BaystateParent June 2022

BaystateParent MASSACHUSETTS’

PREMIER MAGAZINE FOR FAMILIES SINCE 1996

+

The one tip that can save kids from drowning Father’s Day fun: 7 cool events for dads Splash pad & spray park guide

SECRET

gardens Magical places to explore with kids

JUNE 2022 | PRICELESS

2 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

Table of

contents June 2022

volume 27

number 2

in every issue 5 6 7 8 9

Editor’s note Good to Know Finally Forever DIY: Ice Chalk Paints Herding Goofballs

Lemonade, the perfect summer drink, meets strawberry, the yummiest summer fruit.

on the agenda 14

The List: 7 Cool Father’s Day Events

15

Adventures: 18 Things to do with the Kids This Month

bites 20

Goose’s Goodies: Strawberry Lemonade

21

Local moms band together amid formula shortage

features BaystateParent

10

MASSACHUSETTS’

+

PREMIER MAGAZINE

FOR FAMILIES SINCE

1996

JUNE 2022 | PRICELESS

The one tip that can save kids from drowning

Cover Story: Children’s Gardens Your Kids Will Really Dig

Father’s Day fun: 7 cool events for dads Splash pad & spray park guide

SECRET

gardens Magical places to explore with kids

22

These Are The Safest Colors For Children’s Swimsuits

on the cover Max Bernier, 4, of Brookfi eld, sits by a reflecting pond at the Secret Garden in Shrewsbury.

AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 3

BaystateParent Executive editor Dave Nordman

CREATIVE Editor in chief Amanda Collins Bernier

Designer Kayla Filion

ADVERTISING Sales manager Brittany Prendiville 774­420­4095 bprendiville@localiq.com

Account executive Kathy Puffer 508­767­9544 kpuffer@localiq.com

Account executive Regina Stillings 508­767­9546 rstillings@localiq.com baystateparent is published monthly and is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts.

100 Front Street, 5th Floor Worcester, MA 01608

Proud supporters of

Amy’s first steps (508) 425-5857 reliantmedicalgroup.org/kids 4 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

Do you have a story idea?

We want to hear from you!

Email your suggestion to acollinsbernier@gannett.com

ONLINE baystateparent.com

FACEBOOK baystateparent magazine

2020

MY

favorite GETTY IMAGES

THINGS

BUBBLELICK

editor’s note

GET T

Y IM AGES

Apparently my kids aren’t the only ones who’ve tried to lick the bubble wand. Bub­ blelick off ers a twist on the beloved child­ hood activity with edible bubbles – think fl ying candy! Flavors include watermelon, cinnamon roll, cotton candy, and chocolate chip.

The annual Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl – the sweetest cancer fundraiser ever – moves from Boston to Patriot Place in Fox­ borough this year. On June 18, enjoy all­ you­can­eat ice cream, live entertainment, games, and more, all for a good cause!

I’ve had four years of kiddie pools and pop­ sicles, beach days and fi reside s’mores, but I’m counting this as my fi rst real summer as a mom.

That’s because for the fi rst time for me, summer ushers in more than sunscreen and slurpees – it marks the end of the school year, and the beginning of months on end with a kid at home. The reprieve from lunchbox packing and that seemingly endless afterschool pick­ up line is welcome, but I can almost hear him already telling me how bored he is.

Though experts say there are actually benefi ts to a little boredom – unscheduled, unstructured time can help kids discover or reconnect with their imagination and creativ­ ity – it’s good to have some ideas for enter­ taining the kids up your sleeve.

First, fi nd your go­to place to cool off this summer. Maybe it’s a pool or sprinkler in the backyard, a town beach, or a sandy seashore.

For even more playful water fun, check out the Splash Pad and Spray Park Guide on page 19, with over a dozen places to get your splash on.

Part water park, part playground, these sum­ mer spots are a big hit with kids of all ages.

And, since many are free, these cool­off spots are pretty chill with parents, too!

You’ll also want some ideas for getting out­ side. Summer is the perfect time to explore nature, and there are some lovely, local gar­ dens that are worth a walk. On page 11, we’ve rounded up fi ve gardens created just for kids, including a secret spot in Shrewsbury full of whimsy and wonder, and The Ramble, in Boylston, a just­opened woodland retreat at the New England Botanic Garden.

Make sure you're stocked up on things to keep the little ones busy at home, too. Bubbles and sidewalk chalk are cheap, easy, and time­ less. On page 10, see how to take your chalk art to the next level by making ice chalk paints.

Perfect for a hot summer day!

The next school year will be here before we know it. Until then, enjoy the break, have some fun, and soak it all in.

Amanda

Who doesn’t love a donut? June 3 marks National Donut Day and shops are cele­ brating with a “hole” lotta freebies. Go to baystateparent.com for a roundup of the delicious deals.

WIPEOUT

You might not even have to nag your kid to wear this bike helmet: Wipeout makes dry­erase protective gear that children can draw on, wipe off , draw again. In addition to helmets and pads, they just launched a cool dry­erase skateboard.

BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 5

GOOD TO

know G

ET

TY

IM

AG

ES

v Two kid­friendly establishments are offering free admission on select days this summer.

The Discovery Museum in Acton hosts First Friday Nights Free, with no­cost admission to explore the museum and Discovery Woods on June 3 from 4:30­ 7:30 p.m. Reservations are required and can be made 10 days in advance.

x Strawberries, spinach and kale are the top offend­ ers on this year’s Dirty Dozen list, an annual ranking of the most pesticide­laden produce by the nonprof­ it advocacy organization Environmental Working Group.

LITTLE FREE LIBRARY

GETTY IMAGES

Long Hill, a Trustees estate with lush gardens and walking paths in Beverly, is offering no­cost admission once a month through September. The stunning house and gardens, woodland trails, and horticultural learning campus will open for free this month on June 24. Pre­registration is required.

Also among the top 12: collard and mustard greens, nectarines, apples, grapes, bell and hot peppers, cherries, peaches, pears, celery and tomatoes. Kale, collard and mustard greens, hot peppers and bell peppers had the most pesticides, according to the group. A single sample of kale, collard and mustard greens had up to 21 different pesticides.

x A new Little Free Library opened at the YWCA of Central Massachusetts Westborough Early Education Childcare Center.

Onions, papaya, frozen sweet peas, asparagus, hon­ eydew melon, kiwi, cabbage, mushrooms, cantaloupe, mangoes, watermelon and sweet potatoes were also on the “clean” list. Nearly 70% of the fruits and veg­ gies on the list had no detectable pesticide residues, while just under 5% had residues of two or more pes­ ticides, the report said.

w The state Department of Recreation will offer free “Learn to Swim” classes at various DCR­managed pools this summer.

GETTY IMAGES

The lessons are available on a first­come first­ serve basis to children ages 4­plus and will be held in three, two­week sessions. Children must be at least 4 years old by the first lesson.

Check your local DCR swimming pool’s website to be alerted to when lessons are announced and for registration information. You can find a list of DCR pools at mass.gov/swimming­ pools­wading­pools­and­spray­decks.

6 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

STOREY PU

Want produce with the least amount of pesticides?

Avocados, sweet corn and pineapple topped the group’s “Clean Fifteen.”

BLISHING

The group recommends consuming organic versions of these fruits and vegetables if possible, to limit exposure to pesticides.

The Little Free Library will make anti­racist literature freely acces­ sible to children and adults in the community. It’s the second Little Free Library installed in Westbor­ ough; the first was installed on Juneteenth last year at 27 Olde Coach Road. A map of other book­ sharing boxes in the state is at littlefreelibrary.org.

x New nature workbooks for kids are building nature literacy and knowl­ edge while also supporting Mass Audubon.

The nonprofit teamed up with North Adams­based Storey Publishing to create Nature Smarts, a series that just launched with two books featuring outdoor science experiments, puzzles, and hands­on projects based on the organization’s acclaimed nature camp curriculum. The workbooks, for ages 4 to 6 and 7 to 9, introduce kids to the investigation method, geology, earth science, wildlife habits, and basic botany. With activities to do indoors and outdoors, these books are sure to keep kids engaged all summer. Available wherever books are sold, including all Mass Audubon gift shops, Nature Smarts Workbooks $9.95 each with proceeds providing financial aid to Mass Audubon summer programs at wildlife sanctuaries across the state.

FINALLY

forever

June’s Child: Meet Raelynn

Welcome Summer 2022!

Raelynn, 4, is a very special little girl.

Raelynn is a sweet young girl of caucasian descent who enjoys play­ ing with her toys, listen­ ing to music, going out­ side on the swings and taking long walks in her stroller. Raelynn also loves receiving attention and having physical con­ tact with those around her. Her social worker de­ scribes her as “precious” and “very special.”

Raelynn has complex medical needs and with support she has been able to make great progress.

She is currently not able to walk or crawl and will most likely be wheel­ chair­dependent. Howev­ er, her providers say that over the past year she has made great progress in terms of her health and cognitive development and especially in her so­ cial development. Al­ though Raelynn has re­ sided in a medical facility her whole life, she has re­ cently been able to transi­ tion to a specialized foster home.

Legally freed for adop­ tion, Raelynn’s social worker is seeking a loving family of any constella­ tion that is able to support her medical and develop­ mental needs. Her social worker feels that Raelynn will do well as an only child or with siblings. Any family for Raelynn must be open to helping her maintain a relationship with her paternal grand­ parents who are very in­

OPENING WEEKEND JUNE 11 & 12 Open Daily starting June 17 3 – 300 Ft Waterslides | Lake Swimming | Picnic Grounds Snack Bar | Certified Lifeguards WM-30215662

volved in her care and medical treatment.

If you’re at least 18, have a stable source of in­ come and room in your heart, you may be a per­ fect match to adopt a waiting child. Adoptive parents can be single, married or partnered; ex­ perienced or not; renters or homeowners; LGBTQ+ singles and couples. As an adoptive parent, you won’t have to pay any fees; adoption from foster care is completely free in

Massachusetts.

The process to adopt a child from foster care in­ cludes training, inter­ views and home visits to determine if adoption is right for you. These steps will help match you with a child or sibling group that your family will fi t well with.

To learn more about adoption from foster care, call the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Ex­ change at (617) 964­6273 or visit www.mareinc.org.

520 Northwest Main Street., Douglas, MA 01516 www.breezysummer.com

BaystateParent BaystatePa rent is a monthly pu blicat dedicated t ion o the families o Massachuse f tts

MEDICAL ADVICE WHEN YOU ARE ON THE GO. DOWNLOAD OUR FREE SYMPTOM CHECKER APP TODAY! Our Health eCheck app helps you make decisions on what type of medical care is needed when your child falls off their bike or has a persistant cough.

Search from a list of symptoms or by body area.

We are available at more than 1,000 locations across more than 90 cities and towns in Massachusetts.

Do you have a story idea?

Email your suggestion to acollinsbernier@gannett.com

BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 7

DIY

Ice Chalk Paints While this activity can be done indoors using a large sheet of paper, it is best done outdoors on a hard surface so that your children can make huge movements as they explore the diff erent color paints.

What You Need

Chalk Paint

h Chalk paint or Tastesafe chalk paint (see recipes at right)

h Colored chalks

h Adhesive putty h Ice­cube trays h Popsicle sticks h Paintbrush

Preparation & Instructions 1. Make your chalk paints in several colors the night before you want to do this activity.

HOW TO CREATE LITTLE HAPPY LEARNERS

2. Press a little adhesive putty into the bottom of each compartment in the ice­cube trays.

3. Push a popsicle stick into each piece of putty.

4. Pour the various colors of chalk paint into the tray and freeze overnight.

h 1 tablespoon water per color Place a colored chalk stick in a sealable plastic bag (one color per bag).

Using a rolling pin or hammer, crush the chalk into a fi ne powder.

Add the water and stir until a paste forms.

Taste-Safe ‘Chalk’ Paint h 1 tablespoon cornstarch h 2 tablespoons water h Gel food coloring Place the cornstarch, water and a drop of food coloring in a bowl and mix well.

Continue mixing in the coloring a drop at a time until you get the shade you want.

Repeat this process to make as many colors as you like.

Through the Ages AGE 1+ Make taste­safe chalk paint and spread out a large sheet of paper. Explore with your toddler how the paints melt. Can you paint a rainbow together?

AGE 2+ Experiment with the ice cubes. Prompt your child to paint their hands and feet, and to make footprints.

AGE 3+ Encourage your child to make different marks with the ice cubes. Prompt them to use the

popsicle sticks, their hands and feet, and even a paintbrush. What do they notice happens when they change tools?

AGE 4+ Look at a wet painting and then look at a dry painting. What does your child notice is different between wet and dry paint?

AGE 5+ Explore mixing the chalk paint colors. Can it be done? What happens to each of the colors?

Prompt your child to tell you exactly what they have painted.

Excerpted from “How to Create Little Happy Learners” by Sophie David, which features 60 fun, tried and tested activities for parents and their children to enjoy.

8 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

HERDING

goofballs

CHECKING IN Josh Farnsworth Guest Columnist

1. The lights of downtown Montreal.

2. A glamorous, modern ball at the nicest club in the city.

3. On a historic American fi eld watching a Civil War era cannon fi re a shot into the night sky.

4. Small, stinky feet jamming into my ribs in a cook­ ie cutter hotel room.

Those are some of the impactful sights I have been lucky enough to witness on New Year’s Eves through­ out my life. You have one guess to solve the mystery of which one of those examples came while with kids.

(Hint: my ribs are on the mend.)

No. 4 occurred this past New Year’s Eve. It’s a holi­ day that lost much of its luster for me once sleep be­ came more scattered in parenthood. In an eff ort to re­ vitalize the holiday, our family of four decided to grab a hotel room close to the coast so we could watch the fi rst sunrise of the new year come up over the Atlantic Ocean.

Despite a cloudy morning ruining the sun’s fi rst tri­ umphant hello of 2022, the weekend was a complete success thanks to an unlikely hero: the hotel.

After spending three separate nights at three diff er­ ent modest hotels in the past six months, nothing has captured my two boys’ amazement and collective wonder as an overnight stay in a chain hotel.

Our rooms are hardly the high roller suites in a swanky Las Vegas casino. Nope. Just the ones where the smell of burnt lobby coff ee collides with waves of chlorine hitting you when the door to the pool room opens and shuts.

The experience of staying at a local­ish hotel seems backwards: diverting money from my mortgage obli­ gation of paying for the rooms in my building (Read: home) to pay extra for money to sleep in a diff erent room of a diff erent building.

After our third such overnight stay, it was clear how excited my kids get when staying at a hotel. Namely, the fl ood of tears that comes when it is time to leave is a dead giveaway. What wasn’t so clear was one ques­ tion…

Why??

The things they were reacting so positively to didn’t help answer anything…

Them: “We have a bed!”

Me: “You HAVE a bed at home. And it’s bigger there.”

Them: “We have a weird, cool thing in this closet.”

Me: “That’s an iron. We won’t be needing to iron your Sonic the Hedgehog shirt today. Also, once again, we have one at home.”

Them: (looking at a single plastic cup in the room

covered by a clear plastic bag) “It’s so fancy!”

Me: Fancy? We routinely buy 100 of these at a time for $3.

Them: (Gasp). “They have Starburst candies in the vending machine!”

Me: You have Starburst candies in your luggage right there! Remember that you begged me to get some?

They didn’t remember. Oh well.

Without question, the biggest attraction at the hotel is the pool. And I get it. To swim anywhere in New Eng­ land before Memorial Day without a wetsuit is a lavish treat. But on one of our stay overs, the pool ­ declared swimmable and open by hotel personnel ­ sat cold and cloudy with a deep green fi lm forming at the bottom.

Still, it was to quote two young goofballs I was stay­ ing with, the “best trip ever!”

Did the green­sludged pool fumes impact their judgment?

Their overwhelming joy couldn’t have been the al­ lure of the continental breakfast either. With their food allergies, other eating arrangements were made. So close to the do­it­yourself waffl e maker, yet so far from an answer.

Why then? Why? I asked them plenty of questions in the days that followed each trip to learn what I could. After listening to their answers, remembering their reactions and the answer became clear.

We broke our routine and created a new experience.

That’s it.

While it may seem a bit hilarious to think of kids needing to break free of the daily grind, that’s some­ times what everyone needs, age 4­114. We invested our time and energy and found a way to provide each other with a new adventure ­ even if much of the “new expe­ rience” was doing what we normally do in a diff erent setting.

While our muse seems to be an occasional trip to a hotel, I could see other families fi nding similar new ex­ perience traditions ­ ones that don’t need to cost a dime. Just think, plan and go.

You’ll be rewarded, I promise. If you could see the reaction they got from a wrapped paper cup or a vend­ ing machine snack, you’d understand. These hotels might as well have been the twinkling Montreal New Year’s lights or the fancy ball in the big city.

Maybe even better. No, defi nitely better.

Taking a New Year’s Eve trip to a hotel is offi cially our new tradition. Here’s to hoping we see the sun this time around. Even if we don’t, there will still be plenty of coff ee waiting for me in the lobby to keep me awake.

And that burnt smell? It’s just the scent of our one­ night home away from home.

Josh Farnsworth is a husband, father of goofballs Cooper and Milo, goofball himself, and award­win­ ning writer and columnist living in Worcester. He can be reached for column ideas at josh.farnsworth@ya­ hoo.com.

BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 9

cover story

W

E D R N ING A

welcome

The Ramble, a garden for kids, opens at New England Botanic Garden Amanda Collins Bernier Bay State Parent Magazine | USA TODAY NETWORK

E

arthy and colorful, with so much to see and smell, a botanical garden might just be the perfect place for children to explore, though it might not be the fi rst place parents think of bringing them. But a newly opened space at the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill more than wel­ comes curious kids – “it’s an explicit invitation,” says the organization’s CEO.

10 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

Grace Elton describes The Ramble, a whimsical 1.5­ acre garden, as “not a playground, not just garden, but somewhere in between.” It offi cially opened in May at the sprawling botanical garden in Boylston, formerly known as Tower Hill.

“This is a huge invitation,” Elton said, referring to kids and families. “This is a space that we created just for you.”

While the entire 170­acre campus, with its 18 dis­ tinct gardens, open woodland spaces, hiking trails and apple orchard, has always been family friendly, Elton said they’re hoping to draw more children and parents with the addition of “a little whimsy and a little fun.”

The Ramble has been in the works for at least a doz­ en years, as the NEBG community dreamed of a garden that would inspire the next generation of nature lov­ ers. Designed by renowned landscape architect and artist W. Gary Smith, it’s among a growing number of gardens created for children that have popped up around the country in recent years, according to The Cultural Landscape Foundation. But community chil­ dren’s gardens date back much further; one of the fi rst, according to the American Horticultural Society, is the River Farm Children’s Garden, based in Alexandria, Virginia, which opened in the 1990s and includes sev­ eral themed areas for kids including a bat cave and a prairie garden.

With fully accessible paths and immersive activ­ ities, The Ramble draws families in ways not possible at Tower Hill in the past. Children can climb and scramble tree stumps in the “Stumerpy,” crawl through a tunnel of woven branches, or play lawn games in the grass. It’s a botanical garden where parents won’t fi nd themselves yelling “don’t touch that!”

Still, it has the stately beauty you’d expect from a botanical garden. Landscaped with hundreds of pe­ rennials, shrubs, and trees, it features a brook, a pond, and waterfall.

“It’s more of a child­scale garden that really wel­ comes them and use their imagination,” said Elton.

There’s also an outcrop amphitheater, a pavilion for outdoor classes, picnic tables, and quiet spots for reading or drawing. A forage garden with edible plants will be used to teach children where food comes from.

Family­friendly amenities at The Ramble include bathrooms and handwashing stations. Inside, there is a Mamava lactation pod for breastfeeding or pumping parents.

The New England Botanic Garden has long boasted unique off erings for children and families. They hold workshops like fairy house making and insect safaris, themed week­long celebrations over school vacations, and Garden Bud classes geared toward preschoolers.

Elton says the opening of The Ramble will make for even more robust children’s programming. The space will host drop in activities, nature play days, and even birthday parties.

“Every day of the week there will be something go­ ing on,” she said.

New England Bontanic Garden is dog­friendly and open daily 10 a.m.­5 p.m. Tickets are available in­per­ son, or online at negb.org.

The new garden is fully accessible.

TOP: Daily activities for kids will be offered at NEBG’s newest garden.

FACING: A tunnel of woven branches for children to crawl through at The Ramble. PHOTOS COURTESY NEW ENGLAND BOTANIC GARDEN AT TOWER HILL

BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 11

MASS HORT

A checking account that makes the grade Our free Student Checking account is designed with input from educators to help parents guide their children towards adopting excellent money management skills.

Open a new Student Checking account in the month of April and get $25 deposited to your account!*

4 MORE

gardens YOUR KIDS WILL REALLY DIG

Central One Student Checking account features

• No minimum balance required • No monthly fees • 55,000 fee free ATM’s1

Weezie’s Garden for Children at The Garden at Elm Bank

• Instant card replacement if lost or stolen

Massachusetts Horticultural Society’s Garden at Elm Bank in Wellesley boasts this playful garden for kids. Inspired by an unfurling fern, the garden layout mimics a series of fern fronds, each ‘frond’ or ‘room’ off ering a diff erent theme to engage the senses. Rooms include a pollinator garden, backyard wildlife garden, and more.

A highlight of this garden is the misting water feature surrounded by colorful stones. The stones are petrifi ed wood, a form of fossil, which ties into the prehistor­ ic plants and ginkgo tree growing nearby.

Stop to smell the fragrant fl owers in the Pollinator Garden, which support diff er­ ent pollinators, such as bees, moths, and butterfl ies. Then, feel the fuzzy leaves of lamb’s ear and mullein as you settle into the birds’ nests of the Backyard Wildlife Garden. Listen to the babbling water in the New England Waterways Garden and search for fi sh and tadpoles hiding in the shade of plants that grow there. Look for themes like a Native American Garden and a Victory Garden.

Weezie’s Garden for Children is among 16 distinct gardens at the 36­acre Garden at Elm Bank, including a Goddess Garden, Temple and Asian Garden, and a Maple Grove where concerts, picnics and events are held.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society hosts an array of youth and family pro­ grams. Drop­in programs are off ered three mornings a week: Garden Tails Story Time on Mondays and Wednesdays and Family Fun in the Garden on Saturdays.

Throughout the year, seasonal events feature activities geared toward children and families, including Christmas in July from July 23­31.

The Garden at Elm Bank is open daily, April 1 through Oct. 31. Children 12 and under are free. More at masshort.org.

• Card Control App - monitor & manage your card • 24/7 Online banking2

Primary account holder must be 13 years or older. If under 18 years of age, a parent or guardian must be on the account jointly.

SERVING ALL OF WORCESTER COUNTY

800-527-1017 centralfcu.com/free-checking WM-30216078

Amanda Collins Bernier Bay State Parent Magazine | USA TODAY NETWORK

1

Free ATM network includes Central One, SUM and AllPoint terminals. Out of network terminal owners may charge a service fee. 2 Please note: Online Bill Pay is not available for this account. *New accounts only. Terms and conditions apply.

12 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

BERKSHIRE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Children’s Discovery Garden at the Berkshire Botanical Garden

Located on 100 acres on the banks of Shawme Pond in Sandwich, Heritage Museums and Gardens have something for everyone, and something extra special for kids. The two­acre Hidden Hollow, designed for children between the ages of 2­10, is a place for explo­ ration of the outdoors with a variety of play areas and monthly themes. Children can climb stepping stumps, navigate log balance beams, construct forts, create na­ ture­inspired art, build with blocks, dig in sand, ex­ periment with water, make music, engage in sensory investigation with plants, and more.

The most popular feature in Hidden Hollow is the splash area, which allows kids to safely experiment with water and its properties. There is also a Discovery Trail with a StoryWalk, a grassy space for running and rolling, a building area, treehouse and even “bee ho­ tels.”

Hidden Hollow is one of the fi rst certifi ed Nature Explore Classrooms in New England and was the fi rst certifi ed Nature Explore Classroom at a museum.

Outside of Hidden Hollow, Heritage off ers three gal­ lery buildings housing permanent exhibits of world­ class automobiles, a working vintage carousel, Amer­ ican folk art, and featured special exhibitions. You can wander through collections of hydrangeas, daylilies, hostas, herb, heather gardens, and more than a thou­ sand varieties of trees, shrubs and fl owers along beau­ tiful and easily walked paths.

Heritage will host several family­friendly events throughout the summer, including food truck nights, Wampanoag Heritage Day, and an Earth Extravaganza Day. Heritage Museums and Gardens is open from April 23 to Oct. 16, 10 a.m.­5 p.m. daily. More at heritage museumsandgardens.org.

A day trip to Stockbridge off ers plenty for kids at the Berkshire Botanical Garden. The Children’s Discovery Garden is an interactive garden with a colorful purple playhouse, food crops and fl owers. Playful features in­ clude a fairy garden and a tic tac toe set carved from wood.

Children will love venturing into the other 30+ gar­ dens at the 24­acre center, including an Edible Garden (sampling is allowed!), a wide­open Meadow Walk where they can run amid the wildfl owers, and a new Topiary Garden featuring 21 “live” sculptures including a water­spouting elephant and other creatures. You’ll also want to check out The Fitzpatrick Conservatory, an historic curved glass house, home to a container­ ized collection of succulents and tropical plants.

The Berkshire Botanical Garden’s Rose Garden will be in bloom in June, and its historic Daylily Walk will be blooming in late July. A series of Monday evening concerts kicks off on July 12.

The grounds are open daily, May 1 through Oct. 31, 9­5 p.m. Children under 12 are free. More at berkshirebotanical.org.

AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

Hidden Hollow at Heritage Museums & Gardens

Shrewsbury Secret Garden Off a residential street in Shrewsbury, a shady path full of wonder and whimsy loops through the woods.

Known as the “Secret Garden,” it’s the pet project of a man who goes by Chief Joseph, and welcomes the young and young at heart to wander through – free of charge.

The path starts right at the pond on Stoney Hill Rd., just at the intersection of Nightingale Drive. There is plenty of free street parking.

Along the pond you’ll fi nd various artwork, statues, benches and a towering totem pole. A Little Free Li­ brary off ers free books for kids and adults. Then, the path branches off to the left, into the woods and along a stream – and this is where it gets truly magical.

There is whimsical artwork and statues hidden in every nook cranny of this short, woodsy path. Look up, look down – there are little details everywhere. Inspi­ rational quotes are dotted among the trees, sparkling baubles dangle from branches, and wind chimes make music in the breeze. There’s spaces to sit next the stream, footbridges to cross, and even a display of painted rocks to explore.

The real hit with the kids are the seemingly endless statues and sculptures that greet them along the path.

There’s a giant stone turtle, a Big Foot, a Santa Claus, and a towering castle. A favorite among the little ones is the massive sitting bear nestled among the trees. His giant, open paw makes the perfect place to sit for a photo.

Presenting puppets, princesses, pirates, storytelling and much more!

Call today for more information All Ages.

Birthday Parties, Schools, Fairs, Day Care Centers, Etc.

HERITAGE MUSEUM AND GARDENS

www.rosalitaspuppets.com 617-633-2832

WM-30215858

BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 13

the list Father’s Day Bash at Stevens-Coolidge North Andover This two­day bash features a picnic and concert in the stunning gardens of Stevens­Coolidge House & Gardens.

Visiting food and brewery vendors will dish out eats and drinks. The music lineup features Dwayne Haggins Band and Cold Chocolate. Bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets. Pre­registration is required for all participants over 2 years old. Adults $20, children $5; members $12/$3.

GETTY IMAGES

BBQ & Bluegrass at Powisset

Father’s Day Road Race & Family Fun Walk

From a picnic at the ballpark to a quiet hike in the woods, here are some fun happenings to celebrate dad.

Easton The Children’s Museum in Easton hosts its 26th annual Father’s Day Road Race and Family Fun Walk, a looping 5k course in the historic North Easton Village. The course is mostly flat with a couple of rolling hills. Fun for kids will be offered in the Wild Place, the mu­ seum’s certified nature outdoor learn­ ing center. Stay after the race to cele­ brate the museum’s 30th anniversary.

Registration fee is $35 day of race, or $30 in advance.

Father’s Day Picnic at Polar Park

Father’s Day Car Show

Pizza, Beer, BBQ & Bluegrass

Worcester The home of the WooSox is hosting a Father’s Day filled with baseball, bever­ ages, and burgers as the Worcester Red Sox take on the Toledo MudHens. A special Father’s Day Picnic ticket in­ cludes access to the Hanover Deck and an all­you­can­eat buffet of burgers, hot dogs, potato salad, and more start­ ing at noon. First pitch is at 1:05 p.m., and after the final out is made, fans are welcome to come down onto the field for Kids Run the Bases. Tickets $41.

Hyannis Rare, antique, classic and muscle cars – and other 4­wheeled surprises – line both sides of Hyannis’ historic, seaside Main Street. Check out over 300 cars from around New England and New York at the largest car show in New England. Join in the fun at the craft show on Hyannis Village Green (Sat­ urday and Sunday) plus family and chil­ dren’s entertainment. Admission is free.

Hamilton Bring Dad to Appleton Farms on Fa­ ther’s Day weekend for some local beer, local BBQ and great, live bluegrass music. Craft breweries will serve up cold suds while Fat Belly BBQ serves up fantastic barbecue from their food truck. Enjoy lawn games and live music throughout the afternoon. Tickets are by the car, $10 for Trustees members and $20 for nonmembers. Space is limited and pre­registration is suggest­ ed.

7 COOL THINGS TO DO WITH DAD ON

Father’s Day

14 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

Dover BBQ, beer and bluegrass music – the perfect recipe for Father’s Day! Bring dad and the family for a summer expe­ rience at Powisset Farm including au­ thentic Blue Ribbon Barbecue, live blue­ grass music, lawn games and visits with the barnyard animals. Bring your own lawn chairs and picnic blankets or claim a picnic table. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Ticket price includes barbecue, sides and non­alco­ holic beverages. Adults $65, children $25; members $52/$20.

Father’s Day Hike at Cormier Woods Uxbridge Treat Dad to a morning trek for Father’s Day. Guides will lead your family through the beautiful Cormier Woods and take stops to identify birds, local plant life, and the unique history of the property. Don’t forget to bring your thermos, as complimentary coffee will be provided at the start of the hike.

Adults $10, children $5; members $5/ free.

Father’s Day Deals & Freebies ­ Discounted $20 admission for fathers at Southwick’s Zoo, Sat­ urday and Sunday, June 18­19. ­ Free admissions for fathers at Stone Zoo and Franklin Park Zoo, Sunday, June 19. Advance online tickets are required for all other guests. ­ Free admission and compli­ mentary massages for dads at Davis Farmland Saturday and Sunday, June 18­19. Must reserve “Dad’s Free Ticket” online.

ON THE

agenda y Sunset Family Owl Prowls

JUNE ADVENTURES

June 4, 11, 18 & 25 Royalston Learn about the owls that breed in Massachusetts during this guided fam­ ily hike at Tully Lake Campground.

Learn how to identify owls by call, where to fi nd them, and how owls can successfully hunt at night. On the trail, listen for owls along Long Pond. End the night with a bedtime story – “Owl Moon” by Jane Yolen. Adults $15, cildren $10; members $9/$6. thetrustees.org.

GETTY IMAGES

GETTY IMAGES

17 things to do with the kids this month

x Worcester Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival June 4 Worcester Enjoy a day of eating, drinking...and eating some more at the 10th Annual Worcester Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival on the Worcester Common. Thirty of New England's most popular food trucks will dish out fan favorites while 50+ na­ tional, regional and local craft beers will be available to wash it all down. Enjoy lawn games, live music, free face painting and family­friendly fun. Mexican street corn, delicious jumbo sausages, yummy whoopie pies and more are on the lineup. Tickets start at $5; children under 12 free. showpass.com/worcester.

THE TRUSTEES

x Family Days at Fruitlands June 4 & 18, July 2 Harvard Fruitlands Museum hosts storytimes and related art activities for children and families in these bi­weekly pro­ grams, using art and storytelling to sup­ port positive identity development in young children and encourage a greater understanding of themselves and ap­ preciation for the natural world. Story­ times are scheduled for 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. with other activities ongoing. Your ticket includes admission to the grounds and museum galleries. Adults $12, children $6, members free. thetrustees.org.

MUSEUM OPEN WED. - SUN. 10 AM TO 5 PM

“An absolute must see for history lovers!”

- Google Review

w Seuss-iversary

SPRINGFIELD MUSEUMS

June 4 Springfi eld A day of family fun at the Springfi eld Museums in celebration of the 5th anni­ versary of the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the 20th anniversa­ ry of the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden. Meet several Dr. Seuss characters including The Lorax, Thing 1 & 2, The Grinch, and The Cat in the Hat. Take on Seuss­themed chal­ lenges and enjoy hands­on activities and free face painting. Included with admission. springfi eldmuseums.org.

568 Main Street, Hudson, MA (978) 562-9182

www.AmericanHeritageMuseum.org BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 15

THE HANOVER THEATRE

y Strawberry Festival June 11 Topsfi eld Bowls and bowls of fresh strawber­ ries, whipped cream and piles of short­ cakes are prepared and served up at this annual festival. Enjoy community booths, fi ne artisans, a book sale, live music and plenty of games for the kids.

Free. topsfi eldhistory.org.

BIRTHDAY WISHES

x Walk for Birthdays

x Blippi the Musical

THE TRUSTEES

y ARTfull Play June 8 Lincoln A play­based hour at deCordova fea­ turing a unique opportunity to engage with art, stories, materials, nature, and new friends. The conversation and sto­ ries start just after 10:30 a.m., then look at the art, and create your own inspired by what you’ve seen and heard. Best for children ages 2­5 accompanied by a ca­ regiver. Advance tickets required.

Tickets include admission to the Mu­ seum and Sculpture Park. $18. thetrustees.org.

x OUT at the Farm June 10 Dover Delicious farm­fresh food, beautiful views, lawn games and live music make Powisset Farm Dinners a “must do” on your summer bucket list. At this low­ key, farm to table experience, you can enjoy a craft beer or glass of wine, munch on an hors d’oeuvre, play lawn games and then enjoy a delicious dinner made with farm ingredients. This Farm Dinner is part of Powisset’s OUT at the Farm month­long celebration, to which all are welcome. Registration for this event will close 48 hours in advance.

Adults $75, children $30, members $60/$24. thetrustees.org.

16 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

THE TRUSTEES

GETTY IMAGES

y Women’s History Weekend at OSV June 11 & 12 Sturbridge How did early 19th­century women see themselves? How did society view the woman’s sphere? Stop outside the historic houses of Old Sturbridge Village to learn about how women ran their households, managing the essential work of clothes construction, cooking, laundry, and more. Join interpreters in the gardens for talks on Indigenous plants, medicine, and discussions on the roles of women and children in gar­ dening. Beyond the domestic sphere, explore issues surrounding gender, freedom, and rights occurring during the 1830s through readings of fi rst­per­ son accounts of the 19th century. In­ cluded with admission. osv.org.

OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE

June 7 Worcester This one­of­a­kind show brings Blippi off the screen and onto the stage with world class production, audience engagement and amazing music. In the live show, children will learn about the world around them while singing and dancing along.

This show contains fl ashing lights, fog, and confetti. Tickets start at $42. thehanovertheatre.org.

June 12 Newton This fundraising walk raises critical­ ly needed funds for Birthday Wishes, a local nonprofi t that provides birthday parties for homeless children. Walk or jog along the Cochituate Rail Trail then stay for family fun including games, music, kids activities, and amazing raf­ fl e prizes. You'll also have the opportu­ nity to join the biggest­ever Birthday­ in­a­Box building event where you can help fi ll a Birthday­in­a­Box that will go directly to a birthday kid. Registration is $35 per adult and $20 per child. Chil­ dren 3 and under are free and do not need to register. birthdaywishes.org.

GETTY IMAGES

x Stroller Tours at deCordova June 15 Lincoln Visit deCordova with your little one for a date with art, history and the land­ scape. Trained guides off er a unique one­hour stroller tour of sculptures in the park. Each tour is a lively conversa­ tion about artist, process, materials, and deCordova’s rich history. Ask the guides about your favorite sculpture, new acquisitions, or the history of Ju­ lian deCordova himself. Each group size is limited to 5 and tickets must be pur­ chased in advance. Best for parents and caregivers with children newborn to 2 years old. $20, members $12. thetrustees.org.

y On-the-River Science Cruise

GETTY IMAGES

June 25 Merrimack River Explore the lower Merrimack River ecosystem with a Mass Audubon educator and the crew of the Yankee Clipper during this hands­on science cruise. Do some birdwatching, examine marine plankton, and investigate tide pool touch tubs on every trip. Enjoy cruising and learning about this vital part of the area's natural history. Register by 4 p.m. the day before the program, which is also off ered July 30 and Aug. 20. massaudubon.org.

x Strawberry ‘N’ Arts Festival GETTY IMAGES

June 18 Westford The historic Westford Common hosts this annual event featuring delicious food, creative crafts and entertainment. Feast on strawberry shortcake, groove to live music and peruse one­of­a­kind crafts and specialty items from an array of exhibi­ tors. Free. fi rstparishwestford.org.

3 MONTH Summer MEMBERSHIPS Don’t just join a gym, join a community!

No enrollment Fee!

Join by July 1 and receive 4 guest passes • Outdoor & Indoor Pool • Virtual & Studio Live Classes • Full Fitness Center • Pickleball • Outdoor & Indoor Basketball Courts • Summer Camp* • Preschool And More! *6-month+ membership must be in effect thru 8/31/2022 for members pricing.

The JCC is a great mix of friends from all backgrounds, cultures and ages!

WM-30291888

633 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA • www.worcesterjcc.org • 508.756.7109 BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 17

THE TRUSTEES

y Summer of Reptiles at Davis Farmland Daily starting June 18 Sterling Reptile Man, Michael Ralbovsky from Rainforest Reptile Shows, is spending the summer at Davis Farmland. Enjoy daily, hands­on reptile shows, a tortoise exhibit, eye­spy turtle pond, giant snakes, lizards, alligators and other slitherin’ summer fun! Through Labor Day. Included with admission. davisfarmland.com.

x Summer Concerts with the Concord Band

THE TRUSTEES

DEREK T. STERLING

Wednesdays beginning June 22 Harvard Gather on the lawn at the Fruitlands Museum for a picnic concert with stun­ ning sunset views. The Concord Band, a group of 65 musicians from 40 area towns, will treat concert­goers to a fun roster of timeless music, including pieces memorializing historic events, show tunes, holiday favorites and more.

Concerts begin at 7:15 p.m., gates open at 5. Concerts run every Wednesday through July 13. Bring your blanket, lawn chairs and picnic basket. Dogs welcome. $20 per carload; members $15. thetrustees.org.

x Trustees Quest Daily Various locations The Trustees Quest is an outdoor, self­guided exploration experience for fam­ ilies with school­aged children at fi ve Trustees properties spread out across the state. Navigate through the properties by following fun clues while discovering ex­ citing places and fun activities along the way. To participate, sign up for Trustees Quest and receive clues to follow that lead to a special location at each property where you can scan a QR code and earn a digital badge. Hikes at each of the fi ve properties take between 30­60 minutes each, and no special gear is required to participate. The fi ve properties are: Bartholomew’s Cobble, Sheffi eld; Copicut Woods, Fall River; Long Hill, Beverly; Rock House Reservation, West Brookfi eld; and Rocky Woods, Medfi eld. Free. thetrustees.org.

Sensory­Friendly/Inclusive Programs

GETTY IMAGES

Sensory­Friendly Films:

x Hike with Goats Weekends in June Southborough Take a leisurely hike through Chestnut Hill Farm’s beautiful grounds and trails, accompanied by one or more of their friendly goats. Hiking with goats is a fun and unique way to spend some time in nature and make some cuddly goat friends at the same time. Your reservation gets you and your group of family or friends an hour­ long experience with a friendly goat on its own harness and leash. Bring your pa­ tience and sense of adventure. Group tickets for up to four people are $95; members $75. Children under 4 are free. Pre­registration is required. thetrustees.org.

18 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

AMC Theatres off ers family­friendly movie showings with the lights up and sound down on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. Check local listings for specifi c showtimes.

Morningstar Program at Boston Children’s Museum: Saturday, June 4. Children with spe­ cial needs/medical needs can visit the museum with few other visitors. Regis­ tration required.

Sensory Friendly Hour at Apex: Sunday, June 5. Enjoy all that Apex Entertainment in Marlborough has to off er in a sensory­friendly environment.

Sensory­Friendly Afternoon at Discovery Museum: Tuesday, June 7. Group visits and

birthday parties are not scheduled, to avoid crowding and support access to exhibits. Registration required.

Sensory Friendly Saturday at Springfi eld Museums: Saturday, June 11. Exhibits modifi ed and sensory­friendly crafts off ered.

Evening for Families with D/HH and KODA Children: Saturday, June 11. Play and explore in the ADA­compliant and universally de­ signed museum during this special, free afternoon dedicated to families with d/ Deaf, hard of hearing, and KODA chil­ dren. The museum will be closed to the general public and headcount will be limited. ASL interpretation may be available upon request. Dinner, includ­ ing a gluten­free option, will be provid­ ed. Advance registration is required.

feature

Make a

splash!

Pond and has a lighted basketball court, playground, athletic fields and a water spray facility. Take a walk to the fishing pier and boat ramp.

Waltham: Nipper Maher Park 65 Dartmouth St. Stand under a giant spraying flower or run through the geysers at this park that features a playground, basketball and tennis courts.

Splash pads and spray parks to cool off at this summer Arlington: North Union Spray Park 60 N. Union St. This park has a playground, athletic fields, picnic area, basketball hoops and a seasonal Spray Park. Picnic area and fields are available for rent; permit re­ quired.

Belmont: Beaver Brook Reservation Spray Deck & Playground 621 Trapelo Rd. A soft­surface spray deck with multiple zones and different activation se­ quences. Children can scramble across the rocks and splash in pop­up sprin­ klers at this woodsy retreat. Ponds and a waterfall make this 59­acre park’s a great place for a walk or picnic.

Boston: Christian Science Center Splash Fountain Massachusetts Ave. The long reflecting pool at this Boston landmark mirrors the Christian Science Church and the Back Bay skyline. The fountain at the northern end of the pool features 180 water jets that shoot di­ rectly out of the ground, providing endless fun for little ones.

Boston: Boston Frog Pond Spray Pool 38 Beacon St. Located on the historic Boston Com­ mon, Frog Pond Spray Pool is a favorite among city dwellers and visitors alike.

Big kids can splash their way to the giant, spraying fountain in the middle of the wading pool, while littler ones can soak in the outskirts.

Take a dip in the lake, play in the sand, and bring a picnic to enjoy on the spa­ cious grounds. The big draw here are the three 300­foot waterslides.

BREEZY PICNIC GROUNDS

Fitchburg: Park Hill Splash Park 27 Franklin Rd. Kids can splash in geysers and run through colorful water­spraying rings.

Nearby in the park, enjoy a skatepark, play area and sports fields.

Hudson: Cellucci Park Splash Pad 15 Houghton St. Kiddos can run under fountains and through geysers to cool off at this park, which also features a playground and skatepark.

Marlboro: Ghiloni Park 239 Concord Rd. Along with a splash pad, you’ll find a skate park, basketball courts, athletic fields, a walking track and nature trails.

Medway: Choate Park 7 Oak St. Choate Park has a fenced­in playground that has a small splash pad open to the public in summer. Adjacent to this is a large shade structure with picnic tables.

There is a walking path around the pond.

Oxford: Carbuncle Pond Splash Pad 12 Carbuncle Dr. Cool off at the fenced­in 4,000­square­ foot splash area with several water spray features , or head over to the beach to swim in the pond.

Concord: Emerson Playground & Spray Fountain 261 Thoreau St. A small splash pad is part of this park that includes a playground with slides, accessible swings, a zip line and climb­ ing structures, basketball courts, a walking track, athletic fields, shady picnic areas and more. Look for the button to turn on the splash pad near the Recreation Center.

Sterling: Adventure Spray & Play at Davis Farmland 145 Redstone Hill, Sterling This spray park features two spray pads ­­ one for toddlers and one for multi­ generational fun. Play in misters, sprin­ klers and geysers and cool off under the water tower or giant sunflowers.

There’s also a kiddy car wash, slip and slide and inflatable waterslide.

Douglas: Breezy Picnic Grounds & Waterslides 520 Northwest Main St.

Topsfield: Bradley Palmer Spray Deck 40 Asbury St. A play area, shady spots for picnics and

a kid­activated spray deck make this a popular place in the summer. The wad­ ing pool is large and shallow ­­ perfect for little ones.

Waltham: Drake Playground 3 Hazel St. Find children’s play structures, basket­ ball courts, athletic fields and a water spray facility. Opens at 3 p.m. on school days.

Waltham: Lazazzero Playground 7 Shore Rd. This neighborhood park abuts Hardy

Come cel

Worcester: Cristoforo Colombo Spray Park (East Park) 180 Shrewsbury St. This splash park also features a pad­ ded­surface playground, climbing structures, amphitheater and acres of undeveloped hillsides with trail connec­ tions to Bell Pond Park and Green Hill Park leading all the way to Lake Quinsi­ gamond.

Worcester: Greenwood Spray Park 14 Forsberg St. Splash in the sprinklers to cool off at this park on the south end of the city, then enjoy a nature trail, picnic area and sporting fields.

years of 0 4 te ebra

Discovery!

Free! STEM + Movie Nights on the Lawn 7:30pm - 10:00pm June 23 - A Bug’s Life July 21 - FernGully August 11 - Hidden Figures

Free!

Community Day

Month of 1982 Admission Prices

September 10

October 1 - 31

and more!

177 Main Street, Acton discoveryacton.org 978-264-4200

BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 19

GOOSE’S

goodies

HOMEMADE

Strawberry Lemonade Ingredients 4 lemons 41⁄ 2 cups fresh strawberries, stems removed and halved ⁄ 2 cup sugar (more or less to taste)

1

Water ice Directions Place strawberries and one cup of the water into a blender and blend until liquefi ed.

L

emonade, the perfect summer drink, meets strawberry, the yummiest summer fruit. Whip up a batch after taking the kids strawberry picking, or any time you’re craving a refreshing drink on a hot day.

Juice the lemons. You should get about 1 cup of lemon juice.

In a bowl or pitcher, mix the sugar with about 1⁄ 2 cup of hot water. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved.

In a 2­quart pitcher, add strawberry juice, lemon juice, and the sugar mixture. Fill the pitcher halfway with ice, then add 4 to 5 cups water. Stir.

Give it a taste. Add more sugar, if desired.

Serve cold, and enjoy!

What are you waiting for?

Join the thousands of followers in more than 180 countries.

Follow the UMass Memorial Simply Well blog today:

www.umassmemorial.org/simplywell

AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

Known as “Goose” to her grandkids, Laurie Silva Collins has perfected her recipes over years of cooking for her three daughters and six grandchildren.

20 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

bites

‘It takes a

Local moms band together amid formula shortage Amanda Collins Bernier Bay State Parent Magazine USA TODAY NETWORK

GETTY IMAGES

village’ A

s the mom of a boy born as the world shut down in March 2020 and a girl born in April 2021, Kerry Cole has only known pandem­ ic parenting. h Diapers and infant formula were sometimes hard to come by when her son was born, so the second time around, Cole knew to be prepared. She stocked up on the necessities before the birth of her daughter. h Still, the current formula shortage is nothing she could have prepared for.

“Honestly, it’s terrifying,” said Cole.

“We’re being very strategic, but it’s get­ ting harder and harder.”

At least 43% of baby formula sellers were out of stock nationwide for the week ending May 8, according to Da­ taAssembly. Supply chain issues and a major recall have meant empty shelves and panicked parents, as moms and dads scramble to fi nd food for their ba­ bies.

Stores that do have formula in stock are imposing strict purchase limits.

Cole spends her lunch break scouring stores’ online stock. She said she’s lucky – her daughter is on a basic formula that’s easier to come by than specialty types – but she’s still been searching

within 30 minutes of her home in Stur­ bridge, and her work, in Springfi eld.

“I feel confi dent that we’ll be OK for the next couple weeks, but beyond that, who knows,” she said. “We’re coming up with plans and strategies; things I never thought I’d have to think about as a mom. I’m writing down questions for my pediatrician that I never thought I’d have to ask.”

The infant formula shortage has con­ tinued to intensify since February when Abbott, the maker of about 40 percent of the nation’s baby formula, recalled three types of powdered mix that were linked to the hospitalization of at least four ba­ bies. Two of them died.

An Abbott plant that’s been closed

since the recall is expected to reopen in the next two weeks, contingent on FDA approval, but the company announced last week that from that point, “it will take six to eight weeks before product is available on shelves.”

For moms like Stephanie Carlson, of Dudley, that means at least two more months of “desperation.” Her six­month­ old needs a hypoallergenic formula that was part of the recall, and now is almost impossible to fi nd.

After having to throw out 12 recalled cans, she’s tried giving her son several other specialty formulas, but hasn’t found anything else that he can tolerate.

“Every week we have no idea how we’ll fi nd the next bunch,” she said. She has family and friends in Western Mass., Cape Cod, and even as far as California and Minnesota, on the lookout.

“When they said it takes a village, it really does,” she said.

On Facebook, the virtual “village” is growing by the day. Charlton mom Kris­ tina Harper started the group “Baby For­ mula Hike and Seek,” which has amassed hundreds of followers in just one week.

Members post photos of formula shelves at local stores along with the date and time of the spotting.

Harper, whose oldest child is 3 and well beyond the bottle­feeding age, said she was moved to start the group after seeing the so many local friends in a pan­ ic.

“I saw people driving up to two hours out of state searching for formula. We can’t be everywhere all the time. Face­ book is such a powerful tool and if enough people are shopping and posting pictures of what diff erent stores have and when, it may help,” she said.

Parents are also using social media to share and exchange formula they don’t need.

“Half of the bottles I’ve been able to feed my son these last several months are in thanks to the other local moms, and local Facebook groups,” said Carl­ son. “I have received so many leads, sup­ port from other local moms that I have never met.”

Breastfeeding moms are stepping up, too. In one town community group, a mother off ered to nurse any babies in need. In the Worcester County Parents and Caregivers Facebook group, another mom off ered up her stash of breastmilk.

“I have about 12 bags of 6 oz.,” she wrote. “I know it’s not a lot, but does any­ one know any places or people who will take it?”

Moms want to help, said Ann Marie Lindquist, director of community rela­ tions at Mothers’ Milk Bank Northeast.

The Newton­based milk bank, which provides pasteurized donor human milk to babies in fragile health, has seen “an enormous infl ux of inquiries about do­ nating milk,” she said.

While donor milk isn’t designed to re­ place full feeds for healthy full­term ba­ bies, Lindquist encourages potential do­ nors to reach out. “We are asking anyone who wishes to donate milk to be patient since our phones and emails are over­ whelmed right now.”

What to do – and not do – if you can’t fi nd formula If you can’t fi nd the formula you usu­ ally use, experts say the fi rst thing to do is try another type or check a smaller store. All infant formula manufactured and sold in the United States needs to meet the minimum nutrient and quality standards as dictated by the Infant For­ mula Act of 1980. Smaller stores and pharmacies have been less aff ected by supply chain issues than bigger box stores like Walmart or Target.

Food pantries may receive donations of formula and also might be able to help families in need.

But be careful where you look. The Better Business Bureau is warning of scammers posting photos of formula cans for sale on social media, accepting payments, then disappearing. And for­ mula sold online from outside the U.S. is not FDA reviewed and could be misla­ beled or counterfeit.

Whatever you do, don’t water down formula or try a homemade recipe, ex­ perts warn.

“Diluting infant formula could result in dangerous nutrient imbalances for your baby,” said Susan Tripp, a neonatal registered dietician at UMass Memorial Medical Center. “Homemade formula recipes are not safe and can lack impor­ tant nutrients for growing babies.”

Tripp also cautioned against replac­ ing formula with other foods or drinks.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastmilk and infant for­ mula as the sole source of nutrition until babies are six months, and the primary source of nutrition for the fi rst year of life.

“If you are still having diffi culty fi nd­ ing formula reach out to your healthcare provider who may have a small supply of formula samples for emergency situa­ tions,” said Tripp.

BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 21

feature

Swimsuit

COLOR safety This one tip could save your child from drowning Janelle Randazza Reviewed.com

22 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent

W

hile you’re shopping for your child’s new swimsuits, you’re probably most focused on fi nding a style they like – emblazoned with action fi gures or Disney icons. But there is an important factor that you may not be giving enough attention to, and one that signifi cantly factors into water safety: The visibility of the swimsuit, should your child go underwater. The color of your child’s bathing suit may be more important than you realize. Alive Solutions, a company that specializes in aquatic safety, training, and risk assessment, tested 14 swimsuits in varying colors fi rst in a pool and then in a lake and the results of the test may shock you.

Here are some expert tips for upping your kids' safety during water play.

Most swimsuit colors virtually disap­ pear or appear to be a cluster of leaves or debris—not a struggling child—when only 18 inches below the surface of the water. Visibility continues to decrease exponentially with any sort of water ag­ itation, like in a moderately­active swimming pool or water park, or in a lake or ocean with any amount of wave activity.

Be close and constant This goes without saying, but while parents may feel as though they are watching their children, sometimes they aren't watching as closely as they should. Most water­related injuries happen when adults were distracted or thought someone else was watching the child.

The tests For each test, Alive placed each swimsuit color on the surface of the wa­ ter. They then submerged the suits and agitated the water, allowing the suits to sink about 18 inches deep—a depth where visibility is crucial for life­saving during water accidents.

Alive then took photos at two addi­ tional levels—shore level and then slightly elevated, about dock or boat lev­ el—to simulate heights lifeguards or caregivers might be at when searching for a child in the water. The degree to which a swimsuit becomes diffi cult, if not impossible, to spot varied widely based on its color. Popular swimsuit col­ ors, like blues and greens, almost com­ pletely disappeared.

Which colors work best for open water and pools In open water, bright, neon colors, in­ cluding orange, yellow, and lime green, fared best. Pools were a bit more forgiv­ ing overall, but it was pointed out by the testers that “although the darker colors show up on a light pool bottom they can often be dismissed for a pile of leaves, dirt, or a shadow so I tend to stay away from those colors when possible.” As for open water, white suits were also cau­ tioned against, as they appeared to be patches of cloud refl ections.

The post recommended that, no mat­ ter where you plan to swim, opt for bright and contrasting suit colors. Just

Tips for keeping kids safe in the water

Bright and contrasting colors are recommended as the safest choice when buying swimwear. ALIVE SOLUTIONS, INC.

Supervising adults should be close, constant, and free from distractions. It’s recommended to have a designated “watcher” at all times. That watcher should be free from conversations and any other distractions.

Keep small children within arm's reach

like a brightly colored outfi t can help you fi nd your child in a crowd, Alive found that bright visibility was crucial to identifying a child in a body of water.

The fi ndings also note that it’s impor­ tant to consider other environmental factors that may impact visibility when packing up for a day of water play, in­ cluding water clarity, lighting, currents, and the weather. While bright neon col­ ors were the best options overall, it’s in­ teresting to note that some colors, like neon pink, were highly visible in a pool setting but nearly disappeared when tested in a lake. What that means is it’s important to select a suit that provides high visibility in the type of water you plan to visit.

According to the post, “This test also reinforced how important it is in lakes, beaches, rivers, [and] open water envi­ ronments to keep people on the surface (with life jackets).”

Why this matters Drowning is the leading cause of ac­ cidental deaths in children: It’s quick, it’s quiet, and it can happen to anyone— even strong swimmers. The majority of drownings and near­drownings occur in residential swimming pools and in open water sites. But while proper dress will help improve your ability to spot a child in distress, Alive Solutions did caution that shouldn’t be the only water safety measure you take. With child drown­ ings linked to caregiver’s distractions, including the use of cell phones, it’s im­ portant to know that brightly colored clothes can’t replace a lack of vigilance with supervision.

The group states: “Remember…the bright and contrasting colors help vis­ ibility, but it doesn’t matter what color your kids are wearing if you aren’t su­ pervising eff ectively and actively watching.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends "touch supervision" for beginning swimmers, meaning the adult should be within an arm's reach of the child so he or she can pull the child out of the water if the child's head becomes submerged.

Invest in swim lessons While even the strongest swimmers aren’t safe from accidents, teaching your kids how to swim and how to behave safely around water are key to preventing drowning. Kids can start swimming lessons as early as 1 year old and self­rescue techniques, as well as basic swimming skills, should be reinforced annually.

BayStateParent | JUNE 2022 | 23

Introducing our new IVF Center.

No matter how your path to pregnancy turns, we’re prepared for every step and every stage.

The path to pregnancy can be an overwhelming maze of emotions. You need the right team with the right capabilities. That’s why we’re pleased to announce the addition of our on-site IVF Center to round out our robust fertility services — ensuring convenient, state-of-the-art care, close to home.

Reach out today to schedule your appointment.

For appointments, call 855-UMASS-MD (855-862-7763) or visit umassmemorial.org/IVF. 24 | JUNE 2022 | BayStateParent