Boston Parent March 2020 by Parenting Media

MARCH 2020

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Boston Parents Paper | February 2020

Contents

March 2020

Volume 35 • Number 6

Ayurveda for Kids

A blueprint for wellness that unites body, mind, and spirit

6 TIPS to Prepare

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E

4 Family F.Y.I.

• • •

VOTE for Family Favorites 2020 Northeast Camp Guide Online Red Sox 2020 Season

12 Camping Unplugged

Escape from the techno-centric world

18 Family Calendar

• Going to the Sugar Maple • St. Paddy’s Party • Spring Fun Fair • And much more...

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

PUBLISHER Parenting Media, Inc ART DIRECTOR | Debbi Murzyn

First-Time Overnight Campers

14 How to

Safeguard Children

with Special Needs from Bullying 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.

CALENDAR EDITOR | Grace Batmale

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

ADVERTISING SALES Holly Castro, David Morney

Send letters to the editor or article submissions to editor@bostonparent.com. Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper.com/event/

ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Jean Abernathy

March 2020 | Boston Parents Paper

Family F.Y.I. Who’s Your Favorite?

ur 2020 Family Favorite Awards ballot is here, and we need your input! Each year, we poll our readers for their top picks of places to shop, dine and play – everything from preschools and schools to kids’ classes, camps, museums and attractions. Head online to BostonParentsPaper.com to vote for your favorites today. We’ll publish the winners in our annual Best of the Best publication this summer. And you’ll be automatically entered to win a $100 Visa gift certificate.

Still trying to figure out where you’ll send your child to camp this summer?

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5 Life Lesson Learned at s Camp

Northeast Camp

Guide 2019 | BostonParentsPaper .com

NORTHEAST CAMP GUIDE The 2020 digital edition of Northeast Camp Guide features helpful articles on picking the right camp, specialty programs, family camps, dealing with food allergies and more. Read it on BostonParentsPaper.com – just click on the Magazine tab then on the image of the Northeast Camp Guide.

STACK IT

Paper or plastic cups make great tools for curious young builders, scientists and mathematicians. Make structures by stacking the cups pyramid-style or arrange them on the floor to form geometric shapes and patterns. With imagination added in, they can provide hours of fun. To nurture little one’s natural curiosity, have them make predictions, such as “sink or float” or “magnetic or not?” Then test them out.

BAG IT

This is fizzy fun. You’ll need sandwich bags, paper towels, baking soda, vinegar and water. Tear a paper towel into squares and add 1½ _tbsp. of baking soda to the center, then fold the sides in to make a packet. Pour ½ _cup vinegar and ¼ _cup warm water into your bag. Toss the baking soda packet into the mixture and close quickly. Give it a shake and then stand back to watch it pop.

BUILD IT

Kick off an interest in engineering for kids with simple activities that are a whole lot of fun and produce very different results from child to child, like the Straw Tower Challenge. Collect 10 straws (and only 10 – we mean it!) and some washi tape. Prompt your kids to build with the straws in a way that will produce the tallest tower possible. Secure straws together using the washi tape, then use a yard stick to see whose creation has the most height.

Jerry Craft’s, New Kid, The First Graphic Novel to win Newbery Medal New Kid, an award-winning graphic novel, created by Jerry Craft, published by Harper Collins, is the first graphic novel to win the prestigious Newbery Medal. The Newbery Medal was named for eighteenth-century British bookseller John Newbery. It is awarded annually by the Association for Library

Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

Service to Children, a division of the American Library Association, to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. New Kid is a timely, honest graphic novel about starting over at a new school where diversity is low and the struggle to fit in is real.

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Family F.Y.I. Get Ready to Spring Forward

Batter up!

HE RED SOX ARE BACK AND READY TO KICK OFF A FABULOUS 2020 SEASON ON MARCH 27TH WITH THE HOME OPENER ON APRIL 2ND! The folks at Fenway Park have made ballpark outings even more special for families. During game days, the Red Sox offer ample free ingame activities for fans of all ages including virtual and augmented reality experiences, pre-game music and autograph sessions, and family-friendly activities throughout the ballpark, including: THE KIDS CONCOURSE provides activities between the third to seventh innings, including games, face painting, caricature artist, beanbag toss, appearances from Wally, and more.

Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 am on March 8. Set clocks ahead one hour. DST ends on November 1 at 2 am. • It starts at 2 a.m. for a reason. The idea is that most workers with early shifts will still be in bed and most bars and restaurants will already be closed. • Daylight Saving Time starts in the United States on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November. • In additional to farmers, television networks dislike daylight saving time. During the first week of DST, television ratings usually decrease. • When daylight saving time was extended in 2007, there was a 7% decrease in crime in the U.S. • Car accidents increase in the weeks following the beginning of daylight saving time. • About 70 countries around the world observe DLS. • Some countries refer to “Daylight Saving Time” as “Summer Time.”

Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

SOX VR offers a virtual behind-the-scenes experience of Spring Training and the World Series parade and celebration, plus an interactive homerun derby challenge; and Sox AR offers augmented reality videos and experiences of memorable plays, history of the ballpark and more at various locations around the stadium through scannable QR codes and the MLB BallPark App. AUTOGRAPH ALLEY, inside the Jersey Street Team Store, hosts a former Boston Red Sox player, coach, or personality signing autographs. Fans can play RED SOX BINGO through the MLB Ballpark app by filling their Bingo cards based on that game’s statistics to win Red Sox prizes. Attend a game that features a SOX PROMO GIVEAWAY item such as a Wally & Tessie hooded blanket or a special themed Game-Day event such as Sesame Street Day, PEANUTS Night or Star Wars Night. Kids can get onto the in-field of Fenway Park for “KIDS RUN THE BASES” after the game at six dates throughout the season (see below). First timers at the ballpark and those celebrating birthdays can swing by Fan Services in the Kids Concourse to get a SPECIALIZED BUTTON to commemorate the occasion!

KIDS RUN THE BASES

If that’s not enough, on six designated days during the season your kids can run the bases post game! How cool is that? Start planning now! 2020 Kids Run the Bases Dates-April 5, May 3, June 7, July 12, August 13, September 7. For more information-redsox.com/promos.

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s Ayurveda gains popularity in the west, more and more parents are discovering a blueprint for wellness that unites body, mind, and spirit—the perfect complement to their own research on ways to integrate traditional and modern medicine into their parenting methods. Just as parents intuitively consider their child’s physical, mental, and emotional development as inseparable— so does Ayurveda, making it more pertinent than ever in today’s modern world!

What exactly is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda is an ancient, natural life science originating thousands of years ago from India that translates from two small words, “Ayur” meaning life, and “Veda” meaning science, or knowledge. Simply put, Ayurveda is living according to your unique makeup, or mind-body type known in Sanskrit as prakruti. In fact, this is what sets Ayurveda apart from other health sciences that take a one-size-fits-all approach to wellness. Far from a fad (despite some current branding to health consumers), Ayurveda stays steady and true to its guiding principles, offering lifestyle routines and practices uniquely tailored to an individual’s nature that promote health and well-being, with an emphasis on prevention. And what better time to approach prevention than in childhood, the period Ayurveda considers the most essential for developing a healthy, balanced being in a person’s lifetime. You’ve heard it over and over—the power of the mind body connection. But

Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

By Alyson Young Gregory how exactly does this effect the developing child? Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath, beloved Academy Director of Kerala Ayurveda and practitioner explains: All the functions of the body are carried out by three functional energies called ‘doshas’ which must be balanced to sustain the health and performance of all systems and organs. Think of it like electricity—without electrical energy, a lightbulb will not illuminate, having no function or value on its own. These energies are responsible for growth, development, and vibrancy of a child.

So how do you keep your child’s energies balanced for optimal health?

Ayurveda recognizes doshas as a part of nature, going through cyclic changes and rhythms just as we see reflected in the world around us. Simply designing things like mealtimes and sleep schedules around certain times of day has physiological effects on all systems of the body. And because Ayurveda is perfectly supported by nature just as we are, so much of Ayurveda is intuitive. For example, you don’t really feel like eating cold, raw vegetables and salad in winter. And you shouldn’t! Warm, nourishing, grounding stews and soups are best for this kapha dominant season. Which is also the dominant dosha of the age of childhood. Without further ado, here are a couple of Ayurvedic tips for kids from Dr. J to get you started! Bedtime: One of the best things a child can have at bedtime is some warm

milk with a pinch of turmeric. This will promote sound sleep and healing, and support a healthy immune system. If the child is allergic to milk, use an alternative like almond milk, but never cold! Screen Time: It may not be a choice to keep children totally away from screens in this modern world, but it is important to know that longer screen time and EMFs from these devices may not be good for the tender, growing minds and senses of children. Best to keep a set schedule or duration for screens to minimize exposure. Mealtime: You may want to stop telling your kids to “just have one more bite”, and consider this instead: mealtime comprises three factors— what, how much, and when to eat. In Ayurveda, the when is considered the most important. Here’s why: everything in nature works in cyclic rhythms and everything in our body works in cyclic rhythms like the cardiac, respiratory, digestive, and sleep cycles. If you create a rhythm or schedule for eating three meals a day the entire process of digestion, absorption, and nourishment will happen seamlessly as all the digestive juices, enzymes and hormones will align to that circadian rhythm automatically over a period of just a few days! Alyson Young Gregory is a native New Yorker, and Boston-based freelance writer, mother, and Holistic Health Educator specializing in Ayurveda. She has a passion for maximizing vitality through nutrition based on environment and individual body constitution for all ages, supporting children’s wellness policies, and finding inspiring local activities for families.

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By Bud Copeland Director of Membership & Engagement, American Camp Association, New England

hether your family has a long tradition of summer camp or this is the first camper from your clan, once you’ve made the decision to send your child to camp, the real work begins. Directors in our membership have shared thoughts on first-time, overnight campers, and below are 6 tips for preparing those campers.

TRY SLEEPOVERS. Some first-time campers

have never slept away from home before. While camp is a great place for young people to adjust to being away from home and family, it’s not the best place to begin the experiment. Slumber parties, going to a relative’s house for the weekend, or spending the night at a friend’s house, are all good practice for dealing with that unfamiliar feeling prior to night one at camp.

INVOLVE THE CAMPER IN THE PROCESS.

From the first conversation about camp, it is a family affair. Including the camper in these preparations and decisions lays the foundation for a positive camp experience. Finding camps, taking tours, talking to directors, planning communication, packing, etc. and anything the family can involve the camper with, they should. The more a camper feels ownership over this experience, the better. “Buying in” isn’t always the easiest for first-timers, so start early, keep them involved and informed, and empower them throughout the process.

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campers everything is going to be fine, and they are going to love camp. Odds are, you’re telling the truth. However, experience teaches us that love for camp often comes over time. Campers may experience homesickness, anxiety, or other unfamiliar feelings for the first time at camp. It’s important to talk about these feelings, communicate how normal they are, and brainstorm strategies to cope and continue having fun.

COMMUNICATION IS KEY. Camps have policies and procedures for communication during the summer. Some camps allow phone calls, some print e-mails for the campers, and almost all still encourage snail mail. Learn camp’s policies regarding camper communication and review them with your camper. Set realistic expectations for if, when, and how they can share the fun their having at camp. Also, prewrite a few letters and send them ahead of time for your camper. Hearing their name at mail call is one of camp’s thrills!

BE HONEST WITH CAMP. Prior to camp, parents

should communicate any and all pertinent information that could influence their child’s summer. Whether it’s family dynamics at home, new developments at school, or recent health changes, sharing this information openly and honestly with your camp sets up all parties for success. Things such as bedwetting, new medications, or having a camper whose sister who’s going away to college after the summer, can all be useful in helping camps prepare for your child.

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Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

due diligence finding a camp. You’ve packed, practiced and rehearsed arrival day, and the time has come to drop off your camper. Once at camp, don’t stick around too long. When you depart, the magic of camp truly begins. Take this time and enjoy it. That could mean reading a book you’ve been putting off, getting together with other parents who are summer empty-nesters, or doing any number of things that the joy of parenting forces you to delay. Remember that your child is off making new friends and facing new challenges in a safe environment. It’s time to step back and both have some fun. Provided by the American Camp Association, New England, a 501 (c) 3 organization that serves families and camps as the hub for “all things summer camp” in New England. For help finding a camp or for additional camp information and resources in CT, MA, ME, NH, RI & VT, visit www.acanewengland. org or call (781) 541-6080.

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(Long Before MTV)

By Bud Copeland Director of Membership & Engagement, American Camp Association, New England

scaping from the techno-centric world of today is difficult. We wake up and log on the same way previous generations grabbed the paper from the driveway. The internet and mobile devices ensure we stay updated on the latest trends, news, and which friend just had a baby. In this time of likes, shares, downloads and clicks, camp endures as an opportunity to make genuine, human connections. At camp, one rediscovers the fun in playing outdoors, learns more about personal strengths, and over time, finds their own voice. However, this doesn’t just apply to campers. Staff too find camp a pleasant escape from their ever-buzzing world. Many will post farewell messages on their walls, “Heading off to camp. See you in August. Send cards and cookies to…”. That cellphone goes into a locker and comes out once in a while at night or on a day off to let mom and dad know you’re okay. Being unplugged allows today’s young adults, both campers and staff, to focus on developing 21st Century Skills that aren’t always the focus in school. The sheer nature of taking away the technology safety net of Google or Siri, forces campers and staff

to get back to basics. Camp generously provides opportunities to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It emphasizes face-to-face communication and helps foster creativity and innovation in both structured and unstructured environments such as the challenge/ropes course or socializing in the bunk. If you scroll through the newsfeed on Google or the Associated Press, it won’t be long before you see an article referencing how artificial intelligence will change the future. This is nothing new. But while technology updates, the core of innovation remains the same; creativity, problem-solving, communication and teamwork. And since Frederick Gunn’s first 10-day trek from Washington, CT to Welch Point in Milford, camping has remained one constant we can rely upon to foster these skills.

STAFF TOO FIND CAMP A PLEASANT ESCAPE FROM THEIR EVER-BUZZING WORLD.

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How to Safeguard Children with Special Needs from Bullying W

By Malia Jacobson

hen young Cody joined the peer inclusion preschool at his neighborhood public school, he fit in from the start. His class was a mix of neurotypical “peer mentors” and children with disabilities, including students like Cody with apraxia of speech, a motor speech disorder that made communication complicated. The school’s curriculum encouraged understanding and advocating for students with disabilities, says Cody’s mom, and he felt accepted and included. Because the peer inclusion program wasn’t offered after preschool, Cody enrolled in another local school for kindergarten. That’s when the bullying began—Cody began experiencing harassment and physical bullying nearly every day, mostly from students in his own class. When he reacted, he was punished by missing recess or simply sitting in “time out,” recalls his mother, an active member of the local Special Needs PTA. “We were getting 4, 5, 6 disciplinary notices every week, and I knew something was really wrong, because that wasn’t an issue at his other school.”

Bullying and Disability Bullying at school—defined as disrupting or interfering with a student’s educational environment through intimidating, threatening, or physically harming a student or the student’s belongings—affects children with disabilities more often than other kids. While around

ten percent of neurotypical kids experience bullying, the number jumps five-fold for students with disabilities. Through bullying is harmful to all children, it’s especially hurtful for children with disabilities. Children with certain conditions that affect speech or communication may not be able to tell teachers or caregivers what they’re experiencing, making bullying harder to identify and correct, says David Camenisch, MD, a psychiatrist with the Seattle Children’s Hospital Autism Center. “A child with special needs who is bullied may internalize their distress, becoming disruptive at school or at home, developing feeding or toileting problems, or physical complaints like stomachache or headaches.” And bullying doesn’t just harm the child being bullied. Bullying negatively impacts students who observe it—the so-called bystanders—along with teachers and adults connected to the school. “Bullying is insidious because it erodes feelings of confidence and safety not only for those directly involved in bullying but for bystanders, teachers and parents,” says Camenisch. School districts are starting to take notice. “In recent years, there’s been greater awareness and more education around what bullying is as it relates to students with disabilities, and the fact that students with disabilities have protections under the law,” says Jen Cole, MA, director of Parent Training and Information with PAVE (Partnerships for Action Voices for Empowerment), March 2020 | Boston Parents Paper

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Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

which provides support and resources for individuals, youth and families impacted by disabilities. All states have anti-bullying laws to protect kids. Students with an identified disability have added layers of civil rights protection via federally guaranteed right to a free, appropriate public education (sometimes referred to as FAPE). Awareness of the impacts of bulling on multicultural and English learning children with disabilities is also increasing, Cole says, thanks to the advocacy effects led by caregivers and organizations like Open Doors for Multicultural Families. “Students with disabilities experience a lot of intersectionality with identity,” says Cole. “That means that when a student with a disability is also transitional bilingual, English learning, a student of color, or experiencing homelessness, they’re more vulnerable to bullying and also have less access to resources to help.”

How Adults—and Kids—Can Help When it comes to bullying, caregivers for students with disabilities can’t afford to be unprepared, says Cole. “I encourage families to be proactive because it’s so hard when it happens to and we are unprepared,” she says. One of the best ways to prepare: Make your child’s individualized education plan (IEP) or 504 plan part of your anti-bullying toolkit. “Make this [harassment, intimidation and bullying] part of your student’s IEP meeting so that things like social-emotional growth and self-determination become something you’re talking about regularly with the school,” Cole says. Self-determination, or the student’s ability to voice their own needs and wants, can be a benchmark within an IEP plan, as well as a school-wide focus. “A healthy school climate is one in which everyone is actively working on skills like showing respect, being safe, being responsibility, and specific skills elated to bullying, specifically self-determination—students learning how to speak up for themselves,” says Cole. While anti-bullying education is now common in

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“Proactive social skills include the ability to identify and respond to bullying, situational awareness, and very fundamentally knowing ‘what is a friend.’” schools, some programs are more effective than others. Peer advocacy—teaching students to stand up for others—can be one of the most effective forms of antibullying education, says Camenisch. “Bullies are more responsive to peers pointing out that their behavior is wrong than they are to adults.” Outside of school, caregivers can help encourage the growth of proactive social skills that help protect kids from bullying, says Camenisch. “Proactive social skills

include the ability to identify and respond to bullying, situational awareness, and very fundamentally knowing ‘what is a friend.’” Role-playing through potential playground interactions and reading books like Don’t Pick on Me by Susan Green are more ways for parents to promote proactive social skills, says Camenisch. A combination of peer advocacy and parent-to-parent education shifted the climate in Cody’s kindergarten classroom. His mother used social media and the classroom contact list to educate other parents about Cody’s condition and ask for their support. As the class learned more about disability and bullying, Cody’s primary tormentor ended up becoming a strong peer advocate. “It was an exhausting few months, but it made me aware of the resources that are available for things like this,” she says. Most importantly, Cody now feels accepted and included at his school, she says. “He absolutely loves his friends. He just wants to feel like everyone else.” Bullying isn’t a learning experience anyone wants for their child—it’s far too damaging and dangerous. “But addressing bullying can be very empowering for kids and for adults,” Camenisch. “It can jumpstart learning and give kids an opportunity to help others understand their unique challenges.” “It is possible to navigate this successfully,” he adds. “But it takes a team.” Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health and family journalist.

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Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

See the possibilities music can spark within your child.

Individualized expressive arts therapy for children ages 5-14. Learn how music therapy can help your child achieve their social, academic, communication and motor goals. Eve Montague, MT-BC Director, Creative Arts Therapies 781-934-2731, x20

sscmusic.org

Learning Differently

COMMONWEALTH LEARNING CENTER

Teaching Differently

2019

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Join the fun at Perkins Outreach where learning and friendship build life-long memories. In our supportive environment, blind and visually impaired students can achieve their goals and prepare for future success while growing and laughing with peers. Learn more at:

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TUTORING & ASSESSMENTS 1 to 1 Instruction

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Dr. Joseph Moldover & Associates Understanding Children

Empowering Parents

Dr. Moldover & Associates provide complete psychological, neuropsychological and educational evaluations as well as ongoing consultative services for families and schools. We emphasize: • A high level of responsiveness to our clients • Timely completion of comprehensive evaluation reports (with reports completed immediately following the evaluation) • Commitment to ongoing support for each child and family • Attention to the individual and unique circumstances of each of our clients • Strong participation in multi-disciplinary teams to best coordinate the response to each child’s needs Dr. Moldover is board certified in clinical neuropsychology through the American Board of Professional Psychology. He is dedicated to providing the highest level of care to each family and offers the most current assessment tools and resources. Visit us online for more information and a free download of “Your Child’s Assessment and Diagnosis: a Guide for Parents” by Dr. Moldover.

555 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA | 781.237.1735 | www.drmoldover.com March 2020 | Boston Parents Paper

CALENDAR

eet The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Make a butterfly mask. Plus films, scavenger hunts, and storytimes. FREE with Museum Admission.

Sunday, March 22 The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art 125 West Bay Road, Amherst Noon – 4 p.m. • 413-559-6300 www.carlemuseum.org PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CARLE MUSEUM, BY SETH KAYE PHOTOGRAPHY

Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

1 Sunday Nature Story Hour 9-10am, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. Listen to a nature-themed story then take a short walk around the trails to learn about the animals and plants at the BNC. For families with children ages 0-3. Registration required. FREE. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org

Meet Backyard Birds 10am-12:30pm, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. On Sunday mornings in winter, Joppa’s Bird Banding Station Manager Ben Flemer presents demonstrations on bird research and banding. After capturing wild birds in the Joppa backyard, Ben brings them inside to measure, weigh, examine, and then release them. FREE. 978462-9998; massaudubon.org

Fun with Animal Footprints and Signs 1-2:15 pm. Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St., Natick. Explore Broadmoor looking for tracks and signs of otters, rabbits, deer, coyote and many other animals. Learn what tracks can tell us about which animals are active during the winter, where they go and how they survive. This program is for ages 6 and up. Registration required. Adults, $14, children, $8. 508-6552296, massaudubon.org

What happens when maple meets milk? A maple moo mixup might be delicious! For families with children ages 3-8. Registration required. Adult: $13-16, Child: $13-16. 781-2592200; massaudubon.org

Coyote Club Session 1 3:30 – 5pm, Habitat Education and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. Come outside and play! This afterschool program helps children expend pent up energy, become familiar with the sanctuary, problem-solve and learn to work together. For ages 5-10. Registration required. $18. 617-489-5050; massaudubon.org

ARTfull Play 10:30-11:30am, deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Road, Lincoln. A play-based session engaging kids with art, books, materials, the environment and new friends. Ages 2–5. Free with admission. 781-259-8355; decordova.org

Sugar-on-Snow 7-8pm, Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill Parkway, Sharon. Celebrate maples with an iconic maple sugaring tradition: sugar-on-snow! This sweet treat of hot syrup quickly cooled over snow (or ice if snow is lacking) is a true sign of the season and makes for a delicious dessert. For children 6 and up. Registration required. Adults, $10-15; youth, $10- 15. 781-7845691; massaudubon.org

2 Monday

6 Friday

MFA Playdates: Celebrating Spring

Imagine, Sing & Learn: Seals on the Shore

10:15-11am. Museum of Fine Arts 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. Bring your toddler to enjoy story time and looking activities in the galleries, followed by art making. Tours leave on a rolling basis starting at 10:15 am. Each month focuses on a specific theme. Recommended for children ages 4 and younger with adults. No registration required. 617-267-9300, www.mfa.org

3 Tuesday Going to the Sugar Maple 10-11am, Habitat Education and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. Join Jill for a maple syrup adventure! It’s the time of the year when the sap is running. Get the unique chance to visit a tree and taste the sap. For ages 0-5. Registration required. Adult: $7-10, Child: $7-10. 617-489-5050; massaudubon.org

Especially for Me: Sensory-Friendly Afternoon 1:30-4:30 pm The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Come explore the entire Museum campus at your own pace. The museum is open to the general public during these events, but group visits and birthday parties are not scheduled in order to avoid crowding and to support exhibit accessibility. FREE with pre-registration. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org

4 Wednesday Early Explorers 10-11:30am, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. Learn about nature through movement, games, stories and art. For families with children ages 3-6. Registration required. Adults, free; youth, $7. 617-983-8500; massaudubon. org

Maple Moo 10-11:30am, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Milk the cow and check if the sap is running!

10am-11:30am, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. These fun-filled morning programs are perfect for both you and your active preschooler! Structured activities include hands-on science, music and movement, a thematic snack, and an outdoor adventure if the weather complies. For families with children ages 3-6. Adults, $9; youth, $8. 978-462-9998; massaudubon.org

Fledgling Fridays: Maple Trees and Sap 1-2pm, Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill Parkway, Sharon. Create art, participate in STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art and Math) activities, listen to stories, and explore the outdoors every Friday afternoon. For children ages 3-5 and a parent/caregiver. Registration required. Adults, $5- $6; youth, $15- $18. 781-784-5691; massaudubon.org

Maple Magic 3:30-5pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. It’s maple sugaring time! Visit the maple grove to check the taps and taste some sap. Learn how syrup is made from past to present and delight your taste buds with a sweet treat. For families with children ages 0-12. Registration required. Adult: $13-16, Child: $13-16. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

First Friday Nights Free 4:30 - 8:00 pm. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Enjoy free admission and explore the museums at night during this special monthly event, during which the museums gratefully accept food donations for area food pantries. FREE. 978-2644200; discoverymuseums.org

Victory Bouquets: Exhibit Opening Gathering 6-8pm, Boston Children’s Museum 308 Congress St. Celebrate everyday life, community, and nature through this art gallery experience! Join friends from Tohoku, Japan for the new art exhibition “Victory Bouquets”. Victory bouquets are the floral arrangements that medal winners will receive at the Tokyo March 2020 | Boston Parents Paper

Paralympics and Olympics 2020. Free with admission. 617- 4266500; bostonchildrensmueseum.org

7 Saturday

Family Owl Prowl

Sap to Syrup: Farmer’s Breakfast 8:45am-1pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great hkcHarvardCoopSociety1701.eps 1 12/6/16 8:14 AM Road, Lincoln.Enjoy a hearty farmer’s breakfast of pancakes with maple syrup, featuring Drumlin Farm sausages and potatoes. After breakfast, explore the sanctuary, learn about traditional Native American sap-to-syrup techniques, and watch as sap ANUARY is collected and boiled down into syrup at the sugar house. Registration required. Adult: $13-16, Child: $13-16. 781-259OOP IDS 2200; massaudubon.org

J C

SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 Junior Badge at 11:00Workshop AM BIRD STORIESBroad AND CRAFT 10am-12:30pm, Meadow Brook, 414 Massasoit Rd.,

Worcester. Broad Meadow14Brook offers workshops for Junior SATURDAY, JANUARY 11:00 AM Registration required. Ages 9-12. $9. 508badges andatjourneys. CELEBRATE PETS WITH 753-6087; massaudubon.org STORIES AND A CRAFT JANUARY 21 TinySATURDAY, Trekkers at 11:00 AM

10:30am-12pm, Stony Brook, 108 North Street, Norfolk. Start SNOW DAY WITH STORIES AND off CRAFT your weekend right with a fun and knowledgeable Stony Brook teacher on the trails SATURDAY, JANUARY 28 learning about nature. Each day will at 11:00 AMcreated to excite your child about the natural have a special topic GUNG HAY FAT CHOY world. There will be crafts, activities and lots of laughter. So CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW come andWITH join the fun. For YEAR STORIES ANDages 2.9 - 6. Registration required. CRAFT $6-$7. 508-528-3140; massaudubon.org EVERY TUESDAY at 11 AM

Light-UpSTORYTIME Night Sledding

Children ages 1 to 6 and their Dusk-8pm, HilltoFarm, caregivers Chestnut are welcome join 5 Chestnut Hill Rd, us for storiesGrab and snacks. Southborough. your sled and snow pants and get ready for All events are free and open to the public. THE

an evening adrenaline rush with some night sledding! The farm will have their best hill ready for you with lanes lit up at night to guide your way. BYO hot chocolate! FREE. 508.785.0339; ttor.org 6:30-8pm, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot Street, Natick. Come with the whole family to learn about owl calls, behavior and habitat under moon and star-lit skies. For families with children ages 6 and up. Registration required. Adults, $13$16; youth, $7- $9. 508-655-2296; massaudubon.org

Brew Moon Hike 4-6pm, Chestnut Hill Farm, 5 Chestnut Hill Rd, Southborough. Celebrate the full moon with event the whole family will enjoy! This evening hike will be followed by a local craft beer tasting, hot cocoa for the kids and s’mores for all! Registration is required. Member: $12; member family: $24; nonmember:$20; nonmember family: $30. 508.785.0339; ttor.org

Full Moon Owl Prowl 6:30- 8:30pm, Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Road, Harvard. See who-who-who might be out and about in the dark winter woods. Join local naturalist and educator, Laurie Nehring, on this family friendly guided Owl Prowl. Member Adult: $9, Nonmember adult: $15; Children: Free. 978-456-3924, fruitlands.org

8 Sunday – Daylight Savings Time Sap to Syrup: Farmer’s Breakfast 8:45am-1pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Enjoy a hearty farmer’s breakfast of pancakes with maple syrup, featuring Drumlin Farm sausages and

COOP H A R VA R D

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

March Coop Kids

SATURDAY, MARCH 7 at 11:00 AM CELEBRATE DR. SEUSS BIRTHDAY Stories, Craft and a Special Snack

SATURDAY, MARCH 14 at 11:00 AM ST. PATRICKS DAY Stories, Craft & Snacks

SATURDAY, MARCH 21 at 11:00 AM MARCH MUSIC

Every Tuesday at 11:00am Storytime Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. All events are free and open to the public.

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

March 8, Sensory-Friendly Sundays — SS Constitution Museum, Charlestown

Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

PHOTO COURTESY OF SS CONSTITUTION MUSEUM

SATURDAY, MARCH 28 at 11:00 AM MYTHICAL CREATURES DAY

potatoes. After breakfast, explore the sanctuary, learn about traditional Native American sap-to-syrup techniques, and watch as sap is collected and boiled down into syrup at the sugar house. Registration required. Adult: $13-16, Child: $13-16. 781259-2200; massaudubon.org

Sensory-Friendly Sundays 9 –10am, USS Constitution Museum, Charlestown. Learn about the incredible history of America’s Ship of State in a quieter setting, without loud sounds or flashing lights, and before they open to the public at 10:00 AM. Design a ship, furl a sail, and scrub the decks in this hands-on exhibits that are designed for sailors of all abilities and backgrounds. Admission by donation. 617-426-1812; ussconstitutionmuseum.org

Science on Screen: The Wizard of Oz 10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. Before this classic film begins, an expert will speak about what is known and not known about tornadoes and how scientists can predict them. Ages 6+. Adults, $10; youth, $8. 617-734-2501; coolidge.org

Awesome Animal Tournament

10 Tuesday Habitat Restoration Workday 9:30-11:30am, Habitat Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. Start out the New Year by lending a helping hand and giving back to the Earth. Habitat needs the help of you and your family to remove invasive plants and restore natural species. Children 14 & up. FREE. 617-489-5050; massaudubon.org

12 Thursday Sip Some Sap 10-11:30am, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Listen to a story of maple sugaring and take a walk out to our sugar bush. Check the evaporator to see how sap is turned into syrup and enjoy a tasty maple treat. For ages 0-12. Registration required. Adults and Children $16, 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

Nature Adventures for Children 1-3pm, Broad Meadow Brook, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. Explore a new, seasonal nature topic through hands-on investigations, crafts, activities and short hikes in Broad Meadow Brook’s beautiful 430-acre wildlife sanctuary. For children ages 5-7, registration required. $10-14. 508-753-6087; massaudubon. org

13 Friday

10:30am-12pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. It’s March Madness, BNC style! Over the next four weeks they’ll need your help to decide the most awesome animal. Compare foxes and coyotes, butterflies and moths, and several others. Through games, experiments, and walks, help decide the winner. This is going to be a tough task, but someone has to do it. Ages 5 & up. Registration required. Adult: Free, Child: $6-9. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org

Fledgling Fridays: Making Maple Syrup

Frozen Fruitlands Weekends

14 Saturday

Noon to 5pm, Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Road, Harvard. Bring your sleds, snowshoes and cross country skis to explore the snow covered hills and trails. Then warm up at the fire with cocoa and explore the museum. Weekends through March 31st. Free with winter admission. 978-456-3924, fruitlands.org

Nature Story Hour

1-2pm, Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill Parkway, Sharon. Create art, participate in STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art and Math) activities, listen to stories, and explore the outdoors every Friday afternoon. For children ages 3-5 and a parent/caregiver. Registration required. Adults, $5- $6; youth, $15- $18. 781-784-5691; massaudubon.org

9-10am, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. Listen to a nature-themed story then take a short walk around the trails to learn about the animals and plants at the BNC. For families with children ages 0-3. Registration required. FREE. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org

March 2020 | Boston Parents Paper

Apple Pi(e) Day! 10-11:30am, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. The eye of an owl, the yellow face of a dandelion, the seeds inside an apple—nature is filled with circles. And where there are circles, there is Pi. Come celebrate Pi Day by making and baking your own apple Pi-es. While they bake you’ll search for circles around the farm and meet some new animal friends! For ages 2-8. Registration required. Adults and Children $17.50, 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

Wayne Potash 10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. Wayne and The Music Fun Band will be doing a fun and interactive show for families with young children. There will be lots of dancing and action tunes and sing-a-long songs from their award winning albums. Ages 2+. Adult: $14, Child: $11. 617-734-2501, coolidge.org

Busy Bees’ Wax 2-3:30pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. A local beekeeper will describe the inner workings of the hive, how bees create wax and how beeswax has been used throughout time. Members: $14.50; nonmembers: $17.50. Ages 3-12. Registration is required. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

Special Storytime: Priscilla Alpaugh and Lori Haskins Hourin 2pm, Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd in Amherst. Join illustrator Priscilla Alpaugh and author Lori Haskins Hourin and as they read from their new picture book, Space Mice!, a book about two hungry mice on a mission to take a bite out of that big

ball of Swiss in the sky. FREE with museum admission. www. carlemuseum.org

On the Prowl for Owls 7-8:30pm, Stony Brook, 108 North Street, Norfolk. Whooo is making all that noise in your backyard at night? Join the experts over at Stony Brook to learn about local owls. Come with the whole family, you’ll start inside to learn about owl calls, behavior and habitat, and then dissect an owl pellet. Afterwards, head outside under the moon and stars to see if there are any owls to hear or see. Registration required. Adult: $9-11, Child $7-9. 508528-3140; massaudubon.org

Family Owl Prowl 7:30-9pm, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot Street, Natick. Come with the whole family to learn about owl calls, behavior and habitat under moon and star-lit skies. For families with children ages 6 and up. Registration required. Adults, $13$16; youth, $7- $9. 508-655-2296; massaudubon.org

15 Sunday HIP Morning Birding Walks 8-9:30am, Habitat Education and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. Birders and non-birders of all ages and skill levels are invited for bird walks at Habitat. Keep an eye out for signs of migrating species, mating behaviors, and nest building. FREE. 617-489-5050; massaudubon.org

Goat Social Session 3 10-11am, Habitat Education and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. You’ve seen the goats in the meadow or pavilion of Habitat, now, come and meet them up close and personal!

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Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

SCHOOLS AND PRESCHOOLS Winter is a dull time for an animal that does little else but eat plants, so the sanctuary needs your help to socialize and entertain Habitat’s Herd of Nigerian Dwarf Goats. For all ages. Registration required. Adult: $7-10, Child: $7-10. 617-4895050; massaudubon.org

St. Patrick’s Day 11am-3pm, Boston Children’s Museum 308 Congress St. Explore culture, identity, and stories of immigration through arts and crafts activities and live performances. Free with admission. 617-426-6500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org

St. Patrick’s Day Parade 1pm, South Boston. One of the country’s largest St. Pat’s parades, complete with military, marching bands, floats and plenty of bagpipes, it follows Broadway through South Boston. FREE. 844-478-7287; southbostonparade.org

Scituate Harbor St. Patrick’s Day Parade 1pm, Scituate. The parade begins at the Veterans Memorial Gym, 327 First Parish Rd, and ends at 44 Jericho Rd, near the intersection of Hatherly Road. FREE. 781-545-6671; weloveaparade.com

NEWTON SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN Open Houses: Thursday, March 5 9-11am & 4-5pm Friday, March 6 9-11am & 4-5pm Saturday, March 7 9-11am

Since 1982

25 Lenglen Road, Newton MA (617) 965-1705 newtonschoolforchildren.com

Welcoming Future Leaders • Toddlers through Grade 5 • Outstanding academic achievements • Flexible Early Childhood schedules • Before school care available • After school enrichment • Summer and vacation programs

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

ARTfull Exploration 1-3pm, deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Road, Lincoln.Explore deCordova with the whole family! Join us as we investigate new ideas and unique materials inspired by the themes and artists on view. Ages 5–12. Free with admission. 781-259-8355; decordova.org

Fly Tying for Beginners 1-4pm, Stony Brook, 108 North Street, Norfolk.There’s no greater pleasure in fly fishing than catching a fish on a fly that you tied. If you have been interested in getting into fly tying, then this class is for you. Go over all of the basics you will need to know to move forward as a tyer, starting with describing and learning how to work with the common tools of the trade. Tying your own flies adds a whole new dimension to the fun of fly fishing. Registration required. For families with kids ages 8-16. Members: $120, Nonmembers: $135. 508-528-3140; massaudubon.org

Boston Area Chantey & Maritime Sing 2 – 5 pm, USS Constitution Museum, Charlestown Navy Yard, Building 22, Listen, learn, and lift your voices! Families can participate in their maritime heritage by joining a rousing chorus of sea chanteys at the USS Constitution Museum. FREE. 617-426-1812; ussconstitutionmuseum.org

17 Tuesday - St. Patrick’s Day St. Paddy’s Party 10-11:30am, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Have you ever found a lucky four-leaf clover? Get ready to plant some shamrocks, greet a snake, and enjoy delicious boxty— a traditional Irish potato treat. You may even dance a jig or two! For ages 2 and older, but younger siblings welcome to register. Registration required. Adults and Children $17.50, 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

18 Wednesday Coyote Club Session 2 3:30 – 5pm, Habitat Education and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. Come outside and play! This afterschool program helps children expend pent up energy,

• Professional Staff • Toddler, Preschool & Transition Program • Music & Movement • Spanish & Gymnastics • 7:30am - 5:45pm • Summer Program Available

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 March 2020 | Boston Parents Paper

become familiar with the sanctuary, problem-solve and learn to work together. For ages 5-10. Registration required. $18. 617489-5050; massaudubon.org

Nowruz 4–10pm, Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. Celebrate the Persian New Year in a fun, family-friendly evening celebration by learning about Nowruz traditions, exploring Persian works of art, enjoying dance performances, and viewing an impressive Haft Seen display. Nowruz is an ancient celebration signaling the beginning of spring. Free with admission. 617-267-9300; mfa.org

Tiny Trekkers 10:30am-12pm, Stony Brook, 108 North Street, Norfolk. Start your weekend off right with a fun and knowledgeable Stony Brook teacher on the trails learning about nature. Each day will have a special topic created to excite your child about the natural world. There will be crafts, activities and lots of laughter. So come and join the fun. For ages 2.9 - 6. Registration required. $6-$7. 508-528-3140; massaudubon.org

Science on Screen: Honey, I Shrunk the Kids

19 Thursday

10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. Before the film, an expert will speak about nanotechnology and the huge potential of truly tiny tech. Ages 6+. Adults, $10; youth, $8. 617-734-2501; coolidge.org

Bilingual Storytime: Mandarin

Frozen Fruitlands Weekends

20 Friday

Imagine, Sing & Learn: Whales on the Move

Sweet STEM

2-2:30pm, Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd in Amherst. Head over to the Reading Library for a bilingual storytime in Mandarin! Free with admission. www.carlemuseum.org

Fledgling Fridays: Maple Sugar and Native Americans 1-2pm, Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill Parkway, Sharon. Create art, participate in STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art and Math) activities, listen to stories, and explore the outdoors every Friday afternoon. For children ages 3-5 and a parent/caregiver. Registration required. Adults, $5- $6; youth, $15- $18. 781-784-5691; massaudubon.org

Block Party 6-8pm, Boston Children’s Museum 308 Congress St. Experience an awesome Block Party with music, dance, games, art, and more. The Block Party series provides a casual relaxed setting where visitors can meet, play, and find similarities that bring them closer together. Free with admission. 617-426-6500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org

21 Saturday Saturday Morning Family Nature Walks 10-11:30am, Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. Do you enjoy spending time outside with your family exploring nature, but would like to know more about what you are seeing? Finally get the answers to your, and your children’s questions, and meet new friends as we explore a new topic or habitat to play in. Members: $13; Nonmembers: $16. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

Spring Fun Fair 10am – 2pm, Corner Co-op Nursery School, 1773 Beacon St., Brookline. Enjoy kids’ games and activities, face painting, silent auction, raffle, delicious food and a live puppet show by Sarah Nolen: Judy Saves the Day! Ages 2-7+. $10 per child or $25 per family of three children or more. 617-738-463; cornercoop.org

Boston Parents Paper | March 2020

1-3pm, Stony Brook, 108 North Street, Norfolk. It’s time to play with your food! Come try out some awesome experiments all using candy. Find out how far can you stretch a Peep, or whether you can float the ”m” off an M&M and many more experiments. For ages 4-12. Registration required. $10-$12. 508-528-3140; massaudubon.org

Happier Family Comedy Show 3-4pm, Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Rd in Amherst. Founded in 2015, Happier Valley Comedy is the heart of improv comedy in Western Mass! Their Happier Family Comedy Show is all about letting creativity flourish in an accepting atmosphere. Each improv show is an hour-long, all new, and created on the spot based on audience members’ suggestions and participation. Ages 5-12, adults: $10; kids: $5. www.carlemuseum.org

Especially for Me: Autism-Friendly Evening 5-8pm, Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street (Rte 27) Acton. Come join in all the fun and explore the accessible Discovery Museum and Discovery Woods during this special evening event just for families with members on the autism spectrum. Your family can play, explore, experiment, and imagine together, while the museum is closed to the general public and headcount is limited. FREE. Registration required. 978-264-4200; www. discoveryacton.org

22 Sunday Open House Mornings for Families: Celebrate the Sea 10am-3pm, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. You’re invited to Joppa Flats for fun, hands-on activities and exhibits that spotlight the wonders of the mighty Atlantic! Learn about ocean giants and creatures of the deep. Play ocean-themed games and create seaworthy art. Find out where seafood comes from, how people can collect energy from the ocean, and how to protect the oceans and coastline as they show signs of climate change. For families with children ages 0 and up. FREE. 978-462-9998; massaudubon.org

Awesome Animal Tournament 10:30am-12pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. It’s March Madness, BNC style! Over the next four weeks they’ll need your help to decide the most awesome

animal. Compare foxes and coyotes, butterflies and moths, and several others. Through games, experiments, and walks, help decide the winner. This is going to be a tough task, but someone has to do it. Ages 5 & up. Registration required. Adult: Free, Child: $6-9. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org

Handel and Haydn Society Singers 2:30-3:30pm, Boston Children’s Museum 308 Congress St. Join a special choral performance with the Handel and Haydn Society Singers! The Handel and Haydn Society Singers is a fun and engaging ensemble of 35 children who may be new to singing and reading music. Students sing unison and two-part songs in a variety of musical styles and develop their reading, listening, and sight-singing skills. Free with admission. 617- 426-6500; bostonchildrensmueseum.org

Sunday Stroll on the Sanctuary 4-5pm, Stony Brook, 108 North Street, Norfolk. Join our Teacher Naturalist for a walk through Stony Brook. See what is happening on the sanctuary and stop to enjoy any interesting and unusual sights you may come upon. Registration required. FREE. 508-528-3140; massaudubon.org

26 Thursday Nature Adventures for Children 1-3pm, Broad Meadow Brook, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. Explore a new, seasonal nature topic through hands-on investigations, crafts, activities and short hikes in Broad Meadow Brook’s beautiful 430-acre wildlife sanctuary. For children ages 5-7, registration required. $10-14. 508-753-6087; massaudubon. org

Bread and Bunnies - Lincoln 10-11:30am, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Hop on down to the kitchen for some hareraising fun. Visit a rabbit on the farmyard before heading into the kitchen to bake bunny’s favorite treat: carrot bread! For ages 2 and older, but younger siblings welcome to register. Registration required. Adults and Children $17.50, 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT

25 Wednesday Early Explorers 10-11:30am, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill Street, Mattapan. Learn about nature through movement, games, stories and art. For families with children ages 3-6. Registration required. Adults, free; youth, $7. 617-983-8500; massaudubon. org

Exxcel Gymnastics and Climbing Now Enrolling Spring Classes 2019 TM

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Lessons at your school! We bring the instrument and the instructor for ages 3-14 Now offering in-home private lessons

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Habitat Restoration Workday 4:30-6:30pm, Habitat Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. Start out the New Year by lending a helping hand and giving back to the Earth. Habitat needs the help of you and your family to remove invasive plants and restore natural species. Children 14 & up. FREE. 617-489-5050; massaudubon.org

27 Friday KidsJam

calendar

6-8pm, Boston Children’s Museum 308 Congress St. Join this monthly family dance party! Kids Jam boasts a live DJ, dance lessons, games, and free dance. Free with admission. 617- 4266500; bostonchildrensmueseum.org

✼

the Tanglewood Marionettes. Reservations required. FREE.

617-514-1644; jfklibrary.org. 28 Saturday

Winter Backyard Birding, 10:30am, Boston Nature

HabitsCenter, of the500 Rabbit Walk Hill St., Mattapan. Learn to use

binoculars, go onNature a bird hike and500 create some and 10:30am-12pm, Boston Center, Walk Hillseed Street, fruit art forare theeverywhere birds to enjoy. required. Mattapan. Rabbits youRegistration look and how much do Youth, 617-983-8500; you know about$7. these fuzzy littlemassaudubon.org. creatures? Join BNC to find Theatre, 7 Medford out why Matias rabbits Latelier, have such10:30am, big earsRegent and feet and what they likeSt., Arlington. An hour of magic and surprises from alooking Chilean to eat besides carrots. Explore the meadow and forest magician and play mentalist. $10; youth, $8. some for tracks and signs, some Adults, rabbit games and learn 781-646-4849; regenttheatre.com. of the fun and interesting habits of the rabbit. For families with childrenSOUTH ages 5-12. Adults, free; youth, $6-9. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org Tracking the Winter Wild Thing, 9am, Francis William

Bird Park, 251 Washington St., Walpole. See Jan. 14 listing.

Little Groove Winter Warm Up, 2-6pm, World’s End, Hingham. Get

10:30am, Coolidge Harvard St.,owl Brookline. outdoors forCorner hiking,Theatre, sledding,290 snowshoeing, prowls Little Groove performs fun and educational music children and tales around the campfi re. Adults, $10; for youth, free. that adults will also enjoy. Children will love being a part of the 781-740-7233; ttor.org. musicalFamily experience, using their andTrailside voices toMuseum, sing along Owl Prowl, 7pm,bodies Blue Hills to catchy1904 songs that help build important motor social Canton Ave., them Milton. Practice owl calls andand meet skills. Adults, $14; $11.resident 617-734-2501; coolidge.org some of theyouth, museum’s owls before going on a night hike to search for them. Registration required. $10.

Be Well Series: Healthy Kids Festival 617-983-8500; massaudon.org.

11am-3pm, Boston Children’s 3087pm, Congress Visit Stargazing: Jewels ofMuseum the Night, North St. River the teddy bear clinic and learn in the Wildlife Sanctuary, 2000what Mainhappens St., Marshfi eld.hospital. Join astronomy Peter Reed as heways. guidesPlay youand Experience medicalenthusiast tools in non-threatening through the habits constellations. Registration $13. learn about healthy with volunteers fromrequired. local hospitals 781-837-9400; massaudubon.org. and health care organizations. Free with admission. 617-4266500; bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Woolapalooza 10am-4pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Join Drumlin Farm for their annual festival featuring fiber, food, and fun! Come alone or with kids for fun from 10 am to 4 pm atRosalita's Woolapalooza. Festival Puppets highlights include Drumlin www.rosalitaspuppets.com 617-633-2832 Farm’s new spring babies, a sheep shearing demonstration, andJ hands-on activities for all & J Pony Rentals ages. Local fiber artisans will • Quiet, gentle, lovable ponies; offer demonstrations and sell large and small available for their handmade any occasion. products. For ages 0 and older. andor • Pony parties at Adults your place at the $18, farm.781-259-2200; Children • Customized packages at massaudubon.org

Especially for Me: Morning for Families with Deaf, Hard of Hearing, & KODA Infants and Toddlers 9:30am-12:30pm, Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street (Rte 27) Acton. Come join in all the fun and explore the accessible Discovery Museum and Discovery Woods during this special evening event just for families with Deaf, Hard of Hearing, & KODA infants and toddlers. Your family can play, explore, experiment, and imagine together, while the museum is closed to the general public and headcount is limited. ASL Interpreters will be on-site to support your visit. FREE. Registration required. 978-264-4200; www.discoveryacton.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. AND PARTY NEEDS ENTERTAINMENT

29 Par Sunday ents

Fran Friedman

Children’s Musician ice Award The Enchanted Forest, 10:30am, Coolidge Corner& Instructor Cho r eHarvard ner nne nn Win Wii290 W Theatre, St., Brookline. Artbarn, a youth Birthday Parties, community theater company, presents the tale of a Schools, Concerts, family vacation gone wrong. Adults, $13; youth, $10. Libraries 617-734-2501; coolidge.org.

Preschool & Elementary

NORTH Music Specialist Ward Winter Fest, noon to 3pm, Ward Reservation, Andover. Explore the property on a guided hike, orfor All! Lots of Participation & Fun bring your snowshoes and sled to play. Then warm up 508-358-1614 • www.franfriedman.com with refreshments by the fire. $10 per car. 978-886-5297; ttor.org.

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

31 Tuesday THEMED PARTIES AT DEDHAM HEALTH & ATHLETIC COMPLEX

781.326.2900

LASER TAG PARTIES LASER TAG PARTIES WEST Backwards Storytime, 10am, The Discovery Museums, PRINCESS ★ PIRATE ★ SUPER HERO ★ POP STAR DANCE 177 Main St., Acton. Celebrate National Backwards Day PARTIES SPORTS PARTIES ★ POOL with silly stories and activities. Free with admission. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

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