Boston Parent Family Survival Guide 2017 by Parenting Media

2016 • 2017 TM

Survival Guide

100+

places to explore with kids before they grow up!

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Best of Everything

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Boston Parent’s Paper published by Parenting, LLC., a division of

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contents

Family Survival Guide 2016

639 Granite St., Suite 25 Braintree, MA 02184 boston.parentspaper@bostonparentspaper.com Tel: 617-522-1515 / Fax: 617-522-7121 Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com PUBLISHER Jean Greco EDITORIAL Senior Editor: Cheryl Crosby Associate Editor: Kelly Bryant Calendar Editor: Jennifer Sammons Proofreader: Jeanne Washington Intern: Rebecca Schwartz ADVERTISING SALES Senior Account Executive: Lisa Braun Account Executive: Susan Hamilton NATIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Cate Sanderson 914-381-7474

features 5

12 Months of Family Fun

10 Freebies & Discounts

PRODUCTION Senior Graphic Designer: Angela Rosa Graphic Designer: Staci Stedman-Morris

14 Adventures & Attractions in Massachusetts

CIRCULATION & EVENTS COORDINATOR Caitlin Dougherty

16 Cold Play

DOMINION PARENTING MEDIA A Division of Dominion Enterprises

20 Exploring Boston: The Fort Point Channel 22 5 First Aid Tips to Teach Kids

directory of family resources 24 Directory Index 25 Family Resources Listings

ÂŠMONKEY BUSINESS/THINKSTOCK

Boston Parents Paper (ISSN 1059-1710) is published monthly by Parenting, LLC., a division of Dominion Enterprises. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. Limit of one free copy per reader. Additional copies may be purchased for $5.00 per issue. Call 617-522-1515 to request additional copies. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the publisher. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. Editorial submissions are welcome. Boston Parents Paper copyright 2015 by Dominion Enterprises. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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12 Months

Check out the Belmont World Film’s Family Festival in January and see fantastical family films like The Games Maker. COURTESY PHOTO

of Family Fun

THERE’S PLENTY OF FUN TO BE FOUND ACROSS MASSACHUSETTS. ANY time of the year, festivals, shows, exhibits and more keep everyone entertained. Here is a roundup of some of 2015’s biggest events. Stay up-to-date about happenings the whole year through with our searchable online calendar at BostonParentsPaper.com and our print calendar in Boston Parents Paper.

BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

BBC EARTH PRODUCTIONS (AFRICA) LIMITED AND RELIANCE PRODCO LLC 2014

the holidays to bed and wrap up the Twelve Days of Christmas at this festive celebration that features singing, dancing, a visit from Father Christmas and other Twelfth Night traditions. Grace Vision Church, 80 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown; 617-972-8300, ext. 31; revels.org. ✼ Belmont World Film’s Family Festival, Jan. 15-18. Check out fun and educational films for kids ages 3 to 12, plus don’t miss a visit from children’s book author and illustrator Peter Reynolds. Watch animated versions of some of his most well-known books, including The Dot and The North Star, Wild Africa: The arrival of the wet season brings an abundance of food as well as water, so species such as African elephants (Loxodonta africana) can relax followed by a talk by Peter and a book and devote more time to social activities, not least the playful little ones! signing. Two locations: Studio Cinema in Belmont, 376 Trapelo Road, and Regent Theater in Arlington, 7 Medford Street; January belmontworldfilm.org. ✼ Wild Africa, through summer. Go on a spectacular ✼ Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 18. Choruses IMAX ride across, over, and through the most from around the area, including Boston Children’s dramatic continent on Earth: Africa. Discover the Chorus, lift their voices in tribute to our nation’s fascinating secrets of this enchanted continent: civil rights leader. Jordan Hall, New England learn how spectacular thermal geysers help turn Conservatory, 30 Gainsborough St., Boston; thousands of flamingos pink, creating the perfect 617-585-1260; bostonchildrenschorus.org. conditions for breeding; why the heat beating down ✼ Shen Yun, Jan. 22-24. Ancient legends of virtue on waterless dunes in the Namib Desert forces a and modern tales of courage are brought to life lizard to dance; and why it snows on the Equator. by more than a dozen dances and songs, making Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston; 617-723for one extraordinary, uplifting and unforgettable 2500; mos.org. experience. Boston Opera House, 539 Washington St., ✼ Blue Man Group, through December. A visually Boston; 617-259-3400; bostonoperahouse.com. stunning show combining music, technology and ✼ Mary Poppins, Jan. 29 – Feb. 28. Mary Poppins comedy to create a form of entertainment that arrives at the Banks family doorstep just in time! defies categorization and appeals to all ages. Charles Using a little bit of magic combined with common Playhouse, 74 Warrenton St., Boston; 617-426-6912; sense, she teaches the family the importance of each boston.broadway.com. other. Enjoy the street smart performance with ✼ Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jan. 6-10. A a few adventures along the way. Wheelock Family beautiful fairy tale about Belle, a young woman Th eatre, 200 Th e Riverway, Boston; 617-879-2300; in a provincial French town, and the Beast, a wheelockfamilytheatre.org. young prince transformed by an enchantress as punishment for his insensitivity. If the Beast can February learn to love and be loved in return, the curse will ✼ Animals: Machines in Motion, opens Feb. 14. be lifted and he will be transformed to his former Learn about how living and extinct species have self. If not, he and his palace of servants will evolved over time to live on Earth. The experience remain under the spell for eternity. Boston Opera is like no other, featuring digital media, scientific House, 539 Washington St., Boston; 617-259-3400; models and real specimens! Come face to face with bostonoperahouse.com. a life size T. Rex and even a giraffe heart. Museum ✼ Boston Parents Paper 2016 Camp & Summer of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston; 617-723-2500; Expo, Jan. 9 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dedham Health mos.org. and Athletic Complex, 200 Boston Providence Hwy., ✼ Fancy Nancy: The Musical, Feb. 18-28. Based Dedham.; BostonParentsPaper.com/campfair. on the popular book by Jane O’Connor, this ✼ Revels Twelfth Night Celebration, Jan 9. Put 6

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

spectacular musical will challenge Nancy when she is given the part in a play as a dull brown tree. Watch as she brings her flair and personality to the role. Boston Center for the Arts, 527 Tremont St., Boston; 617-933-8600; bostonchildrenstheatre.org. ✼ Blue Hills Ski Area in Canton offers an affordable way to get your kids on skis or a snowboard this winter, all without having to leave the Boston area. They also offer a February vacation camp for kids ages 7-15, open to all ability levels. 4001 Washington St., Canton; 781-828-5070; ski-bluehills.com.

March ✼ Caps for Sale: The Musical, March 5-13. Based

on the book by Esphyr Slobodkina, this musical is filled with sincerity, warmth and humor. Watch the life of a caps salesman as he tries to reclaim his stolen caps from monkeys. Perfect for adults and children. The Wimberly Theatre, 527 Tremont St., Boston; 617-424-6634; bostonchildrenstheatre.org. ✼ St. Patrick’s Day Parade, March 20. Everyone is a little bit Irish during South Boston’s annual St. Paddy’s Day parade. Break out your green clothing! 844-478-7287; southbostonparade.org. ✼ Harlem Globetrotters, March 12-13. The Globetrotters bring their crazy jokes and basketball antics to Boston. TD Garden, 100 Legends Way, Boston; 617-624-1050; tdgarden.com.

April ✼ Boston Red Sox Home Opener, April 11. Will

the Red Sox make it to the World Series this year? Cheer them on as they take on the Orioles in their season’s first home game. Fenway Park, 4 Yawkey Way, Boston; 617-226-6666; redsox.com. ✼ Wizard of Oz, April 12-24. “We’re off to see …” the most magical adventure of them all! This new production of The Wizard of Oz is an enchanting adaptation of the all-time classic, totally reconceived for the stage. Citi Performing Arts Center, Wang Theatre, 270 Tremont St., Boston; 617-482-9393; citicenter.org. ✼ A Year with Frog and Toad, April 15 – May 15. After waking from hibernation, Frog and Toad celebrate what makes them different and special. Watch as the two best friends do all kinds of different activities together throughout the year.

COURTESY PHOTO

Presented by the Boston Book Festival, HUBBUB: Creative Commotion is designed for kids and families, and promises giant puppets, lawn games, kids yoga, circus workshops, concerts, roving characters and plenty of storytelling.

Wheelock Family Theatre, 200 The Riverway, Boston; 617-879-2300; wheelockfamilytheatre.org. ✼ Swan Boats, TBA. A sure sign of spring, Boston Public Garden’s famous swan boats make their first appearance of the year. swanboats.com. ✼ Boston Marathon, April 18. Not a runner? No problem. Just watching the race is exhilarating. Great spots for viewing include the Newton fire station, the brutal Heartbreak Hill and the finish line on Boylston Street near Copley Square in Boston. bostonmarathon.org.

May ✼ March for Babies, May 7. Join Boston Parents Paper

in walking to help raise money to fund research to prevent premature births, birth defects and infant mortality. 508-366-9066; marchofdimes.com. ✼ Duckling Day Parade, May 8. A beloved annual Mother’s Day event celebrating the children’s story Make Way for Ducklings. Dress as your favorite character and join the parade around Boston Common. friendsofthepublicgarden.org. ✼ Mirrors, May 14-24. A striking program featuring world premieres by Karole Armitage and Yury Yanowsky. It features beautiful reflections of contemporary dance. Boston Ballet, 19 Clarendon St., Boston; 617-695-6955; bostonballet.org.

June ✼ Scooper Bowl, TBD. This all-you-can-eat ice

cream benefit has raised more than $3 million for the Jimmy Fund since its inception in 1983. City Hall Plaza, Boston; jimmyfund.org. ✼ Cambridge River Festival, June 4. A free festival of arts and culture with lots of hands-on activities and a special stage just for family and children’s performances. cambridgema.gov/arts/Programs/riverfestival. BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

✼ HUBBUB: Creative Commotion, June 4. Boston

Book Festival hosts a kids’ festival: HUBBUB: Creative Commotion. Favorite authors, costumed characters, science experiences and live music mix to provide the very best in cultural enrichment and fun for children and families. hubbubfest.org.

July ✼ Summer in the City, Tuesdays and Thursday

through August. Each summer, Cambridge parks come alive with music, dance, storytelling, theater, puppetry, movies and more. Cambridge Arts offers a wide array of free, multicultural, interactive arts programs, performances and activities, both day and night, for children and families. cambridgema. gov/arts/programs/summerinthecity.aspx. ✼ Boston Harborfest, TBA. A weeklong festival celebrating America’s rich colonial and maritime history with many free events. bostonharborfest.com. ✼ Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, July 4. Grab your spot along the Charles River early and enjoy entertainment featuring the Boston Pops. It all wraps up with an amazing fireworks display over the river. Hatch Shell on the Esplanade, Boston; july4th.org. ✼ New England Patriots Training Camp, TBD. Join thousands of Pats fans to watch the team’s daily training sessions for free. After practice, snag some player autographs! Gillette Stadium, 1 Patriot Place, Foxboro; 508-549-0001; patriots.com/trainingcamp.

August ✼ The North End Fisherman’s Feast, TBD. Check

out the Italian festival in Boston’s North End for delicious food and the annual procession of the Madonna. fishermansfeast.com.

✼ August Moon Festival, mid-August. Celebrate

the end of harvest season in Boston’s Chinatown with music, food, storytellers, martial artists, lion dancers and a dragon parade. Harrison and Beach streets, Boston. ✼ Marshfield Fair, Aug. 19-28. There’s something for everyone at this summer fair, including animals, carnival rides, music and magic. 140 Main St., Marshfield; marshfieldfair.org.

September ✼ Pick-Your-Own Apples. Nothing beats the taste of

an apple picked right from the tree. Massachusetts is home to numerous farms that allow you to pick your own. Many of them also have activities for kids, such as hayrides and corn mazes. BostonParentsPaper.com/applepicking. ✼ King Richard’s Faire, Sept. 3 – Oct. 23. Chow down on a turkey leg and grab a seat at a jousting match. Wandering performers, games of skill and even tigers entertain visitors of all ages. 235 Main St., Carver; 508-866-5391; kingrichardsfaire.net. ✼ BeanTown Jazz Festival, TBD. Boston’s South End swells with world-class music on three stages. Children can participate in an “instrument petting zoo,” face painting and other hands-on activities. Columbus Avenue between Burke Street and Massachusetts Avenue, Boston; beantownjazz.org. ✼ Topsfield Fair, Sept. 30 – Oct. 10. Get your fill of fair food, midway rides and animal exhibits at the nation’s oldest agricultural fair. Don’t miss the giant pumpkin contest and sand sculptures! Topsfield Fairgrounds, Route 1, Topsfield; 978-887-5000; topsfieldfair.org.

October ✼ Salem’s Haunted Happenings, throughout

October. Give yourself a scare on a haunted walking tour or attend a costume ball. The month-long celebration of Halloween has something for all ages, from scary to not-so-scary. hauntedhappenings.org. ✼ Boston Book Festival, Oct. 15. Book lovers rejoice at the annual free festival featuring discussions, panels, costumed characters and story times with a strong children’s literature component. bostonbookfest.org.

November ✼ Thanksgiving Celebrations. Celebrate the harvest

with the food and traditions of the Pilgrims and early New England settlers at Plimoth Plantation and Old Sturbridge Village. Plimoth Plantation, Celebrate Independence Day at the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular.

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

COURTESY PHOTO

Art comes to life year-round at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.

137 Warren Ave., Plymouth; plimoth.org. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge; osv.org. ✼ Friday After Thanksgiving (F.A.T.) Chain Reaction, Nov. 24. Teams build Rube Goldberg-style contraptions and hook them all together for a mega chain reaction. Build your own or just come watch the hijinks. Rockwell Cage Gymnasium, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 120 Vassar St., Cambridge; 617-253-5927; museum.mit.edu.

December

✼ The Nutcracker, throughout December. Sugar Plum

Fairy fans can take their pick from half a dozen highquality local performances. From the Boston Ballet’s classic performance at the Boston Opera House to Urban Nutcracker’s version featuring hip-hop, step and tap dance, there’s something for everyone. BostonParentsPaper.com/nutcracker. ✼ Ice skate on Boston Common’s Frog Pond and take in the surrounding Christmas lights, throughout December. View the massive Christmas tree on the Common, donated each year by the people of Halifax, Nova Scotia, as thanks for Boston’s help during a Halifax explosion in the early 1900s. 617-635-2120; bostonfrogpond.com. ✼ Holiday Vacation Week, TBA. Free and fun activities for families all week long at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Avenue of the Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston; mfa.org. ✼ First Night, Dec. 31, various locations, Boston. Ring in the New Year a little early with First Night, Boston’s family-friendly celebration. Storytelling, music, top entertainment, food and other kids’ activities will keep the littlest revelers busy. An early fireworks display occurs on Boston Common. For older revelers, artistic performances are scheduled throughout the city, as well as a spectacular midnight fireworks display over Boston Harbor. firstnight.org. ■

Whether you are looking for an indoor playground or a birthday party space, Inside Playground is the right place for you!

Celebrate your child’s birthday or other special day, or just join us for a great day of playtime in the indoor comfort and safety of our Indoor Playground facility, open 7 days a week Snack area and WIFI available! Free parking of course.

Come and enjoy a secure and fun-filled day with your kids at Inside Playground! They’ll be sure to thank you!

Parties • Walk-Ins • Field Trip 100 Parker St., Watertown, MA 02472 Info@Insideplayground.com

617.923.1772 www.Insideplayground.com BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

PHOTO: ADAM BLACHETTE

The Great Mammal Hall at the Harvard Museum of Natural History is the oldest and most dramatic gallery in the museum, with a 19th century arrangement of specimens that includes a full-sized giraffe and three whale skeletons suspended from the rafters.

Freebies & Discounts Save Big Bucks on Family Fun

Entertaining your family is a lot less expensive when you have some advance planning and insider knowledge. Visit some of Bostonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top spots at discounted rates or absolutely free! Be sure to take advantage of the following great deals and discounts.

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

events” into search bar. Hatch Memorial Shell, Arboretum is always free, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston; 617-626-4970; and it’s open sunrise to sunset every day of the year. mass.gov. Check out the Tree of the Month letterbox activity ✼ Free Fun Fridays grant free admission or borrow a free backpack that contains materials to various museums and attractions each for touring the grounds. 125 Arborway, Boston; Friday throughout the summer months. 617-524-1718; arboretum.harvard.edu. Visit highlandstreet.org/freefunfridays.html for ✼ At Boston Children’s Museum, admission is participating locations each week. just $1 from 5-9 p.m. every Friday. Several other ✼ At the Harvard Museum of Natural History, discounts exist for teachers, military personnel, Massachusett s residents (with proof of residency library patrons and more. 308 Congress St., Boston; like a driver’s license or utility bill) get in free on 617-426-6500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Sundays from 9 a.m. to noon and on Wednesdays ✼ Cambridge Science Festival is a 10-day from 3-5 p.m. from September to May. 26 Oxford St., festival of STEM (science, technology, engineering Cambridge; 617-495-3045; hmnh.harvard.edu. and math), held April 15-24, at various locations, that makes science accessible and fun for kids. Many of the events are free. cambridgesciencefestival.org. ✼ At deCordova Museum and Sculpture Park, individual visitors get in free on the first Wednesday of the month. Lincoln residents, military families and children 12 and under can also visit for free. 51 Sandy Pond Road, Lincoln; 781-259-8355; decordova.org. ✼ The Discovery Museums, which include the Children’s Discovery Museum and the Science Discovery Museum, are free on the first Friday of the month from 4:30-8:30 p.m. during the school year and every Friday night during the summer. More than 20 free evenings are also available to audiences with special needs. Check website for Find lots of fun events and educational activities at MIT Museum. details. 177 Main St., Acton; 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org. ✼ Institute of Contemporary Art – Families ✼ Faneuil Hall Marketplace – Street performers (up to two adults accompanied by children ages entertain here year-round, and you’ll find free 12 and under) get in free on the last Saturday of concerts and performances in the summer and each month, excluding December. Children under during the holidays. 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston; age 17 are always free. 100 Northern Ave., Boston; 617-523-1300; faneuilhallmarketplace.com. 617-478-3100; icaboston.org. ✼ Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo – Everyone ✼ At the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, is admitted at children’s rates ($11.95 at Franklin if your name is “Isabella” you’ll get free admission Park/$10.95 at Stone Zoo) on the first Saturday of forever to this museum. Children under age 18 each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Admission is half and military families also get in free, and there’s price on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Children free admission to the museum if you show ID under age 2 are always free; military families and proving it’s your birthday. (Adjustments are school teachers always receive half-price admission. made if your birthday falls on a day the museum 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston, and 149 Pond St., is closed.) 25 Evans Way, Boston; 617-566-1401; Stoneham; 617-541-5466; zoonewengland.com. gardnermuseum.org. ✼ Free Friday Night Flicks and Concerts at the ✼ John F. Kennedy Presidential Library Hatch Memorial Shell screens kid-friendly films at and Museum – Admission is always free for sundown on Friday nights and offers free concerts kids ages 12 and under. Columbia Point, Boston; throughout the summer. For more information, 617-514-1600; jfklibrary.org. go to the mass.gov website and type “Hatch Shell BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

PHOTO: SAMARA VISE/MIT MUSEUM

PHOTO: ADAM BLACHETTE

✼ Visting the Arnold

PHOTO: GREG M. COOPER/ USS CONSTITUTION MUSEUM

for kids ages 10 and under. TD Garden, 100 Legends Way, Boston; 617-624-1234; sportsmuseum.org ✼ Stone Zoo. See the Franklin Park Zoo listing. ✼ Summer in the City is a free, family-friendly outdoor performance series held each summer in Cambridge. Area parks host concerts, puppetry, arts and crafts, storytellers and more. cambridgema.gov/arts/Programs/ summerinthecity.aspx. ✼ USS Constitution Museum – Admission to the museum, which A USS Constitution Museum staff member leads a group of children is dedicated to the world’s oldest through the galleries. commissioned warship still afloat, is by donation. Visits and guided tours of ✼ Massachusetts State House – Free tours are Old Ironsides are free to all. Charlestown available with an advance reservation on weekdays Navy Yard, Building 22, Charlestown; 617-426-1812; from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 24 Beacon St., Boston; ussconstitutionmuseum.org. 617-727-3676; www.sec.state.ma.us/trs/trsidx.htm. ✼ Wheelock Family Theatre – Boston Parents ✼ MIT Museum – Free admission is offered Paper sponsors a Buy One Get One program: Show to everyone on the last Sunday of the month, a Massachusetts library card and you’ll receive one September through June. Cambridge public library free evening performance ticket for each ticket card holders enjoy free admission in July and purchased at regular price. Reserve in advance August. Kids under age 5 are always free. The Hart and present your library card at the box office Gallery, open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., at 55 Massachusetts on the day of attendance. 180 Riverway, Boston; Ave., is always free. 265 Massachusetts Ave., 617-879-2300; wheelockfamilytheatre.org. Cambridge; 617-253-5927; web.mit.edu/museum. ✼ At the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Discount Tickets and Passes admission is free for kids under age 6. Kids ages ✼ ArtsBoston/Bostix – ArtsBoston is a nonprofit 7-17 get in free on weekends, public school arts promotion organization that offers special holidays and after 3 p.m. on weekdays. Admission deals and discounts for Boston-area performances. on Wednesday nights after 4 p.m. is by voluntary Snag day-of-show tickets for half-price at the contribution. 465 Huntington Ave., 617-267-9300; BosTix kiosks in Copley Square or at Faneuil Hall. mfa.org. 617-262-8632; artsboston.org. ✼ Old State House Museum – Admission is ✼ Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) always free for kids under 18, veterans and visitors Reciprocal Program – When you support your with disabilities. 206 Washington St., Boston; local children’s museum by purchasing a premium 617-720-1713; bostonhistory.org. family membership, you get 50 percent off general ✼ Providence Children’s Museum – Visit for admission for up to six people at participating free on select Fridays of every month after 5 p.m. museums. Nearly 200 museums across the U.S. and Children under age 1 are always free. 100 South St., Canada participate in the program. Membership Providence, R.I.; 401-273-5437; childrenmuseum.org. card holder must be present to receive the discount. ✼ The Paul Revere House – Admission is free childrensmuseums.org/index.php/family-reciprocalfor children under age 5 and only $1 for kids ages membership.html. 5-17. 19 North Square, Boston; 617-523-2338; ✼ Bank of America Museums on Us – Get paulreverehouse.org. free general admission to 150 museums ✼ The Peabody Essex Museum – Admission nationwide on the first full weekend of every is free for Salem residents and $10 after 5 p.m. month by presenting your Bank of America Card. 161 Essex St., Salem; 978-745-9500; pem.org. museums.bankofamerica.com. ✼ The Sports Museum – Admission is always free ✼ Blue Star Museums is a partnership of Blue 12

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

Solomon Schechter Day School Star Families, the National Endowment for the Arts and more than 1,000 museums nationwide that offers free admission to active military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Numerous Massachusetts venues participate in the program, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Louisa May Alcottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Orchard House and The Discovery Museums. arts.gov/national/blue-star-museums. â&#x153;ź Boston CityPASS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Get a booklet of tickets to four of Bostonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top attractions. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good for nine consecutive days, making it great for vacation weeks. Purchase the pass online to these attractions: New England Aquarium, Museum of Science, Museum of Fine Arts, and a choice of the Skywalk Observatory or Harvard Museum of Natural History. Adults, $49 (a $91.95 value); children ages 3-11, $36 (a $59.95 value). 888-330-5008; citypass.com/boston. â&#x153;ź CharlieCard Discount Book â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Use your MBTA CharlieCard for special discounts at Boston-area attractions, retailers and restaurants. Check out the current discount book at mbta.com/riding_the_t/ CharlieCard_Discount_Book. â&#x153;ź Family-Friendly Value Pass â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Print out a free pass and list of attractions from the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau for discounts and deals at dozens of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s museums, attractions, tours, shops and restaurants. You must have both the pass and the list to get discounts. Go to the website and click on tabs â&#x20AC;&#x153;Visit Boston,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Boston Everydayâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Great Deals Family-Friendly Value Passâ&#x20AC;? to access the pass and information. 888-733-2678; bostonusa.com. â&#x153;ź Go Boston Card â&#x20AC;&#x201C; If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to visit several attractions over the course of a few days, the Go Boston Card grants you multi-attraction passes to more than 50 venues, including New England Aquarium, Boston Duck Tours, Museum of Science, Fenway Park and more, allowing you to pay one price, save up to 55 percent and even skip ticket lines. Each order includes a guidebook with maps and information, as well as additional shopping and dining discounts. The card can be printed at home or downloaded to your cell phone. To purchase, visit gobostoncard.com. â&#x153;ź Your Public Library â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Many local libraries offer passes for patrons to sign out that offer significant savings on admission prices at many area museums and attractions. Visit your local library to see if it participates in the program and to find out if passes are available for a specific date. â&#x2013;

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Adventures Attractions in Massachusetts

PHOTO: SETH KAYE PHOTOGRAPHY/THE ERIC CARLE

Hands-on exhibits are just some of what you’ll find at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art.

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO KEEP THE KIDS – AND YOU – ENTERTAINED? Get out and discover the many attractions that Massachusetts has to offer. This list covers tried-and-true perennial favorites along with other destinations you might not have considered. Enjoy the fun and educational aspects of each one!

Concord Museum See history come to life at the Concord Museum. Explore Native American life, see the famed 1775 Revere lantern, learn how a clock works and study nature with Henry Thoreau. Children of all ages will enjoy the intriguing museum artifact hunts.

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

Cambridge Turnpike at Lexington Road, Concord, 978-369-9763; concordmuseum.org.

EcoTarium Climb Mount Washington – in Worcester! The Arctic Next Door is a fun exhibit that uses the White

Mountains to teach about weather and geology. Feel the power of wind in a hurricane simulator, climb a bouldering wall, learn about the rocks and minerals found on Mount Washington, and watch weather satellite images of the Northeast. Other popular attractions at this indoor-outdoor museum include the digital planetarium, the Tree Canopy Walkway and the Nature Explore Outdoor Exhibit. 222 Harrington Way, Worcester, 508-929-2700; ecotarium.org.

The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art Calling all book worms! If your child is a fan of The Very Hungry Caterpillar and makes you read it over and over and over again, head to this wonderfully accessible museum. While the three galleries – one with Carle’s works and two others with rotating exhibits – are fun to explore, the hands-on and special programs (with visits from some of today’s best children’s authors) really get kids excited. 125 Bay Road, Amherst, 413-658-1100; carlemuseum.org.

PHOTO: SETH KAYE PHOTOGRAPHY/THE ERIC CARLE

Har vard Museum of Natural Histor y After checking out some of the street performers while walking around Harvard Square, be sure to stop by the Harvard Museum of Natural History for an afternoon filled with fun and interesting finds. Children love this museum for its fascinating glass flower and gemstone exhibits, mounted and standing specimens of marine life, mammals and birds from around the world, and featured displays. 26 Oxford St., Cambridge, 617-495-3045; hmnh.harvard.edu.

LEGOLAND Discover y Center Boston If your child is a budding master builder, then this next place promises to keep them entertained brick by brick. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston is geared toward children ages 3 to 10 and their families, and features millions of LEGO bricks, rides, LEGO Studios 4D Cinema, replicas of Boston landmarks made out of LEGO bricks and more. 598 Assembly Row, Somerville; legolanddiscoverycenter.com/boston.

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston On weekend afternoons or during school vacation weeks, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA) is buzzing with activity. The Family Art Cart at the MFA is full of interactive activities created for kids ages 4 and up. Kids are set loose among the masterpieces to piece together puzzles, sketch their favorite art works

and uncover ancient Egyptian mysteries. Avenue of the Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston, 617-267-9300; mfa.org.

Museum of Science Did you know that your pupil is actually a hole in your eye? Neither did we! No matter how many times you visit the Museum of Science, you always learn something new. Dinosaurs, butterflies, hatching chicks and electricity are some of the “classic” exhibits, but don’t miss the new additions coming to town in 2016, as well as the hands-on demonstrations in the Hall of Human Life. 1 Science Park, Boston, 617-723-2500; mos.org.

New England Aquarium You don’t need scuba gear to see, touch and learn about the wonderful creatures who live in our seas. Just step through the doors of Boston’s finest aquarium for an underwater adventure the entire family will love! Myrtle, the green sea turtle, is the grand dame of this Boston institution. But we also love the Shark & Ray Touch Tank, which allows visitors to get up close with cownose rays, bonnethead sharks, Atlantic rays and epaulette sharks, and the outdoor Marine Mammal Center, with its lovable Northern fur seals and California sea lions. Central Wharf, Boston, 617-973-5200; neaq.org.

Winslow Farm If you’re an animal lover like us, then you’ll want to check out Winslow Farm Animal Sanctuary, a nonprofit, stay-for-life sanctuary established for the rescue and care of abused and abandoned animals and for animal education. Winslow Farm is home to more than 200 animals, including sheep, goats, horses, llamas, alpacas, exotic birds, pigs and more. 37 Eddy St., Norton, 508-285-6451; winslowfarm.com.

Zoo New England These two zoos provide a full range of animal encounters. Franklin Park Zoo is home to a tropical forest with the zoo’s famous indoor gorilla exhibit, the Giraffe Savannah, the lions in Kalahari Kingdom, the ostrich, zebra and wildebeests in Serengeti Crossing, and more. Its sister zoo to the north, Stone Zoo, is home to a bald eagle, lynx, reindeer and two black bears, Smoky and Bubba, and more. Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston, 617-541-5466, and Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St., Stoneham, 781-438-5400; zoonewengland.org. ■ Compiled by the editors of Boston Parents Paper. BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

Cold play

Weekend Getaways for Families By Kim Foley MacKinnon

FOR SOME NEW ENGLANDERS, A WINTER GETAWAY MEANS SUN, SURF and sand, a warm break from our long winters. For others, it’s finally a chance to embrace and celebrate a season of snow, skiing, skating and snowboarding to the fullest. Countless options for weekend escapes within a few hours of Boston make it a bit difficult to choose where to go. Here are a few destinations – listed in order of distance – perfect for families who think winter is all too short and should be enjoyed to the fullest, whether that means hitting the slopes, relaxing by a fire, tubing down a hill or all of that and more.

One Hour Away

Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, a mere hour’s drive from Boston in Princeton, Mass., is one of the closest ski resort areas to the city, and if that’s even more than you want to drive, a special “ski train” from North Station to Fitchburg runs on weekends in season. At the MBTA Fitchburg Station a shuttle bus picks up visitors and takes them to the mountain. The

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

Wachusett Mountain Ski & Snowboard School, with more than 300 instructors, has a reputation for being one of the largest and finest in New England. The popular Polar Kid’s Program and Children’s Vacation Clubs are a great way to introduce kids to the sports. The school vacation programs are a deal, with full days that include coaching, lift tickets and even

Grab the fam and go on a snowshoe trek at Smugglers’ Notch in Vermont.

Adventure Center include a 700-foot-long zip line, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. In addition, there are two Paul Bunyan-themed terrain snowboarding parks and a snow tubing center. While in the area, check out the New England Ski Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history of skiing from its prehistoric roots (really!) to the present day. Lincoln, N.H., 603-745-8111; loonmtn.com.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Waterville Valley in New Hampshire is an adorable village in a self-contained valley, with plenty of family-friendly activities and accommodations. Besides the Alpine skiing (52 ski trails, served by 12 lifts) and Nordic Fun on the slopes at skiing (40-plus miles of trails), you can take King Pine Ski Area in a sleigh ride, go ice skating, dog-sledding or New Hampshire. snowshoeing. New this year, there’s also a tubing center with four lanes to speed down. Stay and play vacation packages include lunch for kids ages 6 to 15. Princeton, Mass., everything from lift tickets to access to the 978-464-2300; 800-SKI-1234; wachusett.com. resort shuttles, swimming at the White Mountain Athletic Club, ice skating passes and other perks. Two Hours Away Waterville Valley, N.H., 800-468-2553; waterville.com. Since the 1800s, King Pine Purity Spring Resort, a family-owned and Two and a Half Hours Away -operated resort in East Madison, N.H., Omni Mount Washington Resort, with the has offered myriad activities year-round. unmatched combination of a gorgeous historic In winter, its King Pine Ski Area is a hotel and its location within Bretton Woods, New smorgasbord of snowy fun, including Hampshire’s largest ski area, is the perfect place to both Alpine (downhill) and Nordic celebrate your snow-filled adventure. While the hotel (cross-country and ski jumping) skiing, offers plenty of amenities for its guests, including a snowboarding, ice skating and tubing. A bonus is that luxurious spa and a multitude of dining options to with your lift ticket, the Nordic skiing, skating and please even the pickiest eaters, winter visitors are snowshoeing tickets are included. It’s an ideal place often eager to hit the slopes as this area is home to for beginners, especially this year, because the resort some of the best skiing and snowboarding trails – is offering free 90-minute Learn-to-Ski and Learn-to- more than 100 – for all abilities. You’ll also discover Snowboard lessons for the entire winter season (with ice skating, snow tubing, dog-sled rides, sleigh rides the purchase of a full-day rental and a lift ticket at the and more. Visit their website to check out the deals regular price). Various accommodations, from lodges for families, including their ski and play packages. to cottages to condos, are available; this place has a Bretton Woods, N.H., 603-278-1000; omnihotels.com/ loyal following so book well in advance. East Madison, FindAHotel/BrettonWoodsMountWashington. N.H., 800-373-3754; purityspring.com. When your kids hear that Red Jacket Mountain Loon Mountain in Lincoln, N.H., not only offers View Resort boasts its own 40,000-square-foot a great Snowsports School with programs for all ages indoor water park, your search for a winter getaway and abilities, but this year also marks the debut of may be over. This very family-oriented New an Ice Castle at the resort’s Adventure Center. The Hampshire resort offers a great selection of room castle, the first of its kind in New England, is nearly an types, as well as various packages. A ski, splash and acre in size, a 12,000-ton frozen fantasy fortress with stay deal includes two nights of lodging; one lift ticket walls as high as 25 feet. Other fun activities at the per person (per stay) to either nearby Cranmore or BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

PHOTO: KIM FOLEY MACKINNON

Take a thrilling ride on The Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster at Okemo Mountain Resort in Vermont.

Attitash; daily admission to the Kahuna Laguna Water Park; and daily breakfast. If your family would rather skip the outdoor activities, the splash and save package is a bargain, with unlimited use of the water park, accommodations and complimentary full breakfast. North Conway, N.H., 603-356-5411; redjacketresorts.com.

Three Hours Away

Grades PK – 8

accepting applications cfsadmission@cfsmass.org

It’s all in one place. • Engaging project-based learning • Specialists in science, art, music, drama, and physical education • A mission and curriculum that reﬂect your values • Thoughtfully planned extended day programs • A warm, welcoming community for students and families

Cambridge Friends School 5 Cadbury Road, Cambridge, MA 02140 www.cfsmass.org | 617. 354. 3880

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

Thrill-seekers love the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster at Okemo Mountain Resort in Ludlow, Vt., just one of many family attractions found there. Besides the mountain coaster, which zips along through the woods on a winding, looping track like a roller coaster, there’s also an indoor/outdoor pool, an ice skating rink, and, oh yeah, Nordic skiing galore on dozens of trails, plus snowshoeing and snow tubing. The town of Ludlow is a charming place to spend the afternoon, with plenty of shops and restaurants. Accommodations at Okemo range from one-bedroom rooms to three-bedroom suites with full kitchens, perfect for families. There are several different children’s ski and ride programs for kids even as young as 2, plus daycare and kids’ nights out. Ludlow, Vt., 800-786-5366; okemo.com. Sugarbush and Mad River Valley offer plenty for families to do. Located in Warren, Vt., in the Mad River Valley, the 4,000-acre resort boasts 111 trails in two mountain areas, multiple lodging and dining options, and scores of amenities. At the Adventure Learning Center, lessons, clinics and camps cater to every age and ability level. There are guided and self-guided snowshoe tours, plus ice skating and ice fishing nearby. There’s also a winter tennis program at the Sugarbush Health and Racquet Club (which also has an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna and rock-climbing gym). A bonus once you arrive is that you can just park your car and forget about it. A free shuttle service, called the Mad Bus, runs regularly in and around the resort with stops at most condominium complexes and the Sugarbush Inn. Warren, Vt., 800-537-8427; sugarbush.com.

NEW TEACHER WORKSHOPS AVAILABLE

Four Hours Away Smugglers’ Notch in Vermont wins accolades from publications each year for its family-friendly vibe, consistently offering some of the most outstanding programs for kids and families in New England. For example, its new Vermont Winter Experience Package includes lodging, guided walks and snowshoe treks, a cross-country ski lesson, a snowcat ride, snow tubing, airboarding (inflatable sleds), access to the indoor pool and hot tub, and evening entertainment. If you stay for more than two days, you can choose to add on activities like a snowmobile tour, zip lining, dog-sledding, ice climbing and more. When you’re ready to play inside, the FunZone Family Entertainment & Recreation Center features an arcade, a bouncy house, table games, a 45-foot giant obstacle course and after-hours teen-only activities. In addition, special programs from bingo to arts and crafts to dance parties ensure no one has a chance to be bored. Cambridge, Vt., 800-419-4615; smuggs.com. Jay Peak Resort in Jay, Vermont, just a few miles from Canada, claims the distinction of having the most snow in eastern North America. It boasts the only aerial tram in Vermont and has more than 385 acres of skiable terrain (77 trails and eight lifts). New for families is the Mountain Kids Adventure Center with Toy Story characters, indoor and outdoor learning areas, a moving carpet and a dedicated learning slope. An ice skating rink offers another fun winter activity. There’s also an amazing indoor water park at Jay Peak called the Pumphouse, which features a lazy river, slides, a Flowrider (sort of like surfing), a 65-foot-high tube chute that rockets you along at 45 miles per hour (you have to be at least 4 feet tall and weigh 88 pounds), kids’ play areas and indoor/outdoor hot tubs. The resort has a variety of ski/splash/stay vacation packages that you can customize. Jay, Vt., 802-988-2611; jaypeakresort.com. ■

Entertaining & Educating Children with Original & Classic Stories, including a variety of theme-based shows.

Perfect for Preschool through Grade 6

Parties ★ Schools ★ Libraries Special Events ★ Teacher Workshops

www.bigjoe.com • 617-713-4349

Parents Helping Parents empowering parents since 1972

Parent Support Groups • Parental Stress Line

1-800-632-8188 Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our free, anonymous services increase parents’ and care-givers’ capacity for change and growth.

www.parentshelpingparents.org Volunteers always welcome! call 617-926-5008 x101

Kim Foley MacKinnon is a Boston-based editor and family travel writer.

Whether your children are learning to skate or have been skating for years, places like Bay State Skating School (baystateskatingschool.org), FMC Ice Sports (fmcicesports.com) and The Skating Club of Boston (scboston.org) offer great opportunities for kids to hone their ice skating or ice hockey skills. For even more places to go ice skating, scan this QR Code or visit BostonParentsPaper.com/iceskating.

CAMBRIDGE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Ages 21 Months – Grade 8 www.cambridgemontessori.org

BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

EXPLORING BOSTON:

THE FORT POINT CHANNEL

LOCAL PARENTS AND OUT-OF-TOWN VISITORS KNOW THE WAY TO THE Boston Children’s Museum overlooking the harbor. But there’s plenty more to see in South Boston’s Fort Point Channel area. To get there: Take the Red Line to South Station and set out on foot on Summer Street. Cross over the channel, turn left and follow the path along the water to Congress Street and the Children’s Museum. Or, drive and park: Just across the Summer Street bridge, take an immediate right and follow Melcher Street to a large open parking lot, or drive across the Congress Street bridge, follow Congress Street to Farnsworth, turn left and go into a covered lot on the right.

Don’t miss these Fort Point Channel sites: ✼ Boston Children’s Museum. Kids love the

museum’s intricately designed three-story climbing structure, the space to roam no matter what the weather is doing, and all the special exhibits, including Peep’s World, based on the WGBH series Peep and the Big Wide World. 300 Congress St., 617-426-6500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org. ✼ The Harborwalk will one day stretch for 47 miles, from Chelsea Creek to the Neponset River. The 20

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

South Boston segment follows Fort Point Channel from the Gillette World Shaving Headquarters building past the Boston Children’s Museum to the Institute of Contemporary Art, with only a few streets to cross and some lovely landscaped parks for picnicking along the way. You’ll see ships in the harbor, planes landing at Logan International Airport across the bay and the hustle and bustle of a port with buildings of downtown Boston as a backdrop. ✼ Northern Avenue Bridge connects downtown Boston with the South Boston seaport area through a pedestrian-only bridge that often hosts live musical performances. Walk over the bridge from the Harborwalk and head into James Hook & Co., 15 Northern Ave., 617-423-5501; jameshooklobster.com. Bostonians have bought their lobsters here since 1925. Stop in for a lobster roll or to show your kids the giant lobsters in the store’s water tanks.

PHOTO: CLIVE GRAINGER/BOSTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Stop by and s-s-s-stay for awhile at Boston Children’s Museum’s Science Playground Exhibit.

COURTESY PHOTO

Learn about the history of fire fighting at the Boston Fire Museum. ✼ Boston Fire Museum. See a number of vintage fire

engines, including a hand-drawn, hand-operated pumper dating to 1793, and memorable photos from famous Boston fires. Open Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., or by appointment for groups. They even host birthday parties! Admission is free. 344 Congress St., 617-482-1344; bostonfiremuseum.com. ✼ Flour Bakery. Just around the corner from the Fire Museum, this popular spot serves up a dazzling array of freshly-baked goodies: pain aux raisins, croissants, fruit tarts, coconut and chocolate chip macaroons, sticky buns, cookies and sandwiches. Anyone of any age will find a treat here. 12 Farnsworth St., 617-338-4333; flourbakery.com. ✼ Sportello. Chef Barbara Lynch treats hungry visitors to a delightful experience here, pairing the casual charm of a lunch counter with simple yet sophisticated fare that includes hand-made pasta dishes and grilled specialties. Bring your spouse or partner here for an impromptu lunch or make reservations for dinner. 348 Congress St., 617-737-1234; sportelloboston.com. ✼ Summer Music Concert Series, every Thursday through the end of August, Children’s Wharf Park, next to the Boston Children’s Museum. For details on these and other events in the Fort Point Channel area, visit friendsoffortpointchannel.org. ✼ InterContinental Boston. If you’re looking for a very special, pampering experience for your family, consider this luxury hotel which rises over the Channel in blue glass and polished granite. Located across the Channel from the Children’s Museum, and across the street from the Boston Fire Department (another draw for fire engine lovers), the InterContinental offers peaceful, elegant rooms, gorgeous views of Fort Point Channel and restaurants featuring sushi and French cuisine. In fact, it’s so pampering, you might want to make it a parents-only get-away destination as well. 510 Atlantic Ave., Boston, 617-747-1000; intercontinentalboston.com. ■

Swim Lessons at Goldﬁsh Swim School! At Goldﬁsh, we offer swim classes and other programs for children 4 months to 12 years of age. Our swim lesson curriculum offers top-quality swim lessons coupled with an experience you can’t get anywhere else! Call or visit us online to register TODAY!

90-Degree Pool Small Class Sizes Year-Round Lessons

4 BOSTON AREA LOCATIONS! Needham, Westford, Braintree & Burlington www.goldﬁshswimschool.com

SWIM LESSONS FOR AGES 3 MONTHS AND UP

Free evaluation • Survival-based swim program

JCC Lenny Krayzelburg Swim Academy Newton • 617-558-6442

bostonjcc.org/lksa

BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

First Aid Tips to Teach Kids

By Paul Guarino

“NO. NO. NO.” PARENTS OF young children say it a lot. Safety starts with the first no, such as when a child reaches for the stove or climbs up on furniture; but there’s no reason to stop there. Kids have an incredible capacity to learn. Teach them how to react when emergencies happen.

Calling 911 – It’s one of the simplest and most important lessons you’ll ever share! As soon as kids can recognize the numbers, they can learn to call 911. If the kids are carrying cell phones, they need to know that calling with the cell is different than calling from the house phone. Always refer to the emergency number as “nine-one-one” not “nine-eleven” because in an emergency, a child may not know how to dial the number correctly because of trying to find the “11” button on the phone. Teach a child what to say when an emergency operator asks why help is needed. ✼ The Reason: “My mom fell down and she can’t move her leg” or “The house next door is on fire.” ✼ Child’s full name. ✼ Address or location: “We are upstairs in our house” or “We are by the tennis courts in the park.” If you live in an apartment building, make sure your child knows the apartment number and floor. Teach kids that dialing 911 is no joke and whenever an unnecessary 911 call is made, it delays a response to someone who needs help. Most areas now have enhanced 911, which enables a call to be

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

traced; so if someone dials 911 as a prank, emergency personnel could be dispatched directly to that location. Not only could this mean life or death for someone having a real emergency on the other side of town, it also means that it’s very likely the prank caller will be caught. Kids need to know the specifics about what constitutes an emergency. Ask them questions like, “What would you do if we had a fire in our house?” or “What would you do if you saw someone trying to break in?” to make sure they know what to do. Role playing is an especially good tool for this and will give your kids confidence.

Using a first aid kit – Go over the location and contents of a home first aid kit with your kids. Explain each item and purpose. Have your children handle the items and use them in a demonstration, creating imaginary scenarios that might incorporate the supplies stored in the kit. You can purchase a first aid kit at your local drugstore or make one of your own using a lightweight container with handles that has plenty of room in it, such as one used for storing art supplies.

Controlling bleeding – Teach your children to apply direct pressure to a wound by covering it with a gauze pad, paper towel, clean cloth or article of clothing (depending on the size of the cut). Tell them to cover the wound and apply continuous direct pressure until the bleeding stops or help arrives. If the wound is on someone else, have that person cover the wound or bandage with his own hand first. If the bleeding still won’t stop have your child place his hand over the other person’s hand to help them apply pressure. If possible, have your child use a glove or clean plastic bag to cover his hand first. If blood soaks through the dressing he’s applied, have him add another layer of dressing to it without removing what is already in place. This allows the blood to stick together and form a clot. If he can, teach him that it’s always best to wash his hands before and after helping someone. Sometimes kids hurt themselves by falling onto something that sticks into them, such as a piece of broken glass or a stick. Tell your child not to pull out anything that is stuck in a wound. Have her call for help and stop the bleeding in the meantime by ✼ pressing on the area around the object but not on it; ✼ putting a pad of clean material around the object and bandaging it to support the object in place; and ✼ elevating the injured part and keeping it still.

Broken bones – Tell children that bones can be broken or cracked, and that “fractured” means the same thing. Tell them bones are living things that have a blood supply and nerves. When bones are broken, they leak out blood into the surrounding tissue and cause pain. Large bones can leak out a lot of blood and cause a lot of swelling around the injury. Remind your child that broken bones are painful, and it’s probably best if she doesn’t touch the injured area. If your child is with someone who breaks a bone, she can help by: ✼ Calling for help from an adult or sending someone to call for help.

✼ Asking where it hurts and telling the person to keep

the injured part still. Your child can help make the person comfortable by finding something soft to rest the injured part on. ✼ Talking to the person to help keep him calm, and letting him know what is going on so he won’t feel scared. ✼ Making sure the person doesn’t eat or drink anything because she may need an operation to put the bone back into the right place, and eating or drinking might mean the operation will need to be delayed. ✼ If she can, staying with the person until help arrives.

“Stop, Drop and Roll” – This saying is used when clothing catches fire. Children need to know when to do it. Have them: ✼ Stop where they are. ✼ Drop to the ground and cover their faces with their hands. ✼ Roll over and over and back and forth until the flames are out. ✼ Get help from a grown-up who will cool the burn and get medical help. Arming your child with the knowledge of how and when to perform basic first aid measures boosts confidence and will help them know what to do in a medical emergency affecting them or someone else. ■ Paul Guarino is a trauma educator for Boston Children’s Hospital Injury Prevention Program.

Create a First Aid Kit If you don’t already have a first aid kit handy, now is the time to put one together. With all the outdoor play our kids are currently engaged in, it’s super important to have all the tools you need to put out figurative fires that could hamper their fun. Depending on your child’s interests and activities, they may be prone to certain bumps, scrapes or other issues, so you’ll want to customize your kit to target the items you’ll need most, but here are some ideas to get you started: ✼ Adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes, adhesive cloth tape and sterile gauze pads will help with minor cuts and scrapes. ✼ Tweezers to remove ticks, a small bottle of aloe vera to relieve sunburn or windburn, a pair of scissors and an instant cold compress take your kit up a notch. ✼ Keep a First Aid instruction booklet with your kit to help you address any imminent concerns.

BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

DIRECTORY OF FAMILY RESOURCES Our Family Resources section features businesses and organizations that provide top-notch products and services for parents, children and families.

A Adoption Support After-School Programs Attractions

H 25 25 25

Hospitals

I Indoor Playspace

L Bookstores

25 Learning Disabilities

Camps & Summer Programs 25 Childcare 25

D Dental Care

Martial Arts Instruction Meal Planning Museums Music Classes

E Education Resources Entertainment

26 26

F Fathering Resources Food Pantries

26 26

PERFORMANCE

AND

27 27 27 27

N Nutrition Information & Resources

Schools

• Preschools

• Private

• Private-Montessori

Shoe Stores

Skating & Instruction

Special Needs

Speech & Language

Sports Programs & Instruction 30 Support Groups • Fertility Issues

• Parents

• Postpartum

• Pregnancy & Childbirth

• Stepparenting

• Twins, Triplets & More

30 30

T Theaters & Performing Arts 30

Recreation Centers & Programs

EDUCATION

Swim Lessons

Parent Education 27 Party Destinations 28 Performing Arts & Instruction 28

G Gymnastics Instruction

Safety & Injury Resources

IN THE

Youth & Teen Groups

HEART

OF THE

FENWAY

2016 Season

2015 WINNER

Perennial Family Favorite for Theatre and Classes

Mary Poppins Jan. 29 – Feb. 28 A Year with Frog and Toad Apr. 15 – May 15 Classes in Acting and Stagecraft for youth ages 6-16.

Box Office: 617-879-2300 • tickets@wheelock.edu • www.WheelockFamilyTheatre.org 24

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

Adoption Support

Adoption Support Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange 617-542-3678 800-882-1176 mareinc.org

After-School Programs FMC Ice Sports 888-747-5283 24 locations across Massachusetts fmcicesports.com We offer a variety of hockey and skating programs for all ages, beginner to advanced, 12 months of the year.

Attractions LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Boston 888-228-6439 598 Assembly Row, Somerville legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ boston

Bookstores Harvard Coop 617-499-2012 1400 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge thecoop.com Wide selection of books for children and adults, with story times and activities throughout the year in Coop’s Kids Department.

Camps & Summer Programs Dexter Southfield Summer Camps 617-454-2725 20 Newton St., Brookline dextersouthfield.org/summer

FAMILY RESOURCES Our family-focused co-ed camps are located in Brookline. On our state-of-the-art campus, we provide programs that engage campers in a safe, fun environment where they can learn, grow and play. Everwood Day Camp 781-694-5829 125 Lakeview St., Sharon everwooddaycamp.com Situated along the shores of Lake Massapoag in Sharon, we offer campers from 4 to 15 a summer of sports, arts and outdoor activities in an environment that’s uniquely suited to encourage their growth. Our kids experience all the fun and friendship of camp life, plus the support of a community that’s committed to providing skills for life.

Nobles Day Camp 781-320-1320 10 Campus Drive, Dedham noblesdaycamp.org More than just another day camp for ages 3.5 to 14 years!

Childcare Greater Quincy Child Care Center 781-773-8386 • 859 Willard St., Quincy • 1 Adams Place, Suite 100, Quincy greaterquincychildcare.com

Childcare Little People’s Playhouse 617-323-2566 • 32 South Fairview St., Roslindale 617-323-6144 • 4019 Washington St., Roslindale peopleplayhouse.net Ages 15 months-6 years; Pre-K, kindergarten, afterschool for ages 6-12, tutoring. Literacybased academic program and catered hot meals.

FMC Ice Sports 888-747-5283 24 Locations across Massachusetts fmcicesports.com Stay fit and cool this summer. Our hockey and skating programs are a great way to stay active while keeping out of the dangers of the summer sun. Hale Reservation Summer membership: 781-326-8985 Day camp: 781-329-8107 80 Carby St., Westwood halereservation.org LINX Summer Programs 781-235-3210 141 Linden St., Wellesley linx-usa.com LINX is a premier provider of fun-based classes and camps, specializing in dance, theater, sports and early childhood programming.

2015 TOP 5

Nobles Day Camp More than just another day camp!

June 27 - August 19, 2016 Register Now for Summer Fun! Call to schedule a camp tour.

For children ages 31/2 -14 • Weekly sessions (two week minimum) • AM and PM extended day options

Nobles Day Camp, 10 Campus Drive, Dedham, MA 02026

www.noblesdaycamp.org • 781-320-1320

BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

FAMILY RESOURCES

Childcare Pine Village Preschool 617-294-5542 Brighton, Kendall Square Cambridge, Porter Square Cambridge, Centre St., Jamaica Plain, Revere St., Needham, Newton, South End Boston mybilingualpreschool.com Pine Village is a Spanish Immersion community of small neighborhood schools with the support of a strong, committed team of educators. Our mission is to educate and nurture each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a passion for learning. Transportation Children’s Center 617-973-8200 10 Park Plaza, Room 3330, Boston transchildrencenter.org Toddler, preschool and Pre-K programs available. NAEYC-accredited program conveniently located in the city.

Dental Care Kid Care Dental, P.C. 781-341-0320 1613 Central St., Stoughton kidcaredental.com Dr. Mark Kaplan utilizes the latest in high-tech dentistry and services, including needlefree, drill-free laser and air-abrasion technology. Video examinations, sedation for the apprehensive and hospital dentistry.

Education Resources Boston Partners in Education 617-451-6145 bostonpartners.org

Massachusetts Association of 766 Approved Private Schools (MAAPS) 781-245-1220 maaps.org Massachusetts Dept. of Education 781-338-3000 doe.mass.edu New England League of Middle Schools 978-557-9311 nelms.org Read Boston 617-918-5286 readboston.org

Entertainment Big Joe the Storyteller 617-713-4349 bigjoe.com Original and classic stories with props, puppets and surprises. Boston’s favorite storyteller! Parties, schools, libraries and special events, customized for your needs!

Fathering Resources Children’s Trust Fatherhood Initiative 617-727-8957 childrenstrustma.org

Food Pantries Many churches, temples and religious organizations also provide services for families in need. Also try The Salvation Army website, salvationarmyusa.org, for services in your area.

Food Source Hotline 800-645-8333 145 Border St., E. Boston American Red Cross 617-274-5200 139 Main St., Cambridge redcross.org/ma/boston Greater Boston Food Bank 617-427-5200 70 South Bay Ave., Boston gbfb.org Project Bread 617-723-5000 145 Border St., E. Boston projectbread.org

Gymnastics Instruction Exxcel Gymnastics & Climbing 617-244-3300 88 Wells Ave., Newton exxcel.net Where kids matter most. Exciting gymnastics, rock climbing, cheer and circus classes, plus lots more!

Hospitals

Hospitals Boston Medical Center 617-638-8000 One Boston Medical Center Place, Boston bmc.org Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital Pediatric Center 781-348-2500 250 Pond St., Braintree healthsouthbraintree.com Brigham and Women’s Hospital 617-732-5500 75 Francis St., Boston brighamandwomens.org Cambridge Health Alliance, Malden Family Medicine Center 781-338-0500 195 Canal St., Malden challiance.org/malden Cambridge Hospital 617-665-1000 1493 Cambridge St., Cambridge challiance.org Children’s Hospital 617-355-6000 300 Longwood Ave., Boston childrenshospital.org

Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Medical Center 617-667-7000 330 Brookline Ave., Boston bidmc.org

Dana Farber Cancer Institute 617-632-3000 450 Brookline Ave., Boston dana-farber.org

Beth Israel Deaconess 508-746-2000 275 Sandwich St., Plymouth bidplymouth.org

Emerson Hospital 978-369-1400 133 ORNAC, Concord emersonhospital.org

Beverly Hospital 978-922-3000 85 Herrick St., Beverly beverlyhospital.org

Faulkner Hospital 617-983-7000 1153 Centre St., Boston brighamandwomensfaulkner.org

tim the best Now is on d e t r a to get st r u o y g in improv l a t n e D family’s ! h Healt

Dentistry and Orthodontics for children and adolescents. Dr. Martin Kaplan and Dr. Htet Htet utilize the latest in high-tech dentistry and services including: NEW Laser procedure to treat tongue tied babies! Needle-free, drill-free laser and air abrasion technology, video examinations, sedation for the apprehensive, and hospital dentistry. Latex-free treatment available. Our office is handicapped accessible and most health plans are accepted.

Mastercard, Visa and American Express accepted. 1613 Central Street • Stoughton • 781.341.0320 • www.kidcaredental.com

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

TOP 5

Hospitals Franciscan Children’s Hospital and Rehabilitation Center 617-254-3800 30 Warren St., Brighton franciscanhospital.org Good Samaritan Medical Center 508-427-3000 235 N. Pearl St., Brockton goodsamaritanmedical.org Lahey Clinic 781-744-5100 41 Burlington Mall Rd., Burlington • Arlington – 781-641-0100 • Beverly – 978-927-1919 • Billerica – 978-663-6666 • Lexington – 781-372-7000 lahey.org Lowell General Hospital 978-937-6000 295 Varnum Ave., Lowell lowellgeneral.org Massachusetts General Hospital 617-726-2000 55 Fruit St., Boston massgeneral.org Massachusetts General Hospital for Children 888-644-3248 55 Fruit St., Boston massgeneral.org/children McLean Hospital 617-855-2000 115 Mill St., Belmont mcleanhospital.org Melrose-Wakefield Hospital 781-979-3000 585 Lebanon St., Melrose hallmarkhealth.org/melrose.html Milford Regional Hospital 508-473-1190 14 Prospect St., Milford milfordregional.org Mount Auburn Hospital 617-492-3500 330 Mt. Auburn St., Cambridge mountauburnhospital.org New England Baptist Hospital 617-754-5000 125 Parker Hill Ave., Boston nebh.org New England Sinai Hospital and Rehabilitation Center 781-344-0600 150 York St., Stoughton newenglandsinai.org

FAMILY RESOURCES Newton-Wellesley Hospital 617-243-6000 2014 Washington St., Newton nwh.org North Shore Medical Center/ Salem Hospital 978-741-1200 81 Highland Ave., Salem nsmc.partners.org Norwood Hospital 781-769-4000 800 Washington St., Norwood norwood-hospital.org Saint Elizabeth’s Medical Center 617-789-3000 736 Cambridge St., Brighton semc.org/st-elizabeths Shriners Hospitals for Children Boston 617-722-3000 51 Blossom St., Boston shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/ boston Shriners Hospitals for Children Boston is a pediatric specialty hospital treating children from all around the world. All care is provided regardless of the families’ ability to pay. South Shore Hospital 781-624-8000 55 Fogg Road, S. Weymouth southshorehospital.org Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital 617-952-5000 300 First Ave., Boston spauldingrehab.org Steward Satellite Emergency Facility – Quincy 617-773-6100 114 Whitwell St., Quincy quincymedical.org Sturdy Memorial Hospital 508-222-5200 211 Park St., Attleboro sturdymemorial.org Tufts Medical Center 617-636-5000 800 Washington St., Boston tuftsmedicalcenter.org

Indoor Playspace Inside Playground 617-923-1772 100 Parker St., Watertown bostonindoorplayground.com

Learning Disabilities Diagnostic & Testing Advanced Neurotherapy, P.C. 781-444-9115 145 Rosemary St., Entrance J, Needham advancedneurotherapy.com

Martial Arts Instruction Alpha Tae Kwon 978-251-1331 40 Vinal Square North Chelmsford alphatkd.com

Meal Planning The Dinner Daily dinnerdaily.com The Dinner Daily is your answer to the “What’s for dinner?” dilemma. Each week customers receive easy weeknight menus, shopping lists and links to online coupons, all based on the specials at your grocery store! The cost of five dinners and sides costs less than $85 a week on average for a family of five! Save hundreds of dollars on your groceries, save time and eat better.

Museums Children’s Discovery Museum 978-262-4200 177 Main St., Acton discoverymuseums.org

Parent Education

Music Classes Brookline Music School 617-277-4593 25 Kennard Road, Brookline bmsmusic.org Offering classes and lessons for ages 6 months to adults, Brookline Music School seeks to awaken and nurture musical interest and appreciation in a friendly and stimulating atmosphere. Groovy Baby Music 617-690-2622 groovybabymusic.com Offering the best researchbased music and movement classes for kids newborn to age 9! Music Together, Canta y Baila Commigo, Radiant Child Yoga and Rhythm Kids. Twenty locations in greater Boston, join us in your neighborhood.

Nutrition Information & Resources Massachusetts WIC 800-WIC-1007 mass.gov/wic

Parent Education Many hospitals also offer parent education programs. Families First Parenting Programs 617-868-7687 families-first.org Freedman Center for Child & Family Development 617-332-3666 mspp.edu/community/ freedman-center

Traditional Martial Arts for students of all ages and abilities

Winchester Hospital 781-729-9000 41 Highland Ave., Winchester winchesterhospital.org BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

Parent Education The Home for Little Wanderers 617-267-3700 thehome.org Jewish Family & Children’s Service 781-647-JFCS jfcsboston.org Jewish Family Service of MetroWest 508-875-3100 jfsmw.org Massachusetts Children’s Trust Fund 617-727-8957 mctf.org Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children Boston – 617-587-1500 Hyannis – 508-775-0275 Lawrence – 978-682-9222 Worcester – 508-753-2967 mspcc.org Parents Helping Parents 800-632-8188

Party Destinations FMC Ice sports 888-747-5283 24 Locations across Massachusetts fmcicesports.com Put your party on ice! FMC Ice Sports offers a unique location for your party, filled with fun and fitness. Party rentals include ice time and rental skates. Party room available at select locations. Inside Playground 617-923-1772 100 Parker St., Watertown bostonindoorplayground.com Jam Time 978-897-2917 • 86 Powder Mill Road,

FAMILY RESOURCES Maynard 508-651-2917 • 251 West Central Street, Natick jamtime.com Parents and kids alike love Jam Time’s indoor playground. The climbing structures, play house and imaginative sets are a hit with kids, and moms and dads give kudos for the cleanliness and the cafe. A soft area welcomes little ones, and toys are updated frequently so there is always something new. A wide array of kids classes are also offered. The Kid’s Place 781-444-2325 15 Highland Place, Needham kidsplace4fun.com A fun, creative, interactive craft and party venue for all ages open seven days a week. Walk-ins and parties always welcome. Reserve your next party of 8 or more. Parties includes craft choice, dancing and area for food and cake.

Performing Arts & Instruction Wheelock Family Theatre 617-879-2147 200 The Riverway, Boston wheelockfamilytheatre.org Boston’s professional, affordable theater for every generation. Fabulous performances and education.

Recreation Centers & Programs FMC Ice Sports 888-747-5283 24 locations across Massachusetts fmcicesports.com FMC Ice Sports offers great

Schools

group skating programs taught by professional and courteous instructors to keep fit and have fun.

Safety & Injury Resources Child-At-Risk Hotline 800-792-5200 mass.gov Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program 800-532-9571 mass.gov/eohhs/gov/ departments/dph/programs/ environmental-health/ exposure-topics/lead Consumer Product Safety Commission Hotline 800-638-2772 cpsc.gov Massachusetts Poison Control Center 800-222-1222 (Emergency Hotline) maripoisoncenter.com Natl. Fire Protection Assn. 617-770-3000 nfpa.org

The Parental Stress Line 800-632-8188 parentshelpingparents.org

Schools Schools - Preschools The Children’s Meetinghouse, Inc. at Middlesex School 978-371-0678 1413 Lowell Road, Concord thechildrensmeetinghouse.org Since 1984, The Children’s Meetinghouse has provided Infant/Toddler and Preschool/ Pre-K Programs that value emergent curriculum. The multi-arts curriculum allows teachers and children to be partners in the learning process both indoors and outside in our new natural playscape. Children’s Workshop 781-769-2363 • 884 M Washington St., Norwood 781-466-8640 • 475 Winter St., Waltham childrensworkshop.com Family ACCESS 617-969-5906 492 Waltham St., W. Newton familyaccess.org

Creative Connections Camp At Brandeis University Dates: February 16-19 & April 19-22 Time: 8:30am-5:30pm K-5th grade

Contact: Lemberg Children’s Center Lembergcc.org 781-736-2200

Fun | Art | Theatre Expression | Nature

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

FAMILY RESOURCES

Schools Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston 617-558-6420 • 333 Nahanton St., Newton 617-278-2950 ext. 222 • 50 Sutherland Road, Brookline/Brighton 781-795-4900 • 25 Canton St., Sharon 781-752-4000 • 1112 Main St., Hingham bostonjcc.org/earlylearning Rich early learning experience inspired by Jewish values and traditions. For children ages 6 weeks through 5 years (age varies by location). Lemberg Children’s Center at Brandeis University 781-736-2200 457 Old South St., Waltham lembergcc.org Pine Village Preschool 617-294-5542 Brighton, Kendall Square Cambridge, Porter Square Cambridge, Centre St., Jamaica Plain, Revere St., Needham, Newton, South End Boston mybilingualpreschool.com Our mission is to educate and nurture each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a passion for learning. Sunny Bear Academy 781-326-8411 109 Lower East St., Dedham 617-469-3977 177 Green St., Jamaica Plain sunnybearacademy.com Dedham: Ages: 12 months through 10 years, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, Kindergarten, After School Program. NAEYC-accredited. Educational programs, low teacher-child ratio, flexible schedule.

Jamaica Plain: Ages: 3 months through 10 years, Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, After School Program. Educational programs, low teacher-child ratio, flexible schedules.

Schools - Private British International School 617-522-2261 416 Pond St., Boston britishschoolofboston.org International School of Boston 617-583-9348 45 Matignon Road, Cambridge isbos.org Solomon Schechter Day School 617-928-9100 125 Wells Ave., Newton 617-964-7765 60 Stein Circle, Newton ssdsboston.org Solomon Schechter Day School is a premier Jewish independent school for children ages 18 months through eighth grade. We offer a rich core curriculum with a solid academic foundation. Critical thinking and depth of understanding are common threads that run through our curriculum from language arts to math and science, from Jewish texts to the arts.

Schools – Private Montessori Cambridge Montessori School 617-492-3410 161 Garden St., Cambridge cambridgemontessori.org

Bay State Skating School LEARN TO SKATE CLASSES for Recreational • Figure • Hockey Skating Skills As featured on “Chronicle”

46 Years Experience

Special Needs FMC Ice Sports 888-747-5283 24 Locations across Massachusetts fmcicesports.com FMC Ice Sports offers great group skating programs taught by professional and courteous instructors to keep fit and have fun.

Shoe Stores Michelson’s Shoes 781-862-1034 • 1780 Massachusetts Ave., Lexington 781-449-2753 • 1082 Great Plain Ave., Needham michelsonshoes.com One-stop footwear shopping for the family with great service, selection and sizes. Get properly fitted by our experienced staff with brandname shoes and reasonable prices.

Special Needs The Arc of Massachusetts 781-891-6270 arcmass.org

Skating & Instruction Bay State Skating School 781-890-8480 393 Totten Pond Road, Ste 201, Waltham baystateskatingschool.org Rinks in Cambridge, Cleveland Circle, Larz Anderson in Brookline, Hyde Park/Dedham, Medford Newton/Brighton, Quincy, Somerville, South Boston, Waltham, West Roxbury and Weymouth.

Autism Society America, Massachusetts Chapter 781-237-0272; ext. 17 autism-society-massachusetts.org Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism 508-270-8855 flutiefoundation.org Federation for Children with Special Needs 617-236-7210 fcsn.org

Sunny Bear Academy Enrolling All Age Groups for the 2016-2017 School Year Now Accepting Infants and Toddlers

Other programs offered: • Pre-schoolers • Kindergartners • After-school program • Low student/teacher ratio • Ages: Infant to 10 years • Experienced, professional staff • Half-day & full-day openings

109 Lower East St. Dedham • 781-326-8411 177 Green St. Jamaica Plain • 617-469-3977

www.sunnybearacademy.com

Cambridge, Brookline (Cleveland Circle & Larz Anderson), Hyde Park-Dedham, Medford, Newton-Brighton, Quincy, Somerville, South Boston, Waltham, West Roxbury, Weymouth

Children (41/2 up) & Adults

781-890-8480 • www.BayStateSkatingSchool.org BostonParentsPaper.com | 2016 Family Survival Guide

FAMILY RESOURCES

Special Needs Learning Disabilities Assn. of Massachusetts 888-300-6710 ldaamerica.org Massachusetts Branch of the Intl. Dyslexia Assoc. 617-650-0011 massbranchida.org Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing 800-882-1155 617-740-1700 (TTY) mass.gov/mcdhh Massachusetts Office on Disability 617-727-7440 800-322-2020 mass.gov/mod Massachusetts Special Olympics 508-485-0986 specialolympicsma.org Partners for Youth with Disabilities 617-556-4075 617-314-2989 (TTY) pyd.org Special Needs Advocacy Network 508-655-7999 spanmass.org Speech and language therapy.

Sports Programs & Instruction FMC Ice Sports 888-747-5283 24 rinks across Massachusetts fmcicesports.com We offer an extensive selection of programs from introductory Learn to Skate and Learn to Play Hockey classes to Advanced Figure Skating and Hockey Skills development. Leventhal-Sidman JCC 617-558-6456 333 Nahantan St., Newton bostonjcc.org Sports and fitness programs for children in preschool and grades K-12, including gymnastics, basketball, soccer, aquatics, fitness, karate, team sports and many other children’s fitness classes and school vacation programs. Year-round.

Support Groups Fertility Issues Resolve: The Natl. Fertility Association 781-890-2250 resolvenewengland.org

Youth & Teen Groups

Stepparenting Stepfamily Associates 617-731-5767 stepfamilyboston.com

579 Granite St., Braintree braintree.goldfishswimschool.com 781-881-2108 ext 2 10 B Street, Burlington burlington.goldfishswimschool.com

Twins, Triplets & More Keeping Pace with Multiple Miracles 508-559-0040 keepingpace.org Massachusetts Mothers of Twins Association mmotaorg.fatcow.com

Swim Lessons Lenny Krayzelberg Swim Academy at LeventhalSidman JCC 617-558-6442 333 Nahanton St., Newton bostonjcc.org/lksa Goldfish Swim School 781-881-2108 45 Fourth Ave., Needham needham.goldfishswimschool.com 978-799-2700 3 Lyberty Way, Westford westford.goldfishswimschool.com 781-519-6363

Theaters & Performing Arts Wheelock Family Theatre 617-879-2147 200 The Riverway, Boston wheelockfamilytheatre.org Boston’s professional, affordable theater for every generation. Fabulous performances and education.

Youth & Teen Groups Boy Scouts of America 617-615-0004 scoutspirit.org Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston 617-994-4700 bgcb.org Patriot Trails Girl Scouts of America 800-882-1662 girlscoutseasternmass.org

IN NETWORK PROVIDER

Parents TM

Speech & Language Auditory Verbal Therapy of Greater Boston 617-209-9476 regan.andrade.avt@gmail.com AVT maximizes listening skills for children with chochlear implants and hearing aids, through in-home therapy by a certified auditory-verbal therapist. South Shore Therapies 781-335-6663 163 Libbey Industrial Parkway, Suite 302, Weymouth southshoretherapies.com Speech-Language and Hearing Assoc. • Medfield: 508-359-4532 • Plainville: 508-695-6848 speechlanguageandhearing.com Preschool assessments and intervention. School-age speech-language and literacy evaluations and therapies. Hearing and audiotory processing tests. Hearing aid fittings.

Family Nurturing Center 617-474-1143 familynurturing.org

2015 TOP 5

Results that make a difference…

Spanish-Speaking Moms Groups 617-409-5400 elizabethstone.org

Postpartum

Pregnancy & Childbirth March of Dimes 508-366-9066 marchofdimes.org/massachusetts Pregnancy Help of Greater Boston 617-782-5151 508-651-0753 pregnancyhelpboston.org

2016 Family Survival Guide | BostonParentsPaper.com

TOP 5

Providing exemplary service since 2003.

Parents Helping Parents 617-926-5008 800-632-8188 (immediate help) parentshelpingparents.org

Jewish Family & Children’s Service 617-227-6641 jfcsboston.org

Therapeutic Play Programs

Specializing in… Speech Therapy Sensory Integration Occupational Therapy Listening Therapy Feeding Therapy

Check Our Website For Monthly Educational Seminars Weymouth, MA | Pembroke, MA 781.335.6663

www.southshoretherapies.com

“I can’t wait to come back tomorrow!” Another day of learning, creating, exploring, playing, making friends and having fun is what your child will experience at the JCC Early Learning Centers. JCC Early Learning Center

Gilson JCC Early Learning Center

Brookline/Brighton

Sharon (at Temple Sinai)

617-278-2950

781-795-4900

Bernice B. Godine JCC Early Learning Center • Newton

JCC Early Learning Center • Hingham (at Congregation Sha’aray Shalom) 781-752-4000

(at the Leventhal-Sidman JCC) 617-558-6420

bostonjcc.org/earlylearning Everyone welcome BOSTON

JCC

• Burn Care • Orthopedics • Cleft Lip & Palate • Reconstructive Plastic and Laser Surgery • Complex Skin Conditions and Wound Care All care is provided regardless of families’ ability to pay.

51 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114 617-722-3000 www.ShrinersHospitalsforChildren.org/Boston

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