Boston Parents Paper January 2019

JANUARY 2019

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Enter to Win 4 Tickets to American Girl Live

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All-Star Winter Family Getaways

Family Events Calendar

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2019 Camp & Summer Expo e h t e v Sa e Dat

Held at:

Dedham Health & Athletic Complex

200 Boston Providence Hwy., Dedham BostonParentsPaper.com

Meet camp directors and learn about more than 65 day and overnight camps as well as summer programs for all ages and interests.

Sponsors:

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Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

Saturday, January 26, 2019 11am – 2pm Exhibiting Camps: BC High Summer Programs Boating is Fun Boston Nature Center Summer Camps Brimmer Summer Programs Camp Arcadia Camp Birch Hill Camp Cedar Hill Camp Chickami Camp Frank A. Day Camp Grotonwood Camp Hale Camp Hawkeye Camp Kodiak Camp Maude Eaton Camp Med-O-Lark Camp Menotomy Camp NDA Camp Pikati Camp Quinebarge Camp Rice Moody Camp Runels Camp Stonewall Camp Terrier Camp Wabasso Camp Wind-in-the-Pines Charles River Aquatics Summer Swim Camp Danforth Art School Summer Arts Debate Camp Canada Dedham Community House Summer Programs Dedham Country Day Camp Dedham Health Delphi Academy Summer Camp Edge on Science

Elite Soccer Camp Empow Studios Energy Summer Camp Everwood Day Camp EXPLO Exxcel Gymnastics French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts FUSE Summer Camp Hale Day Camp Judge Baker Children’s Center Kroka Expeditions LEtGO Your Mind Summer STEM Programs Let’s Put On A Show!

LINX Camps Lumos Public Speaking & Debate Museum of Fine Arts New England Base Camp Nobles Day Camp NuVu Studio Saint Columbkille STEM Academy and Summer Program Steve & Kate’s Camp Summer Institute in Global Leadership Sweet Meadow Farm Tabor Summer Camp The Glass Bar - Glass Art Summer Sessions! the hive at deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum Walnut Hill Summer Programs Wellesley Theatre Project World Sports Camp YMCA of Greater Boston YWCA VT Camp Hochelaga And More!

January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

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Contents January 2019 Volume 34 • Number 5

What’s Inside 6 Family F.Y.I.

• Win 4 tickets to

American Girl Live • 2019 Top Baby Names • Hug It Out

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Directories 7 Camps 20 Schools and Childcare Centers 23 Classes and Enrichment 24 Entertainment & Party Needs 6

Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

13 Get Ready for Camp 17 Calendar of Events 26 Sun and Fun

10 Destination Snow Family Getaways

12 Bookshelf

Explore Space

in Sarasota

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Boston Parent 841 Worcester Street Suite 344 Natick, MA 01760 Tel 617-522-1515 info@BostonParentsPaper.com Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com

PUBLISHERS Robert and Tracy McKean ART DIRECTOR Debbi Murzyn ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jean Abernathy

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Boston Parents Paper is published monthly

by Parenting Media Inc. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer.

60,000 copies of Boston Parents Paper are distributed to more than 1600 locations in the region. Past issues are available on our website, www.BostonParentsPaper.com

Send letters to the editor or article ADVERTISING SALES submissions to editor@bostonparent.com.

Holly Castro, David Morney

Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper.com/event/

Jump Start the New Year!

If you or your child struggles with: • ADHD • Autism • Executive Function Learning Issues • Anxiety • Depression Behavioral Problems • School Refusal

We Can Help!

Safe, effective, and drug free. Starting with a QEEG Brain Map, we create an individualized wellness plan that corrects brain imbalances and promotes sustained We host free improvement. educational workshops: visit us online for details!

ow Call N ree for a Fsult Con

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Licensed Psychologist | Over 30 Years of Experience

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“The best hands-on Museum I’ve seen.”

usscm.org | 617-426-1812 • Interactive exhibits for all ages!

• Open 7 days a week • Admission by donation

BOSTON

NEWTON

NORTH SHORE

DISCOVER DANCE THIS SUMMER Join us this summer and experience all Boston Ballet School has to offer through a wide range of programs for all ages at your choice of three convenient locations.

Sign up today: bostonballet.org/school *May not be applied with any other discount.

Register by Feb 15 to save 10%!*

Photo by Igor Burlak Photography

January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

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✼ Family F.Y.I. Enter to Win …

4 Tickets to American Girl Live American Girl Live is a premiere stage produc-

Looking for a Summer Camp?

Don’t miss the Boston Parents Paper 2019 Camp & Summer Expo on Jan. 26, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Dedham Health and Athletic Complex, 200 Boston Providence Hwy., Dedham. Meet with staff from more than 65 day and overnight camps and summer programs. BostonParentsPaper.com/ campfair.

Piece of the Pie NOW HERE’S A DELICIOUS HOLIDAY – January 23 marks National Pie Day. According to the American Pie Council, approximately $700 million in pies are sold in grocery stores annually. So what’s the country’s favorite? One out of every five Americans cites apple pie as tops, with pumpkin, cherry, pecan, and key lime following it in popularity, respectively.

Did You Know?

A

s we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 18, did you know the civil rights leader was actually born under a different name? At birth he was Michael King, Jr. after his father. Later in life they changed their names to Martin Luther after the German Protestant leader Martin Luther.

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Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

tion, featuring all-original songs and unforgettable experiences. Come along to sleepover camp with some new friends for an exciting summer away from home. As bold tales of bravery and friendship come to life, iconic American Girl characters lend a hand through story and song. Join your favorite American Girl characters and the campers as they follow their hearts, share their dreams, and learn the power of friendship. Win a family 4-pack of tickets to see American Girl Live at Shubert Theatre. Performance dates are Feb. 22 to Feb. 24.

Contest ends Jan. 27.

GO TO THIS LINK TO ENTER CONTEST: https://bostonparentspaper.com/contest01.html#//

Hug It Out

J

ust when you thought the warm fuzzies of the holidays were over, brace yourself (or someone else!) for National Hugging Day on January 21. The super-sweet celebration was originated in 1986. There’s a reason this simple act is so beloved. Hugs can actually boost your oxytocin levels, which help admonish feelings of loneliness and anger. They can also increase your serotonin levels, the chemical responsible for lifting your spirits. Couldn’t we all use a little more of that in our lives?

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THIS IS HOW MANY CALORIES

a 155-pound adult can burn while skiing for one hour at a moderate speed. A 70-pound kiddo burns around 185 calories exerting the same amount of effort on the slopes.

If pure exhilaration isn’t enough to get you active this winter, then surely the promise of a good sweat can’t hurt!

CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

MY FIRST CAMP

ULTIMATE DAY CAMP

JUNIOR TENNIS CAMP

The Ultimate DAY CAMP WATER PARK LUNCH PROVIDED

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ROPES COURSE

2018 WINNER

781-326-2900

DedhamHealth.com DHAC_1/4_Camp_BostonParents_1219.indd 1

12/18/18 4:12 PM

AGES 3–12 PRE-REGISTER AT

KINGSLEY.ORG January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

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✼ Family F.Y.I. Top 20 Baby Names Amelia/Emilia and Liam top the list of most popular baby names in 2018, according to BabyNames.com.

Here’s the other top baby names: GIRLS 1. Amelia/Emilia 2. Charlotte 3. Aria/Arya 4. Violet 5. Aurora 6. Olivia/Alivia 7. Hazel 8. Sophia/Sofia 9. Ava 10. Audrey

BOYS 1. Liam 2. Oliver 3. Henry 4. Declan 5. Grayson/Greyson 6. Owen 7. Finn/Fynn 8. Theodore 9. Sebastian 10. Ethan

AND FOR OUR CANINE FAMILY MEMBERS….

With half of U.S. households owning at least one dog and 9 out of 10 pet parents considering their dogs full-fledged members of the family, Rover dug into the largest database of dog names in the country to uncover which names and trends are hot this year courtesy of Rover.com.

HERE ARE SOME BOSTON-SPECIFIC HIGHLIGHTS: • Top Male Names in Boston: Charlie, Max, Cooper, Teddy*, Buddy (*Teddy is NOT a top dog name nationally) • Top Female Names in Boston: Bella, Luna, Lucy, Lola, Daisy, Chowda! The name Chowder rose 500% • Hot diggity dog! Names inspired by baseball: like Fenway and Sox—are up 90% • Sports names overall increased 21% in Boston this year, with names like: Brady up 8%, Gronk up 23%, Manny up 220%

SOME OTHER FUN NATIONAL FINDINGS (PARTIAL LIST): • Dog owners are enamored with the royal family. The name Harry is up 133% and Meghan rose 129%.

• Dog names from the video game Fortnite are up 16%, with Zoey being the most popular.

• Three out of four pet parents picked their dogs’ names after meeting him or her, so they could choose one that fit their dog’s personality.

• 38% of dog owners chose to change their dog’s name from the name given by the shelter or previous owner.

• 81% of pet parents give their dogs nicknames

Check out the national infographics and the Boston Top Dog Names infographics at Rover.com 10

Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

Play It Safe This Winter • Electric space heaters are a leading cause of fires. They should be placed on flat, noncombustible, non-carpeted surfaces and at least three feet from anything flammable. Never leave them unattended or use them where children play or sleep.

• Avoid hypothermia – an abnormally low body temperature. Symptoms include shivering, slurred speech, lethargy, pale and cold skin, confusion and slowed breathing.

In infants, symptoms include bright red and cold skin and lethargy. Call 911 immediately if you notice these symptoms and attempt to warm the child up by removing wet clothing and replacing it with warm clothing on the trunk, groin, neck and head. To avoid shock, don’t place the child in warm water or apply direct heat.

• Make sure sledding hills are free of trees and fences, and that they are far from busy roads, not too crowded, well lit, well covered in snow and have a flat runoff.

• Check sleds to make sure there are no sharp edges or cracks. Make sure children can steer them; avoid using snow disks and tubes.

• Wear a multi-sport or winter helmet for all winter sports.

• Children under age 16 should never operate a snowmobile, and kids under age 5 should never ride a snowmobile, even with an adult operating it.

Rebekah Coelho, Injury Prevention Specialist Boston Children’s Hospital Trauma Center

CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS Exxcel Gymnastics and Climbing

Summer Camp Open House Saturday, January 19, 2019 2:00 to 3:30 pm

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FREE ADMISSION

2018 WINNER

Meet Our Staff – Check Out Our Facility Children Enjoy Open Gym Activities Including: Zip Line, Bungee, Trapeze, Foam Pit, Rock Climbing Wall

SUMMER STARTS HERE! June 24 – August 29

Where kids matter most!

NOW ENROLLING SUMMER CAMP

88 Wells Avenue • Newton 617-244-3300 • www.exxcel.net

2019 Session Dates:

deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum

Summer Camp

Week-long sessions: July 8–August 2, 2019 Ages 5–12 decordova.org/CAMP

June 30 – July 13, 2019 July 14 – July 27, 2019 July 28 – August 10, 2019

S E O R E H R E P SU E

2018 THEM

Summer STEM Programs

er?

Got leg o fev cur e!

We’ ve got the

Lego Engineering, Robotic Programming, Stop Motion Animation, Minecraft

Easton, Hanover, Martha’s Vinyard, Melrose, Newton, Sharon, Tewksbury, Wakefield, Walpole, Wellesley, West Roxbury www.LetGoYourMind.com

January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

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King Pine Ski Area

Five All-Star Winter Family Getaways

By Alyson Gregory

N

ow that we’ve all survived the holiday season, we can turn our full attention to the advancing menace of dropping temperatures and cabin fever! If you’re like most parents, you have a NASDAQ-style stock ticker tape running through your mind at all times of seasonal places you might escape to for some unplugged family escapades. So before you look for nifty lists of ways to combat cabin fever, and since nothing quite makes us appreciate warmth like a couple of great outdoor wintertime expeditions — and hot chocolate always follows these adventures — pull out the parkas and get out and play at one of these New England wonderlands.

Omni Mount Washington Resort

Show your kids what a true display of elegance looks like at this luxurious and grand hotel and National Historic Landmark opened in 1902. With over 400 acres to explore at Bretton Woods, New Hampshire’s largest ski area, there are trails and terrain for every skill level and generation! Door-to-door shuttle service will whisk you around the massive property at the touch of a finger, ensuring you’ll have time to tube, skate, ski or jump on a fat-tire Nordic bike (um, that sounds cool). There’s even a kid’s ski jumper terrain park! Lessons can be found at the Nordic facility, Alpine ski and snowboard school, and the Hobbit school for 4- to 12-year-olds. In addition to the indoor pools, you can take a dip in the year-round outdoor pool nestled in the heart of the White Mountains and heated to 90 degrees. Jump on the High-Speed Quad to lunch at Latitude 44, the mid-mountain restaurant, one of 13 dining options.

INSIDER INFO: Parents with young children can get a two-for-one lift ticket and take turns on the

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Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

mountain so one can stay and the other can play.

MLK weekend offers reduced ticket prices.

Bretton Woods, NH, www.omnihotels.com/hotels/bretton-woods-mount-washington

Purity Spring Resort

This family-owned, turn-of-the-century lakeside country inn offers horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice-skating, and nighttime skiing and snowboarding at King Pine Ski Area, part of the Purity resort. If you can tear yourself away from the lift-serviced snowtubing chutes at the Pine Meadow Tubing Park, there are 17 downhill trails and the Twisted Pine Terrain Park to explore. Just learning? Its gentle terrain makes this the perfect place to start — and finish in the indoor heated pool and hot tub. Lodging options are abundant, and will accommodate everyone’s desires, from slope-side ski-in, ski-out condos to traditional guestrooms in the Main Inn. Madison, NH, www.purityspring.com

Camden Snow Bowl

Alpine skiing with ocean views anyone? “Ski the Sea” is the tag for this community-owned ski area — the only East Coast ski destination with dramatic sea views. With its small-town feel, 20 trails and almost 1,000 feet of vertical elevation, this getaway has charm and adventure covered.

It even has a claim to fame as home to the country’s only original, gravity-operated 400-footlong wooden toboggan chute! The Snow Bowl hosts the U.S. National Toboggan Championships every February. Nestled among midcoast Maine’s quaint harbors, there is no shortage of amazing food and lodging across the nearby towns of Camden, Rockport, Rockland and Lincolnville.

Check out Snow Bowl Partner Deals.

Camden, ME, www.camdensnowbowl.com

Smuggler’s Notch

Where every day is a snow day! This premier New England family resort, voted best of the East and No. 1 kid-friendly resort by Ski magazine, has your kids’ activities and family entertainment covered on and off Vermont’s Green Mountains like a Disney Cruise Line ship.

Whether you’re on a daycation or a winter holiday, Smuggler’s Notch, which offers three mountains, gladed terrain, and six parks, is sure to offer your perfect agenda. Smugg’s Ski & Ride School at Snow Sport University has lessons for every age and ability, all-day children’s programs with entertainment, and even a specially dedicated ski introduction slope and conveyor lift for toddlers. Ready to go inside? Head to FunZone 2.0 Family Fun Complex for the ultimate indoor laser tag, arcade and recreation. STEAM activities, bonfires and dance parties are sprinkled across the activity schedule so there’s always a surprise! Don’t forget your suits for the indoor pool, which is open until 9:00 p.m. if you’re still awake by then.

Jeffersonville, VT, www.smuggs.com

Lake Morey

Are you a cross-country lover? Make this lake resort home base for a weekend of natureloving, trail gliding, pickup hockey games, snowshoeing, skating and sledding. Skate rentals are complimentary, and Lake Morey boasts the longest skating trail in the U.S., a 4.5-mile loop around the stunning lake. For the best of both worlds, alpine ski areas such as the Dartmouth Skiway and Burke Mountain surround the resort and are easily accessed.

INSIDER INFO: Don’t leave the area without visiting the lauded Montshire Museum of Science.

Fairlee, VT, www.lakemoreyresort.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF KING PINE SKI AREA

Destination Snow

CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

www.NewEnglandBaseCamp.org Tabor Summer Camp Arts Athletics Marine Science Fun Residential, Day, and LIT Programs Coed Ages 6 – 17 Experience a summer on the beautiful coast of Southern Massachusetts!

2019 Swim Camp:

• Monday - Friday • July 8th - August 23rd • ages 4-11

Little Dragons Swim Program:

Join us for another swimming-filled summer!

• Monday, Wednesday, Friday • July 8th - August 23rd • ages 3-5

For more information, please visit: www.charlesriveraquatics.com

✺

FOR GIRLS & BOYS GRADES 5-12

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Specialty Programs GRADES 5–8

Sports Clinics GRADES 6–12

Academic Courses GRADES 6–12

SUMMER PROGRAMS

www.taborsummer.org

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER:

bchigh.edu/summer REGISTRATION BEGINS FEBRUARY 11, 2019!

January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

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✼ Bookshelf

By Mary Ann Scheuer

Exploring Space: Books to Spark a Passion in Young Explorers

A

s January night skies stretch out before us, do you look up to outer space and wonder what it would be like to explore the stars and planets? Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the historic Apollo 8 space mission (launched on December 21, 1968) and spark a passion in your young readers grips our imaginations.

“Above and Beyond: NASA’s Journey to Tomorrow,” by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich (Feiwel & Friends/Macmillan; ages 9-12; $19.99; 160 pp.).

Inspired by Rory Kennedy’s documentary, this book examines NASA’s development, from the lunar launches of the 1960s to the International Space Station and beyond. I especially appreciate the variety of people highlighted, such as the Gallaudet Eleven (deaf men who helped research the effects of zero-gravity motion sickness). Engaging and informative.

“Almost Astronauts: 13 Women Who Dared to Dream,” by Tanya Lee Stone (Candlewick; ages 1015; $17.99; 144 pp.). Tanya Lee Stone tells the riveting, true story of the “Mercury 13,” a group of women who took and passed the same physical and psychological tests that men took to qualify for NASA’s astronaut training program.

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Even though these women aviators proved to be as fit, determined and courageous as any man, they were barred from becoming astronauts because of their gender. Absolutely riveting, fascinating, compelling.

“Apollo 8: The Mission That Changed Everything,” by Martin W. Sandler (Candlewick; ages 10-15; $24.99; 176 pp.). Fifty years ago, the Apollo 8 mission launched three men into space to orbit the moon. Sandler provides a broader context of the space race, amid the Cold War and the turbulent events of 1968. Full of photographs, this engaging text helps readers see both the enormity of this accomplishment and the vastness of outer space.

“Chasing Space,” by Leland Melvin (HarperCollins/Amistad; $17.99; ages 11-14; 240 pp.). In this abridged memoir for young readers, Leland

Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

Melvin shares his journey from “a skinny black kid” to an NFL wide receiver and then to a NASA astronaut on two space shuttle missions. Melvin shows how he overcame challenges and provides a clear sense of training as an astronaut.

Inspiring.

“Countdown: 2979 Days to the Moon,” by Suzanne Slade, illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez (Peachtree; $22.95; ages 10-14; 144 pp.). Using narrative free verse, Slade creates a stunning portrait of America’s eight-year effort to launch a manned orbit of the moon.

Dramatic, poetic language and stunning illustrations engage readers, weaving together historical context, technical detail and dramatic scenes. The spare, dramatic poetry creates an accessible text that brings readers right into the scene.

Outstanding.

“Exploring Space: From Galileo to the Mars Rover,” by Martin Jenkins, illustrated by Stephen Biesty (Candlewick; $17.99; ages 9-14; 64 pp.). Beautifully detailed and meticulous illustrations and diagrams encourage readers to consider all of the technology that supports our exploration of space, from early telescopes to modern probes and rovers. Jenkins provides clear explanations and does not skimp on sophisticated, detailed explanations. Biesty’s intricate illustrations are marvelous to pore over, with their exact, precise details.

“If You Decide to Go to the Moon,” by Faith McNulty & Steven Kellogg (Scholastic; $18.99; ages 4-8; 48 pp.). This was a great introduction to traveling to the moon for my daughter’s preschool class. I especially appreciated how it put the child right in the astronaut’s seat — drawing on their imagination, but also providing many facts: “When you are thirsty, don’t try to pour orange juice into a glass. With no gravity, it would fly into a million drops and become orange juice fog.” A terrific introduction to space travel.

Mary Ann Scheuer is a teacher librarian. Find more books Mary Ann recommends sharing with children at her blog, Great Kid Books, http://greatkidbooks. blogspot.com.

By Lucy Jackson Norvell oing the necessary summer camp research, asking camp personnel (as well as ourselves) the right questions to determine a good fit for our children and then making the best decision possible about where to send them is how we achieve that goal. But it’s a big task!

In this article, Lucy Jackson Norvell, Former Director of Public Information for the American Camp Association (ACA), New England, shares everything we want to know about narrowing down the search and giving camps a chance to explain their offerings. This information will help you choose a camp that will make your children happy – and you too.

Find out as much as possible before the interview.

Filter your search results, narrow down your list of camps and review camp materials before interviewing begins. To narrow down your search, filter camp options by the most important search criteria for your child and family (philosophy, program/activities, session length, geography, etc.). Once you’ve ruled out camps that don’t meet your essential search criteria or expectations, begin exploring the details of each option you like. Sometimes the filtering process yields too many camps to interview

personally; sometimes it doesn’t yield enough. Adjust key variables, such as location and session length, to narrow or expand the number of options on the results page. Use the results page to go directly to camp websites.

Prepare for your interviews by reviewing the way each camp on your list presents itself and what it emphasizes. In today’s world, camps have many marketing choices. How does the camp convey who they really are and reflect the world they’ve created exclusively for children’s benefit? Camp seekers can learn so much from a close look at camp websites, brochures, photos, videos, FAQs, newsletters, social media and camper or parent testimonials. In fact, many camp websites are a gateway to most pieces of camp information on this list, from video content to downloadable brochures and forms, all reflecting the camp’s culture. Camps are much more than lists of activities they offer; they are vibrant educational communities – and no two are exactly alike. There is probably not just one perfect camp for your child. More than one camp may turn out to be a great fit, given your search criteria, so the interviewing stage will most likely factor into your final decision and help you to pinpoint the camp. So, how do you decide between two (or a few January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

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camps) with comparable activities, location, schedules, amenities and price?

Y CAMPS. SO MUCH MORE. YMCA Day and Overnight Camps keep kids engaged, safe, healthy, and learning.

Above all, we focus on making summer fun!

JOIN US FOR A CAMP OPEN HOUSE!

JANUARY 26 Register January 26-27 and receive a special camp offer.*

FIND A CAMP OPEN HOUSE NEAR YOU!

ymcaboston.org/camps *Only valid during the open house weekend: January 26-27. Not valid for online registration. Offers vary by branch.

Come visit us!

FREE OPEN HOUSES January 2 and January 5

There are many ways to conduct interviews with a perspective camp, especially when the camp location or your schedule prevent you from attending an open house. Your options include:

KIDSTOCK! Where kids can “ACT

UP” all year long!

OFFERING SUMMER THEATER ARTS, WORKSHOPS, CLASSES & BIRTHDAYS Contact us to register:

kidstocktheater.com · 781-729-5543 50 Cross Street, Winchester MA

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• Expect to find answers to some of your questions without having to ask. Camps try to anticipate what families need to know and provide this information online. You’ll want to use interview time to ask questions that haven’t already been answered – questions that explore the fit for your child.

• Learn from existing interviews, which may be posted on the camp website or on social media in video or Q&A format. Look for an interview with the director, owner or key administrator. What they have to say is important! You may also discover interviews with campers, staff and alumni.

• Base some of your interview questions on what you see, or don’t see, in camp materials. For example, you might see photos on the website or on Facebook showing the salad bar or a cabin group sitting around the table with food served family-style.

This might spark a question about camp food and how your child’s dietary needs can be met. Or, combing through the part of a website developed exclusively for parents of overnight campers might enable you to understand the camp’s plan and suggestions for communicating with your camper. Perhaps reading the director’s blog from last summer or looking at newsletters might give you some insight into the camp’s philosophy and culture. Base other interview questions on your child’s needs and interests. You’re the expert on your child! What aspects of his personality might affect the camp fit? (The child is shy and cautious in new situations, for instance. Or the child needs to have a certain amount of time to practice music, sports or academics.)

Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

• In-person, one to one or with a small group. Chat face to face with camp reps at camp fairs, at gatherings hosted by campers’ families, during camp open houses, at camp-sponsored events on or off camp, at a home visit or interview you’ve set up. If it’s a small group, several people can benefit from the questions asked and answers given; another parent may pose a question that you haven’t even thought of!

• Over the phone and by email. Some folks don’t answer phones or emails any more these days. Camps do! Camp people are ready and willing to take your calls and answer your emailed questions.

• Via Skype. Campers come to New England camps from around the corner, around the region and around the world. For folks who live far away, and for whom open houses and camp fairs are not an option, Skyping can provide a face-to-face interview. Many camp administrators are using Skype to interview prospective members of their staff , too.

• Live chat. Shorter questions with shorter answers lend themselves to live chat; and, like Skype, these can be answered in real time.

Lucy Jackson Norvell is the former director of public information for the American Camp Association, New England.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF • What is driving your camp search? Fun and learning?

New experiences and skills? A need for child care?

Family tradition? Encouragement from friends?

• What are your leading camp search criteria? Which ones are “non-negotiable” and which are “preferences”?

• Which of your family’s values should be reflected in the camp philosophy? How religious should it be? How competitive? How diverse? How much camper choice should be given?

• What activities or programs interest you and your child? What level of intensity are you looking for? Are you looking for opportunities for your child to try new activities, to play, to advance current skills, to practice, to compete or to specialize?

• What kind of facilities will your camper consider?

Discuss electricity, bathrooms and dining.

• What session length, from eight weeks to a few days, is comfortable for you, for your child, and for your family’s summer schedule? The most common session lengths are: full season (seven to eight weeks), half season (three to four), two weeks and one week.

• What camp clientele do you want to consider? There are camps for boys only, girls only, coed, brother/sister, religious groups, underserved populations and children with special needs.

See www.acanewengland.org/families-public/ advice#sthash.HB1ORsyn.dpuf for more information.

CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

BOSTON UNIVERSITY CAMP TERRIER 2019 Monday - Friday • 8:30am-5:30pm June 17 - August 16 • 1 Week Sessions Camp Terrier Options:

Arts & Recreation (Ages 5 - 8) Sports & Recreation (Ages 7 - 13) Choose your focus: swimming • sailing • climbing • court sports

Dance Arts (Ages 8 - 13) Competitive Swimming (Ages 8 - 15) Junior Lifeguarding (Ages 11 - 15) Outdoor Adventures (Ages 11 - 15) bucamps@bu.edu 617-353-CAMP bu.edu/fitrec/camp This camp must comply with regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (105 CMR 430.000) and be licensed by the City of Boston Board of Health.

NEW CAMPERS SAVE 10% AT HALERESERVATION.ORG

Interview a few different people about the same camp. It’s important to get as many different perspectives as possible before you make your final decision.

• Interview the director, owner, key administrator or camp personnel charged with recruitment.

• Ask for a reference list – a list including more than one family if possible – who sent a first time camper around your child’s age to the camp last summer.

Conduct an interview about the camp on a parent-toparent basis.

• Look for opportunities to observe and speak with camp staff during open houses or other events and watch carefully as they interact with your child or others.

• Interview people you know who have a connection to camps that interest you – neighbors, friends and co-workers. Ask them if they know others you should speak with. Word of mouth is still a key way for families to discover a best-fit camp. You’ll find that people love to talk about camp! The success of your conversation hinges on asking questions that really matter.

• Look for honesty and authenticity in the answers to your questions. Families choose camps they feel they can trust – camps where they believe their children will thrive.

January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

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CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

TENACRE Day Camp Voted #1 • 3 - 12 year olds

OPEN HOUSES

January 27th & April 7th

Aftercamp until 6pm • Most 3 and 4 yr olds swim 1:1

781-235-3238 • Wellesley, MA tenacrecds.org/summer

Try New Things This Summer he opportunities that summer camp provides are endless: the ability to try new things, the chance to make new friends, and the prospect of gaining independence are just a few.

Which kind of camp would best suit the needs and interests of your child?

- August 23 4 | June 17 -1 4 s e g A th u ssions For Yo d afternoon se an g in rn o m Weekly

Summer in French at the

French cultural center

With weekly sessions running from June 17 - August 30, give your kids carte blanche this summer to learn and have fun with French!

Register by March 30 for 10% off.

Our program offers:

TM

2018

• Native French-speaking teachers TOP 5 • Half- and full-day options for ages 3 to 12 • Weekly themes and indoor and outdoor activities • A full immersion experience without leaving Boston • Engaging program for all levels, from beginners to bilingual

Register starting January 12, call 617.912.0400

www.frenchculturalcenter.org | info@frenchculturalcenter.org

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Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

settings. Popular options for specialization may include horseback riding, the arts, sports, computers, or travel. Programming revolves around intensive exposure to the specialty area.

• Camps for Special Populations serve specific clientele like Consider the possibilities: children or adults with particular medical • Day Camps typically conditions, disabilities, serve children ages 3-15. or special needs. Some Session lengths typicamps focus on campers cally vary from one to who share very specific eight weeks. Some camps diagnoses, while othoffer up to ten weeks of ers are geared to meet a programming. Before broader array of needs at camp and after camp any one time. programs are offered for an additional fee at some • Religiouslyday camps.

Affiliated Camps offer religious education • Overnight (also referred formally and informally. to as Resident or SleepReview materials careaway) Camps usually fully for explanations of serve children ages 6-17. how religion influences Campers sleep at camp a camp’s culture to find for one to eight weeks, one with the balance depending on the camp’s that best matches your session length. family’s own values and beliefs.

• General Camps offer a broad range of activities. • Family Camp Many provide campers Sessions include family with the opportunity to members of all ages from focus on one or a few grandparents to infants. areas while encouraging Accommodations vary, as them to try a variety of do program options and others. It is sometimes session length. The focus possible to explore an is on being together as a activity or interest in family—to learn, to relax, depth within the context and to enjoy new experiof the whole program. ences and adventures.

• Trip & Travel Camps involve outdoor exploration through active sports like biking, hiking, climbing and canoeing.

Campers spend most of their time traveling and preparing to travel.

• Specialty Camps are based in day or resident

Reprinted from the website, ACANewEngland.org with the permission of the ACA New England.

Tuesday January 1

New Year’s Day

First Night/First Day Boston Various locations, Boston. The two-day, city-wide celebration continues with live entertainment and ice sculptures. FREE. 617-439-7700; firstnightboston.org

January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

19

1 Tuesday New Year’s Day

ter. Attention all parents! Join us for a fun-filled night to learn about local programs for your children. Childcare provided.

FREE. 508-753-6087; massaudubon.org

First Night/First Day Boston

Song of the Sea

Various locations, Boston. The two-day, city-wide celebration continues with live entertainment and ice sculptures.

FREE. 617-439-7700; firstnightboston.org

10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard Ave., Cambridge. A boy living in a remote lighthouse discovers that his mute sister is a selkie who must find her voice to free Ireland’s fairies from the spell of a Celtic goddess. Recommended for 7+. All seats $6. 617-734-2501; coolidge.org

Hike Into the New Year for Families 9:30-noon, Broad Meadow Brook, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. Hike or snowshoe on the sanctuary, looking for tracks and signs of wildlife as we follow the trails. Registration required. Adults $7, child $4. 508-753-6087; massaudubon.org

First Day Hike Noon, Houghton’s Pond, 695 Hillside St., Milton. Check out the Blue Hills Trailside Museum live wildlife program, buy a cocoa and snack, then choose a hike to suit your ability at 1pm. FREE. 617-698-1802; friendsofthebluehills.org

New Year’s Day Woodland Walk 12:45pm, Holly Hill Farm, 236 Jerusalem Road, Cohasset.

Meet at the barn for a cocoa and walk through the woods.

FREE. 781-383-6565; hollyhillfarm.org

Snowmazing! Sock Skating Noon – 5pm, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Skate with your socks in an alpine village and enjoy holiday fun with music, games and the Museum Elves. Free with admission. Daily through Jan. 28. 617-426-6500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org

4 Friday Forest Fridays 10-10:45am, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Take part in seasonal nature activities in the Discovery Woods or the Great Hill conservation land, no matter the weather! Free with admission. Fridays through Jan. 26. 978264-4200; discoverymuseums.org

5 Saturday Breakfast with the Sloths 9:15-10am, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Rd., Boston.

Get a unique look at this fascinating two-toed tree-dweller over a delicious continental breakfast. $25. zoonewengland.org

Parents Night Out 4-6pm, Broad Meadow Brook, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worces-

Junior Badge Workshop 10am-12:30pm, Broad Meadow Brook, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. Broad Meadow Brook offers workshops for Junior badges and journeys. Registration required. $9. 508-753-6087; massaudubon.org

6 Sunday Guided Snowshoe Walk 1-2pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan.

Learn how to snowshoe and hit the trails for a leisurely hike.

Snowshoes available to rent. Registration recommended. $7.

617-983-8500; massaudubon.org

9 Wednesday Icy Investigations 2-4:30pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Brrrr…

Things are getting chilly at the Discovery Museum. Experiment with different types of salt as you explore the unique characteristics of this solid state of water. Add in some liquid watercolors and discover just how cool science can be! Free with admission. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org

Coyote Club 3:30-5pm, Habitat Education and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. This after-school program helps children expend pent up energy, become familiar with the sanctuary, problem-solve and learn to work together. For ages 5-10. Registration required. $18. 617-489-5050; massaudubon.org

10 Thursday Nature Adventures for Children 1-3pm, Broad Meadow Brook, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. Explore a new nature topic every month with crafts and outdoor activities. Registration required. $14. 508-753-6087; massaudubon.org

11 Friday Wild by the Fire: Owls on the Prowl 10-11:30am, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Go for an owl prowl, then warm up by the fire and have your own hootenanny. For families with children ages 2-5. Registration required. $16. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

12 Saturday The Science of Snow 1-2:30pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. Join in and learn why all snowflakes are unique and discover how the properties of snow help animals survive in the winter. Put on a chef hat and use science to mix up some natural ice cream. Observe snowflakes up close, and enjoy all that winter has to offer! Registration Recommened. Adults, free; youth, $7. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org

Josh and the Jamtones 10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard Ave., Cam-

20

Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

bridge. The Jamtones’ sound has got serious swagger: infectious, ska-centric jams run into stadium-sized monster rock choruses, which blend into a cappella sing-a-longs fueled by slick beat boxing and massive four-part vocal harmonies — all packed into a ball of frenetic dance party craziness! Recommended for 2+. Adults $13, Child $10.

617-734-2501; coolidge.org

13 Sunday

hkcHarvardCoopSociety1701.eps

1

12/6/16

8:14 AM

Nature Story Hour 10-11am, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. Listen to a nature-themed story then take a short ANUARY walk around the trails to learn about the animals and plants at the BNC. For families with children RegOOPages 0-3.IDS istration required. FREE. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org SATURDAY, JANUARY 7

J C

Backyard Birds

K

at 11:00 AM BIRD STORIES AND CRAFT

10am-12:30pm, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1JANUARY Plum 14 SATURDAY, 11:00 AM in Island Turnpike, Newburyport. On Sundayatmornings PETS WITH winter, Joppa’s Bird Banding StationCELEBRATE Manager Ben Flemer STORIES AND A CRAFT presents demonstrations on bird research and banding.

SATURDAY, JANUARY After capturing wild birds in the Joppa backyard, Ben 21 at 11:00 AM brings them inside to measure, weigh, examine, and then SNOW DAY WITH STORIES release them. Free. 978-462-9998; massaudubon.org AND CRAFT JANUARY 28 Vanessa Trien and the JumpingSATURDAY, Monkeys at 11:00 AM

GUNG HAY FAT CHOY 11am-noon. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW Boston. Join PJ Library to jump, wiggle, and dance with YEAR WITH STORIES AND Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys! Free with admisCRAFT sion. 617-426-6500; www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org

TM

2018 TOP 5

EVERY TUESDAY at 11 AM Special Sundays in the StudioChildren STORYTIME ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers areRoad, welcome to join 1-4pm, The Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Amus for stories and snacks. herst. Make “Books and More” inAll the art studio. withto events are free Free and open the public. admission. 413-658-1126; carl-

15 Tuesday Backyard and Beyond: Winter Warmth 2-4:30pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. We’ve made it through our first month of winter, wearing jackets, mittens and scarves to keep warm as the weather gets colder. Do you ever wonder how animals keep warm? Test the insulating properties of feathers, fur, fat and fleece, which will keep you the warmest? Free with admission. 978-2644200; discoverymuseums.org

18 Friday Belmont World Film Family Festival Various times and locations.

Feature-length films, shorts and workshops comprise this popular festival, themed around “Where Books Come Alive!” Through Jan. 21. $612. 617-484-3980; belmont-

THE

emuseum.org

COOP H A R VA R D

January Coop Kids

1400 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge, MA 617-499-2000 SATURDAY, JANUARY 5 www.TheCoop.com at 11:00 AM www.facebook.com/TheHarvardCoop

®

COMMONWEALTH LEARNING CENTER

STORYTIME & CRAFT Stories About Cars, Trucks & Things That Go With a Fun Craft SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Stories & Craft About Birds

SATURDAY, JANUARY 19 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Josh Funk, Local Author, Reading His Most Recent Title, Mission Defrostable SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Snow Stories and Craft

TM

2018

Learning Differently Teaching Differently Succeeding

TOP 5

TUTORING & ASSESSMENTS 1 to 1 Instruction

l

All Subjects

l

All Ages

Specializing in ADHD, Dyslexia, Executive Dysfunction, Language-Based and/or Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities

Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. All events are free and open to the public.

1400 Massachusetts Ave Cambridge, MA 617-499-2000 www.TheCop.com www.facebook.com/TheHarvardCoop

Needham ( 7 81 ) 4 4 4 - 519 3

Danver s ( 9 7 8 ) 774 - 0 0 9 4

commlearn.com January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

21

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS worldfilm.org

Ū

Individualized educational programming for day students ages 3-22

19 Saturday

Ū Ū

Comprehensive curriculum

Ū

Transitional boarding options for young adults ages 17-22

9am-4pm, Broad Meadow Brook, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. Residents of the town of Millbury receive free admission to Broad Meadow Brook four times a year, thanks to the generosity of Wheelabrator Millbury. Free for residents. 508753-6087; massaudubon.org

Integrated assistive technology and therapies

COTTING SCHOOL A tradition of innovation and excellence since 1893 ROLLING ADMISSIONS Elizabeth Russell, Director of Admissions erussell@cotting.org | 781-862-7323 ext. 114 www.cotting.org

Little People’s Playhouse

Educating and caring for your child like their own!

15 mos. to 6 yrs. • Pre K • Kindergarten Before & After School Ages 6-12 • 7am - 6pm Part-time Preschool • 7am - 1pm

Milbury Days

Superbowl of Birding 5am-5pm, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. Celebrate the joy of winter birding with our ever-popular annual event! Each January, birding teams of all ages go head-to-head in a 12-hour race to spot as many species as they can. Registration required. $35. 978-462-9998; massaudubon.org

Family Snowshoe Hike 1-3pm, Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton. Explore the sanctuary on snowshoes, then warm up with hot chocolate after. For families with children age 7 and up. Snowshoes available to rent. Adults, $9; youth, $5. 978-464-2712; massaudubon.org

Full Moon Owl Prowl for Families 4:30-6pm, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot Street, Natick. Come with the whole family to learn about owl calls, behavior and habitat under moonlit skies. For families with children ages 6 and up. Registration required. Adults, $16; youth, $9. 508-655-2296; massaudubon.org

Critter Day

♦ Literacy based academic program focusing on the whole child ♦ Tutoring available ♦ Catered hot meals included

ONGOING ENROLLMENT

www.peopleplayhouse.net 32 South Fairview Street ♦ W. Roxbury/Roslindale Line ♦ 617-323-2566 4019 Washington Street ♦ Roslindale/Jamaica Plain ♦ 617-323-6144

1425 Blue Hill Avenue Milton, MA RSVP

Our mission is to create an early childhood program that fulfills the cognitive, emotional, social and physical needs of what is known to be the most significant period of human development.

Friends Childcare offers an exciting, creative curriculum, as well as fun and stimulating learning activities for all age groups. Tailor-made schedule 7AM-6PM, 5 days a week. Regular in-house enrichment programs such as nature exploration, music, gross motor program, and baby massage are included in the tuition.

• Infants

(Birth to 15 Months)

• Toddlers

(15 Months to 33 Months)

• Preschool/ Pre-Kindergarten

angela@thacherschool.org

What is Montessori?

INFORMATION SESSION

JOIN US ON

January 10, 2019 9:30am Program & Discussion | 10:30am Tour

(33 Months to 5 Years)

Brookline • 617-731-1008 • 617-739-0854

Call or email us to schedule a tour • friendschildcare.brookline@gmail.com www.friendschildcare.net

22

Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

Milton, MA 02186 | www.thacherschool.org

“We LOVE Tender Loving Care. The teachers are like family. They care for each child like their own family. They are knowledgeable in early childhood education as well as the gentle care for infants, toddlers and preschoolers!!�

Woburn - 781-281-2983 | Weston - 781-703-5088 www.tenderlovingcarechildcarecenters.com January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

23

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS

Welcoming Future Leaders

Lesley Ellis School, a preschool – grade 8 school established in 1949, serves Arlington and more than 15 surrounding towns and communities.

of our uses.

Preschool - Grade 8

esday ber 5

Summer Program Serving ages 2.9 through Grade 8.

Full day and half day options availabe.

Weekly themes and fun, engaging activities!

es 5 - 8)

Swimming lessons!

Little Learner Series Thursday, January 8, 2010 Thursday, February 5, 2019 Thursday, March 5, 2019 For parents and young children, ages 2 - 5 years.

Welcome Wednesday April 3, 2019

All are welcome to this casual open For more information contact: house. Meet our faculty, see our Jeanette Keller classes in action, and chat with the summer@lesleyellis.org | 781.641.5987 head of school.

Tricia Moran Director of Admission 781.641.1346 tmoran@lesleyellis.org

Accepting applications for 2019 www.lesleyellis.org

34 Winter St. | Arlington, MA 02474 | 781.641.1346

TM

Find more camps online…

Search Our New & Improved Kids Camps Site!

www.BostonParentsPaper.com

Lesley Ellis offers an innovative, challenging, and award-winning academic environment across all

Open House

February 9, 2019 10am -12pm • Toddlers through Grade 5 • Outstanding academic achievements Outstanding academics.

• Flexible Early Childhood schedules Lifelong learners.

• Before school care available 34 Winter St. | Arlington, MA 02474 • After school enrichment Critical thinkers.

• Summer and vacation programs

3 McGinnis Dr, Burlington www.mounthopeschool.org | 781-272-1014

Online Visit our website at BostonParentsPaper.com to explore our comprehensive online resources for schools in the area. Discover private schools, enrichment programs, after-school programs and more!

TM

2018 WINNER

24

Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

2:30 & 3:30pm. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Join in on live animal programming on monthly Critter Days. Free with admission. 617-426-6500; www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Happier Family Comedy Show 3pm, The Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst.

Geared for kids ages 5-12, you won’t want to miss this improv show packed full of high energy and family-friendly funnies. Adults, $10; youth, $5. 413-658-1126; carlemuseum. org

20 Sunday Tracks and Signs: Unfolding a Story 10:30-noon, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. hike the sanctuary to search for animal tracks, chews, and scat. we will discover what animals may have left them and the stories they tell. You can even make your very own Animal Track I.D. Book! Registration required. Adults free,

CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT

GET THE BEST REPORT CARD YET! GET AHEAD IN MATH & READING. Join us as we play math games, read books and apply our studies to our daily lives.

Call in today to reserve a slot!

TM

2016 TOP 5

32 South Fairview St., Roslindale, MA

617-323-2566 SPACE AVAILABLE

TM

Making a Difference One Skater at a Time

2018 WINNER

Exxcel Gymnastics and Climbing Ongoing Winter Class Enrollment

Gymnastics, Rock Climbing, Ninja, Tumbling

Trial Classes Available NEW!

TUMBLE, TURN & LEARN

Wednesdays 9am-12pm Ages 3-5 A fitness based enrichment to preschool or day care. Children enjoy gymnastics, arts and crafts, story time, games, bungee and more.

BP201819

Where kids matter most!

88 Wells Avenue • Newton, MA 02459 617 244-3300 • www.exxcel.net

Bay State Skating School

Cambridge, Brookline (Cleveland Circle & Larz Anderson),

LEARN TO SKATE CLASSES for Recreational • Figure • Hockey Skating Skills

As featured on “Chronicle”

50 Years Experience Children (4 –18 years)

Medford, Newton-Brighton, Quincy, Somerville, Waltham, TM

We bring the instrument and the instructor.

Private in-home lessons available

West Roxbury, Weymouth

2018 TOP 5

781-890-8480 • www.BayStateSkatingSchool.org

Contact Molly Howard at 617-999-8794 pianoplaytime@yahoo.com www.pianoplaytime.com January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

25

outdoors for hiking, sledding, snowshoeing, owl prowls and tales around the campfire. Adults, $10; youth, free.

781-740-7233; ttor.org.

Family Owl Prowl, 7pm, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, Child $7.

617-983-8500; massaudubon.org

1904 Canton Ave., Milton. Practice owl calls and meet some of the museum’s resident before going on a Kid’s Film: NYCIFF presents Kidowls Flicks One night hike to search for them. Registration required. $10.

10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard Ave., Cam617-983-8500; massaudon.org.

bridge. Give a warm welcome to all budding cinephiles with Stargazing: Jewels of the 7pm, North River this lively international lineup ofNight, fun.Recommended for 3+.

Wildlife 2000 Main St., Marshfield. Join Adults $9, ChildSanctuary, $7. 617-734-2501; coolidge.org

bring your snowshoes and sled to play. Then warm up with refreshments by the fire. $10 per car. 978-886-5297; ttor.org.

10am – 4pm, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Rd., Boston.

Enjoy free admission in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and write messages of peace and hope on a mural in the Tropical WEST Forest Pavilion. FREE. zoonewengland.org

31 Tuesday

Backwards Storytime, 10am, The Discovery Museums, MLK Jr. Day 177 Main St., Acton. Celebrate National Backwards Day

with silly stories and activities.

Free with admission.

11am-4pm.

Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

Boston.

Celebrate the life and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther Fairy King Jr. by learning about U.S. history and how people can come together to make meaningful change through art, 1-2pm, Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park Street, language, and other activities. Free with admission. 617-426Attleboro. Take a hike and learn about the legends of the ENTERTAINMENT & PARTY NEEDS 6500; www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org fairies and trolls that live at Oak Knoll. After, come back to the Nature Center to build your very own fairy house. PreCelebrate Dayent Open House Registration Required. $25. 508-223-3060; massaudubon.org MLK Par s Children’s & Instructor everything in 10am 5pm, Museum of Fine Arts, Musician 465 Huntington Ave., BosAward Cho–ice Oshogatsu! Japanese New Year Celebration r e ner nne nn i ton.

Surround yourself with art and culture with free activiWin Wi W 2017 at Birthday Parties, ties, art making, tours and performances.

617-267-9300; 11am-4pm. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Schools,FREE. Concerts, mfa.org Boston. Dance with Taiko drumming beats, pound Mochi Libraries sticky rice, parade with Shishi the lion, and relax with Chado Preschool & Elementary Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute Concert Available the tea ceremony! Try hands-on activitiesOnline suchOrdering as Koma Music Specialist spinning tops, Fuku-warai lucky laugh game, Origami (giant 7pm, Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. Boston Rosalita's Puppets Hosttelling yourand next party & wearable origami), Omikuji fortune more!

Lots of Participation & Fun for All! www.rosalitaspuppets.com in our new Free with617-633-2832 admission. 617-426-6500; www.bostonchildrens508-358-1614 • www.franfriedman.com ENTERTAINMENT AND PARTY NEEDS Decorating Kitchen museum.org astronomy enthusiast Peter Reed as he guides you throughWorkshop the constellations. Registration required. $13.

House 781-837-9400; massaudubon.org.

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Boston Parents Paper | January 2019

D e d h a m H e a l t h K i d s . c o m / B i r t h d a y - Pa r t i e s

Children’s Chorus presents Take My Hand, their annual MLK concert. $15 and up. 617-778-2242; bostonchildrenschorus.org

24 Thursday On the Rise!

10-11:30am, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Mix, knead and shape your dough for delicious country oat bread. For families with children ages 2-8. Registration required. $17.50. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

Winter Scavenger Hunt 10-11am, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Bundle up and head out to the Great Hill conservation land for a winter nature scavenger hunt. Free with admission. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org

25 Friday Imagine, Sing & Learn: The World of Penguins 10am-11:30am, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. These fun-filled morning programs are perfect for both you and your active preschooler! Our structured activities include hands-on science, music and movement, a thematic snack, and an outdoor adventure if the weather complies. For families with children ages 3-6. Adults, $9; youth, $8. 978-4629998; massaudubon.org

Harvard Square Chocolate Tour Harvard Square, Cambridge. Harvard Square’s annual chocolate extravaganza features restaurant specials, entertainment and tasting events. Weekends through Jan. 27. $35. 617-491-3434; harvardsquare.com

FEBRUARY 22-24 SHUBERT THEATRE

26 Saturday Winter Princesses Visit 10:30am – 2:30pm, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Rd., Boston. Enjoy storytime and a fairytale inspired scavenger hunt with your favorite winter princesses. Costumes encouraged. Free with admission. zoonewengland.org

Good News Gus 10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard Ave., Cambridge. Along with his cast of interactive fuzzy puppet friends, Harry will sing songs you know, tell jokes you might not, and play music on his rockin’ ukulele. Recommended for 2+. Adults $13, Child $10. 617-734-2501; coolidge.org

27 Sunday Sunday Morning Science at Joppa: Ice is Nice!

10am-11:30am, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. Spend some weekend time with others who are interested in science and wildlife, and get in touch with your “inner scientist!” You’ll get a chance to meet live creatures, design something “green,” or explore a new field in science. For families with children ages 7-11. $17. 978-462-9998; massaudubon.org

Join your favorite American Girl characters in this premiere stage production,featuring all-original songs and unforgettable experiences.

VIP Packages On Sale Now! Includes one ticket in the first 4 rows of the Orchestra PLUS One post show photo opportunity BOCHCENTER.ORG/AMERICANGIRL

31 Thursday Celebrate National Backwards Day with a Backwards Storytime!

10-11am, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. S !yaD sdrawkcaB lanoitaN fo ronoh ni seitivitca dna seirots yllis emos rof su nioJ Join us for some silly stories and activities in honor of National Backwards Day. Free with admission. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org

BOCH CENTER BOX OFFICE 866.348.9738

GROUPS OF 10+ CALL 617.532.1116 Boch Center is a trademark of The Wang Center for the Performing Arts, Inc.

January 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

27

THREE DAYS OF SUN AND FAMILY FUN

By Calvin Hennick

IN Day 1

Sarasota

Situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast, this family-friendly paradise offers plenty to do for both kids and parents.

C

heck into your new digs at The Resort at Longboat Key Club (www.longboatkeyclub.com), a AAA Four-Diamond property spanning 410 acres, with 223 luxury guest rooms and suites.

Accommodations range from double or king rooms all the way up to 1,750-square-foot, two-bedroom suites with full kitchens and oversized living rooms, providing plenty of room to stretch out. Take a few moments to settle in and enjoy the gulf beach Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium view from your private balcony, then head down to the pristine pool for a dip.

In the afternoon, head to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (www.mote.org) for up-close encounters with stingrays, ot a golfer? Not a problem. Sign up for a lesson at the jellyfish, and enormous sea turtles and manatees. The foundaward-winning courses at The Resort at Longboat Key ing director of the laboratory, Dr. Eugenie Clark, earned the Club (open to hotel guests and club memnickname “The Shark Lady” for her work with the bers only). An hour with a pro will have you fearsome fish, and today the aquarium pays her believing you have the right stuff for the PGA fitting tribute, housing blacknose, nurse, sandbar, Tour. (And then a round on some portion of the and bonnethead sharks. For dinner, head back to property’s 45 holes will remind you that, in fact, Longboat Key Club and catch the free shuttle to you don’t.)

Portofino, the Italian restaurant at the property’s Make sure to spend some time at The Have extra time? Check marina. Choose between fresh seafood, handmade Ringling (www.ringling.org), one of Sarasota’s out these activities: pastas, and wood-fired, brick-oven pizzas. showpiece sights. Now governed by Florida SMUGGLERS COVE State University, the 20-acre gem was once the ADVENTURE GOLF — home of John Ringling (the best known of the The pirate-themed fraternal cofounders of the Ringling Bros. and putt-putt is fun, but the fter breakfast, beat the heat and head to the Barnum & Bailey Circus) and his wife, Mable.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (www.selby. real highlight here is The property features something for everyorg). The gardens specialize in epiphytes (plants, the chance to feed live one in the family, with both a world-class art such as orchids, that have adapted to live in the alligators using a cane museum and a circus museum that features tree canopy), and the facilities feature a tropical fishing pole. original train cars, parade wagons, posters, and conservatory greenhouse, a garden of towering www.smugglersgolf.com other artifacts. There’s a fun exhibit where visibamboo plants, a boardwalk through a bayside tors can test out their circus skills — including BIG CAT HABITAT mangrove, and spectacular views of the downtown squeezing into a clown car, holding poses on AND GULF COAST Sarasota waterfront. The highlight for most kids, (faux) horseback, and balancing on a “high wire” SANCTUARY — Lions, though, will likely be the Children’s Rainforest (really, a low steel bar that gets narrower as you and tigers, and bears Garden, with its canopy walk and rope bridge, put one foot in front of the other). The museum (and ligers and primates also features a huge, handcrafted miniature 12-foot waterfall, vegetation-filled caves, and and birds and tortoises), replica of a circus, which gives visitors a sense 100-year-old banyan tree.

During the middle of the day, head back to the oh my! of how large the event really was, and how hotel for some pool or beach time. The resort rents www.bigcathabitat.org thrilling it must have been when the trains out kayaks, paddleboards, and private cabanas, pulled into town.

TREEUMPH! ADVENand also offers yoga, tai chi, and beach boot camp Make it back to the resort for dinner at Sands TURE COURSE — Climb classes. Or, if the sun isn’t too daunting, borrow a Pointe restaurant, and then spend your final rope walls, overcome bike and go exploring along Gulf of Mexico Drive. evening on the beach. Let your kids race each obstacles, soar through In the evening, check out St. Armands Circle other in the sugary white sand as you watch a the sky on zip lines, and (www.starmandscircleassoc.com), an upscale spectacular sunset over the gulf, wishing you keep your balance on shopping district full of funky art galleries, chic had more time. floating logs. Just stay boutiques, and happening restaurants — many of Calvin Hennick is a freelance writer clipped in, and don’t which feature live music.

Day 3

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MORE FUN!

Day 2

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mfa.org/studio Discount offer is valid on designated classes only. Discount will not be applied to any other products, services, or transactions, including but not limited to, transaction, payment, and processing fees, supervised lunch, or late pickups. Classes and discounts are subject to availability. Additional terms and conditions may apply. See online registration platform for additional details. Photo courtesy Tony Rinaldo.