Boston Parent July 2019 by Parenting Media

JULY 2019

July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

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Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

2019 WINNER

Contents July 2019 Volume 34 • Number 11

HOW TO PLAN the Perfect Celebration for Your Child

11 THE RESULTS ARE IN.

50 categories

and hundreds of winners. Flip over to page 17 and find your favorites.

17 W H AT ’ S I N S I D E

33 Calendar of Events

4 Family F.Y.I.

• Win tickets to Discovery Museum • 2019 Fenway Challenge Series • Safety in Crowds

8 10 Great Ideas Where to Go and What to Do 32 10 Things Only a Massachusetts Mom Would Say Directories TM

13 Party Fun 15 Entertainment & Party Needs 38 Schools, Preschools & Daycare

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

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

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

July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

Family F.Y.I. ENTER TO WIN. . .

A Family 4-Pack to Discovery Museum Win a family 4-pack of tickets to Discovery Museum, a handson museum for families that blends science, nature, and play. Explore Water, Air, Light & Color, Sound, Math, Making & Tinkering, and early learning galleries inside, then head outside to the huge Discovery Treehouse and Discovery Woods nature playscape. Contest ends July 26. https:// bostonparentspaper.com/promotions. html

2019 FENWAY CHALLENGE SERIES

he Boston Parks and Recreation Department, the Boston Red Sox, and Highland Street Foundation team up once again to present the Fenway Challenge featuring the Red Sox Showcase in local parks on three Tuesdays in July and August. The free series gives children ages 7 to 14 the opportunity to test their pitching accuracy, swing in a batting cage, and practice base stealing. Food and entertainment including virtual reality, a replica Green Monster, and Red Sox mascots Wally and Tessie will provide participants with an unforgettable field day. Participants will also have the opportunity to win Red Sox tickets. The Fenway Challenge will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. The dates are July 16 at Doherty Playground (Town Field), 1545 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester; July 30 at Lee Playground, 775 East First Street, South Boston; and August 6 at Carter Playground, 709 Columbus Avenue, South End. Sponsored by the Boston Red Sox and Highland Street Foundation. To register please go to https://www.mlb. com/redsox/forms/fenway-challenge.

Get Cuddly Fourth of July is very clearly the big winner in July in terms of holidays, but you won’t want to overlook another special occasion – Teddy Bear Picnic Day. The holiday occurs on July 10 and it’s the perfect time to pack up a basket and your child’s favorite stuffies, and head to the park for a little lunch al fresco.

$500 According to a recent survey between $500-$700 is the average kid’s birthday

party budget for parents. When you factor in food, goodie bags, activities and decorations, this sounds about right to us. And considering the same survey found that there were approximately 84.3 million kids’ parties in 2018 alone, that’s a whole lot of dough going toward the birthday industry. 4

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

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2019 TOP 5

July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

Family F.Y.I. Block It Out

id you know that during World War I block parties were held to honor residents of that particular street who had gone off to war? Neighbors would rope off the block and sing patriotic songs while holding a small parade. Today many block parties are held on either Independence Day or Memorial Day – an ideal way to observe two important national holidays.

Safety in Crowds Mary Nahorniak, Injury Prevention Program Intern, Boston Children’s Hospital

RINGING YOUR KIDS TO EXCITING EVENTS OR NEW PLACES CREATES MEMORIES AND FAMILY FUN, YET CROWDS CAN BE OVERWHELMING FOR ANYONE, LET ALONE PARENTS TRYING TO KEEP EYES ON THEIR CHILDREN. Kids love to explore once something has caught their attention, especially without letting their parents know they are going to wander. It only takes a second for a child to separate from the group — causing panic in both children and adults. Even though busy places may make parents anxious, it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying new adventures as a family. The following tips will help your children stay safe and give you peace of mind.

on a piece of paper in their pocket and let them know when they might need to use it. There are also safety items, like bracelets and temporary tattoos, available for sale to be used for identification purposes. With older children, practice reciting your phone number with them prior to the outing until they have it memorized. • Dress to impress. Plan outfits for your kids that are easily visible and stand out in crowds. For a day time outing, pick bright colors or even matching colors/outfits. For night time, consider clothing articles that light up or buy glow-in-the-dark bracelets to easily spot your child.

• Teach older children about safety in crowds. Once you arrive to the event/place, point out recognizable landmarks, such as an information desk, large statue, etc., to use as a meet up spot if you were to be separated. Come up with a plan about reaching the designated spot in the event of separation.

• Take a photo before heading out. In the unlikely event your kids get separated, taking their picture will allow you to have the most recent photo of what they look like that day to show employees and police. In times of stress your own memory may get fuzzy, so this will even help you remember key identifiers on your child that day.

• Bring a stroller or wagon for younger children. If you have young kids, keep them physically near you by containing their busy bodies in a stroller or wagon. If they ask to get out, make sure they know they must hold your hand until they get back in.

• Identify safe people at the event. Point out where employees may be stationed (ticket booth, restaurants, etc.) and show them what their uniform looks like in case they need to ask someone for help.

• Make sure your kids have your phone number. With young children, you can put your name and contact information

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

• Be mindful but relaxed. Being constantly worried about crowds will make the outing less fun for you and the whole family. The best thing you can do is always be prepared in crowds and remember these safety tips!

Boston Parent 3.312" x 4.687" tall - June.qxp_Layout 1 5/17/19 2:59 PM Page 1

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July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

10 Great Ideas WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO!

New book by local parent and author Kim Foley MacKinnon, offers lots of options, to make a warm-weather excursion in Boston a memorable one.

hen the weather warms up, it’s time to get outside and play! And if school is out, parents probably could use some ideas or remiders of where to go and what to do! 100 Things to Do in Boston Before You Die, 2nd Edition (Reedy Press, 2018), a new book by local parent and author Kim Foley MacKinnon, offers lots of options, including these 10 family-friendly outings sure to make a warm-weather excursion in Boston a memorable one.

Down a Dog at Sullivan’s

hen the weather starts to warm up, a trip to Sullivan’s at Castle Island is a Boston rite of spring. Located on Castle Island, the food stand, which has been serving up burgers, hot dogs, fries, and ice cream as well as seafood favorites since 1951, is a local favorite. The popular spot is still owned and operated by the Sullivan family, and generations of other families have made eating there a tradition. Line up for your order, then head out to a park bench to take in the views and watch the planes coming and going from Logan Airport. It’s the perfect cheap date and an easy way to entertain the kids. 2080 William J. Day Blvd., 617-268-5685, sullivanscastleisland.com.

Ride a Giant Swan in the Public Garden

hese celebrated boats in Boston’s Public Garden, America’s oldest botanical garden, never fail to delight. The historic Swan Boats have been gliding over the park’s lagoon, under the scenic weeping willow trees and what’s billed as the world’s smallest suspension bridge, since 1877. No warm-weather visit to Boston is complete without taking a ride on these pedal boats (don’t worry, a captain supplies the foot power). Elsewhere in the twenty-four-acre park, you’ll encounter meandering paths, gorgeous gardens,

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

beautiful flower beds, and sculptures of historic figures like George Washington. Don’t miss the charming Make Way for Ducklings bronze sculptures, done by Nancy Schön as a tribute to the 1941 classic children’s book of the same name written by Robert McCloskey. Swan Boats run midApril through mid-September. 4 Charles St., 617-522-1966, swanboats.com.

Sail Over to the Boston Harbor Islands

he Boston Harbor Islands are one of Boston’s lesserknown attractions, despite being just a short ferry ride away from downtown. Once there, you can do everything from exploring old forts to swimming to hiking. You can visit the nation’s oldest continually used light station; enjoy clambakes, live musical performances, vintage 1860s baseball games played by costumed teams; and even camp overnight on four of the islands. Finally, the views from the water and the islands offer an incomparable shot of Boston’s scenic skyline. Visitors tend to gravitate to two islands, Georges and Spectacle. Georges is home to the spooky Civil War-era Fort Warren, which is fun to explore (look out for the resident ghost, the Lady in Black). Spectacle Island, which has served as farmland, a quarantine hospital, a glue factory, a resort, and a landfill, now offers a beach (with lifeguards), 2.5 miles of trails, and the highest viewing point of any of the islands, at 155 feet. Ferries run May through October. Boston Harbor Islands, 617-223-8666, bostonharborislands.org.

Explore the Rose Kennedy Greenway

orget about riding a horse on a carousel and ask yourself, where can I ride a codfish? Okay, maybe not you, but your kids (or you, vicariously) will enjoy the custom-made New England-centric carousel at the Rose Kennedy Greenway,

Get a different perspective on the city from the water. The Charles River offers a wealth of activities, from kayaking to canoeing to splashing down in one of the city’s ubiquitous and colorful Duck Boats. which features a seal, a peregrine falcon, a sea turtle, a lobster, a green grasshopper, and a whimsical sea creature instead of the usual four-legged creatures. The 1.5-milelong park, which replaced the eyesore of an elevated highway, wends its way through several Boston waterfront neighborhoods. There is a LOT going on here, from farmers markets to beer gardens to food trucks to outdoor movies. There’s also live music, temporary exhibits, edible herb gardens, seven splash fountains, and much, much more. Head on down and wander around. I guarantee you won’t be bored. It always feels like you’ve stumbled into a super-cool block party, especially when it’s warm outside and the city comes out to play. 617-292-0020, rosekennedygreenway.org.

Examine the Jewels of Boston’s Emerald Necklace

orget gemstones—Boston’s Emerald Necklace is a long string of six delightful green spaces stretching seven miles from one end of the city to the other. Masterminded in the late nineteenth century by landscape architect extraordinaire Frederick Law Olmsted, who also happened to design New York’s Central Park (among many other green spaces), the parks are composed of the Back Bay Fens, the Riverway, Olmsted Park, Jamaica Pond, Arnold Arboretum, and Franklin Park. The interconnected parks were designed to give city dwellers relief from the hustle and bustle of town, a job that they fulfill to this day. From walking along shady paths to rowing on the pond to playing golf or visiting the zoo at Franklin Park, the Emerald Necklace offers countless ways to enjoy the outdoors. The Emerald Necklace Conservancy provides tours, maps, exhibits, and other info from its visitor center in the Back Bay Fens. Shattuck Visitor Center, 125 The Fenway, 617-522-2700, emeraldnecklace.org.

Dip an Oar in the Charles River

et a different perspective on the city from the water. The Charles River offers a wealth of activities, from kayaking to canoeing to splashing down in one of the city’s

ubiquitous and colorful Duck Boats. Other options include sailing, stand-up paddleboarding and taking a leisurely riverboat. Pirate ships more your thing? Yep, we’ve got one of those, too! Boston Duck Tours, which take place aboard World War IIstyle amphibious landing vehicles. The narrated tour swings by Boston’s main sights, from the Massachusetts State House to Bunker Hill, and then heads straight into the Charles River. 617-267-3825, bostonducktours.com. Community Boating, located near the Charles Street footbridge on the Esplanade, Community Boating offers sailboats, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards for rent. 21 David G Mugar Way, 617-523-1038, community-boating.org. Charles Riverboat Company,take a seventy-minute narrated sightseeing cruise along the Charles River for a laidback way to see the city. Architecture and sunset cruises are also available. Cruises depart from Lechmere Canal Park at the CambridgeSide Mall. 10 Cambridge Side Pl., Cambridge, 617-621-3001, charlesriverboat.com/tours/charles-rivertour.

Play Around on Lawn D

his seasonal all-ages playground has something for everyone, from a full bar stocked with adult beverages for the twenty-one-plus crowd to a variety of lawn games like giant Connect Four that kids (and the young at heart) love to play. The 2.7-acre park, which is located adjacent to (and is operated by) the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, is typically open from May through October and is free to enter. The enclosed lawn features cool round swings that light up at night, a covered pavilion where both live acts and DJs play music, and a concession stand with typical barbecue favorites like hot dogs and burgers. There are also ping-pong tables, bocce courts, corn hole boards, temporary art installations, and special movie nights. 420 D St., 877393-3393, signatureboston.com/lawn-on-d/communityactivities/open-lawn.

Continued >>> July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

Climb Aboard the USS Constitution

etter known as “Old Ironsides,” the USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned ship in the U.S. fleet. She was launched on October 21, 1797, as part of the nation’s new navy. Her hull was made of live oak, the toughest wood grown in North America, and her bottom was sheathed in copper provided by Paul Revere. The nickname “Old Ironsides” was coined during the War of 1812, when shots from the British warship Guerrière appeared to bounce off her hull. In fortytwo engagements, she never lost a battle—an impressive record. Today, she serves as America’s Ship of State, and visitors are welcome. You can explore the top three decks, and the crew is happy to explain all matters of naval history and ship facts and figures. Don’t miss the USS Constitution Museum just next door for more info and hands-on exhibits that kids (and many adults) love. Who doesn’t want to see if they can aim a cannon accurately or haul a billy goat—named Billie—on board? Charlestown Navy Yard, 55 Constitution Rd., 617-242-7511, navy.mil/local/constitution.

Toss Tea at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

ometimes all of Boston’s history and historical sites can seem overwhelming, perhaps even dry, but not so at this hands-on interactive museum, where you can toss (fake) tea overboard, climb around replica ships, and converse with period actors about colonial issues. Exhibits at the

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museum, which is located on Griffin’s Wharf (close to where the actual Tea Party occurred on December 16, 1773) include cool 3-D holograms, talking portraits, and even the Robinson Tea Chest, one of two original tea chests known to exist. To date, two of the three ships have been recreated, the Beaver II and the Eleanor, which you can explore at will. The third ship, the Dartmouth, is still a work in progress. Don’t skip having a cup of tea in Abigail’s Tea Room, which has one of the best views of the harbor around. 306 Congress St., 866-955-0667, bostonteapartyship.com.

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Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

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How to Plan the Perfect Celebration for Your Child By Carol Band

ust when you thought you had put your event planning days behind you after having your wedding dress cleaned and preserved, you discover the daunting world of children’s birthday parties. Have kids’ parties always been such a thing? There’s so much pressure revolving around your child’s special day, from location to party favors to whether or not you really need to invite the entire class, that it can actually keep a parent up at night (and for some of us that insomnia Continued >>> carries on for weeks). July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

TIME!

INVESTIGATING INVITES

hat happened to the days when you could string up some balloons, bake a homemade birthday cake and call it a day? Experts and parents dish out their best advice for making your child’s birthday as stressfree and sensational as possible.

TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF THE GUEST LIST

n the digital age, what’s the best protocol for inviting guests (and the one that’s top-rated in terms of your RSVP rate)? It’s a legitimate question. PRO TIP: Krull believes in the old-fashioned, mailed-out party invitation: “The invitation introduces your party. It’s a chance to create excitement and build anticipation,” she says.

PARENT PROWESS: Parents have mixed feelings about invitation alternatives. “My son once missed a birthday party because the invitation was a message left on our phone machine by the birthday child,” says Emily Twadell, a mother of three. “I like sending e-invites,” says mom Denise Pons Leone PRO TIP: “Four kids! That’s not a celebration, that’s of internet services that allow you to custom-create dinner with your family!” says Sharron Krull, party planner party invitations with reply options. “You can see who and author of That Was the Best Party Ever! How to Give Parties Your Kids Will Never Forget. Krull insists there are has opened them, people can leave comments – it’s fast and they are cute!” no hard-and-fast rules. Party budget, space constraints Adam, age 12, likes a more personal approach: “A and your child’s wishes all help determine the size of the couple of years ago, one of my friends had a pirate party guest list. and his dad dressed up as Captain Hook and delivered the invitations, which were treasure maps in a bottle. It PARENT PROWESS: Charlotte Pierce’s daughter had a fairy-themed indoor party for her sixth birthday. Pierce was cool and made me think that the party was going to be really fun.” invited 18 kids to create fairy houses out of moss, bark, twigs and dried flowers. But the project and the invite TAKE-AWAY TIPS list proved to be too much. • Mail out invitations about four weeks before the party, “Some of the kids were really high-energy and just suggests Krull. Follow up with a phone call if you don’t receive wanted to run around. It was a huge mess,” Pierce a reply. recalls. “The twigs collapsed, so I had to use a glue gun, • If you opt for a small party, be discreet; never pass out and there was lots of waiting around. The houses were invitations at school. If you’re inviting nearly everyone in the sweet, but I was a wreck and it was frustrating for class, go the extra mile and invite the whole class. the kids. Eighteen was way too many kids for such an Continued >>> involved project. Never again.” When Anne Murray’s daughter Kendra wanted 15 friends at her eighth birthday party, the whole family got involved. “We came up with the idea of splitting the guests into three groups that traveled through the house to various stations for games and activities,” Murray says. “It took a lot of scheduling, but it worked really well. Her older brother manned the craft station, my husband ran the games station, and we were able to comfortably host the entire group.”

ou’ve probably heard the rule that you should invite as many kids to the party as there are candles on the cake. Ten friends for a 10-year-old; four friends for a 4-year-old. But not everyone follows this decree.

TAKE-AWAY TIPS • Invite as many children as you can comfortably host in your space. If there will be more than five or six, invite another parent to help or hire a teenager. • The more kids you invite, the more adult or teenage helpers you’ll need to manage games, help with craft s and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

PARTY FUN BIG JOE THE STORYTELLER Amazing birthday parties and shows for all ages featuring cool stories, props, audience participation, and special features and surprises. Also great for schools, libraries and events. 617-713-4349 bigjoe.com BONKERS FUNHOUSE Under new ownership, Bonkers has updated the fun with new games, six lanes of Bonkers Bowling and an all new menu! Our Giant Play Maze offers loads of fun for the kiddos and our NEW party packages makes Bonkers THE place for birthday parties. We do all the work while you have all the fun. Great for groups, team celebrations and camp outings, too! 978-535-8355 bonkersfunhouse.com EXXCEL GYMNASTICS & CLIMBING Make your child’s birthday special and unforgettable with either a gymnastics or a climbing party. We entertain the birthday child and friends with tons of fun, including an obstacle course, foam pit, trampoline, games and much more. Experience for yourself what everyone is talking about. Exxcel is the perfect place for your child’s birthday party. 617-244-3300 exxcel.net FRAN FRIEDMAN Celebrate your child’s party with music and fun by Parents’ Choice Gold Award Winner, Fran Friedman! Lots of participation with special toys during the songs, and musical instruments for a fun parade! Perfect for children 2-7years. Also great for schools, libraries, and other events! 508-358-1614 www.franfriedman.com JAM TIME INDOOR PLAY & ENRICHMENT CENTER Jam Time is the ultimate birthday party destination for kids ages 1 through 6. Full service parties include everything you need to make the bounciest, most imaginative and jammin’ fun birthday ever! Now with locations in Maynard, Natick and Norwood. Mention “BPP15” to get $20 off your next party! 978-897-2917 jamtime.com

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fire truck cake decorated with licorice hoses and pretzel ladders. The biggest hit was putting out votive candles with squirt guns. TAKE-AWAY TIPS • Remember, the party is for your child – to celebrate her birthday and her individuality. Make sure it matches her interests and her age. And don’t consider any party a measure of your parenting abilities or talent. You can’t really overdo a theme, especially when your child is so excited about it. Involve your child in the planning and be creative together.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION THEME THOUGHTS

aving a theme isn’t necessary, but it makes planning—from invitations to decorations and games —easier because it provides a framework. Listen to your child and help select a theme that he’s excited about. PRO TIP: There’s no shortage of books and websites on party theme ideas. Head to the bookstore or library for ideas from the likes of veteran party planning authors such as Krull, Penny Warner and Vicki Lansky. PARENT PROWESS: With very young children, simplicity is the key to success. “For my son’s second birthday, I planned a circus party,” says mom Karen Seligman. “Our extended family was coming with older cousins, so I rented a tent for the back yard and a cotton-candy machine. I hired face painters and a clown to do magic tricks. My son refused to have his face painted and then took one look at the clown and had a total meltdown. What was I thinking? I should have just had a few friends over for cupcakes and an hour in the sandbox.” Pons Leone opted for a much more basic theme for her own 2-year-old: “The party theme was ‘Yellow.’ Everyone dressed in yellow. The cake was yellow. We drew with yellow chalk on black paper and painted with yellow and read stories with the color yellow. It was a big hit and very easy to do.” Julie Anderson took her 5-year-old son and his birthday party guests on a tour of the local firehouse. “It ate up a bunch of time to walk to the station, talk with the firemen and ring the bell in the truck,” she says. “Then we went back to the house for games and a

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

nside your home? On the soccer field? At an indoor play space, roller rink or bowling alley?

PRO TIP: “Outside, outside, outside,” says Krull. There’s no rug to vacuum or upholstery to ruin. If the weather cooperates, an outdoor party is the least messy, most spacious place to celebrate. What if your child is a February baby or the weather forecast calls for rain? “A garage or family room will work just as well,” says Krull. “Just make sure that there aren’t televisions, video games or computers that will distract the guests.” PARENT PROWESS: “For several years, we have hosted parties at the local park,” says Laura Bergan, a mother of three. “I hire a teenager or counselor from my child’s day camp to help run games. It’s so easy.” Indoor parties can also be great, particularly with creative themes. “My son went to a party that all the kids are raving about,” says Lorraine Griffin, a mother of

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three. “It was a Nerf ™ party. The guests brought their own Nerf ™ guns and when they got to the party, they were given goggles and set up in teams. Their battles were restricted to the finished basement and they had an absolutely great time.” the Tanglewood Marionettes. Reservations required. FREE.

✼

617-514-1644; jfklibrary.org.

TAKE-AWAY TIPS Birding, 10:30am, Boston Nature Winter Backyard 500 Walk St., Mattapan. Learn to use • PartyCenter, venues, such asHill bowling alleys, roller rinks or indoor binoculars, bird hike Many and create seed keep and play spaces, cangobeona agodsend. offer some staff who art for the birds to enjoy. Registration required. thingsfruit running smoothly and handle the cleanup. But don’t Youth, $7. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org. assume you can sit back and avoid too much involvement. Matias Latelier, 10:30am, Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., The more enthusiasm generate the from activities, the Arlington. An houryou of magic andabout surprises a Chilean moremagician the kids and will be happy to participate. Choose mentalist. Adults, $10; youth, $8. a venue 781-646-4849; carefully. Match theregenttheatre.com. place with your child’s interests and makeSOUTH sure it’s age-appropriate. Tracking the Winter Wild Thing, 9am, Francis William

LIGHTS, ACTION! Bird Park,CAMERA, 251 Washington St., Walpole. See Jan. 14 listing.

Winter Warm Up,can 2-6pm, World’s End, Hingham. n afternoon party seem like an eternity if Get outdoors for hiking, sledding, snowshoeing, owl prowls every minute is not planned ahead. Always have and tales around the campfire. Adults, $10; youth, free. more activities than you will use. Divide the party into 781-740-7233; ttor.org.

15-minute increments. For preschoolers, a 90-minute Family Owl Prowl, 7pm, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, party is1904 plenty. ForAve., older kids,Practice count owl on no than Canton Milton. callsmore and meet two hours. some of the museum’s resident owls before going on a

night hike to search for them. Registration required. $10. 617-983-8500; PRO TIP: “Keep it massaudon.org. upbeat and fast-paced,” advises Stargazing: of the 7pm, North Riversmall Krull. Reward kids Jewels with treats orNight, the chance to pick Wildlife Sanctuary, 2000 Main St., Marshfield. Join prizes from a treasure chest every time they participate astronomy enthusiast Peter Reed as he guides you in a game or activity. It keeps them motivated and$13. through the constellations. Registration required. 781-837-9400; massaudubon.org.

WEST Valentine Card Making Party, 10am, The Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst. Pop in to make special valentines for your family, friends or classmates. Registration recommended. $12 per pair or trio. 413-658-1100; carlemuseum.org.

29 Sunday The Enchanted Forest, 10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. Artbarn, a youth community theater company, presents the tale of a family vacation gone wrong. Adults, $13; youth, $10. 617-734-2501; coolidge.org.

makes each event more enticing. NORTH

Know audience, adds.Ward “A rambunctious group is Ward your Winter Fest, noonshe to 3pm, Reservation, not goingExplore to have patience a craft involving Andover. thethe property on a for guided hike,project or bringbeads, your snowshoes and sled to play. warm tiny and a group of shy kidsThen might notupwant to take with the fiparty.” re. $10 per car. 978-886-5297; to therefreshments stage at a by dance ttor.org.

PARENT PROWESS: Sharon Grossman, a mother of two, suggests both traditional and innovative games: WEST “Our parties always included trying to eat a Backwards Storytime, 10am, The Discovery Museums, marshmallow off a licorice string,” she says. “My kids are 177 Main St., Acton. National Day ago still teenagers now, butCelebrate the party guestsBackwards from years with silly stories and activities. Free with admission. talk about that game.” 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

31 Tuesday

Continued >>>

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“The coolest party I ever went to,” says McCabe, 12, “was a huge treasure hunt with clues that took us all over town. We even had to go to the supermarket and ask for a clue at the express checkout. We were in teams with cell phones, so we could call for help if we needed to. It was fun.” “The best party we ever hosted was one where every activity involved throwing stuff ,” says Jennifer Colthart, a mother of two. “The boys threw water balloons at each other, wet sponges at my husband who stuck his head out from behind a shower curtain,and had squirt gun fights with red and blue water and white T-shirts.” TAKE-AWAY TIPS • When kids have to wait in line to pin the patch on the pirate, you are asking for trouble. Instead, have a keep-’em-busy activity that they can do while they wait their turn. Or get them involved by making up cheers for other players.

TO OPEN THE GIFTS, OR NOT TO OPEN THE GIFTS?

or the birthday child, getting presents is an important part of the celebration. It’s also important for the children who attend the party and have perhaps

shopped for and helped to wrap the present. They want to see the birthday boy or girl open the gift and say, “How did you know I always wanted this? Thank you!” PRO TIP: Krull suggests turning gift -opening time into a game that engages all of the children. “You can have all the guests sit in a circle with the presents behind their back, put on some theme-related music and pass around a theme-related object. When the music stops, the child holding the object hands their gift to the birthday child. Everyone waits until the gift is opened and the birthday child has said an appropriate ‘thank you.’ The game continues until all the presents are distributed.” PARENT PROWESS: “We’ve been to parties where the presents are all stashed in a plastic garbage bag and opened later,” says Twadell. “I understand the logic, but it’s kind of frustrating for the guests.” TAKE-AWAY TIPS • Practice polite gift -opening with your child before the party. Teach the child to thank the giver immediately and graciously, and to never disappoint the giver by saying things like, “Not another one! I already have this.”

THE GREAT GOODY BAG CONUNDRUM

s much as parents may loathe goody bags, kids look forward to them. But the concept has become a bit tired. “I like getting goody bags because it’s a surprise and it’s exciting to see what’s going to be in it,” says Julia, 9. “But most of the time, it’s just pencils and candy. It’s kind of disappointing.” PRO TIP: Krull’s party plans let kids fill their own goody bags with trinkets and candy as the party progresses. Participation in a game or craft could result in an addition to a goody bag, for instance. PARENT PROWESS: Many parents are turning to the idea of one small guest gift that relates to the party theme instead of a bag of stickers and candy. One mom gave out CDs of Disney princess songs to guests at her daughter’s princess-themed party. Other parents recommend doing an elaborate craft project during the course of the party – tie-dye T-shirts, plants in decorated pots or picture frames with a freshly printed digital or Polaroid photo of the guest – and sending it home as the party favor. Carol Band is a freelance writer and mother of three.

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

2019 WINNER

CAMPS Academic Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • Empow Studios, Lexington • International School of Boston, Cambridge • LINX Camps, Wellesley • Russian School of Mathematics, Multiple Locations • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham THE WINNER Empow Studios, Lexington empow.me

Animals and Nature Summer • Boston University Camp Terrier Arts and Recreation, Boston Camps THE TOP 5 • Blue Hills Reservation, Milton • Camp Howe, Goshen • Coastal Discoveries Marine Program, Newburyport • Mass Audubon, Multiple Locations • New England Zoo Camp, Boston THE WINNER Mass Audubon, Multiple Locations www.massaudubon.org

Arts and Crafts Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • Charles River Creative Arts, Dover

See BostonParentsPaper.com for additional categories

• Delphi Academy, Milton • Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, Multiple Locations • LINX Camps, Wellesley • The hive at deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, Lincoln THE WINNER Charles River Creative Arts, Dover www.crcap.org

Circus Arts Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • Air Craft Aerial Arts, Somerville • Buck’s Rock, New Milford, CT • Circus Smirkus, Greensboro, VT

July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

• Dedham Health, Dedham • Esh Circus Arts, Somerville

• Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham

THE WINNER Circus Smirkus, Greensboro, VT www.smirkus.org

THE WINNER Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham • suescuela.com

Culinary Summer Camps

General and Traditional Summer Day Camps

THE TOP 5 • Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge • Create a Cook, Newton • LINX Camps, Wellesley • Maker Farm, Westford • Steve and Kate’s Camp, Mulitple Locations THE WINNER LINX, Wellesley • linx-usa.com

Dance and Ballet Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • All That Jazz Dance Studio, Newton • Boston Ballet School Summer Dance Program, Multiple Locations • Boston University Camp Terrier, Boston • Charles River Creative Arts, Dover • LINX Camps, Wellesley THE WINNER Charles River Creative Arts, Dover www.crcap.org

Faith Based Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • Camp Berea, Turner, ME • Camps Fatima & Bernadette, NH • JCC Grossman Camp, Dover • JCC Kaleidoscope Arts & Science Camp, Newton • Mount Hope Christian School, Burlington THE WINNER Mount Hope Christian School, Burlington www.mounthopeschool.org

Foreign Language and Cultural Immersion Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • French Cultural Center, Boston • German International School, Allston • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations 18 Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

THE TOP 10 • Boston University Camp Terrier, Boston • Dedham Country Day Camp, Dedham • Delphi Academy, Milton • Everwood Day Camp, Sharon • Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, Mulitple Locations • Hale Day Camp, Westwood • JCC Grossman Camp, Dover • LINX Summer Camps, Wellesley • Nobles Day Camp, Dedham • Thayer Academy, Braintree THE WINNER Everwood Day Camp, Sharon www.everwooddaycamp.com

Gymnastics Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • Charles River Creative Arts, Dover • Energy Fitness & Gymnastics, Natick & Newton • Exxcel Gymnastics & Climbing, Newton • Everwood Day Camp, Sharon • My Gym Children’s Fitness Centers, Multiple Locations THE WINNER Exxcel Gymnastics & Climbing, Newton • exxcel.net

Health and Special Needs Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • Camp Howe, Goshen • Fuse School & Program, Lexington • Franciscan Children’s, Brighton • Learning Solutions, Norwood • The Bridge Center, Bridgewater THE WINNER Franciscan Children’s, Brighton franciscanchildrens.org

Music and Singing Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • All Newton Music School, West Newton

• Berklee College of Music, Boston • Charles River Creative Arts, Dover • Jammin’ with You!, Newton • LINX Summer Camps, • Wellesley Theatre Project, Wellesley THE WINNER Charles River Creative Arts, Dover www.crcap.org

Performing Arts Summer Camps THE TOP 5 • Charles River Creative Arts, Dover • Kidstock Creative Theater, Winchester • LINX Camps, Wellesley • Wellesley Theatre Project, Wellesley • Wheelock Family Theatre, Boston THE WINNER Kidstock Creative Theater, Winchester www.kidstocktheater.com

Preschool Age Summer Camps THE TOP 10 • Delphi Academy, Milton • Everwood Day Camp, Sharon • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Jewish Creative Preschool, Newton • LINX Camps, Wellesley • Nobles Day Camp, Dedham • Norwood Montessori School, Norwood • Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham • Tenacre Day Camp, Wellesley THE WINNER Everwood Day Camp, Sharon everwooddaycamp.com

School Vacation Camps THE TOP 10 • Boston University Camp Terrier, Boston • Empow Studios, Lexington • Exxcel Gymnastics & Climbing, Newton • Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, Multiple Locations • Hale Vacation Camps, Westford • International School of Boston, • LINX Summer Camps, Wellesley • Mass Audubon, Multiple Locations • Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

• Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham THE WINNER Empow Studios, Lexington empow.me

Sleepaway Camps THE TOP 5 • Camp Birch Hill, New Durham, NH • Camps Kenwood and Evergreen, NH • Camp Wingate*Kirkland, Yarmouth • Fleur de Lis Camp, Fitzwilliam, NH • YMCA Camp Takodah, Richmond, NH THE WINNER YMCA Camp Takodah, Richmond, NH www.camptakodah.org

Sports Summer Camps

THE WINNER Boston University Camp Terrier Sports and Recreation, Boston bu.edu/fitrec/family-programs/campterrier/

THE WINNER Everwood Day Camp, Sharon everwooddaycamp.com

STEM Summer Camps

THE TOP 5 • Empow Studios, Lexington • International School of Boston, Cambridge • LINX Camps, Wellesley • Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham

Winter Camps

THE TOP 5 • Einstein’s Workshop, Burlington • Empow Studios, Lexington • Let Go Your Mind, Multiple Locations • LINX Summer Camps, Wellesley • Russian School of Mathematics, Multiple Locations

THE WINNER Empow Studios, Lexington empow.me everwooddaycamp.com

THE WINNER Empow Studios, Lexington empow.me

Teen Focused Summer

THE TOP 5 Camps • Babson Sports Camp, Babson Park THE TOP 5 • Boston University Camp Terrier, Boston • Empow Studios AR / VR Camp, • Dedham Health Camps, Dedham Lexington • Hale Reservation Camps, Westwood • Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts, • LINX Camps, Wellesley Multiple Locations • Everwood Day Camp, Sharon • LINX Camps, Wellesley • Wellesley Theatre Project, Wellesley

CLASSES & ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS Art Classes THE TOP 5 • Brookline Arts Center, Brookline • Charles River Creative Arts, Dover

Ages 15 months - 5 years Brookline • Newton Highlands Brighton • Porter Sq. • Kendall Sq. South End • Needham • West Newton Jamaica Plain (two locations) School Year and Summer Programs Full and Extended Day

Give your child the gift of bilingual education! TM

WINNER

2015 WINNER

2016 WINNER

2017 WINNER

2018 WINNER

2019 WINNER

EnrollmentPVP@gmail.com 617-416-7763

www.PineVillagePreschool.com See BostonParentsPaper.com for additional categories

July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

• Kidcasso Art Studio, Wakefield • Museum of Fine Arts, Boston • New Art Center, Newton THE WINNER New Art Center, Newton newartcenter.org

Ballet Classes THE TOP 5 • 4 Star Dance Studio, Dorchester • Boston Ballet School, Multiple Locations • Boston University Children’s Dance Classes, Boston • LINX Dance, Wellesley • The Greater Boston School of Dance, Natick THE WINNER Boston Ballet School, Locations in Boston, Newton and North Shore www.bostonballet.org

Dance Classes THE TOP 5 • Boston Ballet School, Multiple Locations • Boston University Children’s Dance

THE WINNERS Russian School of Mathematics, Multiple Locations www.russianschool.com

Classes, Boston • The Greater Boston School of Dance, Natick • LINX Dance Studio, Wellesley • Melrose Dance Academy, Melrose THE WINNER The Greater Boston School of Dance, Natick www.greaterbostonschoolofdance.com

Enrichment and AfterSchool Programs THE TOP 10 • CS Recitations, Natick • Commonwealth Learning Center, Multiple Locations • Empow Studios, Lexington • Engaging Minds, Newton • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Learning Solutions LLC, Norwood • LINX Dance Studio, Wellesley • Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations • Russian School of Mathematics, Multiple Locations • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham • Wellesley Theatre Project, Wellesley

Foreign Language Immersion Programs THE TOP 5 • Az-Book-Ah! Kids Center, North Billerica • French Cultural Center, Boston • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham • Russian Language and Arts Center, THE WINNER Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham http://suescuela.com

Gymnastics THE TOP 5 • Bay State Tumbling, Woburn • Boston University Children’s Gymnastics, Boston

JULY COOP KIDS

The Tobin School

SATURDAY, JULY 6 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Picnic stones and a craft

LEADERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

THE TOBIN SCHOOL offers NAEYC Accredited Morning Preschool and PreK programs, our innovative Junior Kindergarten option, and 2019 2018 full day, private Kindergarten.

YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME

SATURDAY, JULY 13 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Summer Spooky Scary Stories and a spooky craft SATURDAY, JULY 20 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Mindfulness Day Join us for mindful stories and crafts

WINNER TOP 10

508.655.5006 • www.TheTobinSchool.org

Classic Overnight Summer Camp Experience Boys & Girls

SATURDAY, JULY 27 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Wild West Day Cowboy stories and craft

EVERY TUESDAY AT 11:00 AM STORYTIME Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. All events are free, open to the public and are held in the Children’s Book Department.

– Ages 6-16 –

2019 TOP 5

WWW.CAMPBIRCHHILL.COM SUMMER@CAMPBIRCHHILL.COM

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

THE

Two, Four & Six Week Options

COOP H A R VA R D

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

The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics Arnold I Weiss, DDS Wesley Barton, DMD Ronen Krausz, DDS Danya Mermelstein, DMD Carmen Brambila, DMD Myles Clancy, DMD Roger Taylor, DMD

Caring for Children in Brookline, Newton, and Greater Boston for over 40 Years! TM

2019

Dentist

Orthodontist

WINNER

2019 WINNER

DOMESTIC PLACEMENTS Live In or Out

Nannies • Housekeepers House Managers • Estate Managers Couples • Mother’s Helpers Special Needs • Chefs/Cooks Eldercare • Drivers TM

Personal Assistants

2019 TOP 5

1-888-453-2277 www.casscompany.com placement@casscompany.com

Personal & Professional Service See BostonParentsPaper.com for additional categories

TOP 5

• Quality care in a professional, friendly and fun environment. • We will create a legacy of positive dental experiences. • Exceptionally trained, warm and friendly staff. • Braces and Invisalign for teens and adults. “Each child is treated as an individual and as a member of our family.” “Our team’s attention to detail is uncompromising…” Call for your first Dental or Orthodontic visit!

209 Harvard Street, 2nd Flr|Brookline, MA 617-731-KIDS (5437)

www.PediatricDentalCare.com July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

• Energy Fitness & Gymnastics, Multiple Locations • Exxcel Gymnastics & Climbing, Newton • Massachusetts Gymnastics Center, Multiple Locations THE WINNER Exxcel Gymnastics & Climbing, Newton • exxcel.net

Hip-Hop Classes THE TOP 5 • 4 Star Dance Studio, Dorchester • The Dance Academy at Siagel Productions, Newton • The Greater Boston School of Dance, Natick • LINX Dance Studio, Wellesley • Mass Motion Dance, Brighton THE WINNER The Greater Boston School of Dance, Natick www.greaterbostonschoolofdance.com

Ice Skating Lessons THE TOP 5 • Babson Skating School, Wellesley • Bay State Skating School, Multiple Locations • Boston University Fitness and Recreation Center, Boston • FMC Ice Sports, Multiple Locations • Skating Club of Boston, Multiple Locations THE WINNER FMC Ice Sports, Multiple locations fmcicesports.com

Irish Step Dancing Classes

Math Programs

THE TOP 5 • Dunleavy Boyle Bremer Academy of Irish Dance, Hanover • Heavey-Quinn Academy-Irish Dnc, Chelmsford • Mass Motion Dance, Brighton • Sullivan School of Irish Dance, Newton & Watertown • Woods School of Irish Dance, South Boston

THE TOP 5 • CS Recitations, Natick • Kumon, Multiple Locations • The Math Club, Lexington • Mathnasium, Multiple Locations • Russian School of Mathematics, Multiple Locations

THE WINNER Dunleavy Boyle Bremer Academy of Irish Dance, Hanover www.dunleavyboylebremer.com

Jazz Classes THE TOP 5 • All That Jazz Dance Studio, Newton • The Dance Academy of Siagel Productions, Newton • The Greater Boston School of Dance, Natick • LINX Dance Studio, Wellesley • Mass Motion Dance, Brighton THE WINNER The Greater Boston School of Dance, Natick www.greaterbostonschoolofdance.com

Martial Arts Classes THE TOP 5 • Alpha Martial Arts, North Chelmsford • Bay State Martial Arts, Woburn • LINX, Wellesley • Modern Taekwondo Center (MTC), • Rising Storm Training Academy, Burlington

THE WINNER Russian School of Mathematics Multiple Locations • russianschool.com

Music Classes THE TOP 5 • Az-Book-Ah! Kids Center, North Billerica • Community Music Center of Boston, Boston • Charles River Creative Arts, Dover • Jammin’ With You!, Wellesley and South Shore • New School of Music, Cambridge THE WINNER • Community Music Center of Boston, Boston • cmcb.org

Science & Technology Programs THE TOP 5 • CS Recitations, Natick • Empow Studios, Lexington • LINX, The Enrichment Club, • Penguin Coding School, Lexington • Russian School of Mathematics, Multiple Locations THE WINNER Penguin Coding School, Lexington www.penguincodingschool.com

THE WINNER Rising Storm Training Academy, Burlington https://www.risingstormkarate.com

usscm.org | 617-426-1812 • Interactive exhibits for all ages! • Open 7 days a week • Admission by donation 22

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

“The best hands-on Museum I’ve seen.”

Sports Classes THE TOP 5 • Boston University Children’s Sports Classes, Boston • Exxcel Gymnastics and Climbing, Newton • LINX, The Enrichment Club, Wellesley • Olympia Fencing Center, Cambridge • Viking Sports, Mulitple Locations THE WINNER Boston University Children’s Sports Classes, Boston www.bu.edu/fitrec/family-programs/ sports-classes/

Swim Lessons THE TOP 5 • Boston University FitRec Swim School, Boston • Charles River Aquatics, Belmont • Dedham Health & Athletic Complex, Dedham • Goldfish Swim School, Multiple Locations • Lenny Krayzelburg Swim Academy, Newton

THE WINNER Goldfish Swim School, Multiple Locations www.goldfishswimschool.com/ locations/

Tap Dancing Classes THE TOP 5 • All That Jazz Dance Studio, Newton • 4 Star Dance Studio, Dorchester • LINX Dance Studio, Wellesley • Mass Motion Dance, Brighton • Miss Maria’s School of Dance, Watertown THE WINNER All That Jazz Dance Studio, Newton allthatjazznewton.com

Theater Classes THE TOP 5 • Boston Children’s Theatre, Boston • Kidstock Creative Theater, Winchester • LINX Theater, Wellesley • Wellesley Theatre Project, Wellesley • Wheelock Family Theatre, Boston THE WINNER Wellesley Theatre Project, Wellesley www.wellesleytheatreproject.org

Tutoring or Educational Support Programs THE TOP 5 • Commonwealth Learning Center, Needham • CS Recitations, Natick • Learning Solutions, Norwood • Russian School of Mathematics, Multiple Locations • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham THE WINNER Commonwealth Learning Center, Needham www.commlearn.com

CHILD CARE Child Care Facilities THE TOP 10 • Boston Baby Nurse and Nanny, Greater Boston • Children’s Playhouse Daycare, Everett • The Children’s Workshop, Multiple Locations • First Steps Early Learning Center, Medford

2019 WINNER WINNER

BP201718 See BostonParentsPaper.com for additional categories

July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

• Kelly’s Unique Kids, Medford • Launch and Learn Educare Center, Medford • Primrose School, Multiple Locations • Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham • Tender Loving Care Childcare Centers LLC, Weston & Woburn

• St. Joseph Elementary School, Needham • St. Mary of the Assumption Elementary, Brookline

THE WINNER Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations • pinevillagepreschool.com

THE TOP 5 • Delphi Academy, Milton • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Leslie Ellis School, Arlington • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham • The Waldorf School, Lexington

Child Care Referral and Support Agencies The Top 5 • Boston Baby Nurse & Nanny • Child Care Choices of Boston • Child Care Resource Center • Child Care Search • Open Wings Child Care Center The Winner Boston Baby Nurse & Nanny bostonbabynurse.com

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS Bilingual Elementary Schools THE TOP 5 • Amigos School, Cambridge • German International School of Boston, Allston • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Star Academy for the Gifted and Talented, Watertown • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham THE WINNER International School of Boston, Cambridge • www.isbos.org

Faith-Based Elementary Schools THE TOP 5 • Academy of Notre Dame, Tyngsboro • Jackson Walnut Park School, Newton • Mount Alvernia Academy, Chestnut Hill • Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mission Grammar School, Boston 24

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

THE WINNER Academy of Notre Dame, Tyngsboro www.ndatyngsboro.org

Independent Elementary Schools

THE WINNER Delphi Academy, Milton delphiboston.org

Montessori Elementary Schools THE TOP 5 • Cambridge Montessori School, Cambridge • Inly School, Scituate • Newton Montessori School, Newton Centre • Summit Montessori School, Framingham • Thacher Montessori School, Milton • Torit Montessori School, Boston THE WINNER Cambridge Montessori School, Cambridge www.cambridgemontessori.org

FUN & ATTRACTIONS

• VinKari Safari, Woburn THE WINNER Jam Time, Multiple Locations www.jamtime.com

Farms for Family Tours THE TOP 5 • Connors Farm, Danvers • Davis Farmland, Sterling • Drumlin Farm, Lincoln • East Hill Farm, Troy, NH • Natick Community Organic Farm, Natick THE WINNER East Hill Farm, Troy, NH east-hill-farm.com

Farms for Picking THE TOP 5 • Cider Hill Farm, Natick • Connors Farm, Danvers • Davis Farmland, Sterling • Honey Pot Hill, Stow • Tougas Family Farm, Northborough THE WINNER Davis Farmland, Sterling davisfarmland.com

Historic Sites & Tours THE TOP 5 • Adams National Historical Park, Quincy • Duck Tour, Boston • Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge • Plimoth Plantation, Plymouth • USS Constitution, Charleston THE WINNER USS Constitution Museum, Charlestown ussconstitutionmuseum.org

Birthday Party Venues

Indoor Playspaces

THE TOP 10 • Boston Bounce, Peabody • Connor’s Farm, Danvers • Davis Farmland, Sterling • The Discovery Museums, Acton • Empow Studios, Lexington • Exxcel Gymnastics & Climbing, Newton • Jam Time, Multiple Locations • Maziply Toys, Kingston

THE TOP 10 • Boston Children’s Museum, Boston • Boston Bounce, Peabody • Discovery Museum, Acton • Jam Time, Maynard & Natick • Launch Trampoline Park, Watertown • Learning Express Toys & Play, Bedford • Loch Ness Playcenter, Chelmsford • Maziply Toys, Kingston • VinKari Safari, Woburn THE WINNER Boston Children’s Museum, Boston www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org

2019 WINNER

Applied Behavioral Learning Services Celebrating 17 Y ears of Serv ice to the Autism Com m unity Behavioral Consultation Functional Behavior Assessment Social Enrichment Program Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Social Skills Groups Early Intervention Services Home Based Behavior Analytic Programs Extended Year Services

Now Accept ing: MassHealt h, BlueCross/BlueShield, and Harvard Pilgrim

Applied Behavioral Learning Services 617 -467 -4136 www.ablspart ners.org July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

Live Theater THE TOP 5 • Boch Center - Wang Theatre, Boston • Boston Ballet, Boston • Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston • Puppet Showplace Theater, Brookline • Wheelock Family Theatre, Boston THE WINNER Boch Center - Wang Theatre, Boston https://www.bochcenter.org

Museums THE TOP 5 • Boston Children’s Museum, Boston • The Discovery Museums, Acton • Harvard Museum of Natural History, Cambridge

• Museum of Fine Arts, Boston • Museum of Science, Boston

Zoos, Aquariums or Nature Centers

THE WINNER Museum of Science, Boston • mos.org

THE TOP 5 • Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory, South Deerfield • Mass Audubon, Multiple Locations • New England Aquarium, Boston • Southwick’s Zoo, Mendon • Zoo New England, Boston & Stoneham

Parent-Friendly Playdate Spots THE TOP 5 • Discovery Museum, Acton • Jam Time, Maynard & Natick • Learning Express Toys & Play, Bedford • Maziply Toys, Kingston • VinKari Safari, Woburn THE WINNER Discovery Museum, Acton https://www.discoveryacton.org

Places for Ice Skating THE TOP 5 • Boston Common Frog Pond, Boston • Boston University FitRec, Boston • FMC Ice Sports, Multiple Locations • Flynn Rink, Medford • Skating Club of Boston, Multiple Locations THE WINNER Skating Club of Boston, Multiple Locations • scboston.org

Now g rin registe for

2019 TOP 5

After School Program Adult & Parent Classes Teens & Kids Classes

Summer Resorts for Families THE TOP 5 • Bayside Resort Hotel, Cape Cod • Great Wolf Lodge, Fitchburg • The Inn at East Hill Farm, Troy, NH • Red Jacket Resort, Cape Cod & North Conway, NH • Winnetu Oceanside Resort, Edgartown THE WINNER The Inn at East Hill Farm, Troy, NH east-hill-farm.com

Winter Resorts for Families THE TOP 5 • Bayside Resort Hotel, Cape Cod • Omni Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods, NH • The Inn at East Hill Farm, Troy, NH • Red Jacket Resort, Cape Cod & North Conway, NH • Stowe Mountain Lodge, Stowe, VT THE WINNER The Inn at East Hill Farm, Troy, NH east-hill-farm.com 26

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

THE WINNER Zoo New England, Boston and Stoneham • zoonewengland.org

HEALTH Family Dentists THE TOP 5 • The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics, Brookline • Chestnut Dental, Multiple Locations • Children’s Dental Associates, Medford and Westford • Greater Boston Smiles, Quincy • The Medford Center for Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, Medford • The Pediatric Dental Group, Milford THE WINNER The Center for Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics, Brookline pediatricdentalcare.com

Hospitals THE TOP 5 • Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston • Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston • Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center, Boston • Franciscan Children’s, Brighton • Mass General Hospital for Children, Boston THE WINNER Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston www.childrenshospital.org

Learning Disabilities Specialists THE TOP 5 • Applied Behavioral Learning Services, Newton • Center for Children with Special Needs, Tufts Medical Center, Boston • Commonwealth Learning Center, Multiple Locations • Franciscan Children’s, Brighton • Learning Solutions, Norwood

THE WINNER Franciscan Children’s, Brighton franciscanchildrens.org

Mental Health Practices THE TOP 5 • Advanced Neurotherapy, Needham • Franciscan Children’s, Brighton • Learning Solutions, Norwood • Norwood Behavioral Health, Norwood • South Shore Therapies, Weymouth THE WINNER Franciscan Children’s, Brighton franciscanchildrens.org

Orthodontists

THE WINNER South Shore Therapies, Multiple Locations www.southshoretherapies.com

Pediatricians THE TOP 5 • Centre Pediatrics Associates P.C., Brookline • Franciscan Children’s, Brighton • Longwood Pediatrics, Boston • Needham Pediatrics, Needham • Roslindale Pediatrics Associates, West Roxbury

Sports Medicine Practices

THE WINNER Centre Pediatrics Associates P.C., Brookline • www.centrepediatrics.org

Speech-Language Therapy

THE TOP 5 THE TOP 5 • Chatterboxes Speech and Language • Arlington Orthodontics, Arlington Pathology, Newton • The Center for Pediatric Dental Care • Learning Solutions LLC, Norwood and Orthodontics, Brookline • South Shore Therapies, Multiple • Chestnut Dental, Multiple Locations Locations • The Medford Center for Orthodontics • Speech-Language and Hearing and Pediatric Dentistry, Medford Associates of Greater Boston, • Starr and Glick Orthodontics, Medfield Medfield • Speech-Language Pathology Center, THE WINNER Norwell Starr and Glick Orthodontics, Medfield starrandglickorthodontics.com

THE TOP 5 • Boston Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine, Boston • Boston Sports Medicine, Multiple Locations • Marathon Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, Multiple Locations • The Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, Waltham THE WINNER Boston Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine, Boston www.childrenshospital.org

HIGH SCHOOLS Faith-Based High Schools THE TOP 5 • Boston College High School, Boston • Catholic Memorial School, Boston

COMMONWEALTH LEARNING CENTER

2019 WINNER

Learning Differently Teaching Differently

TUTORING & ASSESSMENTS 1 to 1 Instruction

All Subjects

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

Succeeding See BostonParentsPaper.com for additional categories

Needham ( 7 81 ) 4 4 4 - 519 3

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

commlearn.com July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

• Mount Alvernia High School, Newton • St. John’s Preparatory School, Danvers • St. Sebastian’s School, Needham THE WINNER Boston College High School, Boston https://www.bchigh.edu

Independent High Schools THE TOP 5 • Belmont Hill School, Belmont • Brimmer and May School, Chestnut Hill • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Noble and Greenough School, Dedham • Thayer Academy, Braintree THE WINNER International School of Boston, Cambridge www.isbos.org

MIDDLE SCHOOLS Faith-Based Middle Schools

Montessori Middle Schools

• Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mission Grammar School, Boston • The Rashi School, Dedham • St. Mary of the Assumption Elementary, Brookline • St. Peter School, Cambridge

THE TOP 5 • Cambridge Montessori School, Cambridge • Newton Montessori School, Newton • Norwood Montessori School, Norwood • Summit Montessori School, Framingham • Thacher Montessori School, Milton

THE WINNER Monsignor Haddad Middle School, Needham www.saintjoes.com

Independent Middle Schools THE TOP 5 • Cambridge Montessori School, Cambridge • Delphi Academy, Milton • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Leslie Ellis School, Arlington • Thacher Montessori School, Milton THE WINNER International School of Boston, Cambridge www.isbos.org

THE TOP 5 • Monsignor Haddad Middle School, Needham

THE WINNER Thacher Montessori School, Milton www.thacherschool.org

PRESCHOOLS Bilingual Preschools THE TOP 5 • German International School of Boston, Allston • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham • Teddy Bear Club, Lincoln & Newton

Overnight Newborn Care & Nanny Placements Thank you for your continued support!

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2018 WINNER

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Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

2017 WINNERS

2016 WINNER

BostonBabyNurse.com

THE WINNER Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations www.pinevillagepreschool.com

Faith-Based Preschools THE TOP 5 • Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel, Boston • JCC Early Learning, Multiple Locations • Jackson Walnut Park School, Newton • Jewish Creative Preschool, Newton • Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mission Grammar School, Boston THE WINNER Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel, Boston fjecc.org

Independent Preschools THE TOP 10 • Cambridge Montessori, Cambridge • Delphi Academy, Milton • Garden Nursery School, Cambridge • International School of Boston, Cambridge • Jewish Creative Preschool, Newton

• Newton Montessori School, Newton • Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations • South Shore Conservatory, Multiple Locations • The Tobin School, Multiple Locations • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham THE WINNER International School of Boston, Cambridge www.isbos.org

• South Shore Conservatory, Multiple Locations • Su Escuela Language Academy, Hingham • Thacher Montessori School, Milton THE WINNER Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations www.pinevillagepreschool.com

Montessori Preschools

Large Preschools

(Total Capacity 31 Children or More) THE TOP 10 • Cambridge Montessori, Cambridge • Carriage House School Inc, Milton • Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel, Boston • International School of Boston, Cambridge • JCC Early Learning, Multiple Locations • Pine Village Preschool, Multiple Locations • Primrose School, Multiple Locations

THE TOP 10 • Adams Montessori School, Quincy • Cambridge Montessori, Cambridge • Concord Montessori School, Concord • Jackson Walnut Park School, Newton • Lexington Montessori School, Lexington • Newton Montessori School, Newton Centre • Norwood Montessori School, Norwood • Summit Montessori School, Framingham • Thacher Montessori, Milton • Tobin Montessori, Cambridge • Torit Montessori School, Boston

Boston ® The Skating Club of EMY SKATING ACAD

LEARN TO SKATE! Campuses throughout the Boston Area

Figure Skating & Hockey Year-Round Classes Kids & Adults

SkatingAcademy.org 617-787-5283

See BostonParentsPaper.com for additional categories

July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

THE WINNER Torit Montessori School, Boston www.toritschool.org

THE WINNER The Coop, Cambridge thecoop.com

Small Preschools

Consignment Events

THE TOP 5 • Delphi Academy, Milton • Garden Nursery School, Cambridge • Kelly’s Unique Kids, Medford • Les Papillons, Brookline • St Mary’s of the Assumption, Brookline

THE TOP 5 • Boston Babies Clothing Swaps, Multiple Locations • Chelmsford Mothers’ Club Tag Sale, Chelmsford • Fancy Pants, Chestnut Hill • LexFUN! Consignment Sale, Lexington • The Children’s Clothesline, Hanover

THE WINNER Garden Nursery School, Cambridge sites.google.com/gardennurseryschool. org

THE WINNER Boston Babies Clothing Swaps, Multiple Locations meetup.com/clothing-swaps

THE WINNER Michelson’s Shoes, Lexington and Needham michelsonshoes.com

Family Shoe Stores

Kids’ Special Occasion Wear

THE TOP 5 • The Barn Family Shoe Store, Newton • Michelson’s Shoes, Lexington & Needham • Pisini Shoes, Franklin • The Red Wagon, Boston • Shoe Market, Hingham

THE TOP 5 • Beansprout Gifts, Melrose • Hatched, Boston • Kodomo, Boston • The Nutshell, Milton • Michelson’s Shoes, Lexington & Needham

(Total Capacity 30 Children or Less)

RETAIL Book Stores THE TOP 5 • The Coop, Cambridge • Maziply Toys & Collectibles, Kingston • Papercuts J.P., Jamaica Plain • Porter Square Books, Cambridge • Wellesley Books, Wellesley

THE WINNER Michelson’s Shoes, Lexington and Needham michelsonshoes.com

Kids’ Casual Wear THE TOP 5 • Apple of My Eye, Melrose • Hatched, Boston • Michelson’s Shoes, Lexington & Needham • The Nutshell, Milton • Tiny Hanger, Brookline & Wellesley

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Caring for patients and their families for over 35 years!

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All pediatricians at Centre Pediatric Associates have staff privileges at MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and d Boston Children’s Hospital.

2015 2016 TOP 5

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2019

2019 WINNER

Thank you!

For Voting us Favorite Special Needs Services & Resources along with Favorite Special Needs Legal Assistance

WINNER

A perennial family favorite!

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www.centrepediatrics.org 30

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

WORCESTER | FRAMINGHAM | BOSTON | CAPE COD 508-459-8000 | FletcherTilton.com

THE WINNER The Nutshell, Milton thenutshellmilton.com

FAMILY SERVICES Kids Party Entertainment THE TOP 5 • Big Joe, Brighton • Empow Studios, Lexington • Sky Zone, Multiple Locations • The Teapot Fairy of Norwell • VinKari Safari, Woburn THE WINNER Empow Studios, Lexington empow.me

Nanny Services THE TOP 5 • Boston Baby Nurse, Greater Boston • Boston Nanny, Greater Boston • Cass & Company, Greater Boston • Nanny Kate & Co, Greater Boston • Sitter City, Multiple Locations THE WINNER Boston Baby Nurse, Greater Boston • bostonbabynurse.com

SPECIAL NEEDS SERVICES AND RESOURCES Special Needs After School Programs The Top 5 • Applied Behavioral Learning Services, Wellesley • BBLC, • Charles River Aspire After School Program, Needham • Commonwealth Learning Center, Danvers and Needham • Learning Solutions, Norwood The Winner Applied Behavioral Learning Services, Wellesley • ablspartners.org

Special Needs Child Care Facilities THE TOP 5 • Applied Behavioral Learning Services, Newton • Charles River Early Intervention, Waltham

• Integrated Center for Child Development Services, Canton • Learning Solutions, Norwood • South Shore Therapies, East Weymouth THE WINNER Applied Behavioral Learning Services, Newton • ablspartners.org

Special Needs Elementary Schools The Top 5 • Cotting School, Lexington • Learning Prep School, Newton • May Center School, Multiple Locations • The Kennedy Day School, Brighton • Perkins School for the Blind, Watertown The Winner Perkins School for the Blind, Watertown • www.perkins.org

Special Needs High Schools The Top 5 • Boston College Campus School, Chestnut Hill • Carroll School, Lincoln • The Cotting School, Lexington • League School Of Greater Boston, East Walpole • May Center School, Multiple Locations The Winner League School Of Greater Boston, East Walpole

Special Needs Legal Assistance The Top 5 • Fletcher Tilton Attorneys, Multiple Offices • Maaps, Wakefield • Sankey Law, Multiple Offices • Special Needs Law of Ma, Framingham • The Parents Estate Planning Law Firm, Acton The Winner Fletcher Tilton Attorneys, Multiple Offices • www.fletchertilton.com

Special Needs Middle Schools The Top 8 • Boston College Campus School, Chestnut Hill • Carroll School, Lincoln

See BostonParentsPaper.com for additional categories

• The Cotting School, Lexington • Eagle Hill School, Hardwick • League School Of Greater Boston, East Walpole • May Center School, Multiple Locations • Perkins School for the Blind, Watertown • Riverview School, Sandwich The Winner The Cotting School, Lexington www.cotting.org

Special Needs Preschools The Top 5 • The Cotting School, Lexington • The Kennedy Day School, Brighton • May Center School, Multiple Locations • New England Center For Children, Southborough • Perkins School for the Blind, Watertown The Winner The Kennedy Day School, Brighton franciscanchildrens.org

Special Needs Recreation Programs The Top 5 • Boston Ballet Adaptive Dance, Multiple Locations • Discovery Museum Acton Sensory Friendly Program, Acton • Learning Solutions, Norwood • Museum of Fine Arts Autism Art Classes, Boston The Winner Discovery Museum Acton Sensory Friendly Program, Acton www.discoveryacton.org

Special Needs Summer Camps The Top 5 • AccessSportAmerica Adaptive Water Sports Program, Multiple Locations • Camp Joy, Boston • Franciscan Hospital for Children Adaptive Sports Program, Brighton • Learning Solutions, Norwood • PathFinders Special-Needs Camp, Dedham The Winner Learning Solutions, Norwood https://www.learningsolutionsforme.com

July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

10 Things By Cheryl Maguire

Only A Massachusetts Mom Would Say

assachusetts moms are a hardy bunch of women. You could attribute it to the fact that they deal with shoveling two feet of snow in the winter or maybe because they are descendants of the Pilgrims but whatever the case here are some quotes you can hear Massachusetts moms saying to their children. “It’s wicked cold out this morning. Make sure to wear a sweatshirt with a t-shirt underneath because it’s supposed to be 80 degrees this afternoon.” New England weather is notorious for changing quickly. In the same day it can be freezing and sweltering hot especially in the spring or fall. Wearing layers of various types of clothing is one way to prepare for the unknown weather changes. And of course throwing the word “wicked” in to emphasize the point is a must. For example, on July 20, 2017 the record high in Boston was 91 degrees and the record low five days later on July 25, 2017 was 56 degrees which is a 35-degree difference.

“It’s Patriots Day, make sure to wear one of your Patriots shirts.” Every Friday before a Patriots game the children in school are required (okay maybe it’s not required more like strongly suggested) to wear Patriot paraphernalia to support the team. If for some strange reason you don’t own a Patriots shirt, your mom will frantically call friends and neighbors to borrow one. It must be working because the Patriots have won five Super Bowl games including the most recent one.

“Rub some dirt on it.” This is said to a child when they are hurt or have a cut. Its meaning is “toughen up” or “you are okay.” The saying has some real science behind it. Clay has been used to treat wounds which were common in the 19th century.

“We are headed down the Vineyard to do some clamming.” In Massachusetts the Vineyard is referring to the island of Martha’s Vineyard instead of a place where they make wine. Clam digging (or clamming) is when you dig for clams during low tide. Another variation of this would be “headed down to The Cape” instead of saying “Cape Cod.”

“Were you raised in a barn (pronounced baaaan with a real emphasis on the ‘a’)”? Even though this is said in other states, no one else delivers the saying quite like a Massachusetts mom with removing the “r” sound and really pronouncing that “a” sound. This saying is used frequently by Mass Moms. Maybe it’s because their kids never remember to close the door.

“Who wants to play candlepin?” In Massachusetts most bowling alleys have candlepin bowling which is using a small ball and “Do you want an egg and cheese or the small candle looking pins meant to knock down. pink donut?” Candlepin was actually the first type of bowling There is a minimum of at least one Dunkin Donuts and it was developed in Worcester, MA. If you want in every town in Massachusetts (most have at 5-6). to go “regular” bowling you need to ask for the “ten pin”. The children in Massachusetts are raised eating Dunkin Donuts breakfasts (and sometimes lunch “Who wants a Hoodsies?” and dinner). Most kids love egg and cheese sandwiches or those colorA Hoodsies is a small cup of vanilla and chocoful pink donuts. Dunkin Donuts first started in Quincy, MA in 1950 and late ice cream eaten with a wooden spoon. It is now is a world wild phenomena. severed at all kids’ birthday parties, kids’ meals at restaurants and even at school. Hoodsies were “Get a drink at the bubbler (pronounced first introduced to Massachusetts over 70 years bubblah). I’m not paying $2 for a bottle ago and are the official ice cream brand of the Boston Red Sox. The of water (pronounced wadah) when you Hood company was originally in Charlestown, MA. can get it for free.” In Massachusetts a drinking fountain offering “We are having American Chop Suey free water is referred to as a bubbler. Most moms for dinner tonight.” grew up drinking water for free so it kills them to pay for it. Harlan This may sound like a meal you would order in Huckleby designed the Bubbler in 1888, but his employer, Kohler Water a Chinese restaurant but it actually has nothing Works trademarked the name. It is speculated that landscape architect to do with Chinese food. American Chop Suey Frederick Law Olmsted brought the Bubbler to Massachusetts when he is an easy to make and popular meal many designed academic campuses and parks. Massachusetts moms cook for dinner.

#10

What’s your favorite Massachusetts Mom saying? Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, Upworthy, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings and Your Teen Magazine. You can find her at Twitter @ CherylMaguire05

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

Calendar

Thursday, July 4

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular 8pm • Hatch Shell, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston Annual concert and fireworks show. FREE. july4th.org

1 Monday Boston Harborfest Various locations, Boston. The country’s largest Fourth of July festival includes historical reenactments, fireworks, outdoor movies, live entertainment and much more. Through July 7. 617439-7700; bostonharborfest.com

Patriot Fife and Drum

Meet Beach Creatures

3:00pm, Paul Revere House, 19 North Square, Boston. Enjoy a lively concert of music that accompanied colonists as they marched, danced, wooed their beloveds, and waged war. David Vose and Sue Walko provide fascinating insight into each selection they perform. FREE with admission. 617-523-2338; paulreverehouse.org

10am–3pm, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. The 110-gallon tide pool touch tank is open for fun hands-on learning, Thursdays through Sundays, 10:00am–3:00 pm. Volunteers interpret the amazing animals you may or may not have seen on your own beach visits,

All events are subject to change or cancellation. We recommend calling first to confirm and purchasing tickets in advance whenever possible. July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

answering all the questions that all ages want to know. Program themes centered on local ecology and wildlife change every day, offering crafts, games, and two daily family presentations at 11:00 and 1:00. For all ages. FREE; suggested donation $2/child. 978-462-9998; massaudubon.org

3 Wednesday Hammered Dulcimer Concert 1-3pm, Paul Revere House, 19 North Square, Boston. Awardwinning musician Dave Neiman plays jigs, reels, and Baroque and Renaissance tunes that Paul Revere and his family may have enjoyed. FREE with admission. 617-523-2338; paulreverehouse.org

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular Preview Concert 8:00pm, Hatch Shell, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston. Get a preview of the Fourth of July show with a full concert, minus the fireworks. FREE. july4th.org

4 Thursday Independence Day Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular 8pm, Hatch Shell, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston. Annual concert and fireworks show. FREE. july4th.org

Salem’s July Fourth Fireworks Extravaganza 4pm, Salem Maritime National Historic Site, 160 Derby St., Salem. Children’s activities start at 4pm, followed by live entertainment and an orchestra-accompanied fireworks display. FREE. salem.org

Salisbury Fourth of July Celebration 7pm, Salisbury Beach, Salisbury. Live music followed by fireworks over the ocean. FREE. beachfests.org

July Fourth in Plymouth Plymouth Waterfront, Plymouth. A parade kicks off festivities at 9:30am 34

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

at Mayflower Business Park. Fireworks begin at 9pm on the waterfront. FREE. july4plymouth. com

July Fourth Celebration in Newton Various locations, Newton. Kids celebrate from 10am to noon at Newton Centre Playground with parades, games and ice cream, the fun continues all afternoon at Albermarle Field, ending with fireworks. FREE. newtoncommunitypride.org

In the Yard: Twilight at Bunker Hill Evening Tour 6:30-8pm, Charlestown Navy Yard Pier 1, Boston. Join a ranger and walk in the steps of the British soldiers as they advanced on the colonial stronghold during the battle of Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775. Tour concludes with a special sunset climb to the top of the Monument. FREE. 617-2425601; nps.gov/bost/index.htm

5 Friday Tremendous Trees 1pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. We will explore and investigate the trails to discover differences among the many trees within the sanctuary. In this program we will help lay the foundations for understanding climate change, and how we can do our part to make a positive difference Adults, FREE; youth (5-12) $7. 617-983- 8500; massaudubon.org

Ice Cream and...Frogs 7:30pm–9pm, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot Street, Natick. What’s better than ice cream on a summer night? Why not add a little fun outdoor exploration? Join the adventure as we listen for the songs of frogs and katydids. For families with children ages 6-16. Registration required.

Adult $15/Child $9. 508- 655-2296; massaudubon.org

6 Saturday Castle Hill Cat’s Meow: A Children’s Tour 10:30am, Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, 290 Argilla Road, Ipswich. This interactive tour program takes families through the house looking for where the cat might be hiding, while also learning about the house and family. Recommended for children ages 4-8. Adult $20/Child $10. 978-810-5892; ttor.org

7 Sunday Fun with Butterflies & Dragonflies 1–2:15pm, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot Street, Natick. Discover the amazing number of dragonflies, damselflies and butterflies that make Broadmoor home! Come learn all about these beautiful winged creatures and how to help our local butterflies this summer! For families with children ages 5-16. Registration required. Adult $14/Child $8. 508-655-2296; massaudubon.org

9 Tuesday One World – Mary Baker Eddy Library 10am to noon, The Mary Baker Eddy Library, 200 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. A series of FREE arts and cultural events, each week exploring a different corner of the globe. FREE. 617- 450-7000; marybakereddylibrary.org

10 Wednesday The Pirate, the Princess, and the Pea 10am, & 1pm Puppet Showplace Theater, 32 Station Street Brookline. Come along on a thrilling voyage chock full of sea monsters, shipwrecks, and mistaken pirate/

family will not want to miss! All seats $15. 978-232-7200; www.nsmt.org

The Green River Festival Greenfield Community College, Greenfield. A music festival with more than 40 acts, hot air balloon rides and kid’s activities. Through July 14. See website for pricing. 413-341-3317; greenriverfestival.com

13 Saturday ICA Watershed Family Day July 7, Fun with Butterflies & Dragonflies—Natick

princess identities. Through 7/13. $12.50. 617-7316400; www.puppetshowplace.org

South Shore Conservatory Presents Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys 10:30am & 1pm, South Shore Conservatory, One Conservatory Drive, Hingham. Wacky Wednesdays family concert series starts its 2019 season. Adult $15/ Child $5. 781-749-7565; sscmusic.org

11 Thursday Eco-Art: Marvelous Mammals 9am–11am, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield. Where might deer and foxes, squirrels, rabbits, mice, and other mammals live at the sanctuary? Take a short hike to visit some of the places where we might find signs of them. On our return, we will create mammal masks from construction paper and natural objects. For families with children ages 4-12. Registration required. Adults $12/Children $11. 978-887-9264; massaudubon.org

Lowell Summer Music Series 10am, Boarding House Park, 40 French St., Lowell. Make and take art and snacks at 10am, followed by a show. Today: The Yo-Yo People. FREE. 978-970-5200; lowellsummermusic.org

12 Friday Snow White-North Shore Music Theatre 10am & 1pm, North Shore Music Theatre, 62 Dunham Rd, Beverly. Kaleidoscope Theatre’s Snow White is an enchanting children’s theatre musical that adheres very closely to the original storyline of the fairytale. Beautiful costumes, lots of song and dance, plus the opportunity for several youngsters to directly participate in the show make this an event the whole

12-4pm, ICA, 100 Northern Ave., Boston. Join us as we celebrate Eastie Week with a special family day at the ICA Watershed featuring art-making activities, pop-up dance performances, tours in English and Spanish, food, music, and fun! FREE. 617-478-3100; icaboston.org

WGBH FunFest 10am – 4pm, WGBH studios, 1 Guest St., Boston. Meet some of your favorite PBS characters as you enjoy ice cream, games, music and more. $15; family of 4, $35. 617300-2000; wgbh.org

Bastille Day Party 6pm, Marlborough Street (between Berkeley and Clarendon). Bastille Day returns to Marlborough Street for a celebration of Francophone cultures. The street party will fill the entire block with a stellar concert, dancing, festive food and drinks. Bastille Day, France’s national holiday, commemorates the birth of French democracy. $34. Frenchculturalcenter.org

14 Sunday MAKEmobile 1-3pm, deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Road, Lincoln. Activities will explore artistic and material processes through amusing prompts and challenges. FREE with admission. 781-259-8355; decordova.org

Sunday Concerts on the Green 6:30pm, Newton Center Green, Newton. Enjoy a festival of cultures reflecting the rich diverse heritage of Newton’s population. FREE. 617-796-1540; newtoncommunitypride.org

17 Wednesday Lowell Summer Music Series 10am, Boarding House Park, 40 French St., Lowell. Make and take art and snacks at 10am, followed by a show. Today: Magic with Robert Clark. FREE. 978-970-5200; lowellsummermusic.org July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

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* 20% off your child's scheduled week > One coupon per household per summer One time use only > Must present original coupon > Valid through August 19, 2019

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Exxcel Gymnastics and Climbing TM

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2016

WINNER

2017 WINNER

2018 WINNER

2019 WINNER

Check Out Our Award Winning Summer Camp Weekly June 24 – August 29 Pre-School Gymnastics – ages 3-5 Half, Full, Extended Day – Full or Partial Weeks Gymnastics Camp – ages 5+ Rock Climbing/Sports Camp – ages 6+ Mon.-Fri., 9am-3pm, AM/PM Extended Day Available

Cardboard Explosion! 10am, & 1pm Puppet Showplace Theater, 32 Station Street Brookline. With help from the audience, puppeteer Brad Shur transforms simple cardboard shapes into elaborate puppet characters, then brings them to life right before your eyes. Through 7/20. $12.50. 617-731-6400; www.puppetshowplace.org

South Shore Conservatory Presents Karen K & the Jitterbugs 11am, South Shore Conservatory, One Conservatory Drive, Hingham. Wacky Wednesdays family concert series. Adult $15/Child $5. 781-749-7565; sscmusic.org

Wednesday Night Concert Series 7pm, City Hall Plaza, Boston. Boston’s longest-running outdoor concert series. FREE. 617-635-4505; boston.gov/ parks

BLO’s FREE Summer Concerts 7pm, Hatch Shell, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston. Boston Landmarks Orchestra presents Symphonic Space Odyssey. FREE. 617-987-2000; landmarksorchestra.org

Fun Indoor/Outdoor Activities Including Zip Line, Bungee, Foam Pit, Trampoline, Obstacle Courses, Water Slides, Great Weekly Themes, Crafts and more !

18 Thursday

Flexible Summer Classes Also Available

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!

Lowell Summer Music Series

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

Making a Difference One Skater at a Time

10am, Boarding House Park, 40 French St., Lowell. Make and take art and snacks at 10am, followed by a show. Today: The Jungle Book. FREE. 978-970-5200; lowellsummermusic.org

Eco-Art: Secretive Salamanders TM

2019 WINNER WINNER

BP201718

9–11am, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield. Most salamanders like to live in dark wet places in the soil under rocks and logs, but in the spring or fall they come to vernal pools to lay their eggs. Walk to a vernal pool to look for salamanders, and then return to create life like imaginary salamanders out of clay. For families with children ages 4-12. Registration required. Adults $12/Children $11. 978-887-9264; massaudubon.org

19 Friday Ice Cream and...Fireflies

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

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

7:30–9pm, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot Street, Natick. What’s better than ice cream on a summer night? Why not add a little fun outdoor exploration? Join the adventure as we look for flashing fireflies, listen for the songs of frogs and katydids and use a “bat detector” to find our local bats. For families with children ages 6-16. Registration required. Adult $15/Child $9. 508- 655-2296; massaudubon.org

Rapunzel-North Shore Music Theatre 10am & 1pm, North Shore Music Theatre 62 Dunham

Rd, Beverly. Rapunzel is a magical children’s theatre musical based upon the famous fairytale where a young girl is kept in a tower by a comical and bumbling witch and the only way in is by climbing Rapunzel’s beautiful and extremely long hair. All seats $15. 978-232-7200; www. nsmt.org

Free Fun Friday 10am, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Boston Children’s Museum is participating in the 11th annual Free Fun Fridays program sponsored by the Highland Street Foundation. FREE. 617-4266500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org

20 Saturday Family Camp Out 6pm-9am, Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St., Sharon. Bring your tent, food and family, they’ll provide s’mores, campfire and the rest. A great opportunity for novice campers. Adults $50, child free. Children over 4. 781-784-5691; massaudubon.org

21 Sunday Nature Walk 1pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. Come on over to the BNC and stretch your legs with a walk on our trails, and your mind with lots to discover in our forests, meadows, and seasonal wetlands., $7. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org

23 Tuesday One World – Mary Baker Eddy Library 10am to noon, The Mary Baker Eddy Library, 200 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. A series of FREE arts and cultural events, each week exploring a different corner of the globe. FREE. 617- 450-7000; marybakereddylibrary.org

Bee Parks and the Hornets 6:30pm, Newton Culteral Center, 1000 Commonwealth Avenue, Newton. Come dressed in your best bee costume to buzz around the green. FREE. 617-796-1540; newtoncommunitypride.org

24 Wednesday Judy Saves the Day! 10am, & 1pm Puppet Showplace Theater, 32 Station Street Brookline. After being pushed around for over 200 years, the famous hand puppet heroine Judy has had enough! Cheer her on as she goes on a quest for respect, justice, and a well-deserved nap. Through 7/27. $12.50. 617-7316400; www.puppetshowplace.org

Wednesday Night Concert Series 7pm, City Hall Plaza, Boston. Boston’s longest-running outdoor concert series. FREE. 617-635-4505; boston.gov/parks

BLO’s FREE Summer Concerts

Revere Beach, Revere. View the awesome creations at one of the country’s largest sand sculpting festivals, then stay for music, rides and fireworks. Through July 28. FREE. reverebeachpartnership.com

27 Saturday Play Date: Pattern Play 10am – 4pm, ICA, 100 Northern Ave., Boston. Kids rule the ICA the last Saturday of every month, when the museum fills up with fun, creative, and even zany activities for kids and adults to do together. FREE. 617-478-3100; icaboston.org

Glass Harmonica Concert 1-3pm, Paul Revere House, 19 North Square, Boston. Vera Meyer plays early American melodies on an intriguing instrument that Ben Franklin invented. FREE with admission. 617-523-2338; paulreverehouse.org

Boston Kid’s Splash and Dash

7pm, Hatch Shell, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston. Boston Landmarks Orchestra presents Longwood Symphony Orchestra. FREE. 617-987-2000; landmarksorchestra.org

3pm, Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Carson Beach. Boston’s only triathlon is inviting youth throughout Greater Boston to suit up for the annual Splash and Dash event, combining running and swimming Youth 7-15; www.bostontri.com

25 Thursday

Boston Area Beekeepers Association Open Hives

Eco-Art: Bark Boats 9am–11am, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield. Construct simple sailboats out of bark and leaves, then hike to the river and launch them from the canoe landing. For families with children ages 4-12. Registration required. Adults $12/Children $11. 978-887-9264; massaudubon.org

26 Friday Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival

10am–12pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. Drop in at the Boston Nature Center Saturday mornings from June to August and learn all about honey bees from the Boston Area Beekeepers. Learn how they make honey, how they survive the winter, and much more! For ages 4 and up. Registration required. FREE. 617983-8500; massaudubon.org

FIGMENT Boston Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston. An annual celebration of participatory

July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

art and culture. Expect art and activities in every medium available. Through July 28. FREE. boston. figmentproject.org

28 Sunday

Summer on the Emerald Necklace

Kids Day at the Woods Hole Film Festival 2pm, Falmouth Academy’s Simon Center for the Arts, 7

SCHOOLS, PRESCHOOLS & DAYCARE

Daycare, Nursery School & Pre-K - Belmont

Christ Lutheran Childcare, Nursery School & Pre-K • Full time or part time • Ages 1 month - 5 years • Seasoned staff - well educated • +EEC Certified: Nurturing, caring and joyful - come visit us! 2, 3 or 5 days/week - 7am-6pm 597 Belmont Street • Belmont, MA 02478 • 617-489-3071 clintod@verizon.net • www.facebook.com/christ.lutheran.3517 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 (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

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 ♦ 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

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019

Highfield Drive,Falmouth. The Woods Hole Film Festival’s Kids Day features the premieres of four short documentary for children age 10+ and their families. See website for pricing. 508-495-3456; www.woodsholefilmfestival.org 5pm, Pinebank Promontory, Jamaica Plain. Bring a picnic and blanket and enjoy Metropolitan Wind Symphony. Knucklebones offers a kids play space pre-concert. FREE. emeraldnecklace.org

30 Tuesday Help Wanted: Becoming a Servant at Castle Hill 2pm, Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, 290 Argilla Road, Ipswich. Learn about your many duties and responsibilities while seeing the back-of-the-house spaces and hearing what it is like to be a servant of the Cranes. Adults, $20; 978-356-4351; ttor.org

ONE WORLD TUESDAYS, July 9 to August 13 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon

Join us this summer to celebrate the world’s cultural diversity. Each week we’ll visit a different corner of the globe to explore the customs of six vibrant nations, through live performances, crafts, storytimes, and more— including book giveaways and free admission to the Mapparium® for youth under 17. THIS YEAR'S NATIONS: VIETNAM, MOROCCO, MEXICO, NIGERIA, IRELAND, AND WAMPANOAG NATION

200 Massachusetts Avenue Boston, MA 02115 For more information, contact our Educational Programs Coordinator 617-450-7203 | palladinom@mbelibrary.org

mbelibrary.org

the campus school at boston college is a private, non-profit, publicly funded, special-education day school located in the heart of boston college’s 2016 National Winner for Curriculum and Instruction in STREAM THE CAMPUS SCHOOL chestnut hill campus. AT BOSTON COLLEGE 2019 TM

TOP 5

The Campus School at Boston College is committed to providing quality education to learners ages 3-21 with multiple challenges, services provided including complex health care include: needs. • physical therapy Our•program provides a holistic, occupational therapy student-centered approach in a • speech therapy schoolbased setting, as well as support to families. • vision therapy

• eagle eyesTM

Services provided include: • music therapy • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy services • healthcare • Speech Therapy • assistive technology • Vision Therapy • Eagle EyesTM • transition services • Music Therapy • Transitional and Lifeskills • Assistive Technology • Healthcare Services

EDULE

services • STREAM Preschool. 7:30 - 5:30, Year Round

• 1:1 Chromebooks for grades 4 through 8 • 3D printers in the STREAM Lab • Hands on programmable Bee-bots in our STREAM preschool • Lego Mindstorms • Art, music, foreign language, technology and gym classes CONTACT US TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR YOUR VISIT AND EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES! • Diverse community of learners VISIT AND EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES!

ommonwealth Avenue The Campus School at Boston College is a private, non-profit, publicly funded, specialcampusschool@bc.edu tnut Hill, MA 02467 education day school located in the heart of Boston College’s Chestnut Hill campus. www.bc.edu/campusschool 552-3460 Dr. Barbara J. Cataldo, Ed.D. Director The Campus School at Boston College 140 Commonwealth Avenue Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

The

CAMPUS SCHOOL at Boston College

campusschool@bc.edu www.bc.edu/campusschool (617) 552-3460

Currently enrolling for the Fall. Call us today to set up your tour!

Sacred Heart School Boston 1035 Canterbury Street, Roslindale, MA 02131 • 617-323-2500 Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, the Arts and Math = STREAM

www.sacredheart-boston.org

Think Differently Learn Differently • Private K-8 special education school • Serving Complex Learners who struggle in a traditional classroom • Unique Immersion Model© integrates OT and Speech support throughout the curriculum • Financial Aid available

the Wolf School

To learn more visit thewolfschool.org 215 Ferris Avenue • East Providence • Rhode Island • 02916 • 401-432-9940 July 2019 BostonParentsPaper.com

â&#x20AC;&#x153;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!!â&#x20AC;? Woburn - 781-281-2983 | Weston - 781-703-5088 www.tenderlovingcarechildcarecenters.com 40

Boston Parents Paper | July 2019