July 2013 baystateparent Magazine

JULY 2013

baystateparent Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996

FREE

A DAY AT THE BEACH With bsp’s Own Kerri Louise

READY, SET, SWIM It’s Never Too Early To Jump In! NEW HAMPSHIRE From Magnificent To Magical WAREHAM PULLS TOGETHER FOR AN EXTREME HOME MAKEOVER THE JOYS AND CHALLENGES OF ADOPTING SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN

The Changing Face of

Autism

Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012

2 JULY2013

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+W+W ?IV\Âź[ 3QL[ \W JM ;INM â&#x20AC;˘ Never leave a gate to the pool open. â&#x20AC;˘ Make sure kids take swimming lessons when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready, usually after age 4. â&#x20AC;˘ Empty and turn over wading pools as soon as the kids are out. â&#x20AC;˘ Actively watch children when they are swimming. Don't leave, even for a moment. â&#x20AC;˘ Teach kids never to swim alone. â&#x20AC;˘ Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let kids dive into water less than nine feet deep. â&#x20AC;˘ Know that any child can get in trouble in the water, even if he is wearing a life jacket or has taken swimming lessons. â&#x20AC;˘ Make sure kids wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket anytime when in or near open bodies of water or participating in water sports. â&#x20AC;˘ Don't let kids operate personal watercraft such as jet skis. These are intended for adults and require special training. â&#x20AC;˘ Use anti-entrapment devices in pools and hot tubs. â&#x20AC;˘ Have a fence at least 5 feet high that separates the pool from the house and yard. â&#x20AC;˘ Have gates that close and latch automatically. â&#x20AC;˘ Have alarms on every door and window that leads to the pool area.

$14 Tickets (Ages 23 months and younger are free with a ticketed adult.) All those wishing to enter the park must purchase a ticket!

Limited day passes available. Please purchase online to guarantee access.

Hours of Operation Thursday-Saturday 10am-9pm â&#x20AC;˘ Sunday 10am-7pm 150 Royal Plaza Drive, Fitchburg, MA 01420 0

888-976-9254 Like us on Facebook!

BAYSTATEPARENT 3

Infant • Toddler • Preschool • Pre-Kindergarten • Kindergarten

Next Generation Children’s Centers

OPEN HOUSE

ALL LOCATIONS

T U E S D AY • J U LY 16 , 2 013 • 4 : 0 0 - 7 : 0 0 P M Call: (866) 711-6422

| Visit: ngccenters.com

Celebrating 20 Years As A Leader In Early Childhood Education Andover • Beverly • Franklin • Hopkinton • Marlborough • Natick • Sudbury • Walpole • Westborough • Westford

Come spend time with your kids in our exciting family classes— a rich musical environment that encourages your child to explore the joy of music.

Find out what beautiful music you and your family can make together.

MAKE BEAUTIFUL MUSIC TOGETHER. (800) 728-2692

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MUSICTOGETHER.COM

FOR CLASSES IN EASTERN/CENTRAL MA: WWW.MUSICTOGETHER.COM/BSP 4 JULY2013

It only takes one visit and you’re hooked With a great selection, you’ll find something you love every time you come in!

Come see for yourself - we are closer than you think!

New England’s Largest Selection of Fashion Values for the Family Over 50,000 items everyday including • Clothes and shoes for kids and teens...and me too!

• Birthday Gifts • Outdoor Playtime Toys • Nursery Gear

Just minutes away from • 495 (20 minutes) • Worcester (20 minutes) • Southern NH (30 minutes)

Also, just around the corner, come visit CUTIQUES, for home decor and furniture 12 Manning Ave, Downtown Leominster • 978-534-6604

everythingcutie.com Johnny Appleseed Plaza, 1021 Central St., Leominster • 978-534-6604 Mon-Sat 9-7pm, Thurs 9-8pm, Sundays 10-6pm BAYSTATEPARENT 5

our special guest Caden Mehlhouse Age: 2 Webster

22

Captured by Steven King

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too early to learn how to safeguard your children around water.

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2013

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A BIG CHANGE

One family gets an extreme home makeover thanks to the Wareham community.

LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ROLL

A family shares their tips for a weekend getaway to New Hampshire.

3

very special people 26 THE CHANGING FACES OF AUTISM:

WELCOME GUESTBOOK JUNKDRAWERS OH, THE PLACES YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL GO FINALLY FOREVER: Every Child Deserves A Family

Medical Shifts Affect Familiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Struggles

32 Family Receives Own Extreme Home Makeover 34 FINALLY FOREVER: Every Child Deserves A Family 36 MY BROTHER HAS AUTISM

35 JULYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CHILD 35 CIRCLE OF FRIENDS 42 LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ROLL: New Hampshire, From The Magnificent To The Magical

46 DIRTY LAUNDRY Massachusettsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996

something special 22 PREGNANT AT FORTY ONE

24 HELP SAFEGUARD YOUR CHILD AROUND WATER: Start Swim Lessons With Your Baby Now 38 BOSTON CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MUSEUM: The Power of Play Comes A Long Way

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the of the home

in every issue 7 8 10 11 34

BABY SWIM LESSONS

advertising directories 47 PARTY PLANNER 48 bspADvantage 50 ADVERTISING INDEX

sneak peek AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER

BACK TO SCHOOL ARTS & EXTRACURRICULARS AND GRANDPARENTING PEDIATRIC HEALTH AND THE POWER OF PLAY voted

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Welcome My 6-year-old son Derek came home from school just before the end of the school year and asked to visit the ELC classroom in his school. I wasn’t sure what the ELC classroom was, but I guessed it was a classroom for kids with special needs.

I took a moment and told him that the ELC classroom for kids who needed extra help and that he was doing a great job in school and didn’t need to go to the classroom.

He immediately started to cry. “But I want to go with my friends to the ELC classroom,” he said through tears.

And there it was. All my hopes that my children would accept other children for who they are and not judge them made me so happy, but like many parenting moments, however, I had mixed emotions. My heart broke for Derek because he didn’t understand that he couldn’t be

a part of that classroom.

Derek is growing up in a world where students with special needs are more involved in the day-to-day classroom setting–thank goodness. When I was an elementary school student, the only student who had special needs in my classroom was a child who was deaf. I was fascinated by the aide in the classroom and how the student learned through sign language. All other students with special needs were segregated into separate classrooms if they needed extra help. There used to be a stigma attached to these students, and I can’t help but think they felt like outcasts.

Thanks to inclusion, my children are growing up in a world where their friends may be in a wheelchair, have autism or a myriad of special needs that they don’t see as different. It makes me so proud to know that my children don’t see a child with special needs as different, but as a friend.

This month we are focusing on special needs in the issue, and Natalie Breen, a freelance writer from Medford, shares her story of growing up with her brother, Pat, who has autism. She says it was hard at times, but asserts she wouldn’t change anything about how she or her brother was raised.

Walter Bird Jr. shares a story about the Mehlhouse family, of Webster, which has with two children with special needs. The parents have learned so much going through the process of getting the right diagnoses and finding the right care for their children. One of the most important lessons they learned is how to be an advocate for their child when

discovering their children had special needs.

The community of Wareham and local organizations also came together to renovate a house in town to make it handicap accessible for a grandmother who cares for her grandson with special needs. Julia Quinn-Szcesuil shares how the hard work almost doubled the size of the house while the family was whisked away to the Cape during the construction. It is truly amazing what a group can do when they commit to helping others.

With the summer upon us, Tracey Prohaska Carroll focuses on summer swimming safety and how to safeguard your child around water. Starting swim class early can help babies and children get comfortable in the water, making a day at the beach or swimming at the pool fun and not worrisome.

Tracey also writes a column about planning a family getaway to New Hampshire, which brings together majestic and magical places to visit.

Whether you spend your summer days away on day trips or vacationing a week at a time, take a moment to read Dirty Laundry Columnist Kerri Louise’s hilarious rendition of her trek to the beach with her family.

We’ve all been there when it’s less than a relaxing day getting everything together and not having a moment to relax even after you get to the beach, but at least the kids get to have fun!

Enjoy the summer!

Jennifer Lucarelli, editor

MEET THE COVER MODEL

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families

baystateparent publisher KIRK DAVIS interim associate publisher KATHY REAL 508-868-9293 sales@baystateparent.com

creative director PAULA MONETTE ETHIER 508-749-3166 x 351 baystateparent@holdenlandmark.com

editor JENNIFER LUCARELLI 508-749-3166 x 251 editor@baystateparent.com

graphic designer STEPHANIE MALLARD 508-749-3166 x 351 srenaud@holdenlandmark.com

senior account executive EMILY LAVOIE • 774-364-4178 emily@baystateparent.com account executive NELLIE LIMA • 774-364-5073 nellie@baystateparent.com account executive SHELLEY CAVOLI • 508-641-5702 shelley@baystateparent.com account executive AMY LeBLANC • 978-660-3227 amy@baystateparent.com

contributing writers WALTER BIRD JR. NATALIE BREEN SAKI IWAMOTO KERRI LOUISE TRACEY PROHASKA CARROLL JULIA QUINN-SZCESUIL

copy editor BRYAN ETHIER photographers STEVEN KING presidents KIRK and LAURIE DAVIS

Caden Mehlhouse AGE 2, WEBSTER

Answered shared by his mom, Brandy Mehlhouse

What does Caden love about summer?

The Beach. Caden loves the beach and playing in the sand with his cars. He asks everyday “We go beach?” He also loves boats and playing in his sandbox and his playground at home.

What is advice you would give others parents who have a child with autism?

Be patient and try not to get overwhelmed. Through knowledge and support, you can get through anything. Seek support from your

family, friends and your local Autism Resource Center. Remember, most importantly, you are your child’s greatest advocate. Celebrate your child’s accomplishments no matter how big or small.

Tell us some of the victories and milestones that your family has celebrated. Caden saying, “I Love You” for the first time. Caden has learned, more recently, language skills to express some of his basic needs and wants, some through sign language and gestures. This is absolute progress!

Caden also recently started ABA therapy, working one-on-one with a therapist, up to 25 hours a week and is on a waiting list to receive occupational

baystateparent steven king

Tell us some of Caden’s favorite things.

Playing with cars (especially his race cars), playing with balls, playing catch, playing Legos and his two blankets that he calls each his “MUM.”

therapy and speech services through early Intervention.

Nathan, Caden’s 6-year-old brother with Asperger’s, has made such improvements with the support and services in place in school and at home since his diagnosis. We were able to get Nathan extended school year which is an important victory and a necessary placement to minimize regression over summer break.

101 Water Street, Worcester, MA 01604

508-749-3166

www.baystateparent.com campguide.baystateparent.com placed

I LINUVWGENERAL EXCELLENCE in advertising and design

New England Newspaper and Press Association

voted

H VW %PARENTING PUBLICATION

in North America

Local Media Association

baystateparent Inc. is published monthly with a main office at 101 Water Street, Worcester, MA 01604 508-749-3166 Fax 508-749-3165 It is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts. www.baystateparent.com • info@baystateparent.com

continued on page 8 BAYSTATEPARENT 7

GUESTBOOK We asked our Facebook fans facebook.com/baystateparent) (facebook.com/baystateparent how they help their kids stay enriched in the summer. Here are some tips they shared:

of school - and summer reading.

I believe they need to keep their minds working, but feel a break is needed too. I hire a tutor as I am not smarter than my soon to be 5th & 7th graders.

-Julie Grady-Pulnik, Clinton

We have workbooks. If it becomes an issue then it'll be do the work or we won't do the fun stuff like go to the lake, movies, bowling, etc.

-Kelly McCall Creeron, Charlton

Blackstone valley movie theater offers a free movie on Wednesday mornings when your child does a book report, so that's some of what we're doing this summer.

-Karen O’Connor, Leicester

Workbooks and heavy reading...... nature walks, lots of exploring outdoors, zoos and such....... I'm starting to encourage my 1st grader to write her own stories......so far she's written 2, one is titled, "Tuna for Mom." lol -Ronesia Sturkie, Fitchburg We get math packs sent home from the school that are required to be completed for the first week

COVER MODEL contined from page 7

My kids are choosing scout badges they want to complete over the summer. I am incorporating those into some themed days where they do a bunch of hands on activities (and a few math/puzzle/ reading ones mixed in). My almost 4th grader loves workbooks, but my almost 1st grader won't be as excited unless it is very hands on (keeping score at the bowling alley,

measuring wood to build a bird house or using a calculator at the grocery store to add up items as we go). To keep up their writing skills, we write letters or postcards to friends and family. Reading at bedtime and trips to the library seem to keep them interested in reading. Cooking/baking is also a great way to practice math/ measuring/fractions and it can be geared different ages. I bought my oldest some recipe cards so she can send recipes to her friends as postcards.

-Kristin Guenther Graffeo, Millbury My 2nd grader loves doing computer activities. Our school in Grafton provides us with tons of helpful fun sites--Just to name a few aplusmath.com, funbrain.com and his favorite Raz-Kids! Before he gets Ipod, pool, play times etc he has to do some kind of learning activity.

-Michelle Jones, Grafton Letters should be sent to editor@baystateparent.com and will be edited for clarity and length.

Please include your full name and town for publication.

8 JULY2013

Family membership to the EcoTarium: Tamara Walsh, of Ashburnham Family 4-pack to the EcoTarium: Barbara Andrews-Carlson, of Shrewsbury

This month, baystateparent is giving away Treetop Friends Bedding Set valued at $129.99.

Check back weekly for new contests and giveaways. To enter, go to baystateparent.com and click giveaways for more details.

For more information about coordinating giveaways, contact Editor Jennifer Lucarelli at editor@baystateparent.com or call 508-749-3166, ext. 251.

bsp’s HOW TO LIST TO ADVERTISE

Shane, their oldest brother, now 11, is fully accepting of his little brothers and often their greatest protector.

As a family, we celebrated Autism Awareness by participating in the 5k & Walk for Autism Resource Center of Central Massachusetts on April 28th, 2013. We created Team Mehlhouse and our friends and family came to support us in the walk. It was truly a beautiful day. We were just barely getting through the diagnosis of a second child when we signed up for the walk for the first time. I was reaching for anything and everything positive and was determined that I would embrace everything Autism.

Although everyday has its challenges, we are in a much better place. Our family is in much better spirits and we do feel we are a TEAM!

WINNERS:

in baystateparent, call Associate Publisher Kathy Real at 508-868-9293 or email her at sales@baystateparent.com.

TO SUBMIT CALENDAR EVENTS go to baystateparent.com/ calendar/submit.

All calendar events must be submitted by the 5th of the previous month to be considered for the print calendar.

WE’D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR IDEAS FOR A STORY. To suggest or submit a story for baystateparent, please call Editor Jennifer Lucarelli at 508-749-3166, ext. 251 or email her at editor@baystateparent.com.

baystateparent is proud to offer

COMPLIMENTARY ADVERTISEMENTS to recognized not-for-profit organizations to promote their missions and events.

Preference is given to 501(c)3 organizations and organizations that support causes that are near and dear to us like children’s health and well-being, nutrition, special needs and adoption.

For more information, download our complimentary advertisement form at baystateparent.com.

FOR HELP IN FINDING A SPEAKER AND/OR LOCATION for your next parenting-oriented event, please contact Stephen Warshaw at stephen@baystateparent.com.

“Adaptive Dance is an invitation to express oneself freely without criticism” —Adaptive Dance Parent

Developed in 2003 in collaboration with Children’s Hospital, Boston Ballet’s Adaptive Dance Program offers classes for children with Down Syndrome at Boston Ballet’s studios in Newton and Boston.

Classes for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders are also available at the Boston studio.

For more information visit www.bostonballet.org/community or email: eci@bostonballet.org Photo by Jennifer Roback

SM

DavisFarmland.com Children’s Discovery Farm

Relax & rediscover your family.

Pet & feed animals, splash, laugh & play.

WATER SPRAYGROUNDS NOW OPEN! (Adults must be accompanied by a child age 12 and under)

DavisMegaMaze.com An ALL-NEW Adventure in 2013…

NATIONAL TREASURE

Get Lost in the Adventure!

Opens in August – Great for all ages.

U-PiCk ApPleS & PuMpKiNs Opens in September Great for all ages. Call for details.

Halloween FUN for Everyone!

FRIGHT FREE FUN at Davis Farmland FRIGHT NIGHTS at Davis Mega Maze

Opens in Oct – Call for details QR Calendar of Events:

978-422-MOOO(6666) DavisFarmland.com

145 Redstone Hill Rd. Sterling MA 01564 ©2013 Davis Farmland & Davis Mega Maze

FREE! $3 Souvenir Cup of Animal Feed!

Not valid with other discounts or packages. Expires 7/31/13 BSP7

●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●

Designed to foster a love of dance and creative inspiration in children with special needs.

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JUNK DRAWERS A LITTLE LIT OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT

DECADENT DESSERTS

BABY SPINACH SALAD 2 lbs. baby spinach ½ cup dried cranberries 1/2 cup pecans 1 Tbs. butter 1 Tbs. sugar 3/4 tsp. salt 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce pinch cayenne pepper Maple balsamic vinaigrette Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Melt butter - then mix pecans, butter, sugar, salt, Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper together. Place on a sheet pan and bake for 5 to 8 minutes. Thoroughly wash spinach. Toss all ingredients together and serve immediately. Serves 4.

*Recipe courtesy of Wilson Farm of Lexington wilsonfarm.com.

CUSTOM CREATIONS MonogramWorks creates distinctive custom gifts for babies, brides, bar mitzvahs and every occasion in between. They embellish each of their products with a stylish contemporary monogram to create a gift that reflects your personal style.

Owner Ginny Orzell started the business about three years ago to provide an income while also allow ing her the flexibility she needed to raise her three sons. As a single mom, she started her business with her savings and a lot of prayers working while her boys slept. She says it has been an amazing journey to see her business and her boys flourish and hopes that anyone facing situations of adversity like hers will find the strength in her story to follow a less-traveled road.

Based in Wrentham, you can find their products at monogramworks.etsy. com and their new website monogramworks.com will launch in late July.

corporate gifts: everything is custom. Brownie pops and brownie cupcakes are also available. Shipping and delivery are available.

Melissa Roiter, mom of triplets, started the business more than seven years ago. Her brownies can now be found at local shops, farmers’ markets and should you desire, in your home! For more information, visit yummymummybrownies. com or their Facebook page at facebook.com/YummyMummyBrownies.

Q&A

Yummy Mummy Brownies is a local business that specializes in decadent, baked-to-order brownies and blondies. The treats, made with love and packaged with care, make delicious and easy gifts. They are also great to bring to a party or enjoy yourself! Varieties include salted caramel, peanut butter, Oreo, walnut, butterscotch walnut blondies and many more.

Gift boxes are beautifully wrapped and affordable! Platters, party favors and

Are fireworks legal in Massachusetts?

The use of fireworks except by licensed professionals is strictly prohibited in Massachusetts which has adopted the Model Fireworks Law promoted by the National Fire Protection Association. For more information on fireworks safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association’s website at nfpa.org.

State officials ask that residents of Massachusetts set a good example for your children and leave the fireworks to the professionals. Enjoy the many displays of fireworks supervised by local fire departments and conducted by licensed professionals. Children imitate what they see adults do and if you use fireworks, they won’t realize how dangerous they are. Not only do sparklers burn at 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, but they also encourage the use of matches and lighters by young children.

For a complete list of fireworks displays from around the state, visit baystateparent.com.

— State Fire Marshal Stephen D. Coan

ORGANIC AND ECO-FRIENDLY North Attleboro mom of two, Kimberly Cornwell is the founder and CEO of Celadon Road, a complete line of high quality organic and ecofriendly products that is sold exclusively through its team of dynamic independent consultants. The direct sales company is dedicated to promoting greener, healthier and more socially responsible living.

Celadon Road now has many consultants in 48 states and is growing rapidly. Celadon Road Consultants are given the unique opportunity to run their own business and create their own schedules, a perfect way for moms to make money. For more information about their products or to become a consultant, visit celadonroad.com.

Junkdrawers strives to highlight the products, people and places of Massachusetts. Have an idea? Email editor@baystateparent.com.

10 JULY2013

OH, THE

GO

Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!

- dr. seuss

photo courtesy of the mashpee wampanoag tribe

PLACES YOU’LL

GO READ: Don’t miss the CastleKids story hour at Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester on Wednesday, July 3.

GO SWING: Enjoy Circus Smirkus at Wachusett Mountain in Princeton starting on Saturday July 13. Tickets start at $18.

photo courtesy of davis farmland.

photo courtesy of the higgins

photo courtesy of the worcester jcc.

GO DANCE: Come to the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe’s 92nd Annual Pow Wow at the Barnstable County Fairgrounds in East Falmouth starting on Friday, July 5. Tickets start at $8.

GO SOAR: Don’t miss the Birds of Prey event at Davis Farmland in Sterling on Saturday July 13. Showtimes are 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

BAYSTATEPARENT 11

Monomoy Island, part of the National Wildlife Refuge off the coast of Chatham. North Monomoy is the site of herring and black-backed gull colonies, and a small common tern colony. Noon to 3 p.m.

A $40m/$50nm, C $30m/$35nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Adult Child Youth Member Non-Member Per Person

oh, the places you’ ll go

A C Y M NM PP

photo courtesy of the eric carle museum of picture book art

MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the mini-van, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to assure accuracy at press time, things can and do change…

12 JULY2013

Come to the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst for their Robert R. Zakanitch: A Garden of Ordinary Miracles, starting on Monday, July 1.

1 monday ONGOING Robert R. Zakanitch: A Garden of Ordinary Miracles. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst.

Award-winning artist Robert Zakanitch celebrates the beauty of all growing things in A Garden of Ordinary Miracles, an alphabetical ode to nature. The delights of nature’s everyday wonders come to life for both children and adults in detailed renderings of plants that we grow and nurture in our gardens. Each letter of the alphabet is paired with a large colorful painting of a plant whose name begins with the same letter, as well as whimsical illustrations of other flora and fauna that overrun the pages. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. carlemuseum.org.

Seashore Discovery. Felix Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. Meet amazing creatures of the sea! Take a short walk through the forest to a protected beach, where you will explore shallow waters with dip nets and use a large seine net to catch fish, crabs and other pond wildlife. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet and don’t forget your hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent. 10 to 11:30 a.m. A $6m/$9nm, C $6m/$9nm. Registration not required. massaudubon.org.

Tank Time. Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. It’s feeding time at Felix Neck! Learn about the resident turtles and salt water tank animals as you watch them eat their lunch.

Tank time happens Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Free with Sanctuary Admission. Registration not required. 1:30 to 2 p.m. A $4nm, C $3nm. massaudubon.org.

Family South Beach Adventure. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Walk along the shore of South Beach (from the Y buoy) in Chatham looking for seals, shorebirds, and sea ducks. On this trip you will also visit the mudflats on South Beach to search for horseshoe crabs and shellfish. This family nature walk begins with a 15-20 minute boat shuttle to South Beach, and involves moderate walking as we explore the beach and salt marsh. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. A $40m/$50nm, C $25m/$35nm. massaudubon.org.

Seashore Ramble. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Use dip nets and magnifiers to search for swimming, flying, and burrowing wildlife on the sanctuary’s beach at low tide. The walk to the beach will take you through five different Cape Cod habitats. You will see crabs, turtles, fish and much more! 9:30 a.m. to noon. A $8m/$10nm, C $8m/$10nm. massaudubon.org.

Story Hike. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Hike the trails from page to page as a story about wildlife unfolds to inspire both your imagination and inner naturalist!

Two different stories are offered each week. 1:30 to 3 p.m. A $6m/$8nm, C $6m/$8nm. Pre-registration is required. massaudubon.org.

2 tuesday North Monomoy Island Exploration. Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, Chatham. Explore the sandy beaches, salt marsh, and tidal flats on North

Creature Feature: Spider Crabs. Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. This program offers young naturalists a close-up look at native animals of Martha’s Vineyard. Programs combine a story, craft and a look at the “creature” of the day! 10 to 11 a.m. Adults free, C $6m/$9nm.

Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

ONGOING Cape Verdean Family Festival.

41 Bedford St., New Bedford. One of the largest parades in New Bedford, 7 divisions, marching bands, Veterans units and 50+ organizations from Southeastern Massachusetts. Ongoing through July 4. onsetcapeverdeanfestival.com.

Small Fries: Nature Adventures for Preschoolers. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Dip your preschooler’s toes into nature with an interactive story; an adventure to the shaded Silver Spring dock where we will dip net for fish, frogs, turtles, and water bugs; and a fun craft to take home. Each day of the week, the story and craft have a different theme. 10 to 11 a.m. A $5m/$7nm, C $5m/$7nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

3 wednesday MotherWoman Postpartum Support Group.

Midwifery Care of Holyoke, 230 Maple St., Holyoke. Join mothers for a free, safe, confidential drop-in support group for mothers of infants and babies up to one year old. Expectant mothers welcome. Runs year-round. 1 to 2:30 p.m. For more information, call 413-536-7385 or visit motherwoman.org.

FREE & ONGOING. 18th Annual Free Summer Concert Series. Plymouth Waterfront, Plymouth.

Featuring a blend of local, regional, national and international music. Add to that the bucolic setting of Pilgrim Memorial Park, these family friendly events are the best thing going. Wednesday evening concerts for 2013 are held on July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14, 21, & 28 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. projectarts.com.

Kayak Trip. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Explore the winding tidal rivers, quiet bays, and scenic marshes of Cape Cod with an experienced paddler.

Suitable for children 12 and older. A $40m/$45nm, C $40m/$45nm. 9 a.m. to noon. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Turtle Prowl. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Look for the signs of nesting or hatching diamondback terrapins. This is a great chance to spot this

Nauset Marsh Discovery Cruise. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Cruise through Nauset Marsh on a partially shaded pontoon boat and disembark on the exposed tidal flats to search, with nets and magnifiers, for crabs, sea stars, and other critters. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll pull up a crab trap and lobster pot and hope to see seals. 1 to 3 p.m. A $37m/$42nm, C $25m/$35nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Evening Canoe Trip â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Twilight. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Paddle on a chain of freshwater ponds in Wellfleet as the stars come out at twilight or the full moon shines brightly on the water. Suitable for children 12 and up.

5:30 to 8 p.m. A $32m/$37nm, C $32m/$37.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

CastleKids StoryHour. Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. From damsels in distress to mighty dragons, join us on the first Wednesday of every month as we share tales of adventure, from well-known fairy tales to modern picture books in the setting of our medieval Great Hall. Great for ages 3 to 5. $12 for adult w/ one child ($8m). Includes admission, program with craft related to the story, and a snack. higgins.org.

4 thursday

FREE 4 of July Fireworks: Boston/ Cambridge Esplanade. The Charles River Esplanade, Boston. This year maestro Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra th

for Bostonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 40th annual Fourth of July celebration, sponsored by Boston-based insurer Liberty Mutual Group and broadcast on CBS. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular will conclude on July 4 with a 21-minute pyrotechnic extravaganza from Rozzi Fireworks, of Loveland, Ohio. july4th.org.

ONGOING Concord Band Summer Concerts. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Road, Harvard. The Concord Band returns to its summer home on June 20, 2013 to start its 28th season of concerts at Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, Massachusetts. The concert series spans six Thursdays in June and July, with Music Director James Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dell and the Band presenting a new, lively musical program each week to delight audiences of all ages.

Ongoing through July 25. 7:15 to 8:30 p.m.

Admission is $15 per car/$10 for Fruitlands Museum members. concordband.org.

Nantucket 4th of July Fireworks.

Jetties Beach, Bathing Beach Road, Nantucket. Jetties beach is the best place in Nantucket to view fireworks and celebrate the Independence Day. Each year, families and friends set up on the beach at Jetties beach and marvel at the spectacular fireworks show, over the harbor. Events are ongoing throughout the day.

Fireworks start at 9 p.m. nantucketchamber.org.

Plymouthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fourth of July Festivities.

Cordage Park, Plymouth. Parade route begins at Cordage Park Marketplace on Court Street in North Plymouth and winds its way down Court Street through downtown Plymouth and Main Street, continuing onto Main St. Ext. to Water Street. Concert will feature Patriotic Favorites.

9:30 a.m. to 9:15 p.m. july4plymouth.com.

Salem Celebrates the Fourth. Derby Wharf at Salem Maritime National Historic Site, Salem. Join the City of Salem for its 13th Annual Celebration of Independence Day. The Hillyer Festival Orchestra will play a Pops! Concert, with opening acts, kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; events, and a fantastic fireworks show over Derby Wharf, Salem Harbor and the tall ship Friendship. 4 p.m. for kids activities, 7 p.m.

Popâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Concert, 9:15 fireworks. salem.com.

10AM Free Arts/Snacks 11AM Free Stage Show 12PM Free Trolley Rides &XULRXV &UHDWXUHV %HQ 5XGQLFN )ULHQGV 0DULDQD ,UDQ]L %RQDSDUWH %RVWRQ¡V +RWWHVW 0DJLFLDQ 5ROOLH 3ROOLH *XDFDPROH )XQLNL -DP <R <R 3HRSOH 0DUFXV *DOH 3HWHU 3DQLF -XJJOHU 7KH $LUERUQH &RPHGLDQV

www.lowellsummermusic.org

photo courtesy of old sturbridge village

threatened salt marsh turtle, and learn about ways to protect it. 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. A $6m/$8nm, C $6m/$8nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Celebrate Independence Day at Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge on Thursday, July 4. Fireworks are planned at dusk.

Independence Day. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. Old Sturbridge Village celebrates Independence Day each year, with a spectacular fireworks display over the Village Countryside in addition to OSVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regular daytime activities. Visitors can sign a giant Declaration of Independence and play 1830s-style â&#x20AC;&#x153;Base-ball.â&#x20AC;? The evening celebration includes music, magic, family games and activities followed by a 30-minute fireworks display at dusk. Beer, wine, soft drinks, sandwiches and snacks, are offered for sale, or visitors can bring their own picnic food. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fireworks at dusk. osv.org.

Budding Scientists: By the Sea Shore.

EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester.

Meet live tide pool animals that you might find on the Massachusetts seashore. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll examine sand and other items found on the beach and

figure out what came from living things and what did not. 10:15 to 10:45 a.m. or 11 to 11:30 a.m. free with museum admission. ecotarium.org.

5 friday FREE & ONGOING Friday Night Fun! The Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton. Join us for Free Friday Night Fun all summer! From June 21 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; August 30, both museums will be open beginning at 4:30 p.m. with free admission.

Bring a picnic dinner to picnic under the stars and explore the museums at night. Donations for the Acton Food Pantry will be gratefully accepted. discoverymuseums.org.

ONGOING Mashpee Wampanoag Tribeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 92nd Annual Pow Wow. Barnstable County Fairgrounds, 1220 Nathan Ellis Highway,

FREE! 3 $ $

Souvenir Cup of Animal Feed.

Expires 7/31/13.

Not Valid with offer Discounts or Packages. BSP7

Š2013 Davis Farmland

BAYSTATEPARENT 13

oh, the places you’ ll go East Falmouth. The annual event features a traditional dance contest, traditional drumming contest, fire ball, clam bake, New England Birds of Prey and Wampanoag singers. Adults and children over 12 $13, seniors and children $8. mashpeewampanoagtribe.com/powwow/ Circle of Moms: We Are All In This Together. Community Action Center, 90 Federal St., Greenfield. Join mothers for a free, safe, confidential drop-in group for mothers of infants and babies who are experiencing a challenging postpartum time. Expectant mothers welcome.

Feel heard, valued, understood, nurtured and energized. Free childcare up to four years old.

Runs year-round except during December, February, and April school vacation weeks. 10 a.m. to noon. motherwoman.org.

Twilight World of Bats. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Lenox. Bats are the only flying mammals and among the most misunderstood animals. Join Rene Laubach to learn about bats found in our area. The program will begin indoors for an overview of the ecology and diversity of bats, and will conclude outdoors with a search for bats. A bat detector will be used to eavesdrop on the bats as they hunt for food.

7:30 to 9 p.m. A $5m/$7nm, C $3m/$4nm.

Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

FREE Fun Friday at the Boston Nature Center. Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. Boston Nature Center is participating in the 5th annual Free Fun Fridays program sponsored by the Highland Street Foundation. Stop by for nature activities and trail hikes. You can also play in the Nature Nook and explore the sanctuary. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Registration is not required. highlandstreet.org.

Fish Printing. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet.

Paint a fish with a beautiful array of colors, then create a print on Japanese rice paper or a t-shirt to take home. It’s the perfect keepsake of your time on Cape Cod, and a great way to learn the ancient Japanese art of gyotaku! Noon to 1 p.m.

A $7m/$7nm, C $7m/$7nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Family South Beach Adventure. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Walk along the shore of South Beach (from the Y buoy) in Chatham looking for seals, shorebirds, and sea ducks. You’ll also visit the ocean side to search for seals frolicking in the surf, watch shorebirds feeding, and beachcomb for seashells and other treasures from the tide.

A $40m/$50nm, C $25m/$35nm. 2 to 4 p.m.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

6 saturday Family Movie Night - Babe: Pig in the City. The Silverbrook Farm, 934 Main St., Acushnet. Come see a great farm family movie outside under the stars of Silverbrook Farm with our Summer Movie Series. This year our line-up includes: Aug. 3 – Charlotte’s Web, Sept.

7 – Home on the Range. Grab a blanket and the family and come see a show. For showtimes, visit silverbrookfarm.com.

FREE Saturdays at Sengekontacket.

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. This one-hour program at State Beach, run by a Felix Neck naturalist, explores a different aspect of Sengekontacket Pond each week. From the birds above, to the creatures below the water’s surface, this program includes hands-on activities and engages all ages.

9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Registration not required. massaudubon.org.

Family Nautical Nights. Battleship Cove, 5 Water St., Fall River. Spend the night on a WWII battleship! Sleep in restored Navy bunks, eat meals “chow-line style” in the Officer’s Wardroom, and rise and shine to the sound of reveille. Guests will enjoy all-day admission, two delicious meals, and will have the opportunity to participate in shipboard activities. battleshipcove.org.

Turtle Trekkers. Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, Norfolk. Start your morning off right with a fun and knowledgeable Stony Brook teacher on the trails learning about nature. Each day will have a special topic created to excite your child about the natural world. There will be crafts, activities and lots of laughter. So come and join the fun. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Adults free, C $10m/$12nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Sanctuary Walk. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester.

Join a naturalist for a moderately paced hike through Broad Meadow Brook. You will see what is happening on the sanctuary and stop to enjoy any interesting and unusual sights. 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free to members. A $5nm, C $3nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

7 sunday Take a Walk on the Wild Side: Family Whale Watch. Joppa Flats Education Center, Newburyport. Adults and children can spend quality family time in the great outdoors finding, observing, and admiring local wildlife. Excursions include a group game to burn off some steam, an on-the-water scavenger hunt, or a guided tour. You’ll observe, investigate, and compare coastal environments and their inhabitants, both on- and offshore. Participants play out the roles of

There’s Nothing Like ClayTime!!

Visit claytimestudio.com and check out our summer programs.

Join us for our week-long themed summer programs ages 8 & up 4-7 year olds Tuesday Mornings 10:30-12

paint your own pottery & bead studio

Route 9, Shrewsbury (Next to White City East) • (508)798-9950

Visit WWW.CLAYTIMESTUDIO.COM for more information about us!

14 JULY2013

biologists, whale researchers, birders, and botanists in all venues. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. A $50m/$55nm, C $35m/$40nm. massaudubon.org.

8 monday Seashore Discovery. Felix Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. Meet amazing creatures of the sea! Take a short walk through the forest to a protected beach, where you will explore shallow waters with dip nets and use a large seine net to catch fish, crabs and other pond wildlife. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget your hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent. 10 to 11:30 a.m. A $6m/$9nm, C $6m/$9nm. Registration not required. massaudubon.org.

the trails from page to page as a story about wildlife unfolds to inspire both your imagination and inner naturalist! Two different stories are offered each week. 1:30 to 3 p.m. A $6m/$8nm, C $6m/$8nm. Pre-registration is required. massaudubon.org.

9 tuesday Ice Cream and...Frogs. Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St., Natick. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better than ice cream on a summer night? Join the adventure looking for flashing fireflies, listening for the songs of frogs and katydids and using a â&#x20AC;&#x153;bat detectorâ&#x20AC;? to find our local bats. 7:30 to 9 p.m. A $12m/$14nm, C $7m/$9nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

ONGOING Knee-high Naturalists. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Lenox. Join your preschooler exploring the outdoors during summer. This summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program features inventive fun with nature activities and crafts.

Parents are welcome to leave their children for the program or stay. Children should be between 3 and 5 years old. A snack is provided. 10 a.m. to noon. Ongoing through Thursday, July 11.

C $85m/$105nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Nauset Marsh Discovery Cruise. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Cruise through Nauset Marsh on a partially shaded pontoon boat and disembark on the exposed tidal flats to search, with nets and magnifiers, for crabs, sea stars, and other critters. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll pull up a crab trap and lobster pot and hope to see seals. Suitable for preschoolers, as well as older children. 3 to 5 p.m. A $37m/$42nm, C $25m/$35nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Story Hike. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Hike

Nature Adventures with Picture Books: Who Comes From an Egg? Ispwich River

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Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield. Bring your young naturalist to the sanctuary this summer and experience the joy of books and the wonders of nature. Participate in hands-on nature-related activities inspired by the stories. Sign up for one or more of these adventurous programs.

9:30 to 11 a.m. A $7m/$9nm, C $6m/$7nm.

Registration is required.

ONGOING Newton Square Summer Concert Series. Newton Square Park, Highland St. and Pleasant St., Worcester. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Free.newtonhill@charter.net or 508-791-3146.

10 wednesday Super Science Wednesdays: Watershed Science. Oak Knoll Sanctuary, Attleboro. What are watersheds and how do they work? Learn all about the local watershed, the Ten Mile River.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll learn about the water cycle, define what a watershed is and learn how it works. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll discover where drinking water comes from (hint: not just out of the faucet!) and how important our water supply is to your survival. Games, hands-on experiments and lots of fun. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. C $20m/$25nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Frogs & Fireflies. Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park Street, Attleboro. Join in on a night adventure as we look for fireflies and frogs.

oh, the places youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ll go Bioluminescence is a chemical reaction which produces the light we see when a firefly shines at night. Learn why fireflies shine their lights and what the patterns may mean. Get ready for an amphibian adventure as we try to distinguish the calls of the gray tree frog and green frog at night. Meets even in the rain. 6:30 to 8 p.m.

A $6m/$8nm, C $4m/$6nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

In Search Of Diamondback Terrapins On Sandy Neck. Sandy Neck Beach, East Sandwich. In summer, rare Diamondback Terrapins emerge from the Great Marsh to lay their eggs in the dunes of Sandy Neck. Join Manager Nina Coleman and Sanctuary Director Ian Ives, as they search for signs of nests and tracks of these amazing and mysterious turtles.

10 a.m. to noon. A $6m/$8nm, C $4m/$6nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Everythingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s More Fun with Jell-O. Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, Norfolk. Join in for some experiments and crafts all using gelatin! Learn how science helps to use gelatin to make stickers, suncatchers and soap (yes, really... soap). Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jiggly, wiggly and you can do so much more with it than just eat it. 2 to 4 p.m. C $10m/$13nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

SUMMER AT THE JCC! Month 325 3FAMILY

$

3 Month 270 IINDIVIDUAL N

$

Includes indoor/outdoor pools, ďŹ tness center, complimentary ďŹ tness orientation, daily group exercise classes and more!

OPEN TO ALL

Worcester JCC 633 Salisbury Street, Worcester worcesterjcc.org â&#x20AC;˘ 508.756.7109

For more information: Kelly Whalen x 236 or kwhalen@worcesterjcc.org

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BAYSTATEPARENT 15

photo courtesy of debbie smith

Enjoy a neighborhood nature walk at Elm Park in Worcester on Wednesday, July 10. Drop in anytime between 1 and 4 p.m. for hands-on projects and games.

MOMS Club of Dudley & Webster. 303 Treasure Island Rd., Webster. They are a great organization dedicated to providing support for stay-at-home and work-at-home moms as well as moms who are employed outside of the home part time. There are monthly meetings, play dates, field trips, jam sessions, and more.

They also provide support for our moms during times of crisis. Come join in and make some new friends. momsclubofwebsterdudleyma.com.

FREE Junior Bird Club. Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, Westport. Junior Bird Club is a free program group, open to children and adults of all ages. The Club meets each month and focuses on a variety of local species with loads of handon field study and guided birding walks on our Sanctuary properties. 6 to 8 p.m. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

FREE Neighborhood Nature at Elm Park.

Elm Park, Worcester. Drop in anytime for activities, crafts, stories, and nature walks. Take a break from the playground to learn about the plants and animals that can be found in Worcester through hands-on projects and games. 1 to 4 p.m.

Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

11 thursday Gooey, Gloppy, Messy Science at Oak Knoll. Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park Street, Attleboro. Children will participate in interactive science experiments with gooey, gloppy ingredients which they’ll love! There is sure to be lots of giggles and squeals as they 16 JULY2013

make slimy, squishy creations. You’ll discuss the gooey, gloppy mess makers in the natural world on our trail exploration. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Suitable for children 4 to 7 years. Adults free. C $10m/$12nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Winged Wonders - Dragonflies and Damselflies. Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. Visit one or more of the Felix Neck ponds and discover these amazing insects not only above the water’s surface, but also about their secret lives at the bottom of the pond. 11 a.m. to noon. Registration is not required. A $6m/$9nm, C $6m/$9nm. massaudubon.org.

Tie Dye Drop-in Day. Children’s Museum in Easton, 9 Sullivan Ave., North Easton. Start your summer off with a kaleidoscope of color that’s wearable. Visit the Children’s Museum in Easton on Thursday July 11 for some summer tie dye fun from 10am to 3pm. You can tie dye a t-shirt or other clothing that you think needs a splash of color. Feel free to bring your own white t-shirt or you can purchase one from the museum for $5. For those who want to enjoy a sweet treat while tie dying visit the museum between 12pm to 2pm while the Mix 104.1 crew will be here handing out free ice cream! 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. childrensmuseumineaston.org.

12 friday

ONGOING Drop in Days. Children’s Museum in Easton, 9 Sullivan Ave., North Easton. Dropin Days explore a variety of different fun and educational themes. Each day has its own theme featuring a combination of expert presenters with hands-on arts and crafts and science activities designed for both fun and learning. Summer Drop-in Days take place in the Museum’s outdoor facility The Wild Place, where kids can play, learn about nature, explore the many gardens, or just sit and relax under a shady tree on a hot day.

Free with admission and any age can participate.

No registration is required. Ongoing through Aug. 30. childrensmuseumineaston.org.

Friday Evening Hayride and Campfire.

Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. Join in as spring moves into summer, as the days lengthen and then start to get shorter. Watch for birds flying at dusk and evening fireflies as you ride our hay wagon through the meadows. Stop at the campfire for stories, s’mores, and a special night-time visitor.

Watch for the glorious colors of the sky as the sun begins to set. 4:30 to 6 p.m. A $15m/$19nm, C $15m/$19nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

North Monomoy Island Exploration.

Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Explore the sandy beaches, salt marsh and tidal flats on North Monomoy Island, part of the National Wildlife Refuge off the coast of Chatham. North Monomoy is the site of herring and black-backed gull colonies, and a small common tern colony. This exploration tour offers the best opportunity to find the largest variety of animals, from shorebirds and wading birds (egrets and herons) to shellfish and juvenile horseshoe crabs. 9 a.m. to noon. A $40m/$50nm, C $30m/$35nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Canoeing at Burncoat Pond. Burncoat Park, Leicester. Burncoat Pond Wildlife Sanctuary is a delightful destination for canoeing and walking. Resident herons, beavers and otters sometimes surprise you with a visit. You’ll go out on the water, then stretch your legs on land while enjoying a break and tuning in to the beauty surrounding you. 1 to 3:30 p.m. A $20m/$25nm, C $8. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Eco-Art: Busy Beaver Builders. Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield. Experience what life is like as the largest rodent in North America.

You will examine a beaver mount up close, and then take a walk to see a beaver lodge, dam and scent mounds. Discover how beavers continue to change the habitats in which they live and how other species of plants and animals benefit.

9 to 11 a.m. A $8m/$10nm, C $7m/$8nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

FREE Children’s Farm Tours: Wilson Farm.

10 Pleasant St., Lexington. Led by Lynne Wilson or Heather Aveson, the children’s farm tours are great fun for the whole family. You’ll see what’s growing in the fields, learn how they grow their fabulous fruits and veggies, check out a tractor or two and meet their furry & feathery friends in the barn. And, there’ll be fun stuff to take home.

10 to 11 a.m. and 3 to 4 p.m. wilsonfarm.com.

ONGOING Ponding in Canoes and Paddleboats. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Get a whole new outdoor perspective by venturing out onto the EcoTarium’s Lower Pond in a canoe or paddle boat. Paddle boats and canoes seat up to four people, depending on the size of the children. Each session on the water lasts 20 minutes. $5 per boat (plus EcoTarium admission), free for members. ecotarium.org.

Daughtry and Three Doors Down. Bank of America Pavilion, 290 Northern Ave., Boston. It makes perfect sense that an anonymous online music fan has best described what rocker Chris Daughtry’s Phoenix-like ascension means to the ever-evolving rock n’ roll canon. It’s his intensity notes the insightful blogger - a balm for an ailing industry, writing that Daughtry in a recording studio is akin “to putting a beat-up violin in the hands of a master.” Tickets start at $39.50. ticketmaster.com.

Parent/Child Walkabout: Backyard Bug Search. Joppa Flats Education Center, Newburyport. In every kind of weather, one favorite thing is to head outdoors to our spectacular local habitats! Each nature exploration will focus on the importance of a sense of place as you explore the ecology, sights, and sounds of the natural landscape. Wildlife, local and migrating birds, collecting techniques, and environmental awareness will be presented in a fun, energetic format that adults and children alike will enjoy.

10 to 11:30 a.m. A $6m/$7nm, C $5m/$7nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Kayak Trip. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet.

Explore the winding tidal rivers, quiet bays, and scenic marshes of Cape Cod with an experienced paddler. 9 a.m. to noon. A $40m/$45nm, C $40m/$45nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

13 saturday Wildlife Detectives. Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. Have you ever turned over a log to discover what was underneath?

Listened for a Baltimore oriole? Searched for praying mantises in a meadow? Join in for a hike through this urban oasis as you investigate forests, wetlands, and meadows that are jampacked with wildlife. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Adults free, C$5m/$7nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Salamander Science. Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton. Salamanders play a significant

ONGOING Circus Smirkus. Wachusett Mountain, 499 Mountain Road, Princeton. Stars ages 11 to 18 are featured in this year’s show: ‘Oz Incorporated.’ Grab your Ruby Slippers and click your heels together, as Circus Smirkus goes somewhere over the Rainbow with a new spin on the Wizard of Oz. It will take Acrobatic thinking, Highwire Hearts, and Courageous Clowns to embark on this Emerald City Adventure! This time it’s all flying monkey business as we cartwheel down the yellow brick road to a new twist in the tale. Ongoing through July 14. A $22, C $18, children under 2 free. 508-756-7109.

invited to frolic in the whimsical and historic topiary garden overlooking Narragansett Bay in Portsmouth, Rhode Island with music, rides, food and fun. Festivities include pony rides, bounce houses, crafts and games, clowns, a musician and circus acts. Fun for the whole family. 4 to 8 p.m. newportmansions.org. Admission is A $15m/$20nm, Free for member children, C $5nm. All children under 5 are free. newportmansions.org.

Davis Farmland - Breakfast with Moo Moo. Davis Farmland, 145 Redstone Hill Road, Sterling. Join in for an extra special breakfast buffet, hosted by Moo Moo. Don’t miss out! Reserve today, space is limited. davisfarmland.com.

15 monday

FREE & ONGOING Sandwich Summer Arts and Craft Festival. Henry T Wing School, Route 130, Sandwich. Over 75 Juried Craftsmen and women from all over New England will display and sell their American made works. Come and sample gourmet specialty foods including herbal dips, salsa, baked goods, homemade fudge, candies and more. Free admission and free parking. This Event is held rain or shine. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Sunday July 14. castleberryfairs.com.

Marblehead Meanderings: TidePooling Trek. Chandler Hovey Park, Marblehead. Life on the rocky shore presents unique challenges and opportunities for marine species. Explore the rocks and tide pools of Chandler Hovey Park and take a closer look at crabs, sea stars, and other seashore creatures that have adapted to survive their continually changing environment. 9:30 to 11 a.m. A $7m/$9nm, C $6m/$7nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

ONGOING Birds of Prey. Davis Farmland, 145 Redstone Hill Road, Sterling. Have you ever wanted to see a bald eagle up close? Meet eagles, hawks, owls, and more. You can’t miss this unbelievable chance. This is one show you will never forget! Show times are at 11 and 2 Saturday and Sunday. davisfarmland.com.

Salt Marsh Discovery Walk. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, South Wellfleet. Find the hidden creatures of the salt marsh - including fiddler crabs, shrimp, and snails - as you explore with nets and buckets. You may get wet and muddy. 2 to 4 p.m. Suitable for children 4 and up. A $8m/$10nm, $8m/$10nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

A Mad Hatter Party. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Join in for some fun in Wonderland! Wear your best Mad Hatter hat, take your photograph with Alice and the Mad Hatter, meet a live hedgehog and turtle, and explore the EcoTarium’s “Alice’s Wonderland” exhibit. “Queen of Hearts” cookies and lemonade served. 2 to 3 p.m. Free with museum admission.

Museum admission: A $14, C $8, Seniors $10, children under 2 free. ecotarium.org.

14 sunday Highfield Family Scavenger Hunt. Highfield Hall, 56 Highfield Drive, Falmouth. Enjoy a day out with the family at Highfield Hall. Explore the museum and the gardens and have fun taking the Family Scavenger Hunt! 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. $5 per family. highfieldhall.org.

Green Animals Children’s Party. Green Animals Topiary Garden, 380 Cory’s Lane, Portsmouth. Children and adults alike are

photo courtesy of the children’s museum in easton

role in a variety of habitats, and trends in salamander populations can be an indication of how well those ecosystems are functioning. Join in the field to help with one of the salamander monitoring projects and a hands-on chance to learn about some of our local species. 1 to 3 p.m.

A $6m/$8nm, C $3m/$4nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

16 tuesday FREE Next Generation Children’s Centers Open House. All Locations: Andover, Beverly, Franklin, Hopkinton, Marlborough, Natick, Sudbury, Walpole, Westborough, Westford. Center for Infant, Toddlers, Preschool, PreK and Kindergarten. 4 to 7 p.m. 866-711-6422. NGCCenters.com.

Barenaked Ladies and Ben Folds Five. Bank of America Pavilion, 290 Northern Ave., Boston.

Tickets start at $40. ticketmaster.com.

Jazzy Jewelry, Pretty Purses, and More.

Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 108 North St., Norfolk. Art, Nature, and Shiny Things!

What could be better? Join in to make some nature-themed accessories, and as we conduct some seriously-scented experiments. 2 to 4 p.m. C $10m/$12nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Stop by the Children’s Museum in Easton on Thursday, July 11 for their Tie Dye Drop-in Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Nature Adventures with Picture Books: Frogs and Toads. Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield. Bring your young naturalist to the sanctuary this summer and experience the joy of books and the wonders of nature. Participate in hands-on nature-related activities inspired by the stories. Sign up for one or more of these adventurous programs.

9:30 to 11 a.m. A $7m/$9nm, C $6m/$7nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Wellfleet. Hike the trails from page to page as a story about wildlife unfolds to inspire both your imagination and inner naturalist! Two different stories are offered each week. 2 to 3:30 p.m. A $6m/$8nm, C $6m/$8nm. Pre-registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Evening Canoe Trip – Twilight. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. See July 3 listing for details.

17 wednesday 18 thursday Local Roots Food Fair. The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire, 6 Washington St., Dover.

This indoor event is included with paid admission.

Visitors can enjoy free food samples featured in Hannaford’s “Close To Home” program, including fresh fruits and veggies, and receive recipes and coupons to take home. Representatives from other local organizations will be on hand with activities for children and information on local sources for delicious and nutritious farm foods.

11 am to 2 pm. childrens-museum.org.

Sunset Paddle. Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, Easthampton. Enjoy a quiet sunset paddle while watching for wildlife down the Mill River.

You’ll keep an eye and ear out for evening birds, insect sounds, and riverine mammals such as beaver and otter. 6 to 8 p.m. A $12m/$15nm, C $12m/$15nm. Previous canoe experience required. Registration is required.

Story Hike. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South

Kayak Trip. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet.

Explore the winding tidal rivers, quiet bays, and scenic marshes of Cape Cod with an experienced paddler. 9 a.m. to noon. A $40m/$45nm, C $40m/$45nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Eco-Art: A Wealth of Wildflowers. Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield. Join in for one or more of these eco-art programs this summer! Each class includes a walk on the sanctuary and a craft activity. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

A $8m/$10nm, C $7m/$8nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

19 friday Cape Ann Capers: Beachcombers. Easter Point Wildlife Sanctuary, Gloucester. Join in for one or more of these seaside explorations on Cape Ann. Be sure to wear old sneakers or water BAYSTATEPARENT 17

oh, the places youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ll go shoes and clothes that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind getting a bit dirty and wet. 1 to 3 p.m. Registration is required. A $8m/$10nm, C $7m/$8nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

FREE Neighborhood Nature on the Water at Green Hill Park. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Road, Worcester. Join the fun in our canoes and learn about the wildlife that depends upon this park.

We provide canoes, paddles, personal flotation vests, and basic canoeing instruction. You provide the enthusiasm and interest. Swimming skills required. 2 to 5 p.m. Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

Twilight Stroll on the Sanctuary. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Road, Worcester. July 19 is nearly a super full moon - perfect for a twilight or early nighttime walk. Experience the sanctuary as the sun settles gently among the hills. Walk along the brook as the beavers become active, and venture into the woods to be surrounded with nightnoise of crickets and katydids warming up for their nightly chorus. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always wanted to explore the sanctuary at dusk, this is the program for you. 7 to 9 p.m. A $6m/$8nm, C $4m/$5nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

20 saturday Mural Madness. Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology, Harvard University, 11 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge. Add authentic designs to our floor and wall murals. Handle artifacts like those in the ancient images and guess which minerals create those brilliant colors.

Stay five minutes or all afternoon! Free with Peabody Museum admission, no reservations required. Recommended for ages 7 and up accompanied by an adult. Noon to 4 p.m. peabody.harvard.edu/family.

FREE Saturdays at Sengekontacket.

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. See July 6 listing for details.

FREE Cultural Survival Bazaar. Peg Noonan Park, Main Street @ Hamlin Avenue, Falmouth.

A Festival of Native Arts and Cultures from Around the World. Featuring guest Artisans from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, live â&#x20AC;&#x153;worldâ&#x20AC;? music, presentations, educational displays, and Tibetan cuisine. Shop handmade art, jewelry, clothing, crafts, decor, tribal rugs, and much more. Proceeds support the livelihoods of Indigenous artisans, projects in their communities, and fair trade.

Enjoy FREE music performances, presentations, educational displays, craft-making demonstrations, and ethnic cuisine. Visit our website to learn more about the artisans, performances, vendors,

featured products, and other dates and locations.

FREE Admission Rain or Shine! 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. bazaar.culturalsurvival.org.

Sleepover at Davis Farmland. 145 Redstone Hill Road, Sterling. This fun-filled, two day adventure includes an all-you-can-eat cookout, hayride, campfire sing-a-long, and sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mores!

Wake up to breakfast on the grill. Reservations required, space fills quickly. Call 978-422-MOOO (6666) or visit davisfarmland.com.

Fire & Ice Day. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. For fire, see an exciting demonstration of historical 19thcentury hand-pump fire trucks, and lend a hand by helping to pump the water. Enjoy a fire truck parade around the Common. For ice, cool off with demonstrations of 18th- and 19th- century ice-cream making (using period tools, techniques, recipes, and ingredients. Popular flavors in the 18th-century included gooseberry, ginger, and even asparagus ice cream. 9:30 to 5 p.m. osv.org.

21 sunday FREE Sundays At Stony Brook. Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 108 North St., Norfolk. Take a Stony Brook Sunday stroll in search of birds, turtles, frogs, plants, and other natural wonders in the company of a VolunteerNaturalist. Or, join the Naturalist on the observation deck for

a peek through the spotting scope. Do you have questions? Stop by on a Sunday afternoon and we will work to discover the answers together.

1 to 3 p.m. Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

Nauset Marsh Discovery Cruise. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. See July 10 listing for details.

Birds of Prey. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Learn about the several species of raptors that reside at the EcoTarium, including bald eagles, hawks and owls, in this live animal demonstration. Then get up close -- and even touch -- a living bird of prey. 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. $3 per person, plus EcoTarium admission, $2 for members. ecotarium.org.

22 monday Herons at Hemenway. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. From Hemenway Landing in Eastham, observe the black-crowned night-heronsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; nightly flight to the marsh to feed. This is a great opportunity to see black-crowned and maybe yellow-crowned night-herons, great egrets, and belted kingfishers. 6 to 8 p.m. A $5m/$7nm, C $5m/$7nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

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23 tuesday Ice Cream and... Fireflies. Mass Audubon Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St (Route 16), Natick. What’s better than ice cream on a summer night? Why not add a little fun outdoor exploration? Join the adventure as we look for flashing fireflies, listen for the songs of frogs and katydids and use a “bat detector” to find our local bats. 7:30 to 9 p.m.

A $12m/$14nm, C $7m/$9nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Nature Adventures with Picture Books: Spiders. Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield. Bring your young naturalist to the sanctuary this summer and experience the joy of books and the wonders of nature. Participate in hands-on nature-related activities inspired by the stories. Sign up for one or more of these adventurous programs. 9:30 to 11 a.m.

A $7m/$9nm, C $6m/$7nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

and geography. You’ll make our own compass, go on an expedition, and build your own 3-D maps! Lots of hands-on games and activities. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Suitable for children 8 to 12 years old. C $20m/$25nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

FREE & ONGOING Boston Landmarks Orchestra’s Summer Concert Series. DCR’s Hatch Memorial Shell, 47 David G Mugar Way, Boston. Join in for the Landmark Orchestra’s Summer Concert Series at the historic DCR Memorial Hatch Shell. Concerts at the Hatch Shell take place every Wednesday at 7 p.m. and run through Aug. 28. All concerts are free. Rain information is posted on concert days on the orchestra’s website, landmarksorchestra.org.

Salt Marsh Discovery Walk. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Find the hidden creatures of the salt marsh - including fiddler crabs, shrimp, and snails - as you explore with nets and buckets.

You may get wet and muddy! 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

A $8m/$10nm, C $8m/$10nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

24 wednesday 25 thursday Super Science Wednesday: Orienteering & Mapmaking. Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park Street, Attleboro. Spend a summer day at Oak Knoll learning about orienteering

Gooey, Gloppy, Messy Science. Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park Street, Attleboro.

See July 11 listing for details.

Early Birders. Felix Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. The early bird gets the worm or the fish! Join Felix Neck birders for a casual walk of the sanctuary grounds to look for summertime birds. An easy to moderate (often buggy) stroll. Free for members with sanctuary admission. A $4nm, C $3m. 8 to 9 a.m.

Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

Winged Wonders – Butterflies. Felix Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown.

Tour our own butterfly garden observing these beautiful insects and the plants that attract them.

11 a.m. to noon. A $6m/$9nm, C $6m/$9nm.

Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

Imagine, Sing, & Learn 7A: Splish Splash!

Joppa Flats Education Center, Newburyport.

This parent/child program is designed for the creative, curious, and active preschooler. Each 90-minute session offers a structured series of activities including original songs, movement, dramatic play, hands-on science, and a thematic snack. You’ll receive coloring pages, song lyrics, vocabulary, a fun fact sheet, and a suggested reading list in an electronic goody bag. 10 to 11:30 a.m. A $6m/$8nm, C $5m/$7nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Eco-Art: Meadow and Wetland Fliers.

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield. Join in for one or more of these eco-art programs this summer! Each class includes a walk on the

oh, the places you’ ll go sanctuary and a craft activity. 9 to 11 a.m. A $8m/$10nm, C $7m/$8nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

26 friday

Insect Safari. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox.

You don’t need to travel to the Serengeti Plains or the Brazilian rain forest to discover and observe a tremendous diversity of life. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary’s fields, wetlands, and forests hold a splendid and truly amazing array of insects. Among the most active and colorful are butterflies. 10 a.m. to noon. A $4m/$6nm, $3m/$4nm. massaudubon.org.

Twilight World of Bats. Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox. Bats are the only flying mammals and among the most misunderstood animals. Join Rene Laubach to learn about bats found in our area. The program will begin indoors for an overview of the ecology and diversity of bats, and will conclude outdoors with a search for bats, weather permitting. A bat detector will be used to eavesdrop on the bats as they hunt for food.

7 to 8:30 p.m. A $5m/$7nm, C $3m/$4nm.

Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

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Photo courtesy of Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology Harvard University.

Don’t miss Mural Madness at the Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology at Harvard University in Cambridge on Saturday, July 20 where you can add authentic designs to the floors and mural walls.

The Remarkable Realm of Reptiles (and Amphibians Too!). Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. Snakes, lizards, salamanders, and newts are all commonly found in Massachusetts but are not often seen.

Learn about these fascinating animals during an engaging presentation by Teá Kesting-Handly.

See and hold many live reptiles and amphibians from all around the world, and learn how to protect our native populations. 10:30 a.m. to noon. A $5m/$7nm, C $5m/$7nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Harbor Seal Cruise. Joppa Flats Education Center, Newburyport. Join Lisa Hutchings and the crew of the Yankee Clipper for an exciting exploration of the lower Merrimack River ecosystem. Each month will feature a specific theme with hands-on science, interactive props, and seasonal wildlife. You’ll also look for seabirds, seals, and waterfowl on every trip. Your family will have a wonderful time cruising and learning about this vital part of the area’s natural history. 8:45 to 10:45 a.m. A $22m/$29nm, C $16m/$19nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Imagine, Sing, & Learn 7B: Splish Splash!

Joppa Flats Education Center, Newburyport.

This parent/child program is designed for the creative, curious, and active preschooler. Each 90-minute session offers a structured series of activities including original songs, movement, dramatic play, hands-on science, and a thematic snack. You’ll receive coloring pages, song lyrics, vocabulary, a fun fact sheet, and a suggested reading list in an electronic goody bag. 10 to 20 JULY2013

11:30 a.m. A $6m/$8nm, C $5m/$7nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

27 saturday Celebrate Family Fun at Fenway Park Fenway Park, 4 Yawkey Way, Boston. The Boston Red Sox celebrate minor league baseball in a major way as Futures at Fenway returns to Fenway Park. This event is a celebration of America’s favorite pastime and a chance for fans to get a first-hand glimpse at some of the Red Sox most promising prospects when the Red Sox Double-A affiliate Portland Sea Dogs take on the Harrisburg Senators.11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets $5-$30. redsox.com/futures.

High Summer Canoe. Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, Easthampton. High summer or midsummer on the river is a time when flowers are in bloom, birds flyi about, and mammal signs can be observed as we gently paddle down the Mill River. Great blue herons can often be seen from the nearby rookery, kingfishers, and warblers are often both seen and heard, and resident beavers are often seen swimming around, perhaps splashing the water with their tails if you get a bit too close! 3 to 6 p.m. A $15m/$20nm, C $15m/$20nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Fun with Butterflies & Dragonflies.

Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St., Natick. Discover the amazing number of dragonflies and butterflies that make Broadmoor home. Just what is a damselfly? How do

dragonflies survive the winter? Come find out this and more. A $11m/$13nm, C $6m/$8nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Mike the Music Man at Davis Farmland.

Davis Farmland, 145 Redstone Hill Road, Sterling. Sing, Dance at Davis Farmland with Mike the Music Man and his friends Snappy the Alligator and Smelly the Skunk perform silly versions of kid’s favorite songs and some of their own original songs like Ducky Rock and Roll.

Show times are Saturday and Sundays 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. davisfarmland.com.

28 sunday Family Fest. Duxbury Town Green, Washington Street, Duxbury. Nestled in the South Shore seaside town of Duxbury, Duxbury Music Festival (DMF) draws international undergraduate and post-graduate students who wish to participate in an intensive program for the study and performance of solo and chamber repertoires.

Spectacular performances open to the public culminate the training these accomplished musicians receive during the Festival. 10:30 a.m.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 fr children under 12. duxburymusicfestival.org.

Kayak Trip. Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet.

Explore the winding tidal rivers, quiet bays, and scenic marshes of Cape Cod with an experienced paddler. 9 a.m. to noon. Suitable for children 12 and older. A $40m/$45nm, C $40m/$45nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

29 monday Seashore Discovery. Felix Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. Meet amazing creatures of the sea! Take a short walk through the forest to a protected beach, where you will explore shallow waters with dip nets and use a large seine net to catch fish, crabs and other pond wildlife. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet and don’t forget your hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent. 10 to 11:30 a.m. A $6m/$9nm, C $6m/$9nm. Registration not required. massaudubon.org.

Seabirds and Whales. Joppa Flats Education Center, Newburyport. This program focuses on seabirds, but plan on seeing and learning about marine mammals as well. Onboard the Captain’s Lady III, you will look for concentrations of birds such as storm-petrels, shearwaters, gannets, jaegers, terns and phalaropes. Dave Larson from the Joppa Flats Education Center will join the Captain’s Lady III marine mammal naturalists onboard to help spot and narrate bird sightings. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A $48m/$48nm, C $33m/$33nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

30 tuesday Creature Feature: Jellyfish. Felix Wildlife Sanctuary, Felix Neck Dr., Edgartown. This program offers young naturalists a close-up look at native animals of Martha’s Vineyard.

Programs combine a story, craft and a look at the “creature” of the day. 10 to 11 a.m. Adults free, C $6m/$9nm. Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

Lazy Afternoon on the Ipswich River.

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield.

The dog days of summer can be unpleasant, to say the least. Escape the heat with a relaxing paddle on the cool waters of the Ipswich River and enjoy some ice cream, too! You will take a short trip up to shady Perkins Island where you will enjoy some frozen treats and then take our time meandering downstream while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding marshes and forests.

2 to 4 p.m. A $14m/$16nm, C $12m/$14nm.

Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

31 wednesday Icky, Creepy, and Just Plain Gross. Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 108 North Street, Norfolk. Looking for some “Ewww!” Then this is the program for you! Join in to make fake snot, bounce some pudding, and delve into mighty morphing milk. What better way to spend a hazy summer day. 2 to 4 p.m. Suitable for children 5 to 12 years old. C $10m/$12nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

Bayside Talk - Monsters of the Sea: Whales, Sharks, and Ocean Sunfish.

Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, State Highway Route 6, South Wellfleet. Join Carol “Krill” Carson for an special presentation on the large and unique marine wildlife that feed in the waters off Cape Cod. Learn about the endangered whales, sea turtles, seals, fish and sharks that call Stellwagen Bank and the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary their home each summer. 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. A $9m/$11nm, C $7m/$9nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

FREE Neighborhood Nature at Elm Park.

Elm Park, Worcester. Drop in anytime for activities, crafts, stories, and nature walks. Take a break from the playground to learn about the plants and animals that can be found in Worcester through hands-on projects and games. 1 to 4 p.m.

Registration is not required. massaudubon.org.

To Submit an Event Fill out our form at baystateparent.com

By July 1.

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Pregnant atat forty one fort

by laura richards

T

he phrase, “I’m too old for this” kept looping in my mind as I was lumbering about heavily pregnant with my fourth child at age 41. My first children, who were twins, were born when I was 30, fit, less gray and not as nuts.

When I posted the pregnancy news to Facebook I noticed that the, “You’re crazy!” responses from friends were more numerous than those offering “Congratulations.”

Maybe this was a bad idea. Things had recently hit a nice stride with the three older boys who were more independent and even getting their own breakfast in the morning.

Were we totally nuts to hit the reset button and trade this period of life to go back to sleepless nights, diapers and teething?

Not really.

During the pregnancy, my very fit father who ran almost every day had a stroke which crystalized the importance of family and why we were doing this.

Both my husband and I came from extremely small families and felt good knowing that the boys would have each other when a crisis did strike someday.

Caragh Feinblatt, 43, of Framingham, also realized the importance of family. Her first

22 JULY2013

three children were neatly spaced two years apart when she gave birth to her first child at age 28.

Eventually she kept thinking that maybe her family wasn’t complete.

“We always knew we wanted multiple children, but exactly how many, we weren't sure,” she says.

“I was one of four and my parents always said to me and my siblings, ‘You'll always have each other.’ I knew that the greatest gift I could give them was the gift of each other.”

Going back to the beginning with a baby would be a challenge.

“Life was getting easy again,” she says. “No more diapers, everyone sleeping through the night, but I felt something was missing. After much discussion my husband and I decided to throw caution to the wind and try for a fourth.

We figured we were outnumbered anyway by this point! We were fortunate we became pregnant right away, but it was 10 years after I was pregnant with my first, and it wasn't going to be as easy as that pregnancy.”

As is often the case with pregnancies that come later on in life, Caragh had complications that required bed rest. She also didn’t have the time to focus on her pregnancy because of caring for the other kids.

“I felt I was short-changing the baby and had to miss dance recitals and soccer games for the other kids and only came down for dinner,” she says. “They weren't as excited as I thought they would be, but I couldn't blame them. They could see from the start that if pregnancy meant their mom wouldn't be there for them (as I hadn't been lately)

what kid would be excited about that?”

But the day her son was born it all changed for the better. “He had so much attention from three older siblings it was a gift,” she says. “He completed our family. He would miss them when they were gone during the day and loved seeing them come home.”

Sue Braverman, 49, also of Framingham, has four kids ages 25, 22, 19 and 8. Sue was 24 when she had her first child and was 41 when she had her last. When she found out about her pregnancy, reality really set in.

“My friends would be going out, and we would be home or have to get a babysitter,” she says. “With the schedules of the other kids I was wondering how we were going to manage everything.” Sue’s pregnancy was also considered high risk because of her age. “It’s definitely harder to carry a baby in your 40s, plus my blood pressure was raised,” she says.

However her older kids were excited, “My oldest not at first, but then was fine. The baby definitely brought our family dynamics into a better place,” she says. “Sometimes I feel badly that he is like an only child as no one is ever home. It’s like he has five parents instead of two.” Sue says he is one of the best things that could have ever happened to them.

Surely it’s a gamble to have a baby later in life as pregnancy is considered higher risk and the risk of genetic disorders multiplies with every year a woman grows older.

The pregnancy with my fourth was far more punishing on my body than carrying my twins was 10 years

A picture only tells part of the story. %HLQJ KHUH VD\V LW DOO

ago. I was horribly ill and at the end of the pregnancy was put on bed rest and medication for high blood pressure. I felt we just squeaked through by the skin of our teeth when the baby arrived safely, and we both were healthy.

I feared that with the 10 ½ and seven years between this baby and his older brothers, they might not connect with him or even resent him as it would curb their lives, but the joy this baby has brought to his brothers and vice versa is beyond what we ever could have imagined. When one of my twins held him for the first time he beamed, “He is going to be my best friend,” and he is. Those boys are bonded for life.

a unique way as he’s collectively “our” baby. Nothing worth having comes easy and as hard as the pregnancy was, he is so worth it now.

Caragh’s baby is now a kindergartner and her oldest is in high school.

“It's been hard watching him grow up faster than my other children; I think he felt like he wanted to try to keep up with them,” she says. “He went straight to Legos while others kids his age were still playing with blocks. With the other three, I can now see how quickly it goes by. I didn't take those days we spent together for granted. I appreciated the warm spring days, going for a walk or to the playground together because

“Life was getting easy again,” again,” she e says. s ays.

“No more m ore diape diapers, everyone sleeping through thee night, through night, but but II feltlt someth something was missing m issing..

Almost immediately the baby recognized his brothers and often responded more strongly to them than he did to me or my husband. The last thing the boys do before boarding the school bus in the morning is kiss their brother and then the first thing they do when they return home in the afternoon (after washing their hands!) is to pick him up and play with him.

They help to feed, bathe and even change him. I see glimpses of the fathers they might be someday. It has been a good experience for all of us and bonded us with the older three in

I knew he was going to grow up too fast, just as the other three had done.

When you're in it, you're just trying to get through the day. Moving from one thing to the next, making sure they have matching socks and not wearing their clothes inside out. That's a good day! But having the hindsight now it can be a good thing. It's a gift!”

I couldn’t agree more.

Laura Richards is the mother of four boys and two cats and resides in Framingham with her husband. She blogs from her website modernmothering.com.

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YOUR CHILD

AROUND THE WATER:

Start Swim Lessons with yo your ur Baby No Noww by tracey prohaska carroll

i

was seven months pregnant when my husband and I found our dream home. It was a cozy fixer-upper that sat right on the shore of a gorgeous lake. No sooner did the real estate agent call to tell us the house was ours that my panicked, pregnant mind had me searching for baby swim lessons.

Jon and I are both good swimmers and have been since we were young. I never imagined the water could cause me such worry and angst. Yet there we were, about to become parents. The responsibility of keeping our soon to be son safe, hanging heavily over our heads. If I could have transferred our combined swimming skills directly to our unborn child through pure will, I would have. Of course, that not being an option, we figured the next best thing would be to have him learn on his own as quickly as possible. Lucky for us, there was a local YMCA right around the corner, and they offered 24 JULY2013

lessons beginning at 6 months old. Our son James began as soon as he was old enough and has loved the water ever since.

Jon and I are happy we had the extra incentive living so close to the water to motivate us to expose James early on, but we don’t think you need an excuse like location to get your child started.

Whether you live near the water or not, there are plenty of statewide programs available for any budget to get children of any age comfortable in the water and informed about safety. The benefits are plentiful and can really add to water enjoyment as a family. Most importantly it can aid in safeguarding your child against danger.

“The earlier you introduce your child to the water the more proficient their skills become,” says Scott Simmons, aquatic director of the Montachusett Community Branch YMCA of Central Massachusetts. “Early introduction can prevent so many incidents and near drownings. That’s why the program is so important to me.”

The Montachusett Community Branch YMCA, like all YMCA’s, offers a parent & child class for ages 6 to 36 months. Simmons described the class as a fun way for adults and their children to learn water safety, floating and simple movements like pulling and kicking. All class instructors are YMCA certified in swim training, American Red Cross certified or both.

The two certifications are similar and

can work hand in hand. Children and parents learn skills through songs, using flotation bubbles (YMCA only), kickboards and noodles.

“Parents always have to be vigilant with their kids around the water,” Simmons says. “Our classes teach that and use the parent/child connection to focus on two points: comfort and control. Experiencing the water with a parent or guardian helps in that there’s already a trust built so the first time they go under water and come up to see mom or dad’s smiling face it’s okay.”

David Graham, aquatics director at Mount Wachusett Community College Fitness and Wellness Center agrees that the earlier kids get into the water the better. His center also offers parent and toddler classes as a warm-up for their preschool aquatics program.

“The parent/child classes are intended to be fun with singing and play. They serve partly as a parent education class and also teach some dynamics of swimming. Safety topics are covered as we talk about dos and don’ts around the water,” Graham says. “The previous view of the American Academy of Pediatrics was that children were not age appropriate to learn the value of swimming until age 4. This position has changed to reflect that younger children benefit from swimming lessons which helps reduce incidents of drowning. Historically, drowning is the second leading cause of death in children each year behind auto accidents (according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).”

In addition to area YMCA’s who have financial help available and local fitness pools; there are free state

swimming programs available to get your child introduced to the water.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has a Learn to Swim Program available at a number of locations.

“My role is to work with the American Red Cross and help facilitate these programs. Each participating facility has a water safety instructor who is certified by the Red Cross in teaching Learn to Swim. The program has run for over 30 years and has adapted to the Red Cross standards in teaching. Its learning materials and hand-outs have made an improvement not only in the swim program itself, but water safety as well,” says John Dwinell, director of Learn to Swim at DCR. “The program is offered in areas where kids may not have access to a pool and probably would not have access to a swimming program. Many of DCR’s pools were built in areas to provide inexpensive recreation. We have a program in Clinton called Mommy and Me for 6 month olds and then Learn to Swim begins at age 3 and continues to age 12. A number of our pools have been modernized with zero depth entry and fun spray features great for all ages. The Learn to Swim program is an added advantage,” Dwinell says.

As a parent himself, Dwinell has had his twins exposed to the water since they were 9 months old. Now age 7, Jake and Alexandra love the water just as much as their parents who are both avid swimmers and certified lifeguards.

“Starting the kids early has done a couple of things. First, wherever we stay when we go away has to have a pool.

Second, we have to pack all of the pool or beach supplies, which inevitably

adds an extra bag to our packing. We’re a water-oriented family, be it beach or pool—we want to go where the water is.

As the kids are getting older, we want to start taking them on vacations where they can snorkel. They love seeing fish and marine life. It will be great to get them away from everything else going on and to be outdoors as a family for recreation and exercise,” Dwinell says.

The Dwinell’s are a good example of kids taking cues from their parents.

What do you do if you’re not so keen on the water yourself, but you want to allow your children to have a different experience? Start with yourself. Take lessons on your own and educate yourself, put on a brave face and trust in the experience of a baby and me class. Other ideas to get things rolling would be simply to take your child to an indoor pool where you may take lessons or a beach where they’re offered.

Not to swim initially, but to observe and get used to the sights and sounds first. An enclosed pool area can be quite loud and overwhelming at first.

Once involved in a class, show your child it is okay to engage in the activity with plenty of smiles and positive words. Also, keep up the exposure on a routine basis so the comfort and skills don’t fade. Swimming once a week will keep the experience strong versus once every six months or only during summer months.

“We’re never going to just throw a child into the deep end,” says Simmons of conquering fears around getting started. “Even if your child has had an unfavorable experience leading up to lessons, our instructors make it a point to talk about it. We want you and your child to tell us the story, and we’ll listen. Then we can demonstrate how that same situation can be handled differently and safely.”

In addition to the safety aspect of early water introduction there are many other positive results. Babies who have started classes as early as 6 months and continued on have been observed to be more confident socially, become leaders and set examples for peers in future classes.

“Even as they get into their teens, they have a comfort with themselves that stems from being around one another in their bathing suits. It’s something they do every day, and they’re used to it,” Simmons says.

All three, Simmons, Graham and Dwinell, are adamant about one thing.

Swim lessons or not, parents have

“Experiencing the water with a parent or guardian helps in that there’s already a trust built so the first time they go under water and come up to see mom or dad’s smiling face it’s okay.” got to be vigilant with their children around the water. Lessons, while helpful are not a first line of defense.

They may enable a child to stay afloat long enough for an adult to notice they need help and get to them and that is a huge factor in warding off tragedy.

However, they do not take the place of always having eyes on your child around the water. The trio agrees that even when lifeguards are on duty, keep your kids with you at all times.

“Lifeguards are charged with ensuring the safety of all patrons in and around the water, not just your individual child,” Graham says.

Other advice to be safe includes learning to swim yourself and to practice swimming with your child in your arms in case the situation arises where you have to swim them to safety. Take CPR classes to ensure

you’ll know what to do in case of an emergency. Ask questions at every aquatic venue you go to and know in advance what is expected at each place to make your visit not only safer, but more enjoyable. Lifejackets are always a good idea around the water, especially for activities like boating and fishing and most of the time are required for certain age groups.

“We tell all our kids that being safe is the most fun,” says Simmons of teaching students to be aware around the water. “Consistency is key, particularly with rules. Always enforce them and never allow them to be broken. Another saying we teach our kids is a phrase the Red Cross coined a long time ago, ‘Reach, Throw, Don’t Go.’” The idea being that if someone in the water needs help, don’t rashly jump

in after them. Simmons tells kids to see if you can reach them first and if not, find a life saving device to throw to them.

“You have to have a respect for the water and that doesn’t matter if it’s a pool, inland beach or ocean. All it takes is a split second for tragedy to strike,” Dwinell says.

There’s no arguing that being around the water is a fun way to spend time with your family, but being prepared and responsible is the only way to do it safely. My husband and I took the task of protecting our son James very seriously when we moved into our lakeside home. Starting with the parent and child class we began when he was 6 months old.

He’s 5 now and has been swimming on his own since age 3. His lessons have not replaced the fact that we’re on high alert around the water.

We continue to watch him like hawks and drill safety instructions into his head every chance we get. Rules like not being allowed near the water without an adult and to never go swimming alone. His lessons have allowed us to pass on our love of swimming and enjoy our time in the water together. We’re much more relaxed when we’re having family time at the lake or the pool, and we really enjoy ourselves. It’s not filled with anxiety that he might get splashed in the face or tumble under the water by accident.

We know that he won’t panic if either of those happens and that’s a big relief.

I’m not saying you have to frantically run out in your last trimester to sign up for swim classes (like I did – although I do blame most of that on hormones), but now you know that introducing your child to the water early goes a long way in helping to safeguard later on.

Tracey Prohaska Carroll is a freelance writer, wife and mother of one from Athol.

She enjoys spending time with her family at the lake home they’re fixing up.

When she’s not writing or filling the roles of wife and mother, you’ll find her listening to music, reading or boxing for fitness.

You can reach her by email traceywrites@mass.rr.com.

BAYSTATEPARENT 25

VERY SPECIAL PEOPLE The Changing Face of

Autism MEDICAL SHIFTS AFFECT FAMILIES’ STRUGGLES by walter bird jr., photos by steven king 26 JULY2013

VERYSPECIALPEOPLE

T

his is a big year for autism and the growing number of families dealing with children afflicted with the confounding neurological disorder. For starters, there is the controversial news that Asperger’s Syndrome is being dropped from the new Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM5). For parents who have grown comfortable with at least knowing their child was dealing with a specific kind of autism, the change is unsettling. They can, however, take some measure of comfort with the news that the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) this summer is opening a new center focused wholly on autism diagnosis and support.

Dan, Caden, Nathan, Shane and Brandy Mehlhouse, of Webster, play at a local park.

Caden and Nathan have been diagnosed with autism.

EXCITEMENT MOUNTS The look of relief is palpable on the face of Brandy Mehlhouse, a stay-at-home Webster mom of three who has two children on the autism spectrum.

One of them, 5-year-old Nathan who turns 6 soon, was diagnosed with Asperger’s; Brandy remembers the date, Dec. 20, vividly because it was less than a week after the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. Two-year-old Caden was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in March. Almost-11-year-old Shane is the protective older brother who is not autistic.

“I’m really excited about that,” Mehlhouse says of the Center for Autism and NeuroDevelopmental Disorders (CANDO), whose opening date has not yet been set. “It’s really hard right now. Nathan just had an EEG study [Electroencephalography] a study to check for seizures. He had to go three days in a row.

He zones out, loses time. We’re trying to make sure it’s just healthy zoning, so we’re having a sleep study done. You drive around a lot, go to this doctor over there, this doctor over here.”

That will change with the new autism center, which will focus on an inter-disciplinary approach bringing together several clinicians in one space. In addition to treatment, the center will help direct families to other services and assist them in working with schools and accessing other community resources.

“To have a multidisciplinary approach, it’s huge,” Mehlhouse says. “I never understood how much each aspect of this affects a child. I’m really excited about it. Anything that’s going to help them and make their lives easier.”

ASPERGER’S CONTROVERSY Mehlhouse is less enthused over the pending change in DSM-5, the manual used by mental

health professionals, researchers and insurers in determining what symptoms will be officially diagnosed. The new version is published this month, almost 20 years after the current edition was released in 1994 (The manual was originally published in 1952). It will be the fifth version of the manual, and was approved in December by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). The organization has said removing Asperger’s as a diagnosis, and instead including it as part of ASD, will “help more accurately and consistently diagnose children with autism,” according to Michelle Diament at disabilityscoop.com. There is concern that individuals previously diagnosed with Asperger’s, a mild, high-functioning type of autism, could lose out on important services and treatments. That worry was heightened in the immediate aftermath of the Sandy Hook massacre. Adam Lanza, who executed 20 children and six adult staff members at the school, was said to have been afflicted with Asperger’s. Experts were quick to note the illness alone would not have led to such a violent act.

Mehlhouse says she likes knowing her middle child is dealing with a specific illness, and not just a range of problems. “I know there’s mixed emotions and the umbrella of the spectrum is different for everyone, but I like that I know that it’s Asperger’s,” she says. “I don’t know how I feel [about its removal from the new manual]. I like that you just know. You know you’re going to get a high-functioning child.

It’s something I’m still trying to learn about and read everything.”

Years of research and close study have shown little difference between children with Asperger’s and those diagnosed with high-functioning autism,

according to Dr. David Cochran, assistant medical director for CANDO. “Almost every child is different,” he says. “I think even as we understand more we’re starting to think of it as a collection of multiple disorders. No two children on the autism spectrum are alike.”

Cochran acknowledges the controversy surrounding the decision to no longer use Asperger’s as a diagnosis. “We’re moving toward recognizing all these children and adolescents on the autism spectrum and all the things now [with Asperger’s diagnosis] are not completely accurate or clinically useful. It can be helpful for families, but clinically it isn’t as helpful.”

ASD refers to a group of disorders characterized by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. Until this month, it included Asperger’s, Rett syndrome and other autism disorders. Now they will all fall under ASD. Disturbingly, the prevalence of ASD appears to be growing. While it was previously reported that one in 88 American children were on the spectrum, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has modified that figure to an even scarier one in 50.

More than two million Americans are afflicted with ASD, according to autismspeaks.org. An estimated one in 54 boys are diagnosed with autism in the US. Among girls, one in 252 is diagnosed. While the rate has grown, there is increased effort to understand why; some experts cite improved diagnosis and environmental factors as leading to the higher rate.

A LIFE CHANGER Brandy Mehlhouse and her husband, Dan, enjoyed the typical life of new parents with their son, Shane. They added to their brood with the birth of Nathan in 2007. It did not BAYSTATEPARENT 27

VERYSPECIALPEOPLE

take long for Brandy to notice dissimilarities between Nathan and how his older brother acted as an infant and toddler. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We started noticing things were different. We noticed stuff was happening a little different,â&#x20AC;?

Brandy says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He started crawling later, walking later, talking later. He started talking, but didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t point or do anything to let us know he needed stuff. He didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hug as much or cuddle. He was more upset about things you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t [typically] be upset about.

It seemed out of proportion to what was going on, so we had him evaluated and they said he was fine.â&#x20AC;?

Brandy knew he was not. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Something,â&#x20AC;? she says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;was off.â&#x20AC;? It was not until after Caden was born, however, that things started becoming clearer. The newest member of the Mehlhouse family started exhibiting some of the same behaviors as Nathan. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I knew something was going on with Caden and it pushed me to figure out what was going on with Nathan,â&#x20AC;? Brandy says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Caden was showing some of the same delays Nathan did.â&#x20AC;?

Up to that point, while friends would mention autism when it came to Nathan, Brandy and Dan Mehlhouse only knew something wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quite right.

Even their sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pediatrician dismissed the notion of autism. He was evaluated â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the first evaluation was with Early Intervention at 18 months â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but the results did not reveal autism. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Honestly? I really thought autism was a child that was nonverbal. I was really ignorant,â&#x20AC;? Brandy says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I should have known, but the scenarios we heard was he was possibly severe ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). His pediatrician originally said that. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all we had in our heads.â&#x20AC;?

In the meantime, everyday life was nothing less than a challenge. School was difficult, because, as Brandy notes, â&#x20AC;&#x153;when your child is not diagnosed itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very difficult. He is expected to perform at the same level as other children.â&#x20AC;?

Nathan attends Park Ave. Elementary School in Webster. The family has been on a waiting list for about a year and a half for services, according to Brandy. Eventually, Brandy says, a counselor at school told her they could not wait for another evaluation.

The family was referred to the Massachusetts Child Psychiatry Access Project (MCPAP) through UMass Medical Center, something that can only be done through a doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s referral.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Getting the diagnosis is the most important part because it changes everything,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[Nathan] still has his moments, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot different now with the understanding of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on. By this diagnosis and understanding that he looks at things completely different, I can break things down for him.â&#x20AC;?

It is not, however, suddenly easy to deal with.

Nathan reacts to some situations in a different way than others his age. If, for example, his father is gone away for an extended period of time, when he returns, Nathan will not run up and say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Daddy, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re home!â&#x20AC;? But the diagnosis, Brandy acknowledges, finally gave the family something tangible to deal with, even if they knew all along that something was not quite right. A lot of it, in retrospect, was denial. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve known this the whole time,â&#x20AC;? says Brandy.

Adds Dan Mehlhouse: â&#x20AC;&#x153;There was a lot of denial thinking it was just behaviors, it was going to pass.â&#x20AC;?

He admits to initially having to grapple with the reality of having a child â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and now two â&#x20AC;&#x201C; who does not learn the same way, does not handle things the same ways as others. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I came from a big Italian family,â&#x20AC;? Dan says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Behaviors were disciplined. You were yelled at, for no reason. I was a little more relaxed than my parents, but I always thought it was just a behavioral issue. As we went on I would learn more about it, you realized itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t control.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was absolutely in denial,â&#x20AC;? he continues. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Right away I was almost selfish with it. How is it going to affect me? How are people going to think about me?

Am I going to be embarrassed? Through education, Brandy being so proactive with this, the amount of love she shows and dedication, I started realizing itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not about me, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about them. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the ones that are going to be judged.â&#x20AC;?

Both Nathan and Caden have been going through UMass for services. The hospital, says Brandy, â&#x20AC;&#x153;has been great.â&#x20AC;? Still, while the family has learned a lot about how Nathan thinks and reacts, it is still too early to tell with Caden. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to get all the support he needs and this time itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be at a young age,â&#x20AC;? Brandy says of her youngest. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just going to be hopeful.â&#x20AC;?

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through the uncertainty and confusion of dealing with a child with autism are about to get a big helping hand from UMass, as one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading medical centers gets ready to open the doors to its new Center for Autism and NeuroDevelop-mental Disorders. The acronym CANDO seems an accurate reflection of how the team behind the innovative center plans to approach its practice. Space is being renovated on the seventh floor of the medical school to make way for the program, and it will house a large occupational therapy room, clinical space

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and exam rooms. The plan is to introduce an inter-disciplinary approach to treating autism, a sort of one-stop center for all the patient’s assessment needs, including psychiatric, pediatric, neurological, speech and language and occupational therapy. An impetus will be put on jump-starting the treatment process by eliminating the time parents might otherwise spend running from doctor to doctor, specialist to specialist.

“There is no center focused on assessment and treatment,” says Cochran, who serves as assistant medical director for the center to Director Mary Beth Kadlec. “There are several individual private therapists and providers, but really no clinic specializing in autism-specific services, mostly because of financial aspects. The funding it takes to launch a program like this and provide the services needed is particularly difficult. There really is not a lot of financial incentive to provide the level of service needed.”

The center will start small, serving about 50 families in the first year. During years two through five, efforts will ramp up to enable the center to handle approximately 500 families.

Officials are not revealing just how much money is going into the new center, but Cochran says the launch is reliant upon an anonymous donor. The senior center director, Dr. Jean Frazier, is vice chair of Adolescent and Child Psychiatry, created on an

endowment from Robert and Shirley Siff. She comes from the Harvard hospital system, most recently serving with Cambridge Health Alliance, where she says there was a center that helped children with autism and neurodevelopmental disorders.

“I brought that sort of model with me,” Frazier says, noting while there are “pockets of care” in Central Mass., the essential piece to CANDO is its inter-disciplinary approach utilizing people from multiple professional groups to assess children and families together. It will be, she says, a place “where there’s good communication and we’re not only going to just do the assessment and provide diagnostic pieces and recommendations, but jumpstart intervention, which is really critical for some of these families.”

A CHALLENGING EXPERIENCE In addition to Cochran, Kadlec and Frazier, the CANDO team includes Kelly Hurley, an autism resource specialist with two children of her own – 15-year-old Michael and 14-year-old Ryan – on the autism spectrum. Michael was diagnosed right after his fourth birthday, Ryan before he turned 2. Michael was originally diagnosed with high-functioning autism, Hurley says.

“We went to several different clinics and got

several different diagnoses,” she says. Asperger’s Syndrome and nonverbal learning disorder were among the illnesses suggested. “That is one of the reasons they’re changing the criteria. They want to be able to include more people in the diagnosis.

The rates keep getting lower. They really want to make sure they capture older people, and we have treatments available to help these children and people in the spectrum.”

That was not the case when Hurley and her husband were dealing with their two sons. It was especially difficult with Ryan, who was born with congenital heart disease. He had surgery, followed by balloon angioplasty at the Children’s Hospital in Boston.

“We went back for a follow-up when [Ryan] was 10 months and the cardiologist said, ‘Mrs. Hurley, your son is developmentally delayed,’ and it really took me aback. It opened my eyes and from that moment on I was scrutinizing my son, and there were red flags that would come up.”

By that point, says Hurley, she had concerns about her oldest son. He had already been put in early prevention, but Ryan was also starting to demonstrate peculiar behaviors. “When I would have him on the changing table I would say, ‘Ryan, Ryan touch your nose.’ He wasn’t there. He was off looking at something else,” Hurley says.

A visit to the pediatrician yielded no immediate results; the doctor told her Ryan was bound to be delayed because of the surgery he had, but Hurley was not convinced. An Early Intervention specialist came to their home and, during one test, banged pots and pans directly behind Ryan. “He didn’t even blink,” Hurley says. “The therapist said, ‘I really think he’s deaf,’ and I said ‘if he were deaf, why, when my husband and I call to tell him it’s time to brush his teeth or time to take a bath, he comes running from a different room?’”

The family then took Ryan for a hearing test. The technician called his name and got no response, but when she turned “Barney” music on, Ryan turned his head right toward the speakers, Hurley says.

“The lab tech said, ‘Well, as you saw this was an inconclusive test,’” she recalls. “She said, ‘Are you here to find out if he’s on the spectrum?’ My husband and I looked at each other and said, ‘Spectrum, what spectrum?’ Of course, I went home and Googled it and said, ‘Oh my gosh, autism.’”

As she gathered information for their younger son, Hurley told her husband she was concerned about Michael, who had been exhibiting a lot of the same characteristics, although he was higherfunctioning. “That’s why Ryan was diagnosed first,” Hurley says. “But having that diagnosis helped us get the diagnosis for our older son.”

As an autism specialist, Hurley works to prevent families from having to navigate their way alone through a painful chapter in their lives. “I meet with families after they receive the diagnosis,” she says. “I tell them about supports and therapies available, take a look at their childcare’s strengths and weaknesses and craft a plan with the family. People realize how well these children progress once they have the proper intervention.”

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30 JULY2013

A WAY TO HELP Hurley also helps parents discover what their options are as far as health insurance coverage. For example, the state recently passed an insurance law, enabling people with certain private insurance coverage to receive services such as home care â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is not available in all cases; for example, MassHealth is not accepted. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is very difficult for families to understand what services are available,â&#x20AC;? Hurley says. That, she adds, is what makes the new center so special. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The beautiful and unique part about whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to happen with the center is, rather than going to see one clinician and getting a diagnosis, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to have the pediatrician, speech and language pathologist, occupational therapist, behaviorist and a care partner to work with the family,â&#x20AC;? Hurley says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to talk about this child and figure out the best way to support this child.â&#x20AC;?

All of those specialists working together, adds Kadlec, have as their goal to be comprehensive and consistent with what they believe is going on with the patient. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be learning with the family and teaching them along the way,â&#x20AC;? Kadlec says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The goal is for them to stay connected to

us in the clinic, but really think about when theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going on and helping the family get connected to those services.â&#x20AC;?

Early Intervention, Frazier acknowledges, is key. Whether it is a specific diagnosis like Aspergerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or a child identified as being on the spectrum, providing families immediate assessment and treatment options can make a significant difference in the long-term well-being of the child. The new center, Frazier says, will offer a more expedient and efficient way to provide services. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a core model weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re putting into place that has been really thought through and has had a lot of family input,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A day in the life of a child on the spectrum is like many months to a year, so if they go months without a diagnosis thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a real problem. Our hope is to bring children in, diagnose them and then jump-start intervention immediately, rather than have them go out into the community and try to pull together services, which often takes many months. We know for sure that early intervention really helps kids and the sooner we can get services into place, the better for them.â&#x20AC;?

Walter Bird writes for our sister publication WorcesterMag. Email Walter at wbird@worcestermag.com, or call him at 508-749-3166, ext. 243.

Follow Walter on Twitter walterbirdjr.

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Family Receives Own

Extreme Home Makeover by julia quinn-szcesuil

Cindy Jeffers knew her Wareham house needed updates, but she never expected to have hundreds of strangers rally to her cause and build a brand-new home for her and her two young grandsons, one of whom has cerebral palsy, in a week. But that is exactly what happened and when Jeffers and the boys came home from a week on the Cape on May 4, their new house stood waiting.

And although Jeffers, 59, might have thought a little more was going on, the final leg of the journey really made her suspicious. “When the limo pulled around I knew I was in trouble,” says Jeffers with a laugh, “but the police escort gave it away a little. [The house] was entirely different from what I planned on when I got home.”

Living in the 750-square-foot house with 5-year-old Aiden and 12-year-old Jeremiah, who has cerebral palsy, was an increasing challenge. Lacking insulation, a washer or dryer, and needing extensive repairs, Jeffers knew the house needed about $150,000 worth of work.

Undaunted, Jeffers figured she would just continue to do what she has done all along – do repairs bit by bit as money allowed. “I replaced the doors and windows in 2006,” she

32 JULY2013

says. “And each year my bonus or tax return went to that.”

But her neighbors Paula and Charles Barros saw it differently. Longtime friends, the Barros started fundraisers to add a washer and dryer and a bedroom so Jeffers could have her own bedroom and would be able to do her laundry. With the sheer volume of laundry in the house, Jeffers was spending hours at the laundromat. She either had to bring the boys, which was difficult for Jeremiah who sometimes is anxious in public spaces or find someone to watch them while she did the laundry. Eventually she sent it out to be done – on a good week, it cost $100.

Jeffers' story, one of grit and of a grandmother's ferocious love, spread quickly and mushroomed into a community outpouring of support.

Victor Fernandes, owner of Fernandes Masonry heard of Jeffers’ story through Dartmouth-based Schwartz Center for Children where both Jeremiah and Fernandes' son, Noah, received services at varying times.

He first offered to buy the washer and dryer, but ended up spearheading Wareham's own version of the popular renovation show “Extreme Makeover.”

“We put an army together and said, 'Let's get this done,' and boom here we are,” says Fernandes of the project led by the Team Noah Foundation (of which Fernandes is founder), Cameron's Kids, and the Traver/Jordan Alves Foundation (TJA). Countless vendors, community members, and close friends provided labor, supplies and sustenance as the house was nearly doubled in size.

Fernandes' admiration for Jeffers is apparent.

“As a father of a special needs boy, I know what it takes,” he says. “And I have a lot of help at home. She doesn't. We forget about people who go through so much every day.

She is a special grandmother.”

Jeffers doesn't talk about the difficulties her small family faces when one member requires around-the-clock care.

“I believe enough love can help you do a lot of things you couldn't have done otherwise,” she says. “You can get up and walk through life or get dragged through. Which one would you choose?”

The initial project took on greater proportion when contractors discovered the space wouldn't allow for a washer and dryer. The wheels began to turn in Fernandes' mind. He spoke with Cameron's Kids and TJA, talked to some designers, checked out the house and took some measurements. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Let's get this rolling,â&#x20AC;? he thought.

So Jeffers, the boys, and an aide were sent on a trip to Hyannis (Jeffers' employer gave her the week off), with the understanding that the home would be too chaotic for Jeremiah while the small addition was being worked on.

As people caught wind of the project, the sense of urgency to complete it overwhelmed some. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They kept saying, 'Are you crazy?

We have to do all this in a week?'â&#x20AC;? recalls Fernandes laughing. But Fernandes was not concerned. He had been on the team of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Extreme Makeover: Home Editionâ&#x20AC;? when the television show came to Maynard, and he knew with a combined effort, Jeffers and her family would arrive home to a brand-new home. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I felt comfortable,â&#x20AC;? he says.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I said, 'Listen, we can do this.'â&#x20AC;?

So with hundreds of volunteers working almost 24/7, they stripped Jeffersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; house down to the studs to install new insulation, plumbing, flooring, appliances, even new landscaping and a sprinkler system in the yard. Even when the appliances got stuck in Pennsylvania, sheer determination (and a lot of

phone calls) made their arrival possible. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What a wonderful week,â&#x20AC;? Fernandes says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is like an amazing fairytale story.â&#x20AC;?

The goal was to give Jeremiah all the necessities he needs, and Fernandes is proud that goal was accomplished. There is a track that lifts him from his bed and goes into the handicapped accessible bathroom so his grandmother can save her energy for other things.

For Jeffers and the boys, the new house is life changing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It's big!â&#x20AC;? says Jeffers of her house now. Jeffers grew up in the home and at one point they had four generations living in its four rooms and one bathroom. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was very cramped before,â&#x20AC;? she says.

Not surprisingly, one of Jeffers favorite parts of the house is the new washer and dryer, but what she really likes is the freedom the house offers the boys. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The world isn't kind to children with cerebral palsy or any other special needs,â&#x20AC;? Jeffers says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is not built for them.â&#x20AC;? The new circular layout allows Jeremiah, who cannot walk but can get around on his knees as he pushes a ball, the freedom to explore safely. And brother Aiden is thrilled with his new play set in the yard. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is the happiest little boy,â&#x20AC;? says Jeffers of Jeremiah. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In his mind, his world is getting bigger.

He doesn't realize the limits of his life.â&#x20AC;?

Jeffers' love is fierce when she talks about the boys. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have had a bond since the day he was born,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The bond is different from anyone else you will ever love because they are not dependent on you. It is almost as if you are breathing the same breath.â&#x20AC;?

The outpouring of support from the community has overwhelmed Jeffers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I never would have expected it,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;How do you say thank you when it is that big?â&#x20AC;?

For more information about Jeremiahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Project, visit facebook. com/JeremiahsProject.

Julia Quinn-Szcesuil is a freelance journalist who lives in Bolton with her family.

WonderBaby.org is an online community supporting parents of babies, toddlers and young children who are visually impaired or multiply disabled.

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A FAMILY

Adoption from Foster Care Information Open House. Tuesday, July 2, 4 to 6 p.m. Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF)-Springfield, 140 High St., 5th Floor, Springfield. For more information, call 413-452-3369.

Boston Adoption Informational Meetings-DCF. Wednesday, July 17, 4 to 6 p.m. Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF)- Boston, 451 Blue Hill Ave., Dorchester. Learn how you can change the future of a child in need by becoming a foster or adoptive parent with the Massachsuetts Department of Children and Families. For more information, call Marsha Donovan, LCSW, at 617-989-9209. No registration is required.

We are Family: A post-adoption support group. Thursday, July 18, 7 to 9 p.m. Emerson Hospital Campus, Route 2, Concord. A monthly support group and education group for parents who are caring for foster children, have adopted a child at age 3 or older or whose adopted child is now over age 5. For more information, call the facilitator, Mary Rowlinson, at 978-287-0221, ext. 218.

MAPP Training in the state of Massachusetts. Ongoing. Department of Children and Families. Please visit the Department of Children and Families website at mass.gov/dcf, then click on adoption, then foster care and adoption information meetings to find the MAPP training link. MAPP Training is offered to adults seeking to adopt from foster care. For more information, call 1-800-543-7508.

34 JULY2013

In August of 2008, we started looking into adoption after finding out that I had polycystic ovarian syndrome and that I would need to go through in vitro fertilization to get pregnant. My best friend had done foster care and adopted three children and I had always thought that might be a route we would take. So I looked on the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange, Inc. website for upcoming MAPP classes and found one that started in September at Children’s Friend in Worcester. We called, they came out did a home study and on Sept 11, 2008 we had our first Massachusetts Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (MAPP) class.

It was seven months later that I was at work when I received a phone call that would change our life. My adoption worker said they had a 1-year-old girl (it was actually her birthday) and her 4-year-old brother. The boy had some hearing problems and wore a hearing aid and had a cochlear implant. They asked if I knew what that meant. I was always interested in sign language and had taken a course in college, so I said yes I was familiar and that it would be no problem.

We met with our adoption worker the next day to get more details and see if we wanted to commit to the kids.

It only took us a few seconds to say yes. We were told that our daughter Zya would probably be with us by the weekend and that our son Kam would be a bit longer of a transition because of his hearing and of being in a specialty preschool. We said okay and left to go prepare our home for two kids.

We only got about two miles away when we got a phone call asking if we could come back in two hours and pick our daughter up. There had been some complications, and they needed her placed immediately. So during those two hours we called friends and family to let them know.

Then we headed to the store to get supplies because we didn’t have anything for a baby. Luckily our

neighbor had a crib and some sheets.

We came back two hours later and met our daughter for the first time.

It is a wonderful but awkward experience all in one. We could hear her crying through the door. My husband and I just looked at each other. We were going to be parents in the next few seconds. We walked through the door and they handed her to us. She had never met us, and we had never met her. So we just stared at each other for a while. It was something I will never forget. She had my husband wrapped around her finger from the first look into her blue eyes. We all sat for a while and let her get used to us and then we took her home to family and friends waiting for us.

The first week was a blur of diaper changes, sleepless nights and the love of a little girl. She is 5 years old now and never stops. She is in dance, loves to sing and loves to go to school. She has a few issues that have presented over time. She receives speech and occupational therapy at school for her articulation and her fine motor skills.

She is extremely hyper and needs redirection to focus.

We met our son a week later. He came to our house for a visit. The thing I remember most about that visit was him finding a 4-wheeler helmet 5 times too big for him and putting it on and trying to ride a plastic toddler 4-wheeler around our yard. It was the cutest thing ever. The first time he slept over was for his 5th birthday.

He got to spend that special day with us, his forever family. The only thing we noticed at the time was he had a speech problem. But considering he had only gotten his cochlear implant a year before, he was doing great.

Fast forward a few months to when Kam moved in. We started to notice some behavioral issues. He didn’t have a pause button, he would just react. After a year of trying different behavioral plans and reinforcements, he was finally diagnosed with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Post

Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and ADHD. We talked to people and was referred to The Attachment Institute of New England in Worcester. They worked with all of us and showed us how to parent a child who has RAD. I call it backward parenting. The consequence you would use on a typical child does not work with a RAD child. So we had to relearn a lot. We also got him on the right medication to help him have a pause before reacting. This has made such a difference in his behaviors. He still has rough times and sometimes the smallest thing can send him over the edge, but he is learning to deal with it and so are we.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had our ups and downs in the last four years, but I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change it. We have grown as a family and have gotten better at working problems out.

What I would say to people thinking of adopting is to make sure you have support. Not every kid is perfect, but they are still kids and they deserve a forever family. If you notice behaviors that are not normal ask for help and fight to get your child the help they need. Seek out pre- and post-adoption services like Adoption Journeys or adoption/RAD support groups.

Adopting is going to change your life forever, but in a great way because you are opening your home to a child that needs the love and support you can give them.

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note: Kim and her forever family live in Central Massachusetts. She asked that her last name and town not be included in the story.

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JULYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SCHILD Luis celebrates a birthday this month, turning 15 years old. This energetic young man of Puerto Rican descent is polite, considerate and funny. He is a genuinely kind soul who thinks of others first and loves animals. Luis enjoys being outside and exploring the elements.

Luis currently lives in a residential home where he volunteers to help staff and is well-liked. He has an individual education plan (IEP) which supports him for social and emotional needs as well as academics. Math and writing are challenging for Luis, but he loves to read. Luis likes to have friends, but has had difficulties connecting with his peers and sustaining relationships.

Legally free for adoption, Luis would do well in a two-parent home as an only child or the youngest.

He needs a loving, nurturing family that can be patient with him as he develops a strong sense of appropriate boundaries. Luis is open to a family

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Luis with two moms. He is very close with his brother and would like a family that could support that connection.

For more information about Luis, please contact Adoption Supervisor Geoff Cushner at (508) 929-1249. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) holds monthly meetings for people wishing to learn more about the adoption process in general.

The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Please call (508) 929-2143 for more information about this meeting.

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Patrick has autism. by natalie breen

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utism is an everyday part of my life. Autism is a neurological disorder that disrupts the development of communicative, social and cognitive skills. Neurological disorders affect someone’s brain, they are invisible.

You cannot look at someone and tell they are an individual with autism, which is both a good and bad thing.

People with autism find it difficult to form relationships such as making friends because they have a tough time interacting reciprocally with others. Communicative delays are exemplified by a delay or even a complete lack of language. In the case of people with verbal ability, they are often unable to start or maintain a conversation with someone; their speech is characterized by something called echolalia when they will repeat a phrase over and over. Individuals with autism usually are extremely talented in activities such as music or memorization. Kids with autism sometimes flap their hands or rock their bodies making potential friends uncomfortable.

If you name any Beatles song, my brother will tell you the exact day, month and year it was released.

Just this morning he told me Justin Bieber shares a birthday with The Who’s Roger Daltrey except the latter is “much more talented.”

If you ask Pat the last time we went to the antique store in Maine, he 36 JULY2013

will tell you it was June 4th, 2001, a Thursday, and it was raining. Pat can recall any date regarding the smallest of occasions. The last time he ate shrimp was on a Wednesday—six year ago. He will read 10 pages of a book, from Dr. Seuss to Ayn Rand, and then recite it back to you. Pat has unique abilities unlike anyone I have ever met. He is brilliant. He is priceless. His brain works in ways that mine never will. But he does not fit society's "norm" and these amazing skills often go unappreciated.

I have had a unique life. I grew up with a little brother whose needs were always more important than mine. Acceptance took longer than I wanted it to - strange looks when Pat acted out in public, the uncomfortable look on my friends’ faces when after months of thinking about it I decided I trusted them enough to come to my house.

People fear what they do not understand. Please don’t ever be afraid to ask someone with a disability or someone close to them a question. Understanding is the key to acceptance. Understand that everyone is different and some people need extra help, extra time, extra attention and a little extra love.

Autism exposes some tough, scary feelings and my parents went through a lot of hard times. It forces you to reevaluate and abandon the life you may have envisioned and begin down

a new, untraveled, unplanned path.

Yet my parents are the most amazing people I have ever met and with their love and dedication, Pat and I have grown into young adults with the utmost respect and gratitude for everything we have.

Autism manifests itself to everyone around it. It affects me, it affects you.

To be the sister of an autistic child

coming from. You lose a lot - that trip to Disney would overwhelm him and your first violin concert might irritate his sensory issues. However, what you gain are irreplaceable life experiences that turn you into a strong, independent and caring adult who knows the true meaning of love, hard work, patience and family.

When I was little they said Pat would basically never speak. I wondered if my brother would ever be able to talk to me and tell me how he felt and why he cried and screamed all the time. I always wondered why we couldn’t leave the house without tears, even to go to the grocery store or why my mom was tying his shoes at 10 years old. I didn’t understand why he didn’t respond to his own name while we screamed “Patrick!” and looked for hours for him as he sat behind a bookcase at Fidelity House and my mom cried cause she thought he was gone.

I wondered if he only knew me as the brown hair stick figure his therapist drew and labeled “Sister - Natalie” in his book of words he would point to when he tried to say something. I wondered if he knew I was his sister, and what it meant to have a big sister. It means you always have someone looking out for you, worrying about you and wishing the best for you.

Then he proved everyone wrong

I wondered if he knew I was his sister, and what it meant to have a big sister.

It means you always have someone looking out for you, worrying about you and wishing the best for you. means every day is crazy and you never know what to expect. It’s stressful, it’s chaotic. You grow up very quickly. It means you don’t exactly know what the future will bring. You deal with a lot of emotions and anxieties that never cross other 8 year old’s minds.

Why are those kids staring at my brother? What are they saying? Please stop flapping your arms.

You hate your sibling, you love your sibling. It is overwhelming at first and that’s okay. If you have a sibling who has a disability, you know where I am

and he spoke. I wondered if he would ever be able to tie his shoes, and when he learned how to tie his shoes, I wondered if he would ever be able to ride a bike. Pat now rides his bike all over the place all by himself.

He is graduating high school. He volunteers every month at food pantries and homeless shelters. He has made strides that could inspire anyone on their darkest days. Now I wonder if he’ll ever be able to drive a car, or live by himself.

While there are a lot of things

VERYSPECIALPEOPLE

I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know, I do know there is nothing Pat canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do. He will face challenges we will never face, but he can do anything. And if he lives with me for the rest of my life I will be the luckiest big sister in the whole world to have every day blessed by the honesty, innocence and joy that someone with autism brings. I am grateful for every single thing I have â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and you should be to.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ever pity yourself. You are incredibly blessed for whatever it is that you have and whoever you can call your family or call a true friend.

Disabilities humble you because you realize all the money in the world, good grades, the newest iPhone and a spotless kitchenâ&#x20AC;Śnone of those things can fix this. Disabilities bring you back to the bare basics where being kind, helpful, patient and loving as much as you can are the most important attributes.

To everyone who has ever been blessed enough to meet Pat, understand that a disability does not give you the right to ever feel you

are worthier than someone else. Be the bigger person, say â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Helloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; first, get informed, ask questions, BE PATIENT, do not judge. Say hello.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use the â&#x20AC;&#x153;râ&#x20AC;? word, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hurtful. It is hurtful to my brother, it is hurtful to my parents, it is hurtful to me and to every single person who cares about someone who is different. Do what you can to help, with your time, mind or money.

And to Patrick â&#x20AC;&#x153;Biggieâ&#x20AC;? Breen, I love you more than words will ever be able to describe. I would not trade you for the anything. I would not change anything, and I would go to the ends of the world for you. The struggles make us stronger. I am the luckiest girl in the world to have learned what life is genuinely about.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about love.

Natalie Breen is a freelance writer from Medford. She is going to be a senior at Suffolk University in the fall.

Her brother Patrick has autism.

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baystateparent magazine is commemorating the Boston Children’s Museum on its 100 year anniversary with this special section

THE

Nurturing 21st Century Skills at Boston Children’s Museum

POWER OF

play COMES A LONG WAY!

baystateparent is collaborating with Boston Children’s Museum to create a new, exciting supplement to our publication, which we’re entitling “The Power of Play.” Each month, we will include

ATTENTION

KIDS

Here are the next 10 in our list:

2. See how many clothes you can pile on top of each other then try to do jumping jacks.

3. Lift up a rock and see what you observe underneath it.

4. Make face paint and paint yourself (and your friends!) silly. Check out some recipes here (wikihow.com/Make-YourOwn-Face-Paint) and here (ehow.com/ how_6452736_homemade-face-paintfood-coloring.html).

5. Build a snowman.

6. Lie on the ground at a local park and see who can count the most different kinds of bugs.

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special features, content, fun ideas (and even some special offers) from this venerable institution which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

100 Ways for Children to Play

1. Pour cream into your coffee, but don’t stir! Watch the beautiful patterns it creates as it swirls around.

38 JULY2013

by Peter Broderick, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Boston Children’s Museum

b ti w a c w g

7. Watch the clouds and talk about what (or who) they look like. Make up stories about these cloud objects, animals and people.

8. Create your own crazy jumps, spins and tumbles.

9. Tickle each other.

10. Make your own tangram set and see how many shapes you can make.

Check out this link for instructions and challenges (beyondthechalkboard.com/ activities/tangrams/).

Early Childhood-A Time for Wonder and Discovery

by Boston Children’s Museum Staff

“WHAT” QUESTIONS • What happened there?

• What did you try?

• What have you changed about what you are making?

• What are some of the ideas you have talked about that you haven’t tried yet?

• What have you seen other people trying?

• What do you notice about ?

• What do you think will happen if we ?

LIFE SCIENCES ACTIVITY Investigate, describe and compare the characteristics that differentiate living things from non-living things.

Try It: Cut out pictures (from magazines, catalogs, etc.) of both living and non-living things. Have children sort them into living vs. non-living on a large board or sheets of paper on the wall. After sorting, discuss their choices and what all living things have in common. Once you all agree on our “rules,” be sure to refer to them again the next time you go for a walk or look out the window!

c “ a o e t w O a o t t m j a n p i l w f c i a a u m s t f e p 1 I t A m c d

Recent technological and scientific breakthroughs, discoveries and inventions are changing the way we learn, work, interact and communicate. In an increasingly complex, changing, competitive and interconnected world we all want to ensure that our children gain the life skills needed to be successful.

Recognizing this need, educators and leaders around the world,have developed the Partnership for 21st Century Skills (p21.org). This partnership advocates for learning environments that complement core subject knowledge in traditional areas of language, math, science and the

social sciences with emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication.

Children’s creative and innovative natures provide the foundation for such learning. Parents can nurture these inherent qualities, as well as encourage a lifelong love of learning, by encouraging play that sparks curiosity, discovery, initiative and personal expression. Play is a gateway to learning.

Through self-directed play children make choices and decisions, confront uncertainty, overcome fears and learn to work together. Playtime is the work of

children.

With a visit to the Boston Children’s Museum, you’ll find a perfect play-based learning space where children can open their young minds and develop these essential 21st century skills.

What’s more, when we promote learning in this play-based museum environment, we can put children on a discovery path to lifelong

Play and Friendship

by Saki Iwamoto, Educator at Boston Children’s Museum

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Boston Children’s Museum’s centennial theme in May was “Friendship.” At the Museum, we see a lot of positive interactions among our little visitors through play. For example, at the emergency exit at the top of the Climber, there are times when a child gets scared to climb down.

Often, another child will come along and kindly reassure the other child and offer a hand so they can climb down together. I often ask their grownups if these children know each other, and many times the answer is, “No, they just met here in the climber.”

These moments just make me smile. I absolutely love seeing children making new friends with each other while playing in the exhibits! Play facilitates interactions and opportunities to learn about others, which are essential when forming positive social skills and friendship. Through play, children can experiment with different ways to interact with others and learn what is appropriate: What happens if I grab a train from him – Oh, he got really upset. Well, what happens if I give my car to her? – She gave me a big smile! Without play, children miss out the opportunity to know how others feel through their actions.

Friends are special peers who nurture empathy and care to others. So, let’s play and make friends!

1. Babies make friends, too!

It is a huge myth that infants and toddlers do not make friends.

Although the concept of friendship may be different from what we typically consider as such, very young children definitely do make friends. Have you

seen your baby trying to touch other babies’ faces? When you leave several babies crawling on the floor, you often see them trying to reach and grab at each other. The instant reaction is often to say, “No, don’t do that” and to remove your baby from the situation.

However, curiosity about others is definitely a form of friendship, and it is a big brain building moment to learn that there are others who exist in the world.

2. Lots of friends or a few special friends?

Some children make a lot of friends while others make a few friends. Is one better than the other? Absolutely not!

Children have different personalities and comfort levels. Instead of the number of friends your child has, the quality of the relationship your child has with his peers is far more important for your child’s social development.

You can ask yourself questions like: Is the peer relationship positive?

How is my child negotiating difficult moments, such as sharing toys?

3. Grown-ups’ roles in building children’s friendship In order for children to develop positive peer relationships, they must feel safe in their primary family relationships. Positive interactions with family members build confidence and a sense of security to explore peer relationships. You also need to take your child’s temperament into consideration. Some children adjust easily to new people and situations, while others are slow to warm up. Both are normal. If your child does not want to talk to someone new at first, just let

her warm up at her own pace. Hosting a play date at your home might help her adjust more easily – the familiar context will ease some of her uncertainty. When children experience some difficulties in their peer relationships, their trusted

learning, innovation and creativity. So come visit us at the Boston Children’s Museum – we can’t wait to watch your children learn and develop their potential right before our eyes.

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adults can be great advisors. However, children need to take the lead sometimes and navigate in their own social circles in order for them to gain independence and develop positive social skills.

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LET’SROLL

New Hampshire From the Magnificent

to the Magical

by tracey prohaska carroll

I

’ve escaped to the White Mountains of New Hampshire many times in my life to take a break from the day to day. Yet, the best experience so far has been exploring the region with my husband and son.

There are so many things to do as a family and they’re all perfect for creating quality time together.

You can easily spend as much time as you’d like in this area of gorgeous views and quaint country settings. However, a long weekend away is all most of us have time for these days. Keeping this in mind, the area is still ideal for just that kind of vacation. Leaving bright and early on a Friday you can easily be on the road and to the first of many exciting destinations, in anywhere from an hour to two, depending on where you leave from in Massachusetts.

Charmingfare Farm in Candia, NH is a great first stop for your family getaway.

Nestled in countryside, the farm offers 42 JULY2013

a natural setting for a variety of wildlife and farm animals. You can see cougars, black bears, wolves and river otters to name a few. Then over in the barn area you’ll find homes for alpacas, cattle, horses, turkeys and sheep. There’s even a Discovery Barn with a hands on petting area where you’ll meet and have an opportunity to feed miniature sheep and goats. Admission is $17 per person and includes a horse-drawn hayride, pony rides (weight limit applies) and the tractor train ride. Children under 2 years old are free. You can easily spend the day. Pack your lunch and enjoy their picnic area. Find out the schedule of events upon your arrival and don’t miss the Birds of Prey show that’s also included with admission.

Check out their website for seasonal events and hours at visitthefarm.com.

Once the kids are tired out after a great day, you can pile back into the car for the next leg of the journey. Lincoln, New Hampshire is just 90 miles away and has many more adventures waiting. Take some time out with an

overnight at one of the many hotels or campgrounds in the area. Simply go to visitnh.gov to find the right accommodations for your family. In addition to the many restaurants and shops in Lincoln you can enjoy the day at Whale’s Tale Water Park, Clark’s Trading Post or my personal favorite, The Flume Gorge. Wake up fresh on Saturday morning and choose your destination.

At Whale’s Tale you and your kids can tackle 11 waterslides. Then get tossed around in a huge wave pool or relax poolside in the sun. If leisure is more your speed, float along the lazy river. Don’t forget about the little ones; watch them enjoy an area built just for them where the water depth is just over a foot.

Maybe you want to stay a little drier for this portion of the trip? In that case head over to the ever popular Clark’s Trading Post. Clark’s is home to their famous trained bears and the White Mountain Central Rail Road. Take in a show starring the bears, ride the steam

powered train or pick from several other activities including a circus show, bumper boats and rock climbing wall.

Having experienced this third option for Lincoln, New Hampshire several times myself, I’m confident you’ll find it as incredible as I do.

Franconia Notch State Park is one of the most beautiful state parks in New England and features the amazing Flume Gorge. The flume consists of a 2-mile self-guided walk through an amazing natural experience. This gorge has spectacular 80-foot granite walls and the views are unbelievable as you watch the water rush through. It’s a wondrous site for visitors of all ages.

There are also two historic covered bridges to walk through along the way.

Plus, you’ll find interesting artifacts and historical information in the Flume Gorge Visitor Center.

Looking to plan an entire day in Franconia Notch State Park and save a little money at the same time? You can purchase a Discovery Pass that will get you a trip through the Flume Gorge

and a round-trip ride on Cannon Mountain’s Aerial Tramway. Pricing, hours and further information can be found at nhstateparks.org.

Hit the road again and you’ll make your way to North Conway, New Hampshire in about an hour. Once more you’ll have your pick of restaurants, shops, hotels, campgrounds and just about anything else you’d need to make your getaway memorable. Two of my family’s preferred restaurants are Peking Sunrise and Delaney’s Hole in the Wall. The first offers the best Chinese food we’ve ever eaten. So much so that my brother-in-law has been known to place a take-out order on his family’s weekends away and bring it all the way back home to enjoy during the week. Delaney’s has great food and a very relaxed atmosphere that’s welcoming to families, complete with brown paper tablecloths perfect for crayon artwork by the kids. My son did his first drawing while dining at that restaurant after a great day at Storyland. It’s still hanging in a frame in his toy room.

There are plenty of free recreational activities too, including hiking many beautiful trails, swimming at the public beach on Conway Lake or on the Saco River and taking in the mountain views at the many scenic overlooks. If you do want to spend a little money though the shopping is ideal and there are plenty of places strategically placed along the way for kids and dads to hang while mom browses the stores.

Settlers Green Outlet Village is one place to go that has a playground centrally located on the property. If you’re looking for that quaint New England shoppers experience head to Main Street in North Conway for shopping. There’s another playground to keep the kids busy for a bit and in the summer months there’s a spray pad as well.

Among the many stores are ice cream parlors, restaurants and another of my family’s beloved treasures, Zeb’s General Store. Zeb’s has been a staple in North Conway Village shopping for more than 20 years. Having the feel and charm of an old time general store, Zeb’s consists of two floors of merchandise. The best part being the 70-feet of penny candy counters chock full of Fireballs, candy necklaces, BitO-Honey, Gum Drops, licorice and so many other yummy treats. Just the fuel you’ll need for the last part of your family journey.

The last two places I recommend are so much fun for the younger kids. My husband and I make it a point each year to get our son to one or the other of these theme parks. The truth is, we live vicariously through our 5-year-old

and have just about as much fun as he does. The first one, which I mentioned a bit earlier, is Storyland and is just minutes away in nearby Glen, New Hampshire. The second is a little bit further, but definitely worth the wait, Santa’s Village in Jefferson, New Hampshire.

Storyland is a place where fairy tales come alive. Walk through the house of the three little bears; visit the old woman who lived in a shoe and sit next to Humpty Dumpty on his wall. When you’re finished walking through the pages of a favorite children’s book there are rides galore, a water spray area and

shows to keep the family entertained.

My little guy loves the Polar Coaster, a great first roller coaster for any child.

The antique cars are also a hit and after he’s done maneuvering his car, we head over to the License Shop and have his photo taken for his official Storyland Driver’s License. New beginning last year, for an additional fee, little princesses in training can have tea with Cinderella herself. Tired of walking? Take a break and ride the train around the park for a while.

Storyland has been making memories for families for 60 seasons, and they are always figuring out new ways to

do so. Be on the lookout for their latest ventures including Wee Willie Winkie’s Activity Building with a large coloring book mural children can add their drawings to. There will also be a life-size Mr. Potato Head activity, and three more themed play areas: construction zone, dinosaur play, and race cars. Their website, storylandnh. com, has all of the information you need along with the opportunity to purchase tickets online.

Is your family looking to boost their Christmas spirit during the summer months? Need to make sure the kids remember Santa is watching all

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Tracey Prohaska Carroll is a freelance writer, wife and mother of one from Athol.

She enjoys spending time with her family at the lake home their fixing up. When she’s not writing, filling the roles of wife or mother, you’ll find her listening to music, reading or boxing for fitness. You can reach her by email traceywrites@mass.rr.com.

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44 JULY2013

year long? Then take a ride over to Jefferson, New Hampshire where it’s Christmas every day at Santa’s Village.

It is a little further north and worth every mile. The park celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and has been owned by three generations of one local family. Not only will the kids have the chance to sit on Santa’s lap and tell them what they want next season, but they can meet his real live reindeer. The rides are as jolly as the man himself.

Pick from the Peppermint Twist, Christmas Carousel, Merry Christmas Wheel, Skyway Sleigh, Yule Log Flume and others. Frosty’s Freezer Ice Cream Shop is great for a scoop of home-made ice cream made right there in the shop.

If you still need cooling off after, put your bathing suit on and make your way to HoHoH2O, the waterpark section of Santa’s Village. Three new slides have been added for this year.

Tickets are also available online for this park at santasvillage.com, and if you really want the Christmas experience they’re open in winter months as well.

There’s no doubt about it, there are numerous things to do with your family in the New Hampshire White Mountain Area. No matter the budget you can plan something spectacular.

Whether it’s picking one destination and enjoying the sites and surprises along the way or splurging and going all out to hit one or two every day your family is sure to have a fantastic time. My husband Jon, son J.J. and I have done both of the above and many variations in between. Each time and each trip, an unforgettable experience is shared by all. The car ride being part of the journey as spending time together as a family can happen anywhere – on a farm, at a waterpark, hiking through natural waterfalls and rocks or even cruising up interstate 93 with your loved ones an arm’s reach away.

Charmingfare Farm 774 High St., Candia (603) 483-5623 visitthefarm.com Whale’s Tale Water Park 481 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln (603) 745-8810 whalestalewaterpark.net Clark’s Trading Post 110 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln (603) 745-8913 clarkstradingpost.com Franconia Notch State Park 9 Franconia Notch Parkway Franconia (603) 823-8800 nhstateparks.org The Flume Gorge 852 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln (603) 745-8391 nhstateparks.org Peking Sunrise Routes 16 & 32, North Conway (603) 356-6976 pekingnorthconway.com Delaney’s Hole in the Wall 2966 White Mountain Highway North Conway (603) 356-7776 delaneys.com Zeb’s General Store 2675 White Mountain Highway North Conway (603) 356-9294 zebs.com Storyland 850 New Hampshire 16, Glen (603) 383-4186 storylandnh.com Santa’s Village 528 Presidential Highway, Jefferson (603) 586-4445 santasvillage.com

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Coed Day Camp • Ages 3-15 • 20+ Camps One Location in Greater Boston

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-XQH $XJXVW &R HG IRU DJHV Traditional Camp activities include archery, arts and crafts, canoeing, kayaking, nature study, music, drama, sports, high and low ropes course, outdoor skills, and swim lessons.

Specialty Camps include Flight, TV Production, Practical Physics, Farm Camp, Drama, Gymnastics, Fort Building, Robotics, Hip Hop, Horseback Riding and a new Arts and Crafts camp. Teen Leadership and Trip and Travel Programs.

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Spending a day at the beach with children is nothing like â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;a day at the beachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or even like â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;a walk in the park,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s certainly nothing like â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;a piece of cake.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; First off, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m completely irritated before we even get to the beach because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m the only one whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sweating profusely making sure we have everything we need. God forbid my kids help me, especially when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all their crap! Snacks, beach toys, towels, chairs, swimsuits, goggles, water shoes, umbrella, blanket, more snacks, drinks, money, cell phone, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, cooler, radio and boogie boards...three of them. By the way we never had all this stuff when we were kids â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially the water shoes.

We didn't have nice shoes to protect our feet as we walk into the water. NO, we had to run around on our crab bitten, bloody feet â&#x20AC;&#x201C; uphill, both ways, in the snow â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it sucked.

Just calm down, Kerri, I tell myself.

You will be totally relaxed when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re lying in the sun on the beach. This will all be worth it after an easy one hour drive, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see. Well, that never happens. That easy one hour drive turns into two with traffic. It takes 45 minutes and three trips to get all the beach equipment out of the car with three whiney kids complaining that we parked too far. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t we get here earlier for a better parking spot?â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Well you shouldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve helped me pack,â&#x20AC;?

I scream. And then I quickly drop everything to run after my oldest son who was running after the beach ball that was rolling across the parking lot and towards the main road. I have no

energy left at this point and it is only 10 a.m. Finally I finish setting up our beach camp making sure I am far away from the carless, young girls in their skimpy bikinis with their belly rings and tramp stamps, thinking to myself that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disgusting while quietly wishing I was them for a day.

I am just about to sit down when all three of my children and some unknown wet kid with seaweed in his pants run across the blanket getting it all sandy, while trying to be the first one to get the blue goggles. The blue goggles were deemed the coolest ones.

So after, battling who gets the blue goggles and helping all my kids, plus seaweed pants into their scuba attire, I sit down for the first time all morning.

I start to relax and feel the sun on my face. Oh, crap I forgot to put sunscreen on. Trying to put sunscreen on a kid is like trying to give a bath to a kitty. They hate it, and they keep clawing at you.

Finally, I get to sit down again for the second time all day. I get a bit more comfortable, so I begin to take off my swim cover to reveal my ever so dreaded white body in a bathing suit. Just then my littlest boy comes up to me soaking wet, shivering and asking for his towel.

I am up again looking for his towel that was, of course, deep in the bottom of the bag making me bend over. Now my butt is creating a not so nice full moon effect all over the beach. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mommy can you hold me, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m so cold,â&#x20AC;? he says. So I wrap him up in his towel, and I hold him tightly across by body thinking who needs SPF 30. I got my â&#x20AC;&#x153;sonâ&#x20AC;? screen right here.

The day continues with me getting up

for snacks, getting up again for more snacks because the old ones now have sand all over them. Getting up for the ice cream man and getting up again, chasing the ice cream man down the road because sure enough my youngest drops his in the sand and has a complete melt down. Getting up again because I hear a request â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mom, can we bury you?â&#x20AC;? I wanted to say when Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m dead you can, but being the cool mom that I am I let them. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m still cleaning out sand in crevices I didn't even know I had.

All in all it was a great workout session for me and a wonderful day at the beach for the kids. So, if your summer is like this and you really need a break you must come to my Mommy Minute Party Event on July 19, at Foxwoods Casino. Visit mymommyminute.com for more information.

Dirty Laundry columnist Kerri Louise is a comedienne and mother of three boys. Her recent credit includes: Nick Mom on Nickelodeon, Stand Up in Stilettos for the TV Guide channel. Kerri was a semi finalist on Last Comic Standing on NBC and she has a monthly webisode called Mommy Minute at www.mymommyminute.com.

This monthly humor column is about day-today life raising kids. Basically itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about not being afraid to air out the â&#x20AC;&#x153;dirty laundryâ&#x20AC;? and say it like it is, making the rest of us not feel so alone.

To book comedienne Kerri Louise, contact Dawn Christensen at Loretta LaRoche Productions: Dawn@lorettalarocheproductions.com or 508-746-3998, x 15.

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Call for details on our summer specials.

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Big Joe $OO $JHV %LUWKGD\ 3DUWLHV 6FKRROV )DLUV 'D\ &DUH &HQWHUV (WF

the Storyteller Storytelling fun for Birthday Parties, Schools, Daycare Centers, Library Programs, Special Events and TV Featuring:

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For Bookings and Info Call: 617-713-4349 E-mail: BigJoe@BigJoe.com Visit me on the web at: www.BigJoe.com

Contact: Matt Leskanic Contact 617-429-4522 â&#x20AC;˘ Cardsharkshows@gmail.com www.cardsharkmagic.net

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Have you ever wanted to pet, hold or just touch a turtle, ball python or bearded dragon?

Reptile Circus connects kids to reptiles P Birthday Parties, Preschool & Camp Visits

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Mobile Video Game Theater

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BAYSTATEPARENT 47

Child Care Centers and Preschools

Christian Preschool The best dir ectory of professionals fr om the Best P arenting Publication in

America.

A Ministry of Trinity Lutheran Church

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ur directory is called bspADvantage because it offers our readers the distinct ADvantage of helping them make choices about extracurricular activities and hiring professionals in a clear and organized way. And it offers advertisers a cost-effective ADvantage over other advertising options, in addition to reaching our 100,000+ loyal readers across the Bay State. Get the bspADvantage today!

All are welcome at our nurturing and safe environment for children from the community as well as children of church members! With a low child-to-teacher ratio and flexible scheduling, we’re here to meet the needs of your family! Our hands on activities, language rich environment, open-ended art projects, creative thinking and problem solving all contribute to the development of individual strengths.

Facilities include an indoor gymnasium, enclosed outdoor play area, and kitchen for cooking projects. Licensed by the Department of Early Education and Care.

Located with easy access to I-290 and near several colleges. Directly across from the Worcester Art Museum.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Two weeks free tuition with this ad (new enrollment only).

73 Lancaster Street, Worcester, MA • 508-753-2989 • www.trinityworc.org/tlc-preschool-2

Children’s Drawing Classes

Career and Life Coaching for Women Could you use expert support in achieving your goals? As a personal development expert I help you clarify exactly what you want – then accelerate your progress in an empowering, work smarter-not-harder approach. For example, want to develop a stronger work-life balance, become more organized, succeed at time management, manage decisions better, have an ally who understands and supports you? Bring your challenges to me. Through my affordable, convenient coaching you’ll get the results you deserve!

Marie Wetmore Lion’s Share Coaching

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? A free discovery session and 25% off first coaching package.

Serving Massachusetts and beyond • 781-670-7090 • www.lionssharecoaching.com

Child Care Centers and Preschools

Laurie Sherman Director

15 Hill Street, Worcester, MA • 508-791-3100 • www.appleseedelc.com

For the past 14 years, Blossom Station has been a leader in early childhood education by providing a nurturing environment to families that encourages each and every child with “Intentional Curriculum” that allows them to reach their potential academically, socially, emotionally and physically. We also provide quality enrichment programs in science, math, music, fitness, foreign language, community outreach and more! Inquire about our flexible, year round programs. We’re currently enrolling infants, toddlers, pre-K, Kindergarten and before and after school children in our spacious safe, secure indoor and outdoor play areas.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Registration fee waived with this ad.

222 Main Street, Acton, MA • 978-266-2779 • www.BlossomStation.com 48 JULY2013

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Save 10% with the code “bsp” Serving SW Boston and Central Mass • 508-925-8969 www.youngrembrandts.com/swboston-centralma

Divorce, Fa mily Law and Mediation Services

It’s important for children to have a healthy environment where they feel wanted, respected and secure. Through a developmental approach, we’ve created such a place providing daily opportunities to explore and create through varied learning activities. Our interactive and child-centered offerings take place in a very supportive environment which features 3 different classrooms designed for 12-24 months, 2-3 year olds and pre-school children. We’re also in a great location, easy on/off I-290 in Central Worcester!

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Registration fee waived with this ad.

Brenda Katz Owner & Director

Elizabeth Leitko, Program Director

Did you know that over 80% of kids are VISUAL? And that research and education experts agree there’s a significant correlation between involvement in the arts and achievement in the classroom? That’s why for over 20 years we’ve had such success bringing affordable, accessible and fun drawing classes to children ages 3-1/2 to 12 at pre-schools, elementary schools, community centers and any other group settings! We can “Unlock your child’s potential with the Power of Art.”

Attorney Polly A. Tatum

Divorce Mediation with Worcester County’s Top Divorce Mediator: when it comes to the sensitive, complicated issues around family law and divorce mediation, you want a proven, compassionate expert to guide you through the process. Divorce, Child Support, Custody, Alimony, Property Division, Dividing Your Debts can be highly complicated. Polly A. Tatum has the experience and solutions to help you and your family – and to satisfy how local judges respond to your mediation agreements.

Ninety percent of our clients come from referrals from satisfied former clients. Come read our clients’ testimonials to learn more. Our office can accommodate all work life schedules, Sun thru Sat 9am – 9pm.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Complimentary 1/2 hour consultation and $100 your first session.

45 Linden Street, Worcester and Serving All of MASS• 508-795-1557 • www.mediationadvantage.com

Pawlak Law Office and Mediation Center

Mediation is what we do. Specializing in marital and family conflict resolution, we are experts at giving you the support, information and guidance you need to turn conflict into an opportunity to create optimum choices for your future.

We provide a comfortable and very supportive environment for all parties, with flexible appointment hours, convenient satellite offices throughout Massachusetts and a commitment to cost effective solutions for you. Learn more by calling or emailing us today.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? One complimentary consultation.

515 Main Street, Fitchburg, MA • 978-345-5132 • paralegal@pawlaklegal.com

Music Classes and Lessons Learn to play piano with me! I offer a variety of lessons: Parent & Child, Private, Group and With A Friend. Come join the fun! Lessons are designed to have you making music right away and are taught at my studio or your home, school or church.

My “Natural Approach” focuses on the sheer pleasure of playing music. To learn more, explore my web site and let’s talk about the lesson plan for you.

Kate Hanley Kate Hanley Piano Studio

Serving Central Mass and MetroWest • 774-329-9758 www.katehanley.com

Music Classes and Lessons Enthusiastic youngsters and delighted parents are part of our every day experience. We offer playful, age-appropriate, small group piano lessons for children ages 3-14, conveniently located at your child’s school! By hiring extraordinary teachers, honing a unique curriculum and giving children and parents individualized attention, we’ve been instilling a love of music in children for over 10 years now. We provide the instructor and the instrument. (Guitar and in-home private lessons also available.)

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? No registration fee for group classes and first book free for private lessons.

Serving Eastern Massachusetts • 617-999-8794 www.pianoplaytime.com

Personal Training How’s that New Year’s resolution working out for you? Is it time to reset your fitness and wellness goals? Then come work with me to obtain the results you’ve always wanted. I’ll help you create a solid foundation and your personalized wellness blueprint for success. With 20 years of satisfied clients, I know what works for real people. Re-balance your life and enjoy solid success. Real people + Real world workouts = Real results!

Jennifer Smith Body by Smith

Wilson Multisensory Learning Program

Is your child on grade level? I can help. Summer’s a great time for me to help improve their reading skills in all subjects, which is essential to reaching their full academic potential and prepares them for their next academic year! My one to one sessions using the proven Wilson Reading System has brought quick and excellent results to my students, for over 10 years. Now your child can join our community of excited readers!

Linda Donoian Special Ed and Elementary Ed

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Discounts on multiple sessions.

Serving Central Mass • 508-769-5205 • ldonoian@msn.com

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? One Complimentary Lesson.

Molly Howard Founder & Instructor

Tutoring

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? One Complimentary consultation.

Discounts for groups. See website for more details.

Serving Central Massachusetts 508-561-6240 • www.bodybysmith.com

WHAT’S YOUR

ADvantage: Do you “qualify” for an ADvantage? You do if you provide a valuable, personalized and skilled service to our readers and/ or their children! Here are just some of the many categories we want to feature each month: • Adoption specialists • Au pair/nanny placement agencies • Child, family & marriage counseling • Doulas & Midwives • Fertility experts • Lactation consultants • Massage therapists • Musical instrument and singing instructors

• Newborn care specialists • Nutritionists • Orthodontists • Pediatric Dentists • Pediatricians • Speech therapists • Wellness coaches • And more...

Ads average $120/mo and include COMPLIMENTARY

Head Shots, Design and Copywriting $150 Value

Private School Cornerstone Academy is a private school dedicated to the education of children from Transitional Kindergarten through Grade 6. We offer an academically challenging environment that utilizes a blend of traditional and innovative teaching techniques, such as hands-on teaching models to reinforce concepts and experiential learning through experimentation and field trips.

Karen McQuade Director

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Half off application fee with this ad.

Northboro, MA • 508-351-9976 • www.cornerstoneacademy.org

The best dir ectory of professionals fr om the Best P arenting Publication in

America.

For more information email sales@baystateparent.com BAYSTATEPARENT 49

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INDEX Applegate Organics ............................ 39,51 Athlete for Autism ................................... 37 Attorney Connors .................................... 50 Ballet Arts Worcester ............................... 44 Berkshire Hills Music Academy .................. 31 BoomWriter Storytellers Camp .................... 6 Boroughs JCC ......................................... 40 Boston Ballett .......................................... 9 Boston Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum ....................... 38 Breezy Picnic Grounds ............................. 19 Button Tree Kids ..................................... 40 Canobie Lake Park .................................. 14 Charlotte Klein........................................ 15 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden.................................... 40 Circus Smirkus........................................ 43 Claytime................................................ 14 CoCoKey Water Resort ............................... 3 Concord Academy ................................... 45 Cutie Patuties ........................................... 5 Davis Farmland ................................... 9,13 Ecotarium .............................................. 19 Elite Dance ............................................ 21 Employment Options ............................... 31 Fay School ............................................ 45 Girls Inc ................................................. 45

Health Alliance ....................................... 31 Inn at East Hill ....................................... 28 Learning Zone ........................................ 18 Little Hands Academy .............................. 21 Lowell Summer Music Series .................... 13 Metrowest YMCA .................................... 46 Music Together ......................................... 4 New England Kids Dentist ........................ 44 New Horizon .......................................... 35 Next Generation Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center ............... 4 Pakachoag Music School.......................... 46 Pawlak Law Office .................................. 35 Perfectly Greem Cleaning ......................... 45 Perkins-Wonder Baby.org ......................... 33 Portrait Simple ......................................... 2 ReadyMed/Reliant ................................. 37 Riverbend School .................................... 51 Salvador Auto ........................................ 50 Semi-New Computers .............................. 35 Seven Hills ............................. 30,33,35,50 Smugglerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notch Family Resort................ 23 Speech-Language & Hearing .................... 28 Summer Fenn .......................................... 6 Worcester JCC ........................................ 15 YMCA ................................................... 21

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limited openings for fall 2013 15 months - grade 8

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