Hilltown Families

“Hilltown Families is an amazing resource. It is my go-to for discovering kid-friendly events each week. This website makes it really easy to find out what’s happening in and around the Valley, as well as provides great information about local resources and ideas of things to do with my child. Thank you!” – Jaime C. (Northampton, MA)

If you have a community event, educational program, or service-learning opportunity happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our Suggest An Event bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness, and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools, and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Click HERE to find out more.

Summer Camp

Our summer camp guide is up! Check out our featured post, 2018 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans! — Do you have a summer camp or program you’d like to have included in our comprehensive list? Find out how you can submit your listing HERE.

Bulletin Board

Mar 18 12pm – 4pm

Celebrate spring with The Very Hungry Caterpillar on Sunday, March 18 from noon to 4:00 pm at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA. Guests can meet and join the beloved Caterpillar for a Wiggle Jiggle dance party, make caterpillar and butterfly puppets in the Art Studio, taste Very Yummy Smoothies from Whole Foods, enjoy special storytimes, films and search for the Caterpillar’s favorite foods in a museum-wide scavenger hunt. The Carle Bookshop is having a sale with 15 percent off of any caterpillar-related items. Plus, free apples and Caterpillar Cookies! For more information and a schedule of activities, please visit www.carlemuseum.org or call 413-559-6300. All activities are free with Museum Admission!

Mar 24, 25, 30 & 31

The Connecticut Trolley Museum will hold Easter Bunny Fun Days, featuring pictures with the Easter Bunny, an Easter scavenger hunt, and crafts! Take as many trolley rides as you would like operated by period dressed motormen. Inside the Visitor Center you will find more static trolley cars and artifacts, a theater showing a short film about trolleys and a gift shop to buy that ‘special’ souvenir. Entrance into the Connecticut Fire Museum complete with antique fire trucks and apparatus is included with admission price. 413-627-6540. 58 North Road, East Windsor, CT.

Open House: Mar 24

Open House: March 24, 10am-12noon. Best kept secret in Amherst! Spring Street Preschool is an independent, progressive preschool located in downtown Amherst. Experienced and caring teachers provide opportunities for constructive play, literacy learning, friendship development and creative arts. Spring Street Preschool has two outdoor play spaces, including a nature playground. Enrolling children from 2 yrs 9 months – 5 years. Flexible schedule with hours from 8am-5:30pm and affordable tuition. Spring Street Preschool is a non-denominational preschool located behind the Congregational Church. To schedule a tour call 413-256-8442 or email springstreetpreschool@gmail.com. For more info visit www.springstreetpreschool.com.

March 25

Skating Club of Amherst Presents: Gold! Since 1968, the Skating Club of Amherst has been teaching Pioneer Valley children and adults to ice skate. On Sunday, March 25 at 2 p.m. come celebrate the club’s 50th anniversary at the annual community figure skating show at the Mullins Center at UMass-Amherst. The show features performances by figure skaters at all levels – from students in the Learn-To-Skate program, to competitive skaters. In honor of the club’s golden anniversary, the show will feature US pairs champions Marissa Castelli and Mervin Tran, Hong Kong National Champion Maisy Ma, and reigning adult synchronized skating gold medalists Team Excel. Tickets $10 online or at the door. A portion of proceeds will go to support the Dakin Humane Society.

April 16-20

Spend April break at Hartsbrook Farm Camp and welcome the coming of Spring! Tend the goats, collect chicken eggs, take walks to the stream, plant seeds, bake bread, and listen to stories on hay bales. Through a combination of physical and restful activities, campers experience a healthy, balanced rhythm to their days. For ages 6-12. The Hartsbrook School, 193 Bay Road, Hadley 01035. For more information visit www.hartsbrook.org, or call 413-586-1908 x116.

Jun 24 – Aug 4

Stoneleigh-Burnham School is pleased to offer a unique variety of summer programs for girls ages 9-18. Summer camps for young riders, debaters, dancers, and artists blend excellent instruction with a uniquely supportive community full of fun and self-discovery. Based on a beautiful, 100-acre campus, Stoneleigh-Burnham camps make use of the school’s outstanding facilities and adhere to the same high standards set during the academic year. Campers live in school dormitories, enjoying campus life with new friends and caring faculty mentors. All Stoneleigh-Burnham summer camps, from riding and dance, to debate and art and animation, emphasize the development of confidence, the acquisition of skills, and the discovery of new talents. For more information, call 413-774-2711 x256 or email summerprograms@sbschool.org.

Jun 25 – Aug 4

The Bement School in Deerfield offers summer programs for children from 4 to 15 years old. Children have the opportunity to enjoy the fun of a traditional day camp and help create their own schedule by choosing from our wide range of unique activities. Digging into Nature at Pine Hill provides outdoor education for ages 7-10. The Junior Camp provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for our youngest campers. The Adventure Day Camp offers activity choices that include cooking, movie-making, sportds, nature, arts and crafts, and swimming. The Counselor-in-Training program gives young teenagers experience working with children and developing valuable job skills while still enjoying the fun of summer camp. Summer programs run from June 25 to August 10. For more info: 413-774-7061; summer@bement.org; www.bement.org/summer.

Jul 1 – Aug 10

A week (at least!) in the Berkshires this summer at overnight Camp Bonnie Brae! No prior Girl Scout experience required. One week of day camp available with busing from Lanesborough and Lee. Girl Scouts’ dedication to progression in outdoor programming means that girls practice age-appropriate skills and gain the experience needed to feel confident taking the next step in their outdoor journey. Skills like building a campfire, pitching a tent, or sailing, canoeing or paddle boarding (SUP) across a lake. Girls, age 6-18 years, explore leadership, build skills, and develop a deep appreciation for nature with an opportunity to grow, explore, and have fun under the guidance of caring, trained adults. Accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). For more information, call 413-584-2602 or email camp@gscwm.org.

Jul 1 – Aug 10

Nestled in the woods, Camp Lewis Perkins puts the focus on leadership development through fun, traditional camp activities. Prior Girl Scout experience in not required. Girl Scouts’ dedication to progression in outdoor programming means that girls practice age-appropriate skills and gain the experience needed to feel confident taking the next step in their outdoor journey. Girls explore nature, learn how to build a fire and cook over it, create works of art, swim in the pool, practice archery, try their hand at a new sport, and more. Busing available from many Pioneer Valley locations. Camp Lewis Perkins is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) for its commitment to health, safety, and program quality. For more information, call 413-584-2602 or email camp@gscwm.org.

Jul 4 – Aug 24

Learn to take care of & exercise a world class athlete – the Alaskan Husky Sled Dog! Choose a dog for the week and learn to feed, pet, play, clean-up after & train a sled dog. Ride a racing rig, scooter, bike, jog & swim – some of the warm weather activities dogs & Day Campers love to do together. Overnight Camp includes wilderness skills, primitive cooking at the bonfire, storytelling, marshmallows & howling! All have fun bonding, playing & mushing with the team! “My son just finished his first Puppy Camp, it was everything & more! He not only bonded with the dogs – he seemed to grow in self-confidence each day” (Cummington, MA). “My daughter loved the Sled Dog Camp. Marla’s personal approach & expertise with her animals is unmatched” (Hadley, MA). For more information about Sled Dog Camp, located in West Chesterfield, MA, call 413-296-0187 or email hilltownsleddogs@gmail.com.

Jul 2 – Aug 24

Kids, Art & Nature Summer Program! Children in Deborah Bazer & Lahri Bond’s week-long, themed Summer Art classes explore the natural world through the visual arts. Drawing from many traditions, they nurture the creative, intellectual and emotional growth of the children in their care. Visual arts, storytelling and environmental education are all integral parts of their summer classes. Summer 2018 session is from 8:30am-3:30pm, Mon-Fri at the Arts Barn on the beautiful Hampshire College campus, and includes classes on making art with nature, faeries & myths, toymaking, superheroes, kites, dinosaurs & spaceships, ceramics and using Minecraft ideas to create real world environments. Much of the day is spent outside, art-making, exploring, and playing noncompetitive games. For more information, email kidsartandnature@hotmail.com or call 413-367-0186.

Jul 9-Aug 3

Miss Leticia Music Summer Camp for Guitar, Ukulele, and Rock Band! Music instruction for beginners and interm/adv Rock Band for students ages 6-14. Weekly themed camps for 4 weeks total, July 9-Aug 3rd. Themes this year are: July 9-13 (British Invasion); July 16-20 (Radio Hits); July 23-27 (Rock Through the Ages); July 30-Aug 3 (Songwriting). Classes held at 41 Blue Hills Rd in Amherst at Miss Leticia Music School, 8:30-3pm M-F. Campers bring their own lunch, snack provided. Cost: $400 weekly (multi week and sibling discounts available). Classes limited to 8 students per group. Instructors: Rhys Davies, Leticia Davies, Kimaya Diggs, Rusty Daniels. To register, email leticiadavies@comcast.net.

Add your class

Hilltown Families has put together an After-School Classes & Enrichment Programs Directory of classes and programs happening across Western Massachusetts throughout the school year. Our community is rich in learning opportunities to supplement the interests of children, teens, and life-long learners and our directory makes it easier to find these gems while connecting families with resources that support their interests and education. — Have a class or program you’d like to include in our directory? Click here to find out how to have it added. New and updated opportunities are added throughout the year.

Add your school

Hilltown Families Preschool Directory: Are you looking for a preschool that fits your child’s personality and reflects your family’s values? Check out our growing Preschool Directory, covering all four counties in Western Massachusetts, and find the perfect place for your young one! — Have a school you’d like to include in this list? Click here to find out how to have it added.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer camp, class, community event, school, open house, audition, homeschool program, workshop, volunteer opportunity, wellness program, local business, after-school class, or non-profit featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at at sales@hilltownfamilies.org.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community-building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish, and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to info@hilltownfamilies.org.

LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
March 17th – 23rd, 2018

Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday

Suggest an Event | Cultural Itineraries | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| Berkshire Family Fun | Advertise/Sponsorship | en Español

Read the rest of this entry »

To find out about more event, be sure to visit our Suggest an Event Bulletin Board to see what our readers have recently shared! Have an event to share? Feel encouraged to self-post community events here at any time!

If you have a community event, educational program, or service-learning opportunity happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our Suggest An Event bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness, and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools, and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Click HERE to find out more.

Summer Camp

MARKET YOUR SUMMER CAMP: In an effort to connect families with summer camps & programs in the region, Hilltown Families is offering camps and programs a chance to partner with us in their online marketing with a special enhanced publicity offer. On Wednesday, March 7th, 2018, Hilltown Families featured dozens of summer camps and programs in Western Massachusetts and neighboring regions on our website with a special post titled: 2018 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA. Learn how you can join the summer camps and programs who have already taken advantage of this targeted marketing opportunity HERE. Hilltown Families is committed to the economic development of our region, and by offering this special summer post, local businesses can thrive and provide a much needed service to our local community!

Hilltown Families Events

Hilltown Families and the Flywheel Arts Collective are rounding out the beloved ‘Saturday Morning Music Party’ fundraising series with a breakfast bash featuring food, dancing, and diversions for kids! Join us on Saturday, March 10th, from 10am-12noon at Flywheel Arts Collective in Easthampton’s old Town Hall!

As always, we’ll have a community breakfast of fresh pancakes, juice, and fruit. For this special Saturday only, we’ll be joined by talented young performers from Youthful Expressions Dance Studio, who will wow the audience with creative moves directed by Tylor Thomas of Springfield, MA. At Youthful Expressions, their motto is “Perform hard and stay humble,” so you know this will be a show you don’t want to miss! After the dancers from Youthful Expressions inspire us with their moves, all the kids (and parents!) can join DJ Youthelectronix for the “best ever dance party before noon.” Save on the babysitter and shake off the winter blues with a Morning Music Dance Party!

These Morning Music Parties are a fundraiser for both Flywheel & Hilltown Families. Admission is $6 per person. So much cheaper than a night out on the town and just as much fun! For more information, email info@hilltownfamilies.org.

Bulletin Board

Mar 11

Piti Theatre’s 9th Annual SYRUP: One Sweet Performing Arts Festival in Shelburne Falls on Sunday, 3/11 starting with pancakes at 11 am! Spring forward with Piti’s celebration of spring, sap, and performance at Shelburne-Buckland Community Center, 53 Main St.. Award winning Sandglass Theater headlines the Festival at 3:45 pm with their puppets-under- an-umbrella tale «Punschi». Piti’s international touring musical «To Bee or Not to Bee» is at 2:30 and join us for pancakes, syrups, skits, and a CD release party from 11 – 2:30. Plus, free Real Pickles, Red Sox raffle, and more! Tix: $12/$10 students & seniors/$5 children at ptco.org/syrup or 1-800- 838-3006 (no additional fees!). Puppet workshop registration: info@ptco.org, 413-339–4569.

Jun 11-Aug 3

Amherst Montessori’s Summer Discovery offers playful adventures tailored to children ages 6 months to 12 years. Preschool/kindergarten children will have so much fun jumping through sprinklers, playing outside, and exploring two-week themes that include Gardening, Insects & Wildlife, Building & Creating, and Cooking. Infants/toddlers ages 3 and below will love AMS’s nurturing environment with lots of outdoor play, songs & movement, water play, and sensory exploration, all with emphasis on building independence. The amazing Michelle Risch leads three weeks of Lego building and creativity with thousands of Legos for Elementary children to build wherever their imagination takes them. Varying schedules to meet the needs of working families. For more information, contact sthompson@amherstmontessori.org.

Jun 24 – Aug 4

Stoneleigh-Burnham School is pleased to offer a unique variety of summer programs for girls ages 9-18. Summer camps for young riders, debaters, dancers, and artists blend excellent instruction with a uniquely supportive community full of fun and self-discovery. Based on a beautiful, 100-acre campus, Stoneleigh-Burnham camps make use of the school’s outstanding facilities and adhere to the same high standards set during the academic year. Campers live in school dormitories, enjoying campus life with new friends and caring faculty mentors. All Stoneleigh-Burnham summer camps, from riding and dance, to debate and art and animation, emphasize the development of confidence, the acquisition of skills, and the discovery of new talents. For more information, call 413-774-2711 x256 or email summerprograms@sbschool.org.

Jun 25 – Aug 17

For over 40 years Montessori School of Northampton has offered exciting and engaging summer programs for children in the tradition of Italian educator Maria Montessori. Located near downtown Northampton, Route 9 and I-91, they offer 8 weeks of programming starting at 18 months old up to 8th grade, Jun 25-Aug 17. The Toddler program will have half and full day options available, with a strong teacher/student ratio. Their Children’s House (pre/K) theme based programs also have half and full day options. For elementary and middle school students they offer Film & Videography, LEGO Robotics, Advanced Painting Technique, Daytrippers, LEGO STEM Challenge, Graphic Novel & Comic Book Art, Outdoor Wilderness Adventures, Mad Science programs, and Digital Animation presented by Holyoke Codes. For more info: 413-563-4645; summer@northamptonmontessori.org; www.northamptonmontessori.org.

Jun 27 – Aug 12

Rockin’ the Summer 2018. IMA’s residential music programs give girls access to top-notch facilities & instruments, to veteran professional musicians & teachers, and musical exploration & collaboration. Explore Rock ‘n Roll (June 27–Jul 1; Aug 15-19) offers girls 9-12 opportunity to explore instruments, to begin writing songs, and to participate in a concert. Rock ‘n Roll Performance (Jul 6-15; Jul 20-29) offers girls 13-19 an opportunity to speak their truth through the medium of rock ‘n roll, gain confidence in performance abilities, improve musicianship, and develop collaborative leadership skills. Studio Recording & Production (Aug 2-12) offers hands-on studio recording seminar for women 16-21 who are ready to record their work and/or interested in engineering. More info: 413-268-3074; info@ima.org; www.ima.org.

Jul 1 – Jul 28

Marlboro College’s Pre-College Summer Programs offer young adults (ages 15-19) the opportunity to study with Marlboro professors and build relationships with a group of other students passionate about learning. Participants spend all day with a faculty member and get an introduction to Marlboro’s interdisciplinary, hands-on approach to college-level academic work. One-week programs ranging from Do-It-Yourself Chemistry to Explorations in Clay to Awakening in the Wild take place on or near Marlboro’s beautiful southern Vermont campus and run between July 1 and July 28. Students can earn one college credit per week of study for a small fee. For more information, email summer@marlboro.edu or visit marlboro.edu/summer.

Jul 1 – Aug 10

A week (at least!) in the Berkshires this summer at overnight Camp Bonnie Brae! No prior Girl Scout experience required. One week of day camp available with busing from Lanesborough and Lee. Girl Scouts’ dedication to progression in outdoor programming means that girls practice age-appropriate skills and gain the experience needed to feel confident taking the next step in their outdoor journey. Skills like building a campfire, pitching a tent, or sailing, canoeing or paddle boarding (SUP) across a lake. Girls, age 6-18 years, explore leadership, build skills, and develop a deep appreciation for nature with an opportunity to grow, explore, and have fun under the guidance of caring, trained adults. Accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). For more information, call 413-584-2602 or email camp@gscwm.org.

Jul 1 – Aug 10

Nestled in the woods, Camp Lewis Perkins puts the focus on leadership development through fun, traditional camp activities. Prior Girl Scout experience in not required. Girl Scouts’ dedication to progression in outdoor programming means that girls practice age-appropriate skills and gain the experience needed to feel confident taking the next step in their outdoor journey. Girls explore nature, learn how to build a fire and cook over it, create works of art, swim in the pool, practice archery, try their hand at a new sport, and more. Busing available from many Pioneer Valley locations. Camp Lewis Perkins is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) for its commitment to health, safety, and program quality. For more information, call 413-584-2602 or email camp@gscwm.org.

Jul 2 – Aug 24

Kids, Art & Nature Summer Program! Children in Deborah Bazer & Lahri Bond’s week-long, themed Summer Art classes explore the natural world through the visual arts. Drawing from many traditions, they nurture the creative, intellectual and emotional growth of the children in their care. Visual arts, storytelling and environmental education are all integral parts of their summer classes. Summer 2018 session is from 8:30am-3:30pm, Mon-Fri at the Arts Barn on the beautiful Hampshire College campus, and includes classes on making art with nature, faeries & myths, toymaking, superheroes, kites, dinosaurs & spaceships, ceramics and using Minecraft ideas to create real world environments. Much of the day is spent outside, art-making, exploring, and playing noncompetitive games. For more information, email kidsartandnature@hotmail.com or call 413-367-0186.

July 9-27

Rock On is a three week music program for youth held annually at Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield, MA. Rock On welcomes all levels and ages and offers training for voice, guitar, bass, drums, piano, horns and winds. Workshops include songwriting, recording and music production, rapping, band coaching, and large ensemble rehearsals in classic rock and jazz. Friday performances are held in the Boland Theatre in the Koussevitzky Arts Center. Rock On students also perform off campus at open mics, Pittsfield’s downtown 3rd Thursday celebrations, and in partnership with regional theater and performing arts organizations. With an emphasis on mentoring through music, Rock On offers a nurturing environment for kids to learn from a professional faculty while playing in bands and making friends and memories for a lifetime. For more information, call 413-329-2280 or email rockonworkshopma@gmail.com.

Jul 16 – Aug 17

Dancers of all ages can enroll in Massachusetts Academy of Ballet Summer Camp sessions, from July 16 – August 17. The Pre-Ballet Workshop (July 16-20) is geared for ages 5-8 and teaches primary ballet with improvisation, acting games and storytelling. Intensives for older and more experienced dancers include pointe, pas de deux, repertory, modern, jazz, and yoga. Adult open classes also available. Located in Open Square, part of Holyoke‘s Innovation District, MAB studios feature state-of-the-art sprung floors, a dressing room, and reception area. All MAB classes emphasize classical ballet technique, musicality, artistry, and creativity. For more information, email rflachs@massacademyofballet.com or call 413-536-6200.

Add your class

Hilltown Families has put together an After-School Classes & Enrichment Programs Directory of classes and programs happening across Western Massachusetts throughout the school year. Our community is rich in learning opportunities to supplement the interests of children, teens, and life-long learners and our directory makes it easier to find these gems while connecting families with resources that support their interests and education. — Have a class or program you’d like to include in our directory? Click here to find out how to have it added. New and updated opportunities are added throughout the year.

Add your school

Hilltown Families Preschool Directory: Are you looking for a preschool that fits your child’s personality and reflects your family’s values? Check out our growing Preschool Directory, covering all four counties in Western Massachusetts, and find the perfect place for your young one! — Have a school you’d like to include in this list? Click here to find out how to have it added.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer camp, class, community event, school, open house, audition, homeschool program, workshop, volunteer opportunity, wellness program, local business, after-school class, or non-profit featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at at sales@hilltownfamilies.org.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community-building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish, and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to info@hilltownfamilies.org.

LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
March 10th – 16th, 2018

Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday

Suggest an Event | Cultural Itineraries | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| Berkshire Family Fun | Advertise/Sponsorship | en Español

Read the rest of this entry »

To find out about more event, be sure to visit our Suggest an Event Bulletin Board to see what our readers have recently shared! Have an event to share? Feel encouraged to self-post community events here at any time!

If you have a community event, educational program, or service-learning opportunity happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our Suggest An Event bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness, and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools, and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Click HERE to find out more.

Summer Camp

MARKET YOUR SUMMER CAMP: In an effort to connect families with summer camps & programs in the region, Hilltown Families is offering camps and programs a chance to partner with us in their online marketing with a special enhanced publicity offer. On Wednesday, March 7th, 2018, Hilltown Families will be featuring summer camps and programs in the region on Hilltown Families with a special post titled: 2018 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA. Find out more about this targeted marketing opportunity HERE.

Hilltown Families is stepping out as National Model and seeks a new Executive Director!

Working towards creating a culture of intentional learning, Sienna Wildfield founded Hilltown Families in 2005 as an innovative approach to education and community-development. We began as a simple email listserv for families living in the rural regions of Massachusetts, and now Hilltown Families serves all four counties of western Massachusetts, sharing tens of thousands of community-based educational events, resources, and opportunities over the years for all generations and all levels of learning.

As Hilltown Families has grown, community organizers and educators in other regions of the country began reaching out to inquire how they too could create a similar network in their communities. Wildfield realized the power a collective of community-based educational networks could have in spearheading a movement towards a culture of intentional learning. While Wildfield’s work has moved to replicate the Hilltown Families model elsewhere, she continues to write for and consult with the staff and board of directors of the local Hilltown Families organization.

Hilltown Families is now seeking a half-time Executive Director to shepherd the next level of growth of the local organization. Further information about the opportunity is available here: Executive Director Job Description. Please spread the word!

Hilltown Families Events

Hilltown Families and the Flywheel Arts Collective are rounding out the beloved ‘Saturday Morning Music Party’ fundraising series with a breakfast bash featuring food, dancing, and diversions for kids! Join us on Saturday, March 10th, from 10am-12noon at Flywheel Arts Collective in Easthampton’s old Town Hall!

As always, we’ll have a community breakfast of fresh pancakes, juice, and fruit. For this special Saturday only, we’ll be joined by talented young performers from Youthful Expressions Dance Studio, who will wow the audience with creative moves directed by Tylor Thomas of Springfield, MA. At Youthful Expressions, their motto is “Perform hard and stay humble,” so you know this will be a show you don’t want to miss! After the dancers from Youthful Expressions inspire us with their moves, all the kids (and parents!) can join DJ Youthelectronix for the “best ever dance party before noon.” Save on the babysitter and shake off the winter blues with a Morning Music Dance Party!

These Morning Music Parties are a fundraiser for both Flywheel & Hilltown Families. Admission is $6 per person. So much cheaper than a night out on the town and just as much fun! For more information, email info@hilltownfamilies.org.

Bulletin Board

Open House Mar 3

Looking for a thoughtful approach to education? The Hartsbrook School offers a well-rounded academic program infused with plenty of outside time, a rich, hands-on curriculum, music and art in everyday learning, and a culture of compassion. These components are woven throughout the early childhood, elementary and high school programs, nurturing the creative spirit of each child. Give your child the foundation for engaged learning and enjoy a vibrant parent community. Learn more at their open house, 10am-12noon on Saturday, March 3rd. Speak with current teachers and parents, visit classrooms and see student work. All are welcome. Applications accepted for the 2018-19 school year. 193 Bay Road, Hadley. 413-586-1908. www.hartsbrook.org

Mar 3

The New England Air Museum will hold its annual Women Take Flight event on Saturday, March 3 from 10am-4pm in commemoration of Women’s History Month. Families are invited to celebrate women’s contributions to aerospace history through special events, hands-on activities, & lectures from special guest speakers. Discover the history of women in aerospace through the museum’s collection of over 100 historic aircrafts. Meet local women pilots, engineers, & industry professionals. Participate in hands-on STEM activities. Climb-aboard and experience historic aircrafts & flight simulators. For more info & the full schedule of events, visit www.neam.org or call 860-623-3305. Located in Windsor Locks, CT adjacent to Bradley International Airport.

Mar.
8 & 9

The Academy of Music Theatre and Academy Youth Productions presents Annie, Jr. on March 8th & 9th at 6:30PM. Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved book and score by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie Jr. features everyone’s favorite little redhead in her very first adventure. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to- nothing start in 1930s New York City. Sponsored by Northampton Cooperative Bank. The Academy of Music Theatre is located at 274 Main Street in Northampton. Tickets $5. General admission. 413.584.9032 x105 or visit www.aomtheatre.com.

Mar 11

Piti Theatre’s 9th Annual SYRUP: One Sweet Performing Arts Festival in Shelburne Falls on Sunday, 3/11 starting with pancakes at 11 am! Spring forward with Piti’s celebration of spring, sap, and performance at Shelburne-Buckland Community Center, 53 Main St.. Award winning Sandglass Theater headlines the Festival at 3:45 pm with their puppets-under- an-umbrella tale «Punschi». Piti’s international touring musical «To Bee or Not to Bee» is at 2:30 and join us for pancakes, syrups, skits, and a CD release party from 11 – 2:30. Plus, free Real Pickles, Red Sox raffle, and more! Tix: $12/$10 students & seniors/$5 children at ptco.org/syrup or 1-800- 838-3006 (no additional fees!). Puppet workshop registration: info@ptco.org, 413-339–4569.

Jun 11-Aug 3

Amherst Montessori’s Summer Discovery offers playful adventures tailored to children ages 6 months to 12 years. Preschool/kindergarten children will have so much fun jumping through sprinklers, playing outside, and exploring two-week themes that include Gardening, Insects & Wildlife, Building & Creating, and Cooking. Infants/toddlers ages 3 and below will love AMS’s nurturing environment with lots of outdoor play, songs & movement, water play, and sensory exploration, all with emphasis on building independence. The amazing Michelle Risch leads three weeks of Lego building and creativity with thousands of Legos for Elementary children to build wherever their imagination takes them. Varying schedules to meet the needs of working families. For more information, contact sthompson@amherstmontessori.org.

Jun 18 – Aug 31

Our Place Summer School in Northampton gets kids off the screen and into the green, Jun 18-Aug 31. For 5 days campers ages 5-14 hike, climb, wade, and swim “our place”: the 5 ecoregions of the Nonotuck biome. These activities aren’t just “fun”—they’re designed to increase camper’s perceptual abilities, stimulate their critical thinking skills, inspire their creative imaginations, and counteract “nature deficit disorder.” Through active physical and mental engagement with “our place,” they gain a deep and lasting appreciation of it—and themselves. Students go from site to site—mountains, forests, brooks, industrial brownfields, you name it—enjoying an adventurous, collaborative, inquiry-based investigation into the mysteries of the bios (life) that is where we live: our place! For more info: 413-320-0522; info@biocitizen.org; biocitizen.org.

Jun 25 – Aug 17

For over 40 years Montessori School of Northampton has offered exciting and engaging summer programs for children in the tradition of Italian educator Maria Montessori. Located near downtown Northampton, Route 9 and I-91, they offer 8 weeks of programming starting at 18 months old up to 8th grade, Jun 25-Aug 17. The Toddler program will have half and full day options available, with a strong teacher/student ratio. Their Children’s House (pre/K) theme based programs also have half and full day options. For elementary and middle school students they offer Film & Videography, LEGO Robotics, Advanced Painting Technique, Daytrippers, LEGO STEM Challenge, Graphic Novel & Comic Book Art, Outdoor Wilderness Adventures, Mad Science programs, and Digital Animation presented by Holyoke Codes. For more info: 413-563-4645; summer@northamptonmontessori.org; www.northamptonmontessori.org.

Jun 27 – Aug 12

Rockin’ the Summer 2018. The Institute for the Musical Art’s residential music programs give girls access to top-notch facilities & instruments, to veteran professional musicians & teachers, and musical exploration & collaboration. Explore Rock ‘n Roll (June 27–Jul 1; Aug 15-19) offers girls 9-12 opportunity to explore instruments, to begin writing songs, and to participate in a concert. Rock ‘n Roll Performance (Jul 6-15; Jul 20-29) offers girls 13-19 an opportunity to speak their truth through the medium of rock ‘n roll, gain confidence in performance abilities, improve musicianship, and develop collaborative leadership skills. Studio Recording & Production (Aug 2-12) offers hands-on studio recording seminar for women 16-21 who are ready to record their work and/or interested in engineering. More info: 413-268-3074; info@ima.org; www.ima.org.

July 9-27

Rock On is a three week music program for youth held annually at Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield, MA. Rock On welcomes all levels and ages and offers training for voice, guitar, bass, drums, piano, horns and winds. Workshops include songwriting, recording and music production, rapping, band coaching, and large ensemble rehearsals in classic rock and jazz. Friday performances are held in the Boland Theatre in the Koussevitzky Arts Center. Rock On students also perform off campus at open mics, Pittsfield’s downtown 3rd Thursday celebrations, and in partnership with regional theater and performing arts organizations. With an emphasis on mentoring through music, Rock On offers a nurturing environment for kids to learn from a professional faculty while playing in bands and making friends and memories for a lifetime. For more information, call 413-329-2280 or email rockonworkshopma@gmail.com.

Jul 16 – Aug 17

Dancers of all ages can enroll in Massachusetts Academy of Ballet Summer Camp sessions, from July 16 – August 17. The Pre-Ballet Workshop (July 16-20) is geared for ages 5-8 and teaches primary ballet with improvisation, acting games and storytelling. Intensives for older and more experienced dancers include pointe, pas de deux, repertory, modern, jazz, and yoga. Adult open classes also available. Located in Open Square, part of Holyoke‘s Innovation District, MAB studios feature state-of-the-art sprung floors, a dressing room, and reception area. All MAB classes emphasize classical ballet technique, musicality, artistry, and creativity. For more information, email rflachs@massacademyofballet.com or call 413-536-6200.

Add your class

Hilltown Families has put together an After-School Classes & Enrichment Programs Directory of classes and programs happening across Western Massachusetts throughout the school year. Our community is rich in learning opportunities to supplement the interests of children, teens, and life-long learners and our directory makes it easier to find these gems while connecting families with resources that support their interests and education. — Have a class or program you’d like to include in our directory? Click here to find out how to have it added. New and updated opportunities are added throughout the year.

Add your school

Hilltown Families Preschool Directory: Are you looking for a preschool that fits your child’s personality and reflects your family’s values? Check out our growing Preschool Directory, covering all four counties in Western Massachusetts, and find the perfect place for your young one! — Have a school you’d like to include in this list? Click here to find out how to have it added.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer camp, class, community event, school, open house, audition, homeschool program, workshop, volunteer opportunity, wellness program, local business, after-school class, or non-profit featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at at sales@hilltownfamilies.org.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community-building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish, and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to info@hilltownfamilies.org.

LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
March 3rd – 9th, 2018

Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday

Suggest an Event | Cultural Itineraries | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| Berkshire Family Fun | Advertise/Sponsorship | en Español

Read the rest of this entry »

To find out about more events, be sure to visit our Suggest an Event Bulletin Board to see what our readers have recently shared! Have an event to share? Feel encouraged to self-post community events here at any time!

If you have a community event, educational program, or service-learning opportunity happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our Suggest An Event bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness, and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools, and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Click HERE to find out more.

Summer Camp

MARKET YOUR SUMMER CAMP: In an effort to connect families with summer camps & programs in the region, Hilltown Families is offering camps and programs a chance to partner with us in their online marketing with a special enhanced publicity offer. On Wednesday, March 7th, 2018, Hilltown Families will be featuring summer camps and programs in the region on Hilltown Families with a special post titled: 2018 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA. Find out more about this targeted marketing opportunity HERE.

Hilltown Families is stepping out as National Model and seeks a new Executive Director!

Working towards creating a culture of intentional learning, Sienna Wildfield founded Hilltown Families in 2005 as an innovative approach to education and community-development. We began as a simple email listserv for families living in the rural regions of Massachusetts, and now Hilltown Families serves all four counties of western Massachusetts, sharing tens of thousands of community-based educational events, resources, and opportunities over the years for all generations and all levels of learning.

As Hilltown Families has grown, community organizers and educators in other regions of the country began reaching out to inquire how they too could create a similar network in their communities. Wildfield realized the power a collective of community-based educational networks could have in spearheading a movement towards a culture of intentional learning. While Wildfield’s work has moved to replicate the Hilltown Families model elsewhere, she continues to write for and consult with the staff and board of directors of the local Hilltown Families organization.

Hilltown Families is now seeking a half-time Executive Director to shepherd the next level of growth of the local organization. Further information about the opportunity is available here: Executive Director Job Description. Please spread the word!

Hilltown Families Events

Hilltown Families and the Flywheel Arts Collective are rounding out the beloved ‘Saturday Morning Music Party’ fundraising series with a breakfast bash featuring food, dancing, and diversions for kids! Join us on Saturday, March 10th, from 10am-12noon at Flywheel Arts Collective in Easthampton’s old Town Hall!

As always, we’ll have a community breakfast of fresh pancakes, juice, and fruit. For this special Saturday only, we’ll be joined by talented young performers from Youthful Expressions Dance Studio, who will wow the audience with creative moves directed by Tylor Thomas of Springfield, MA. At Youthful Expressions, their motto is “Perform hard and stay humble,” so you know this will be a show you don’t want to miss! After the dancers from Youthful Expressions inspire us with their moves, all the kids (and parents!) can join DJ Youthelectronix for the “best ever dance party before noon.” Save on the babysitter and shake off the winter blues with a Morning Music Dance Party!

These Morning Music Parties are a fundraiser for both Flywheel & Hilltown Families. Admission is $6 per person. So much cheaper than a night out on the town and just as much fun! For more information, email info@hilltownfamilies.org.

Bulletin Board

Mar.
8 & 9

The Academy of Music Theatre and Academy Youth Productions presents Annie, Jr. on March 8th & 9th at 6:30PM. Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved book and score by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie Jr. features everyone’s favorite little redhead in her very first adventure. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to- nothing start in 1930s New York City. Sponsored by Northampton Cooperative Bank. The Academy of Music Theatre is located at 274 Main Street in Northampton. Tickets $5. General admission. 413.584.9032 x105 or visit www.aomtheatre.com.

Open House Mar 3

Looking for a thoughtful approach to education? The Hartsbrook School offers a well-rounded academic program infused with plenty of outside time, a rich, hands-on curriculum, music and art in everyday learning, and a culture of compassion. These components are woven throughout the early childhood, elementary and high school programs, nurturing the creative spirit of each child. Give your child the foundation for engaged learning and enjoy a vibrant parent community. Learn more at their open house, 10am-12noon on Saturday, March 3rd. Speak with current teachers and parents, visit classrooms and see student work. All are welcome. Applications accepted for the 2018-19 school year. 193 Bay Road, Hadley. 413-586-1908. www.hartsbrook.org

Mar 3

The New England Air Museum will hold its annual Women Take Flight event on Saturday, March 3 from 10am-4pm in commemoration of Women’s History Month. Families are invited to celebrate women’s contributions to aerospace history through special events, hands-on activities, & lectures from special guest speakers. Discover the history of women in aerospace through the museum’s collection of over 100 historic aircrafts. Meet local women pilots, engineers, & industry professionals. Participate in hands-on STEM activities. Climb-aboard and experience historic aircrafts & flight simulators. For more info & the full schedule of events, visit www.neam.org or call 860-623-3305. Located in Windsor Locks, CT adjacent to Bradley International Airport.

Jun 18 – Jul 27

Connect with nature through the life of a working farm: The Hartsbrook School’s Farm Camp in Hadley, MA lets children slow down and savor the summer! Campers spend time tending the animals, doing agriculturally-based crafts and enjoying carefree days with other “young farmers.” Experienced, thoughtful counselors allow campers to enjoy the freedom and wonder of summer. The practical skills learned on the farm help children to be more confident and grounded in their everyday lives. Dates: Jun 18-Jul 27; Age Range of Campers: 4-12yo For more info: 413-586-1908 x116; farmcamp@hartsbrook.org; www.hartsbrook.org.

Jun 18 – Aug 31

Our Place Summer School in Northampton gets kids off the screen and into the green, Jun 18-Aug 31. For 5 days campers ages 5-14 hike, climb, wade, and swim “our place”: the 5 ecoregions of the Nonotuck biome. These activities aren’t just “fun”—they’re designed to increase camper’s perceptual abilities, stimulate their critical thinking skills, inspire their creative imaginations, and counteract “nature deficit disorder.” Through active physical and mental engagement with “our place,” they gain a deep and lasting appreciation of it—and themselves. Students go from site to site—mountains, forests, brooks, industrial brownfields, you name it—enjoying an adventurous, collaborative, inquiry-based investigation into the mysteries of the bios (life) that is where we live: our place! For more info: 413-320-0522; info@biocitizen.org; biocitizen.org.

Jul 8 – Aug 4

Maximize your creativity and character! The Experimentory at Deerfield Academy is a program for 6th and 7th graders interested in academic adventure. With classes such as Sustainability, Ethics, Urban Planning, and French Culture & Film, the Experimentory is interdisciplinary, project-based, and fun. All classes are taught by Deerfield Academy teachers on the DA campus: It’s a great way to sample the “Deerfield Experience.” Students make close friends from across the country and around the world. Choose between 2 or 4-week sessions. Attend as a boarder or a day student. Rolling admissions until May 1; apply for need-based financial aid by March 15. Dates: 4 Week Session starts: 7/8/18; 2 Week Sessions begin: 7/8/18 and 7/23/18. For more info: 413-774-1436; experimentory@deerfield.edu; deerfield.edu/experimentory.

The Smith College Center for Early Childhood Education at Fort Hill offers high quality full- and part-time early education and care in Northampton for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Three-, four-, and five-day schedules are available in all age groups. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach, the program emphasizes a strong sense of community, learning through in-depth projects, and the arts. The school includes large classrooms filled with natural light, extensive playgrounds, and dedicated studios for music and visual arts. Exceptional teacher-child ratios allow for individual attention and creative curriculum. For more information, please email CECE@smith.edu or visit the school website.

FMC Ice Sports offers a fun and unique learning environment for all ages. Participants in their Step 1 Learn to Skate programs are taught the basics of ice skating. Students graduate to their Step 2 and Step 3 programs that focus on the more sport specific skills required in hockey and figure skating. FMC Ice Sports programs can be found at the Smead Arena in Springfield and the Collins Moylan Arena in Greenfield. Class information and registration are available online at www.fmcicesports.com or by calling 1-888-74-SKATE. Use promo code HTF201617 and receive $10 OFF your entire purchase of any instructional program!

Add your class

Hilltown Families has put together an After-School Classes & Enrichment Programs Directory of classes and programs happening across Western Massachusetts throughout the school year. Our community is rich in learning opportunities to supplement the interests of children, teens, and life-long learners and our directory makes it easier to find these gems while connecting families with resources that support their interests and education. — Have a class or program you’d like to include in our directory? Click here to find out how to have it added. New and updated opportunities are added throughout the year.

Add your school

Hilltown Families Preschool Directory: Are you looking for a preschool that fits your child’s personality and reflects your family’s values? Check out our growing Preschool Directory, covering all four counties in Western Massachusetts, and find the perfect place for your young one! — Have a school you’d like to include in this list? Click here to find out how to have it added.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer camp, class, community event, school, open house, audition, homeschool program, workshop, volunteer opportunity, wellness program, local business, after-school class, or non-profit featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at at sales@hilltownfamilies.org.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community-building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish, and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to info@hilltownfamilies.org.

LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
February 24th – March 2nd, 2018

Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday

Suggest an Event | Cultural Itineraries | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| Berkshire Family Fun | Advertise/Sponsorship | en Español

Read the rest of this entry »

To find out about more event, be sure to visit our Suggest an Event Bulletin Board to see what our readers have recently shared! Have an event to share? Feel encouraged to self-post community events here at any time!

If you have a community event, educational program, or service-learning opportunity happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our Suggest An Event bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness, and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools, and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Click HERE to find out more.

Summer Camp

MARKET YOUR SUMMER CAMP: In an effort to connect families with summer camps & programs in the region, Hilltown Families is offering camps and programs a chance to partner with us in their online marketing with a special enhanced publicity offer. On Wednesday, March 7th, 2018, Hilltown Families will be featuring summer camps and programs in the region on Hilltown Families with a special post titled: 2018 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA. Find out more about this targeted marketing opportunity HERE.

Hilltown Families is stepping out as National Model and seeks a new Executive Director!

Working towards creating a culture of intentional learning, Sienna Wildfield founded Hilltown Families in 2005 as an innovative approach to education and community-development. We began as a simple email listserv for families living in the rural regions of Massachusetts, and now Hilltown Families serves all four counties of western Massachusetts, sharing tens of thousands of community-based educational events, resources, and opportunities over the years for all generations and all levels of learning.

As Hilltown Families has grown, community organizers and educators in other regions of the country began reaching out to inquire how they too could create a similar network in their communities. Wildfield realized the power a collective of community-based educational networks could have in spearheading a movement towards a culture of intentional learning. While Wildfield’s work has moved to replicate the Hilltown Families model elsewhere, she continues to write for and consult with the staff and board of directors of the local Hilltown Families organization.

Hilltown Families is now seeking a half-time Executive Director to shepherd the next level of growth of the local organization. Further information about the opportunity is available here: Executive Director Job Description. Please spread the word!

Bulletin Board

Feb. 21

Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live – 65 Milltion Years in the Making! Two Shows February Vacation Week! February 21, 2PM & 7PM at CityStage, Springfield. Observe, and interact with an eye-popping collection of amazingly life-like dinosaurs and other creatures presented in a theatrical performance that will thrill and entertain kids while stimulating their imaginations in ways that will forever connect them to their world. Brought to life by a team of skilled performers and puppeteers, and designed with the help of professional paleontologists, Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live’s puppets are so extraordinarily realistic you may feel the urge to run and hide – but don’t miss a minute of it. Click here for more info. Buy tickets HERE.

Feb 19-23

Let your imagination soar at the New England Air Museum during February School Vacation Week! Explore 3 giant exhibit hangars filled w/over 60 historic aircraft & experience the wonders of flight through daily hands-on activities including Build & Fly Challenges, interactive Flight Science Demos, computerized Flight Simulators, and Open Cockpit Experiences in historic aircraft. Visitors can also take to the skies at the museum’s Virtual Flight Center using advanced, 3 screen yoke & pedal flight simulators (ages 10+). Additional learning opportunities include a Balsa Wood Airplane Workshop (Feb 19), LEGO Flying Machine Contest (Feb 20), Parachute Drop (Feb 21), Frisbee Fun (Feb 22) and Straw Rocket Launch (Feb 23). More info at www.neam.org.

Jun 18 – Jul 27

Connect with nature through the life of a working farm: The Hartsbrook School’s Farm Camp in Hadley, MA lets children slow down and savor the summer! Campers spend time tending the animals, doing agriculturally-based crafts and enjoying carefree days with other “young farmers.” Experienced, thoughtful counselors allow campers to enjoy the freedom and wonder of summer. The practical skills learned on the farm help children to be more confident and grounded in their everyday lives. Dates: Jun 18-Jul 27; Age Range of Campers: 4-12yo For more info: 413-586-1908 x116; farmcamp@hartsbrook.org; www.hartsbrook.org.

Jul 8 – Aug 4

Maximize your creativity and character! The Experimentory at Deerfield Academy is a program for 6th and 7th graders interested in academic adventure. With classes such as Sustainability, Ethics, Urban Planning, and French Culture & Film, the Experimentory is interdisciplinary, project-based, and fun. All classes are taught by Deerfield Academy teachers on the DA campus: It’s a great way to sample the “Deerfield Experience.” Students make close friends from across the country and around the world. Choose between 2 or 4-week sessions. Attend as a boarder or a day student. Rolling admissions until May 1; apply for need-based financial aid by March 15. Dates: 4 Week Session starts: 7/8/18; 2 Week Sessions begin: 7/8/18 and 7/23/18. For more info: 413-774-1436; experimentory@deerfield.edu; deerfield.edu/experimentory.

The Smith College Center for Early Childhood Education at Fort Hill offers high quality full- and part-time early education and care in Northampton for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Three-, four-, and five-day schedules are available in all age groups. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach, the program emphasizes a strong sense of community, learning through in-depth projects, and the arts. The school includes large classrooms filled with natural light, extensive playgrounds, and dedicated studios for music and visual arts. Exceptional teacher-child ratios allow for individual attention and creative curriculum. For more information, please email CECE@smith.edu or visit the school website.

FMC Ice Sports offers a fun and unique learning environment for all ages. Participants in their Step 1 Learn to Skate programs are taught the basics of ice skating. Students graduate to their Step 2 and Step 3 programs that focus on the more sport specific skills required in hockey and figure skating. FMC Ice Sports programs can be found at the Smead Arena in Springfield and the Collins Moylan Arena in Greenfield. Class information and registration are available online at www.fmcicesports.com or by calling 1-888-74-SKATE. Use promo code HTF201617 and receive $10 OFF your entire purchase of any instructional program!

Add your class

Hilltown Families has put together an After-School Classes & Enrichment Programs Directory of classes and programs happening across Western Massachusetts throughout the school year. Our community is rich in learning opportunities to supplement the interests of children, teens, and life-long learners and our directory makes it easier to find these gems while connecting families with resources that support their interests and education. — Have a class or program you’d like to include in our directory? Click here to find out how to have it added. New and updated opportunities are added throughout the year.

Add your school

Hilltown Families Preschool Directory: Are you looking for a preschool that fits your child’s personality and reflects your family’s values? Check out our growing Preschool Directory, covering all four counties in Western Massachusetts, and find the perfect place for your young one! — Have a school you’d like to include in this list? Click here to find out how to have it added.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer camp, class, community event, school, open house, audition, homeschool program, workshop, volunteer opportunity, wellness program, local business, after-school class, or non-profit featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at at sales@hilltownfamilies.org.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community-building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish, and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to info@hilltownfamilies.org.

LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
February 17th – 23rd, 2018

Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday

Suggest an Event | Cultural Itineraries | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| Berkshire Family Fun | Advertise/Sponsorship | en Español

Read the rest of this entry »