30, Bargain Bag shopping 3-4:00.

All the details HERE

A-B Family Network Clothing Swap

Sunday, May 31, 8:00-10:00 a.m.


Details on how to donate or shop will be posted HERE

Fowler Library Clothing Swap

Saturday, May 9, 11:00-1:00

Fowler Library, 1322 Main Street, West Concord

Visit the swap shop and pick out any items you like. You do not have to donate to be able to shop. Bring your own bags. Free, no registration required. If you DO donate on Friday, May 8, 1-4:30, however, you can begin shopping at 10:30.

Cost-Saving Ways to Find Great Books for your Family!

Great Bargains for Kids & Adult Books

April 10, 11, 12 Bedford Public Library Details

April 10, 11, 12 Boxboro Library Details

Including $5 "fill a shopping bag," 2:00-4:00 on April 12

May 1, 2, 3 Westford Library Details

Including $10 "fill a shopping bag," 1:00-4:00 on May 3


FREE & LOW-COST

CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES IN THE COMMUNITY


Join ABFN for an Egg-Cellent Time!!

Pre-registration Required: HERE

Acton-Boxborough Family Network's Annual Spring Fling Party at Boardwalk Campus is open to the public with registration prior to 8:30 a.m. on March 28. Activities include an egg hunt based on age group (0-2, 3-5 and, 6+), D.J. entertainment, photos with the Easter Bunny, and spring-themed crafts. Bring a basket to collect eggs, limit of 10 eggs per child. Free for members, $10/family nonmembers. 10:00 check-in, 10:30 egg hunt. Activities end at 11:30.


May 16 and June 27, 5-8:00 pm: Inclusive Free Evening at the Discovery Museum for any family with a child or adult with a disability or sensory sensitivities. Museum and Discovery Woods will be open. Dinner served. ASL interpreter available upon request. Registration Required Here


April 11, 5-8:00 pm: Free Mask On! Play On! at the Discovery Museum for any visitors more comfortable in a limited capacity, mask-required environment. Registration Required Here.


April 13, 9:30-11:30 am: Free Morning for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, KODA and DeafBlind families at The Discovery Museum. Indoor and outdoor play, with an ASL interpreter on site during this time. Registration Required Here.


Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays: Free Open Gym at Roudenbush Community Center, 65 Main Street, Westford. Have fun on the gymnastics mats and meet other families from 1-2:00!

Register before 1:00 Here


May 13-17, Apple Blossom Festival in Westford with parade at 10:00 in Center of Town on May 16. Carnival May 13-17 at Abbott School. Fireworks! More details here.


FREE Family Days at The Umbrella, 40 Stow St., Concord. All ages and abilities are welcome to drop in and partake in a seasonal and creative art project led by one of our instructors. Sat., April 4, 2-4:00, Sat., May 2, 1-4:00, Sun., May 3, 1-4:00, Sat., June 6, 2-4:00. Details Here


Silver Unicorn Books "Meet the Author" Storytimes this Spring:

March 28, 11:00: "Touch a Truck Day" author Carrie Finison & and an Acton Fire Dept Vehicle!

April 18, 11:00: "Just One Oak" and "Puffins" author Maria Gianferrari

June 6, 11:00: "In this Classroom" author Andrew Hacket, celebrating the school year!

Located at 12 Spruce Street, West Acton. Gardner Field Playground is across the street.


June 6: Pride Family Evening at the Discovery Museum from 5-8:00. Enjoy free admission and the opportunity to network with other LGBTQ+ families while enjoying a fun, friendly experience in the museum and discovery woods. Dinner included. Pre-registration required.



A SAMPLE OF FREE LIBRARY EVENTS FOR CHILDREN


April 3: "Plenty of Pancakes" author Carrie Finison will read her new book, talk with families and do a fun pancake craft at Carlisle Library! 10:30-11:30. Bring an old t-shirt as an art smock. Register


April 11: Linc-Con for All Ages, 11-4:00 at Lincoln Library. See Star Wars characters in full outfits , cosplay 101 chat about costuming, paint craft, learn to play games in short drop-in sessions. Drop in or register for a reminder and full schedule.


April 18: Leaping Lizards! with Joys of Nature at Bedford Library, 7 Mudge Way. Register for 10:00 or 11:00 program for ages 4+ with an adult. Learn about komodo dragons, gila monsters, anoles, and more with a Science Educator.


April 21: Pete the Cat Party at Bedford Library, 7 Mudge Way. From 11-11:45, join us for stories, themed crafts and activities for ages 3+. Drop in - no registration needed.


April 21: Drive-in Movies & Muffins at Lincoln Library, 10:30-12 for ages 3+. Make a car out of our boxes, watch short films in your car, then enjoy muffins and juice. Register


April 22: Celebrate Earth Day by reading The Lorax, talking about caring for trees and wildlife, and making a fun Lorax-themed craft at Lincoln Library. Register


April 22: Beginning Birding for Ages 4+ with Hands On Nature, 3-3:45 at Goodnow Library, Sudbury. Find out about birds you'll see in your yard and neighborhood, and which are fun to study. Learn bird songs, create and take home 2 simple feeders. Register


April 23: Professor Bugman visits Lincoln Library 4-5:00. Get close and personal with the biggest, creepiest, and friendliest insects you've ever seen. These gentle giants are interesting and fun. Register. Appropriate for children in grades 2-4.


April 23: Children's Music with Steve Blunt will happen at Littleton Library from 2-3:00 with songs, musical instruments, quirky humor and movement for all ages. Register.


April 23: "Drive-in" Movie: Cars, at Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Rd, Sudbury for all ages (under 10 yrs must be accompanied by an adult). 1:30-2:30 make a cardboard car. Take your car to the "drive-in" movie, (rated G), at 2:30. Popcorn available.


April 3: "Plenty of Pancakes" author Carrie Finison will read her new book, talk with families and do a fun pancake craft! 10:30-11:30. Bring an old t-shirt as an art smock. Geared toward ages 3-7. Register thru Westford Library. Held at 65 Main Street, Room 105.


April 24: "Playful Engineers: Chain Reactions", at Sudbury Library, 21 Concord Rd, 3-4:30. Kids age 5+ will watch a creative contraption demo with teaching artist Merlin Katz, then make & break your own! No registration required.


April 28, May 26, June 30: Russian Storytime at Acton Library, 486 Main St. Drop in for a 10-11:00 storytime and simple art activity. Designed to introduce families to the language through creativity, and to give young children an engaging cultural experience.


May 4: May the 4th Be With You Celebration, 4-5:00 at Bedford Library, 7 Mudge Way, for ages 5+. Drop in and celebrate all things Star Wars with crafts, games and Jedi practice.


May 7: Outdoor Winnie the Pooh Storytime at 39 Main St., Westford. Geared toward ages 2-6, listen to stories and then explore the Pooh house. 11-11:45. Register


May 30-June 27: Pianos on the Town in Concord. To celebrate CCM's 20th Anniversary, there will be artist-designed pianos placed around Concord to invite the public to play, enjoy and discover their music for free! A map will be posted in May.


June 13: "Lola Plants a Garden" guided storywalk at Littleton Library with Miss Jennifer and special guests highlights the theme of their summer reading program. Takes place behind the library, with a planting activity afterward, and a plant to bring home and watch grow. 11-12:00. Register beginning June 8th.


COMMUNITY SUPPORT & EDUCATION


"Autism and the Microbiome" will be presented for free via zoom by Marcy Kingsbury, PhD, from Lurie Center for Autism on April 15, 6:30-7:30. Topics include common GI issues and symptoms, how the microbiome is shifted in ASD, how diet shapes the gut microbiome, and GI health, including new research. Register for the Link Here


Parents of Toddlers Free Support Group through JF&CS' Center for Early Relationship Support in Waltham via Zoom held every Wednesday from 1-2:00. Appropriate for parents with a child age 1 until their 4th birthday. Register for the link.


Parents Helping Parents Free, Confidential Online Support Groups include those for parents of preschoolers, neurodivergent children, and children with anxiety or depression. There are also groups for single parents, a father's group, a mother's group, a military parent support group, and a Spanish-speaking parents group: Details here.


Infant and Pregnancy Loss Support Group

This ongoing monthly group is for those who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy at any stage, or infant loss shortly after birth, and are looking for support from others with shared experiences. The group is facilitated by an advanced practice nurse with experience supporting families whose pregnancies have ended unexpectedly or whose infants have died. Individuals are encouraged to contact the facilitator, Katie Stockman, NP, at kstockman@emersonhosp.org 617-299-1533 for the connecting zoom link. Free

Held on the 2nd Monday of each month, 7:00-8:30 p.m. via zoom. Details Here


Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group

Come share the rewards and challenges of raising your grandchildren. Learn from and support others in similar circumstances. Discover ways to relieve stress. Benefit from the resources available from the Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, and hear about State agencies which can provide assistance.

Understanding Trauma & Suicide Prevention, April 7 & 14, 9:30-11:30 via Zoom. Register

Annual GRG Conference: May 12, 2026. Contact colleen.pritoni@state.ma.us, 617-748-2454 to register for this or other free programs.

January-March Diaper Pantry Donations

Play Together Playgroup

Neighborhood Villages

The Glow Bar

Hope in Bundles

Community Resources Coordinator Laura Ducharme's Collection

Amory Meltzer, Lisa Francisco, Kim Long, Anonymous Drop-offs!

Denotes funding for this program provided by Mass. Dept. of Early Education & Care CFCE Grant

First Connections, a program of Justice Resource Institute, Inc, is a Coordinated Family and Community Engagement (CFCE) grant recipient through the MA Department of Early Education and Care. We offer free services to families residing in Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Hanscom AFB, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury and Westford. In addition to state funding, we rely on the generous support of local partners to fund these programs and to expand the geographic reach of our First Year of Life programs to families in neighboring towns. We are grateful for the financial support of Acton Congregational Church, Concord Carlisle Foundation, Maynard Community Chest, Nordblom Family Foundation, Commonwealth Children's Fund, Community Foundation for Metrowest, Emerson Community Benefits Department and Concord Trinitarian Congregational Church. We also appreciate private donations from individuals and families that help make this work possible. Thank you for your support! Visit our website