|
The Ecotarium is FREE on
December 24, 10-3:00!
| | |
Winter Newsletter
January-February-March 2026
| | | | |
Free Winter Live Parent Webinars
Email Lmatthews@jri.org to register for these programs
| | |
Motor Development in Babies
0-18 Months
Thursday, January 29, 1:00-2:00
Presented by Christina Marinelli, DPT, from Emerson Health
Email for zoom link: lmatthews@jri.org
| | Motor development includes both gross and fine motor skills. From birth, babies begin progressing these skills, which are the building blocks to your baby's ability to explore their environment as they grow. Gross motor skills describe larger muscle movements - like rolling, sitting and standing. Fine motor skills include smaller muscle groups - like grasping and bringing hands together. Babies learn and refine both motor skills along a spectrum, it's not one-size-fits-all; however, there are normative ranges caregivers can refer to, to best track their baby's progress and support baby's growth and learning. This presentation by a pediatric Doctor of Physical Therapy will describe motor development using evidence-based resources. You will learn: 1) what typical development looks like, 2) general tips and strategies to support baby's skill acquisition, and 3) helpful resources for continued learning. Time for questions allowed. | | | |
Understanding Threenagers
presented by Ellie Springer, M.Ed.
Often, around 2 1/2 to 3, children's behavior becomes newly challenging and parents may wonder, "Who is this child?" Three year olds begin to fiercely assert their independence, while at other times cling to adults and want help with tasks they have been able to do on their own for months. They can have BIG emotions that change all the time, shifting from gleeful to devastated to furious within minutes. They're kind of like teenagers, hence the term threenager. If you have a child in this stage, or about to enter it, join Ms. Ellie to learn what is typical at this stage, how to support your child through it, and how to make life a little smoother for you all.
February 12 at 7-8:00 pm via Zoom
| | | |
| | |
What Behaviors Tell Us: Understanding Your Child’s Communication
presented by Concord Children's Center Educators
Join early childhood experts for a warm and informative panel discussion exploring how young children use behavior to communicate their needs, emotions, and developing skills. Our panel will share real-life examples, practical strategies, and guidance to help families better understand what children are trying to “say” through their actions. You’ll learn what your child might be trying to tell you—and how to respond in ways that build connection (and maybe save your sanity). Come with your questions and leave with tools to deepen your understanding of your child’s world. Register to receive the zoom link.
| | | | Setting Effective Boundaries: How Clear, Loving Limits Create Safety & Security for the Developing Brain, presented by Chrissy Dagostino, M.A. | | |
This workshop explores the critical role boundaries play in helping young children to develop a sense of security as they move through the world and come to understand their place in it. We will explore common pitfalls when setting limits and practical tips for following through even when we are met with resistance and push-back. Finally, we consider the feelings children may experience in response to our limits. Parents and caregivers will leave with practical tools for supporting cooperation and safety within their families. This will not be recorded.
March 12, 8:00-9:00 p.m.
| | New Parent Programs - Prenatal to 12 Months | | |
FIRST YEAR OF LIFE SUPPORT GROUP
Meets Thursdays, 9:30-11
Meets via Zoom weekly & in person monthly
Email Emily Fiorini for the Zoom Link
Parents in the postpartum year can join our free weekly First Year of Life Group to get support for their own emotional wellbeing, recovery and transition into parenthood. Baby’s development, feeding and sleep will also be discussed, and a follow-up email will include community resources and more in-depth information on what we focused on each week. This 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're welcome here!
Winter Schedule:
Jan. 1 - New Year's Day - no group
Jan. 8, 22, 29 - Virtual groups
Jan. 15 - In-person Infant Massage - register*
Jan. 29 - 0-18 Month Motor Development presentation (held 1-2:00 virtually) register*
Feb. 5, 19, 26 - Virtual groups
Feb. 12 - In-person group at Sudbury Library*
March 5, 26 - Virtual groups
March 12 - In-person group at Sudbury Library*
March 19 - Pelvic Health Recovery guest speakers with Emerson Health Pelvic Physical Therapists. If you're not a regular group attendee and would like to attend, RSVP to Linda*
*RSVP to lmatthews@jri.org for in-person and guest speaker dates
| | |
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, LMHC, 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.
Monday, February 9, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Held at 310 Baker Ave., Suite 165, Concord
REGISTER HERE
| | The above programs are provided through funding from Concord-Carlisle Foundation, Nordblom Family Foundation, and the Community Foundation for Metrowest. Emerson Health is waiving fees, providing free space, and facilitating registration for "The 4th Trimester." | | |
Upcoming Free Special Library Programs for Infants and Parents/Caregivers
Wed., March 11, 18, 25, April 8, 10:30-11:30: Baby Sign Class with Sheryl White at Lincoln Library. This program for pre-verbal babies 2+ months with a caregiver will show you how to teach your baby 60 ASL signs. You will learn about the benefits of and research behind using Baby Sign with your baby to enhance communication. REGISTER beginning January 1.
Feb. 26, Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26, Apr. 2, 10:30-11:30: Babygarten parent-child class for 0-18 months at Littleton Library. This class is a stimulating experience intended to nurture the bond between caregivers and babies, and to increase awareness of your child's development, emphasizing language enrichment and pre-literacy skills. REGISTER
| | |
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, which is limited in all groups based on size of the rooms available. To register for a playgroup, email lmatthews@jri.org and include:
-
your child's age on Jan 12, 2026
- the town you live in
- the playgroup you're registering for
- the name of the person who will attend the group with your child, for name tags
| | |
MONDAYS, 10:30-11:30
Ages and Stages Playgroup for ages 3-11 months
Jan. 12, 26, Feb. 2, 9, 23, Mar. 2, 9, 16, 23
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. All caregivers are welcome, but please make arrangements for older siblings to keep babies safe.
TUESDAYS, 10:00-11:00
Little Learners Playgroup for Mobile Babies through 5 Years
Jan. 13, 20, 27, Feb. 3, 10, 24, Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24
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
Art and Sensory Playgroup for Ages 24-35 Months
Jan. 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 25, Mar. 4, 11, 18, 25
at Maynard Public Library
In this group, we will get messy with art and sensory materials! Experience with sensory materials helps children develop their motor and problem-solving skills, and promotes their creativity and emotional regulation. In addition to art and sensory activities, age-appropriate toys will be available for children to play with. 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, 10:00-11:15
Ages & Stages Playgroup for Ages 12 to 23 months
Jan. 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 26, Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26
at First Connections, Acton
This playgroup will meet in our playroom where we will have a large selection of toys, a 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 development based on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. Each group will end with a circle time, songs and a story. Infant siblings in a carrier are welcome.
FRIDAYS, 10:00-11:00
Social Emotional Skills Playgroup for children ages 3-5
Jan. 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13, 27, Mar. 6, 13, 20, 27
at Village Nursery School, Harvard
In this group, we will read books and do activities designed to help children develop their social-emotional skills. Children will work on things like identifying emotions in themselves and other, tools to manage their feelings, taking turns with peers, and entering into play. Activities and materials from the Boston Children's Museum's "Me, You, We" curriculum will be incorporated. Younger siblings welcome, but we will use small parts, so please be aware for children who are still mouthing objects.
| |
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.
| |
Everyone is Welcome to Join First Connections in Celebrating the Lunar New Year
Held at Maynard Public Library
Saturday, January 31, 10:30-11:30
Once again, we will be celebrating the Lunar New Year with our friends at the Maynard Public Library! Everyone is welcome at this cultural learning event, where Jasmine Wang, Weiping Niu, & 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. Free registration required at: https://forms.office.com/r/ptsSHafiys Space is limited based on the size of the room.
| | | | |
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!
| | |
Acton-Boxborough Public Schools Kindergarten Information Page
Kindergarten Website
Online registration begins in February for children who are 5 by September 1,2026
Information on A-B Restructuring Plan: AB Forward Strategic Plan
Bedford Public Schools Information Page
Information will be posted here
or call Karen Poli at 781-275-6804
Registration will be for children who are 5 by August 31, 2026
Carlisle Public Schools
To receive the Kindergarten planning postcard, contact Linda Cavallo-Murphy, Registrar.
lcavallomurphy@carlisle.k12.ma.us
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2026
Concord Public Schools Kindergarten Registration Begins Online January 1, 2025
Registration Information Here
Contact Erin Higgins with questions: ehiggins@concordps.org
Registration will be for children who are 5 by August 31, 2026
Hanscom AFB Residents
Hanscom-Lincoln K-4 School Info
K-4 School office: 781-274-7720, x6302 or braudisl@lincnet.org
Registration will be for children who will be 5 by September 30, 2026
Harvard Public Schools
Kindergarten Registration Info Here
or call the elementary school 978-456-4145, or email kshuttle@psharvard.org
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2026
Lincoln Public Schools
Kindergarten Information Page
or contact nlarochelle@lincnet.org at the K-4 office, 781-259-9404 x2101
Registration will be for children who are 5 before October 1, 2026.
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
Kindergarten Registration begins in February. Info here
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 begins in February, call 978-692-5560 x2107 with questions
Registration will be for children who are 5 by September 1, 2025
Sudbury Public Schools Kindergarten registration begins February 1
for children who will be 5 on September 1, 2026
Early Childhood Website
Questions: early_childhood@sudbury.k12.ma.us or 978-639-3204
| | |
Getting Ready for Kindergarten!
If you have a child who will be entering kindergarten in 2026, 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 receive these emails.
| | |
Diaper Pantry Update
THANK YOU to the following for your donations!
Hope in Bundles
Acton-Boxboro Family Network
Play Together Acton
The Discovery Museum
Acton Senior Center
Liz Nugent, Amy White, Lily Rinaldi, The Clark Family, Mai Anh Pham, Sarah and Sarah E. Stuart, Terry Chena, Amy Barr, the Gazareks, Amy Gordon, Kristen McDonough, Lynne Long, Megan Aurora, Sudhir Srinivasan, Lisa Francisco and anonymous donors who sent diapers thru the Amazon link!
Everyone who needed diapers in November received them due to your generosity and the shelves are full for the holidays!!
| | |
Free & Low-Cost Parent & Child
Programs in the Community
| | |
Sweetie Valentine’s Day Party
Saturday, February 7, 10:00-11;30*
Acton Boxborough Family Network will hold their annual event, which includes a *Sensory Friendly Party immediately prior from 9:30-10am at Blanchard Elementary School gym, 493 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough MA. Families with young children can enjoy fun activities provided by local preschools, crafts, and live music! Attendance is free to ABFN families, Non-ABFN Families: $10. Register
| |
Open Door Theater for All Ages and Abilities
March 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29
Honk! is the musical telling of "The Ugly Duckling" story. This play is a celebration of being different as "Ugly" the duck - who is kind-hearted, awkward and innocent - goes on his journey of self-discovery. Open Door Theater shows are relaxed, sensory friendly, ASL interpreted, and audio described. Family bathrooms, allergy-friendly concessions & a live-feed of the performance in a "chill out" area is available. A social story you can watch on the website before attending if desired will be posted on the website in February. $10 tickets for those receiving WIC/EBT/ConnectorCare. Open Door Theater Website
| |
Concord Youth Theater Productions for Ages 2-9-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 (if you have it), 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 20: The Gingerbread Man
January 10: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
January 24: Peter Pan
February 14: The Emperor's New Clothes (great Valentines Day activity!)
February 28: Alice in Wonderland
March 14: Horton Hears a Who
March 28: The Jungle Book
April 11: Frog and Toad
April 18: The Little Mermaid
AUTHOR VISITS
Silver Unicorn Bookstore, 12 Spruce Street, West Acton, 11-12:00
December 21, 11-1:00, In-store book signing by Casey Robinson, author of the award-winning children's books Small Things Mended and Iver and Ellsworth.
January 31, 11-12:00 Lolly on the Ice with author/illustrator Sarah Brannen
MUSEUM PROGRAMS
December 31, 10-12:00: 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! Activities free with admission. Ways to Save on Admission
December thru January 10: 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 10, 5-8:00 p.m.: Autism-Friendly Evening at The Discovery Museum in Acton.
February 28 & March 21, 5-8:00 p.m.: Inclusive Evening at the Discovery Museum for children & adults with disabilities or sensory sensitivities.
All Especially for Me Programs require Pre-Registration Here, are free and include dinner.
March 29, 12-4:30: Celebrate Very Hungry Caterpillar Day at Eric Carle Museum in Amherst! There will be art making, a museum scavenger hunt, films, storytime, and you can meet a ginormous very hungry caterpillar in the great hall! Adults $15/children $10. Check out free and discount admissions HERE.
FREE SPECIAL LIBRARY PROGRAMS
December 20 & January 3, 10:30-11: Yoga & Movement Storytime for Ages 1-5 with caregivers. Drop in to 129 Main Street for yoga, movement, stories and songs.
December 22, 2:30-4:30: Gingerbread Party at Concord Library. See a giant gingerbread house, make gingerbread crafts, and decorate your own cookie. Children under age 10 require a helper. Sign up for your 30-minute time slot HERE.
December 27, 10:30-11:30: Play Dough Day at Bedford Library. Drop in to use a variety of dough, toys and tools geared toward ages 2-11.
December 27, 11-11:30: Pirates! Crafty Storytime for ages 1-5 with a caregiver at Concord Library, 129 Main Street. Drop in.
December 30, 10:30-11:00: Winter Movies, Muffins & Juice at Lincoln Library. Themed film versions of classic picture books for ages 2+. Drop in to 3 Bedford Road.
December 30, 3:00-5:00: Sing-a-Long with Frozen the movie and snacks at Sudbury Library. All ages welcome. Drop in.
December 31, 11:30-12:30: Kids' Noon Year's Eve Party at Maynard Library. Drop in for storytime, dancing, crafts, countdown, noisemakers and bubbles! Party attire welcome. Ages 3-12.
December 31, 10:30-11:30: Noon Year's Eve Party at Littleton Library. Join Miss Jennifer & Miss Megan as they ring in the new year at a special time just for kids & teens. Crafts, stories, sparkling cider, dance party and countdown activities.
December 31, 11:15-12: Noon Year's Eve Party at Bedford Library with dancing, crafts, and a countdown for ages 3-11. Register here.
December 31, 11-12:00: Noon Year's Eve Party at Sudbury Library with crafts, music, party hats, and a countdown. Drop in.
January 2, 10:30-12: Building Day at Bedford Library for ages 3-11. Informal building program with Legos, Magnatiles, Blocks and more! Drop in.
January 2, 10:30-11:30: Animal Adventures visits Maynard Library for ages 4+. Register
January 3, 10:30-4:00: Master Builders visits Maynard Library for ages 4+ with their Legos, marble runs, Keva planks and more! Drop in any time.
January 8 (and monthly thru May 7), 10:30: Baby & Toddler Disco Party at Harvard Library for Ages 0-3. Music, lights, photo booth, and disco-style dress welcome! Drop in for fun!
January 24, 10:30-11:30: Mindfulness for Preschoolers with Sheryl White at Lincoln Library. Help children & parents be more aware and in the present moment through adult modeling through simple, fun activities that encourage mindfulness and relaxation. Register here.
Jan. 26, Feb. 23 & Mar. 30, 10-11:30: Busy Bees Playtime at Littleton Library for preschoolers and parents. Drop in and get to know other families while playing with our toys.
February 1, 1:30-2:30: Winter Carnival Fun at Lincoln Library. Super-sized winter wonderland storytime, songs and activities celebrating the winter season for ages 5 and under. Drop in.
February 7, 2-3:00: Toe Jam Puppet Band celebrates Take Your Child to the Library Day at Littleton Library with this awesome N.E. family fun band. Register beginning January 1.
February 17, 4:30-5:30: Lunar New Year Celebration at Boxboro Library with stories, crafts and snacks. Drop in, no registration required.
February 17, 11-11:45: Nicola the Puppeteer Storytime & Puppet Playtime at Lincoln Library. Read stories, sing songs, meet Muppet-style puppets. Geared toward ages 5 & under. Drop in.
February 17, 10:30-11:30: The Mitten with Strega Mama thru Westford Library. Join us at Roudenbush's Room 105 for this interactive, humorous storytime for ages 3-6. There will be ASL animal names, mitten games, and a snowman song! Register beginning January 20 by emailing youthservices@westfordma.org.
March 17, 10:30-11:30: Frog and Toad with Strega Mama thru Westford Library. Join us at Roudenbush's Room 105 to read the story, play the button game, sing the frog song and play a hop hop game! Great for ages 3-7. Register beginning February 17: youthservices@westfordma.gov
| | |
A New Museum Policy for Children's Museums
Protecting Children with Health Issues
Discovery Museum, Acton - Mask On, Play On Program
Any family or group who can benefit from a limited capacity and who are more comfortable in the museum environment when everyone is wearing masks. Next date will be April 11, 5-8:00 pm.
Information/Registration
Boston Children's Museum - All Masks On Program
Staff & visitors age 2+, must wear masks in order to maximize health and safety for children with medical needs. Next date is March 7, 8-10:00 am.
info/register
| |
| |
Tactile Tuesdays Free Playgroup
This playgroup is open to toddlers age 1 and older with a caregiver. Each week there is a new activity and theme for the children to explore. Play, learn and explore to build school readiness activities. Facilitated by and held at Nashoba Brooks School, 200 Strawberry Hill Rd., Concord on Jan. 13, 20, 27, Feb. 3, 10, 24, Apr. 7, 14, 28, May 5, 12 from 9:15-10:00 a.m.
| | | |
Winter Community Parent Support & Education
The following programs are not provided by First Connections but are compiled here for your convenience.
| | |
SEMINARS/WEBINARS
Anxiety 101 - a Free Workshop thru The Concord Center
February 11, 2026, 12:00-1:00 via Zoom
Parents will learn how to recognize signs of anxiety in children and teens, understand what drives it, and discover practical tools to support your child using evidence-based strategies from cognitive behavioral therapies. This webinar will equip you with simple, effective techniques to help your child manage worry and build resilience. Information on The Concord Center's Parent Workshop Series
Parenting ADHD Kids presented by The Wavy Brain
Parenting ADHD kids can feel like solving a puzzle with missing pieces (especially so if you have ADHD yourself)! Lindsay Binnette is a certified ADHD Coach who will review how the ADHD brain works and provide practical information and evidence-based strategies you can use right away. Held at Acton Library.
Jan. 15: 6-7:30 pm. Register Here
Lurie Center for Autism Free monthly Webinar Topics:
Jan. 14: Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder in Autism
April 15: Autism and the Microbiome
Register for the zoom link or for monthly topic reminders.
McLean Hospital FREE Mental Health Webinars
Register for the link to these and more programs HERE.
Jan. 16: Effectively Treating OCD in Kids & Teens, 12-1:00
Feb. 18: A Parent's Guide to Dealing with Bullying, 12-1:00
Floortime for Parents: Course 1 at Astra Foundation in Acton
Jan. 14, 28, Feb. 11, 25, Mar. 11, 25, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
This hybrid class (2 sessions are with your instructor and child in person) is geared toward parents of children age 2-10 with issues of regulation, behavior, communication, ASD, or developmental delays. Learn about how this relationship-based approach can help you better support and nurture your child's emotional growth. Presentations on the concepts of Floortime, video examples, and group discussions in a supportive environment.
$120 for one parent, or $160 for both parents and/or regular caregivers of your child.
Registration information and more about Floortime.
Monthly Collaborative Problem & Proactive Solutions (CPS) Model Workshops
This supportive/educational parent workshop helps parents help their kids solve the problems that are causing their concerning behavior without shame, blame or conflict. These strategies for reducing challenging behaviors and strengthening your connection to your children are FREE. To register for the Friday, 11-12:00 upcoming dates, email FRC-INFO@waysideyouth.org, call 508-270-1313 or Learn More about CPS Here.
SUPPORT GROUPS
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 via zoom
Newly Adoptive Parents of babies under 12 mos. meets twice monthly in Belmont
Parents of Toddlers (1 thru 3 yrs) meets via zoom,
Spanish-Speaking New Parent Group via zoom. Email jcaceres@jfcsboston.org or call 781-693-5022.
In-Person New Mothers Group meets weekly in Arlington
Pregnancy Support Group meets weekly via zoom.
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, Spanish-speaking Dads, Mindfulness Parenting, Parenting Neurodivergent Children, Parenting Children with Anxiety/Depression, Parents in High-conflict Divorce and those working with the Department of Children & Families. Information Page
Supportive Parent Solutions Group in Westford (FREE)
Facilitated by Rachael O'Toole, LICSW, and Nicole Laviolette, Community Wellness Coordinator (nlaviolette@westfordma.gov), this group providers caregivers with resources, skills, and support if they are experiencing challenges parenting a child who may be struggling with their mental/behavioral health. Held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6:30-8 at Westford Recreation Dept, 65 Main St., 3rd Fl., Westford. No registration required, drop-ins welcome.
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." Information here. Second Monday of the Month, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
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 seasonal 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) Information Here or kcalvin@cfservices.org
Boston Post Adoption Resources ($30/35 per group)
This agency provides support groups for adoptive parents of children aged 4-7, 8-12 or teens, single adoptive parents, adopted children age 8 and older, parenting as an adoptee, in addition to counseling. Website
| | | |
|
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 programs. We are grateful for the financial support of Concord Carlisle Foundation, Maynard Community Chest, Nordblom Family Foundation, Acton Congregational Church, Concord Trinitarian Congregational Church, Commonwealth Children's Fund, Community Foundation for Metrowest and individuals like you. Thank you for your support! our website
| | | | |
