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Winter Newsletter
January-February-March 2025
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Leave your Memories for Mary
Mary Beilman has been a fixture at First Connections for 22 years. She started her journey with us as a parent volunteer with a toddler in a stroller. That child is now in college, and Mary will be moving on to focus on increasing her certifications for her business, Baby Connections. It's impossible to estimate how many new moms have sat in a circle with her during playgroup or New Moms Group over the years, but if you would like to send a message or photo to our online memory book, please use the link below. This book will not be made public or shared on social media - it will be printed for Mary's enjoyment only. Mary is one of a kind; patient, caring and so skilled in the first year of life for babies and parents that she is irreplaceable to us. She will be missed, and we wish her all the happiness and success she deserves. Memory Book Link
Mary's last New Moms Group will be Wednesday, December 18 at 1:00 via Zoom
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The Foundations of Self-Regulation
Presented by Christine D'Agostino
Join us for a webinar to explore:
- the difference between self-control and self-regulation
- why self-regulation is a foundational requirement for all higher-order thinking skills
- how we can support its development in our children.
We will explore how a young child moves from fully relying on co-regulation with caregivers toward developing an inner capacity for self-regulation over time.
This live virtual program will be held on:
Thursday, January 23, 8:00 p.m.
It will not be recorded.
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Encouraging Self-Help Skills in Children Age
18 Months to 5 Years
Presented by Pediatric Occupational Therapist Anna Knox
Children grow so quickly, and we're not always aware of what they are developmentally capable of doing for themselves in our day-to-day home life. Anna will give us information and an overview of how we can teach our children to do things for themselves at particular ages during toddlerhood and up to kindergarten age.
This live virtual program will be held on:
Thursday, February 13, 1:00-2:00 p.m.
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Pick Your Battles: Setting & Holding Limits with Toddlers & Preschoolers
Presented by Ellie Springer, M.Ed.
Young children thrive when they have clear & consistent boundaries, when they know what to expect from their caregivers, and when they know the adults are in control. Toddlers' and preschoolers' developing brains drive them to seek control and power, though, so they are constantly pushing the boundaries we set for them. In this presentation, Ms. Ellie will talk about how to decide whether a battle is worth fighting, when to give your child some control, when and how to set a limit, and what to do when you get that inevitable pushback.
Join us on March 20 at 7:00 p.m. via zoom!
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2025 is the Year of the Snake!
Held at Maynard Public Library
77 Nason Street
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Join us in Celebrating the Lunar New Year
Everyone is welcome at this cultural learning event celebrating the Lunar New Year! Jasmine Wang & Ellie Springer will lead a bilingual Mandarin/English story time. There will also be music, crafts, games, activities, and Chinese snacks provided. Open to all - Mandarin-speaking and non-Mandarin-speaking families. Stories and activities will be aimed at children ages 2-6, but older and younger siblings are welcome. Register at: https://forms.office.com/r/ptsSHafiys Registration will be limited based on the size of the room.
Saturday, January 25, 10:30-11:30
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New Parent Programs - Prenatal to 12 Months | |
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FIRST YEAR OF LIFE SUPPORT GROUP
Meets Thursdays, 9:30-11 beginning Jan. 9
Meets via Zoom weekly & in person monthly
Email Emily Fiorini for the Zoom Link
The First Year of Life Group, combines our Emotional Wellbeing after Baby group with our New Moms group. This group will be facilitated by Emily Fiorini, MA, who many of you already know as our amazing Emotional Wellbeing facilitator and occasional New Moms group facilitator. Parents in the postpartum year can join this free weekly group to get support for their own emotional wellbeing, recovery and transition into parenthood; baby’s development; feeding and sleep support; and community resources
Meets in Person at First Connections,
179 Great Road, #104A, Acton:
February 6 & March 6
RSVP to lmatthews@jri.org for in-person and guest speaker dates
Guest Speakers: March 27, 10-11:00
Dana Williams & Melissa Brandon
from the Pelvic Health Team at Emerson Health
Learn more about pelvic floor dysfunction and pain, and how it can be treated. Do you leak when you laugh, cough or sneeze? Have you had trouble lifting or getting back into exercise? Do you have pain with intercourse? Join us for this helpful discussion.
The FYOL group supports all new parents. Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding, parenting solo, partnered, or married, an adoptive or biological parent, have one baby or more, you are welcome here.
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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 workshop 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, managing challenges related to sleep and feeding, 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, mental health counselor specializing in infant and parent mental health and First Connections program director.
Additionally, participants will receive a list of resources for new parents. Birthing person and a support person are welcome to attend. Register through Emerson Health.
Wednesday, February 19, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Held at 310 Baker Ave., Suite 165, Concord
REGISTER HERE
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The above programs are provided through funding from Concord-Carlisle Foundation and Nordblom Family Foundation. Emerson Health is waiving fees, providing free space, and handling registration for "The 4th Trimester." | |
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2025: A Year of Nature Play and Exploration
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Each season this year, First Connections will choose an activity, tips and information for caregivers about how to incorporate nature and outdoor exploration into their daily routines. Families can come to First Connections’ office in Acton to pick up the activities or find links to them on our website. We hope they will share their experiences with us and/or share them on social media, tagging us @firstconnectionscfce on Instagram and @firstconnections on Facebook, and using the hashtag #yearofnatureplay. We invite you to join us in our year-long celebration of nature and outdoor play for young families! Here are two free winter activities to get you started! | |
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Our playgroups are free of charge and open to all families living in Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Hanscom AFB, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury, and Westford. Residents outside of those towns can attend if there is space. To register for a playgroup, email lmatthews@jri.org and include your child's age, town you live in, the playgroup you're registering for, and the name of the person who will attend the group with your child for name tags. Space is limited in all groups.
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MONDAYS, 10:00-11:00
Ages and Stages Playgroup for ages 24-35 months
Jan. 13, 27, Feb. 3, 10, 24, Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24
at Concord Carousel Preschool
This group will meet in a preschool classroom, where the children will have a chance to play with their toys and activities based on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire to help them practice their social, fine motor, language, problem-solving, and other skills as they interact with each other and the materials. Each group will end with a circle time with songs and a book. Infant siblings in carriers welcome.
TUESDAYS, 10:00-11:00
Little Learners Playgroup for Mobile Babies through 5 Years
Jan. 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 25, Mar. 4, 11, 18, 25
at Hanscom Air Force Base's Youth Center
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.
WEDNESDAYS, 10:30-11:30
Ages & Stages Playgroup for Ages 12-23 Months
Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 26, Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26
at Sargent Memorial Library, Boxborough
This group will include developmentally-appropriate toys and activities each week to support different areas of a one-year-old's development, based on suggested activities in the Ages & Stages Developmental Milestones. Each meeting will also include a circle time with songs and a story. Infant siblings welcome but should be held or in a carrier to keep them safe.
THURSDAYS, 10:00-11:00
Social & Emotional Skills Playgroup for Ages 18 months to 5 years
Jan. 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13, 27, Mar. 6, 13, 20, 27
at First Connections, Acton
This playgroup will meet in our playroom where we will have a large selection of toys, pretend kitchen, dolls, books, and a train table. Children will have time for free play, as well as to engage in activities designed to support their social and emotional development, based on the Ages and Stages Social Emotional Questionnaire. Each group will end with a circle time, songs and a story. Infant siblings in a carrier are welcome.
FRIDAYS, 10:30-11:30
Tinker Playgroup for children ages 3-5
Jan. 31, Feb. 7, 14, 28, Mar. 7, 14, 21, 28
at Maynard Public Library
Play and learn together, meet new friends, and practice important STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) skills for children. Based on a curriculum of activities developed by the Boston Children's Museum. Younger siblings welcome, but we will use small parts, so please be aware for children who are still mouthing objects.
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Saturday Morning Virtual Mandarin Story Times for Ages 2-5
Meets on Zoom Saturdays from 9:00-9:30
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 an M.A. in Language arts and a Certification of Mandarin Grade A. She specializes in teaching vocalization, speech, recitation and debate. This is a Mandarin immersion experience. New families should email xwang@jri.org to receive the Zoom link.
One-time registration and weekly zoom sign-ins will be used to track attendance.
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First Connections offers the ParentChild+ program to families in our service area through a grant from the MA Department of Early Education and Care! This free program brings fun and engaging early learning experiences right to your home. Each week a home visitor brings a high quality book or toy that the family keeps. The home visitor models reading, conversation, and play designed to promote language, literacy, and school readiness. Families with a child age 16 to 36 months may apply. This 23-46 week program supports families who cannot easily access traditional playgroups. Lack of transportation, language barriers, multiple toddlers, single parenting, or other circumstances are also considerations for participation. Any interested family may inquire by contacting Jasmine at: firstconnections@jri.org or texting 978-505-4227.
ParentChild+ has a 40-year track record of supporting early childhood success. Children who take part in this program are well prepared to transition to preschool and kindergarten successfully!
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Acton-Boxborough Public Schools Kindergarten Information Night
Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 7:00 p.m. via Zoom
Registration information and calendar
Online registration begins January 15 for children who are 5 by September 1,2025
Bedford Public Schools
Information will be posted here February 1st
or call Tami Heywood at 781-275-6804
Registration will be for children who are 5 by August 31, 2025
Carlisle Public Schools
To receive the Kindergarten planning postcard, contact Linda Cavallo-Murphy, Registrar.
978-369-6550 x3191 or email lcavallomurphy@carlisle.k12.ma.us
FAQ for Kindergarten Registration
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2025.
Concord Public Schools Kindergarten Registration Begins Online January 1, 2025
Registration Information Here
Contact Erin Higgins with questions: ehiggins@concordps.org or 978-318-1500 x8101
Registration will be for children who are 5 by August 31, 2025
Hanscom AFB Residents
School Liaison Program
Harvard Public Schools
Fill out a Pre-Registration Form Here
or call the elementary school 978-456-4145
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2025
Lincoln-Hanscom Public Schools
Kindergarten Information Page
or contact mradl@lincnet.org at the K-4 office, 781-259-9404
Registration will be for children who are 5 before October 1, 2025.
Littleton Public Schools
Registration will begin in May. Check here in April: Information Here.
or contact Shaker Lane School, 978-486-3959, x1301 or kfitzpatrick@littletonps.org
Registration will be for children who are 5 prior to September 1, 2025
Maynard Public Schools
Contact Green Meadow School, 978-897-8246 or ndangelo@maynard.k12.ma.us
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2025
Westford Public Schools
Kindergarten registration information page
Registration opens February 12, call 978-692-5560 x2107 with questions
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2025
Sudbury Public Schools "Kickoff to Kindergarten" Information Night
Tuesday, January 30 virtually
Early Childhood Website
Questions: early_childhood@sudbury.k12.ma.us or 978-639-3204
Registration opens February 1st for children who will be 5 on September 1, 2025
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Getting Ready for Kindergarten!
If you have a child who will be entering kindergarten in 2025, you can sign up to get a monthly email from our early childhood education coordinator, Ellie Springer. In January, February, and March, we will share articles on kindergarten readiness and how to help your child and you get ready to start kindergarten. In April through August, we will send you a monthly calendar with simple activities you can do each day to help your child develop the skills to be ready to learn in kindergarten. Please note, these activities WILL NOT emphasize "academic" skills like letters and numbers but instead will focus primarily on the skills kindergarten teachers say children actually need to be successful in school, such as self-help, fine motor, and social-emotional skills.
Please fill out this form to register to receive these emails:
https://forms.office.com/r/3xadWuvpha
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Free & Low-Cost Parent & Child
Programs in the Community
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COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
February 8: A Sweetie Valentines Day Party will be hosted by Acton Boxborough Family Network from 10-11:30am with a Sensory Friendly Party immediately prior from 9:30-10am at Blanchard Elementary School gym, 493 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough. Families with young children can enjoy fun activities provided by local preschools, crafts, and music by Rockabye Beats! Attendance is free to ABFN member families, Non-ABFN Families welcome: $10. Register Today!
January 25: Winter Wonderland will be held at Hunt Recreation Center, 90 Stow Street, Concord. This FREE program will take place from 1-3:00 with horse wagon rides, s'mores by a bonfire, crafts, a bounce house, D.J. and more. No registration required.
Concord Youth Theater Productions for Ages 2-9 Years-Saturdays 10:30-11:30
Interactive new & improved versions of favorite stories with a sing-a-long and audience participation encouraged. Read the story at home, then see it acted out in person! Held at 53 Church Street, West Concord. $5 cash at the door. For more information email cyt@concordyouththeatre.org or call 978-371-1482. Upcoming schedule - no reservations required!
December 21: The Grinch
January 11: Doctor Dolittle
January 25: The Princess and the Pea
February 1: Chicken Little
February 15: Goldilocks and the Three Bears
March 1: Pinocchio
March 15: Brave
March 29: Robin Hood
April 12: Sleeping Beauty
AUTHOR VISITS
December 14, 11-11:45: "Nisha's Just-Right Christmas Tree" Storytime with the authors at Silver Unicorn Bookstore, 12 Spruce Street, Acton. No registration, free.
December 15, 10-5:00: Authors & Illustrators Day at the Family Trees Celebration of Children's Literature at Concord Museum. Special visits from costumed characters and 11 authors & illustrators today. The exhibit presents dozens of decorated story trees inspired by Children's picture books and continues thru January 1st. Museum fundraiser: $20 adults, $10 ages 6-17, $5 ages 3-5, 2 & under free. 29th Annual Family Trees — Concord Museum
January 8, 2-3:30: "Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals" Hands-on Vet Experience at Acton Library. The Author will read her book then show the children examples of treatments using their own stuffed animals. Register Jan. 1 01/08/2025 | "Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals" - Hands-On Vet Experience | Acton Memorial Library
MUSEUM PROGRAMS
December 24, 10-3:00: FREE Admission to the Ecotarium today! Free programs = Animals in Winter, Animal Discovery, Science Discoveries, Table Top Ice Fishing (Planetarium & Otter Encounter require $tickets) Celebrate the Holidays at the EcoTarium! | EcoTarium
December 28, 10-12:00: Maker Space for Little Artists at deCordova Museum, Lincoln. All ages creating activities based on two sculptures, "A Snail's Pace" and "Huff and Puff". Includes admission to the park for the day. Art activity held indoors. $5. Maker Space: Winter Break for Little Artists & Junior Creators - The Trustees of Reservations
December 31, 12-1:00: Bessie's Rockin' Noon Year's Eve at Discovery Museum, Acton. Shake, rattle & roll into the New Year by making party hats & noise makers. Come decked out in your finest pajamas and stick around for the count down with a noon year's eve ball drop!
Bessie’s Rockin’ Noon Year’s Eve | Discovery Museum. Activities free with admission.
Ways to Save on Admission
December: The Grinch's Grotto, Gingerbread in Toyland & School Vacation Fun & Games at Springfield Museums. Check the calendar on website to see when the Grinch will make an appearance. Activities free with admission (click "ways to save").
Grinchmas: Holiday Events | Springfield Museums
January 18: Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood exhibit opens at Boston Children's Museum. Did you know you can visit the museum for $1 on Sunday afternoons? Welcome to Boston Children’s Museum! - Boston Children's Museum
FREE SPECIAL LIBRARY PROGRAMS
Dec. 16, Jan 13, Feb. 10, Mar. 10, 10-11:30: Busy Bees Playtime at Littleton Library, 41 Shattuck St. Preschool-age children and caregivers are welcome to join other families for playtime with the library's toys. Register on library calendar. December 2024 Events | Reuben Hoar Library
December 19, 4-5:00: Storytime with Santa at Littleton Library, 35 Shattuck St. Register:
12/19/2024 | Story Time with Santa | Reuben Hoar Library. Photos welcome.
December 20, 10:30-11: Spanish Storytime for ages 1 1/2 thru 5 with stories, songs and rhymes at Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Rd., Sudbury. No registration. Bilingual program.
December 21, 10:30-11: Winter Movies & Muffins for Ages 2+ at Lincoln Library, 3 Bedford Rd. Watch winter-themed film versions of classic picture books and enjoy muffins and juice. Drop in, no registration.
December 21, 10:30-11:30: Welcome Winter Storytime & Cookie Decorating at Maynard Library, 77 Nason St. Celebrate the first day of winter with stories, sugar cookie decorating and make paper snowflakes. No registration required.
December 23, 2:30, 3:00, 3:30, 4:00: Gingerbread Party at Concord Library, 129 Main St. See the giant gingerbread house and enjoy a variety of gingerbread crafts including decorating your very own cookie to take home. Ages 10 & under requires supervision.
Register for your arrival time. Calendar | Events | Concord Free Public Library
December 28, 10:30-11:15: Silly Sally's Marvelous Magic Show for all ages at Maynard Library. Register here
December 30, 3:30-4:30: Drive-in Movie at Concord Library, 129 Main St. Customize your very own cardboard box car and then use it as your seat while you enjoy a short movie & snacks. Then take your car home! Ages 2+ with an adult. Register: 12/30/2024 | "Drive-In" Movie, ages 2+ | Concord Free Public Library
December 31, 11-12:15: Family Noon Year's Eve at Fowler Library, 1322 Main St., Concord. Drop in to ring in 2025 early! Wear your sparkly best, create crafts, sing and countdown for when the clock strikes 12. Cheer in the New Year with snacks! No registration required.
December 31, 11-12:00: Noon Years Eve Party for all ages at Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Rd., Sudbury. Includes crafts, music, party hats & countdown at noon. No registration.
December 31, 12-1:00: Noon Year's Eve Party with story, dancing, crafts, countdown, noisemakers & bubbles at Maynard Library for ages 3-12. Party attire welcome. No registration required.
February 8, 10:30-11:30: Valentines Storytime & Breakfast for Seniors and Children Age 3+ (special someone doesn't have to be a grandparent). Held at Carlisle library, enjoy stories, songs, a craft and waffles! Register January 11. 02/08/2025 | Grandparents & Grandkids' Valentine Story Time and Breakfast | Gleason Public Library
February 21, 3:30-4:30: Spanish Fun Program with Miss Esther at Concord Library, 129 Main St. Bilingual program with music, and games. Drop in, no registration. All ages!
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First Connections' Updates | |
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Infant Diapers Needed
A number of families with infants in our community are in need of diapers for their babies right now, so if anyone has leftover diapers size newborn, 1, 2, or 3 we welcome any donations. They can be dropped off at our door any time since the building is always open.
Babies grow fast, so larger sizes and pull-ups are also always welcome and can easily be shipped to us via our Wishlist below.
For 2025, qualified families will be able to receive 1 box of diapers and wipes on a monthly basis if they are residents of Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury or Westford and have a proven financial need.
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Our List of Child Care Providers has been Updated!
Separated by the 11 towns in our catchment area, the list includes:
- Center-Based, After-School, and Family Childcare Programs
- Hours the Program is Open
- Whether they Accept Vouchers or have Financial Aid
- Website, Email Address, Phone Numbers
- Ages the Program Accepts
- Where to Apply for a Voucher or a Head Start Program
Posted on our Website or email Linda: lmatthews@jri.org
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NEW
Caring for Aging Parents While Parenting
A free support group has begun that will assist parents who are balancing the unique challenges of caring for both children and aging parents at the same time. Join facilitator Amy Chervin to share or just listen, find resources, ideas and support. Held at Roudenbush Community Center, Westford
Upcoming dates: December 17, January 28, 7-8:00 p.m.
More Details
RSVP Here
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UPDATE
Lurie Center for Autism
Free Coffee Convo Presentation Series Topics
December 18: Fever and Autism, A team of Drs. and Ph.Ds
January 15: Profound Autism, Lisa Nowinski, Ph.D.
February 12: Supporting Siblings: Tips for Parents & Caregivers
A team of psychologists and social workers
March 19: Genetics of Autism, Kelly Dakin & Susan Kuo, PhD
April 16: Emergency Preparedness & ASD, Julie O'Brien, LMHC
May 21: ADHD & Autism, Nora Friedman & Christina Sakai, M.D.
June 18: Recognizing Autistic Joy, Brett Mulder, PsyD
Register to receive email reminders of topics
Registration opens 4 weeks prior to each event. Presentations take place 6:30-7:30 p.m., are free and open to the public. Links are emailed the day before the presentation
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Need Help Paying your Heating Bill?
Apply online or at the local agency for your town.
You do not need to be on public assistance.
Renters and homeowners are eligible for assistance.
Assistance extends from November to April 30.
Pays for oil, electricity, gas, propane, kerosene, wood & coal.
Application available in 16 languages.
Check the 60% SMI Chart for Your Household Size
A family of 3 qualifies if household income is $79,470
Apply or find your local Agency here
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"So Glad You Asked!" Coming in 2025
A New Podcast from MGH's Center for Women's Mental Health,
Perinatal & Reproductive Psychiatry Program
Dr. Ruta Nonacs, Staff Psychiatrist, and Alice Hales, mom of 4, will co-host an interactive podcast to have your toughest questions about mental health in motherhood answered. Hear real-time answers to your questions from top experts in the field and hear from other moms who have faced similar challenges.
Fill out the Questionnaire with your interests!
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Growth: Harmonizing Solitude, Guidance & Freedom
Part of Concord's Transforming Childhood Series
Psychologist Andrew Richlin will address the balance between isolation & socializing, family & community, goal-driven activities & open-ended play, and self-direction versus being led in this discussion that focuses on children's after-school hours and summer plans.
Held at Concord's Main Library, 129 Main Street
January 23, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Register Here
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Buried in Treasure Free Groups being held in Bedford & Westford
If you or someone you know can answer yes to one or more of these questions, then this free 15-week in-person workshop may be for you:
Do you want to declutter but are overwhelmed?
Are you struggling to let go of some items?
Are you unable to use some rooms in your home as intended?
Do you worry about having guests over?
Do you have storage spaces filled with stuff?
This is a relaxed program open to all levels of clutter. It will teach you how to build insight skills and strategies to help declutter, get organized & reduce acquiring.
Westford Class begins January 14, Tuesdays 2-4:00, 978-399-2503
nlaviolette@westfordma.gov, Website
Bedford Class begins January 9, Thursdays, 1-3:00, 781-275-6825, Website
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Winter Community Parent Support & Education
The following programs are not provided by First Connections but are compiled here for your convenience.
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SEMINARS/WEBINARS
Basic Rights: Understanding the IEP. Gain a deeper understanding of the IEP document as presented by the Federation for Children with Special Needs. Learn why the IEP is important, how it is developed, and about the different sections of the document. Join a discussion on the types of services that can be provided, what measurable goals are, and how to resolve disputes.
January 13, 6-8 pm thru Acton-Boxboro Schools: Register
January 16, 7-9 pm thru Westford Schools: Register
McLean Hospital FREE Mental Health Webinars
Register for the link to these and more programs HERE.
Anxiety in Kids & Teens 101 with Lisa Coyne, Ph.D.
January 14, 12:00
When Young People + School = Anxiety with R. Meredith Elkins, Ph.D., February 5, 12:00
Understanding ADHD in Kids & Teens with Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D., February 12, 12:00
Anxiety & OCD in Kids & Teens: On-Demand Course
SUPPORT GROUPS
NAMI Basics (FREE) Information Page
"NAMI Basics" is an on-demand educational program available to parents/caregivers of children and adolescents with emotional or behavioral issues Link Here. NAMI also offers support groups for family members of persons struggling with mental illness, as well as peer groups for those with a diagnosed mental illness. Specialty groups are available for partners and parents, including a Spanish-language group.
Parent Groups Held by the Center for Early Relationship Support (FREE)
If you have any questions, email Leslie, lpucker@jfcsboston.org or Website Information
Fragile Beginnings for parents of babies who've spent time in the NICU, Thursdays 10:30-11:30 via zoom
Newly Adoptive Parents of babies under 12 mos. meets on 1st & 3rd Fridays,10-11:30 in Belmont
Parents of Toddlers (1-3 yrs) meets from 1-2:30 on Wednesdays via zoom,
Spanish-Speaking New Parent Group via zoom on Tuesdays 9-10:30 am. Email jcaceres@jfcsboston.org or call 781-693-5022.
In-Person New Mothers Group meets weekly in Arlington on Fridays, 10-11:30.
Parents Helping Parents Support Groups (FREE)
Facilitated virtual groups allow parents to get advice, give feedback, and find resources to help you manage day-to-day parenting challenges. Specialty groups include Single Parents, Parents of Preschoolers (3-6 yrs), Mothers, Fathers, BIPOC Families, Parents in Recovery, and those working with the Department of Children & Families. Information Page
Infant and Pregnancy Loss Support Group (FREE)
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 practitioner specializing in perinatal grief support. Individuals are encouraged to contact the facilitator, Katie Stockman at kstockman@emersonhosp.org or 617-299-1533 for the connecting zoom link. "We are a compassionate and nurturing community of grieving parents - you are not alone."
Website. Second Monday of the Month, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group in Acton (FREE)
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. If you are interested in joining a local group, which meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month, 11-12:30, at Acton Senior Center, contact Joe at 978-897-9595 or j.j.oleary@comcast.net. For additional statewide resources, workshops, & evening groups, contact colleen.pritoni@state.ma.us or 617-748-2454. Website. 3-Part Healing Pathways for Caregivers begins January 27. Building & Maintaining Healthy Boundaries will be held February 2nd. Email for Zoom Link.
Adoption Journeys Monthly Support Group (FREE)
Every month this professionally-facilitated group for adoptive parents meets virtually for support, education, and connection. Periodic guest speakers, family events and a bi-monthly newsletter are additional benefits of registering. To find out more or join this group, call Child & Family Services in Waltham (781-444-1042) or Tewksbury (978-687-5852)
Boston Post Adoption Resources ($30/35 per group)
This agency provides support groups for adoptive parents (ages 4-7, 8-12 or teens), single adoptive parents, adopted children age 8 and older, parenting as an adoptee, in addition to counseling services. Website
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Denotes funding for this program provided by Mass. Dept. of Early Education & Care CFCE Grant
First Connections, a division of Justice Resource Institute, is one of 84 Coordinated Family and Community Engagement (CFCE) programs in the state of MA, funded in part by the Department of Early Education and Care and offering regionally specific family support services. Our CFCE funded programs extend to families within our 11-town catchment area including Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Hanscom AFB, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury, and Westford. We also rely on the generous support of local partners who help fund these programs and expand the geographic reach of our First Year of Life & EWAB programs. We are grateful for the financial support of Acton-Boxborough United Way, Concord Carlisle Foundation, Emerson Health Determination of Need Mental Health Grant, The Sudbury Foundation, Maynard Community Chest, Nordblom Family Foundation, William E. Schrafft and Bertha E. Schrafft Charitable Trust, Acton Congregational Church, Concord Trinitarian Congregational Church and individuals like you. Thank you for your support! our website
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