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Hilltown Families Class Directory Debut: 2019/2020
September 4, 2019 at 2:00 pm (Hilltown Families)
Change of Seasons Bring Nature, Art & STEM Discoveries
September 3, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families)
Tags: Land Art, Leaf Art, Leaf Peeping, nature based education, phenology
Creativity & Learning with Autumn Leaves!
Leaf collecting can alert children to the presence of many types of trees in their neighborhood, and provides them with some beautiful and all-natural materials with which to craft and create nature art!
With the end of summer comes back-to-school season, a time when notebooks, crayons, and homework planners can take over the place that flowers, tall grass, and vegetable gardens hold in our daily routines during the summer. As lush green plants change hues, it can be easy to let the change of seasons happen without engaging with the new exterior design that Mother Nature provides. The change of colors and landscape is, though, the perfect reason not to let early fall pass by unnoticed…
Read the rest of this entry »
HFVS Scrapbooking Spectacular Episode with Recess Monkey (Podcast/Radio Show)
September 1, 2019 at 8:00 am (Hilltown Family Variety Show, podcast)
Tags: podcast, Radio Show
Listen to Podcast:
Scrapbooking Spectacular Episode with Recess Monkey
Recess Monkey leads listeners on a wacky, musical step-by-step process for creating photo memory books that will rival any Instagram post. – www.recessmonkey.com
Saturday from 9-10am & Sunday from 7-8am
August 31st & September 1st, 2019
WXOJ LP – 103.3 FM – Valley Free Radio
Northampton, MA
August 31st & September 1st, 2019
WXOJ LP – 103.3 FM – Valley Free Radio
Northampton, MA
Featured Video: “Wind-Up Robot” by Recess Monkey. Drew uncovers a forgotten toy and it threatens to take over the entire city, the lovable blockhead!
Archived Podcasts ♦ Radio ♦ Facebook ♦ Twitter
Listen to Podcast:
PLAYLIST
- Recess Monkey – “Together” [Family Photo Album]
- Justin Roberts – “Picture Day” [Way Out]
- The Pop Ups – “Pictures Making Pictures” [Appetite For Construction]
- Recess Monkey – “Wake Up” [Family Photo Album]
- The Jimmies – “Fine Art” [Practically Ridiculous]
- Big Block Singsong – “Hair” [Greatest Hits]
- Randy Kaplan – “Shampoo Me” [Five Cent Piece]
- Patti Page – “(How Much Is) That Doggie in the Window” [16 Most Requested Songs]
- Recess Monkey – “Not For You” [Family Photo Album]
- Recess Monkey – “All My Friends Are Here” [Family Photo Album]
Learn Local. Play Local.: Fireman’s BBQ to Peach Festival. Salsa Music to Green Living.
August 30, 2019 at 4:00 pm (Highlights)
Tags: CBEdu, Community Based Education, Community Development, Experiential Learning, Lifelong Learning, Personalized Learning, place-based education, Placemaking, self-directed learning, Sense of Place
Community-Based Education Highlights
for Western Massachusetts
Labor Day ♦ Natural History ♦ Pioneer Valley History ♦ Holyoke History ♦ Hilltown History ♦ Canals ♦ Yo-Yos ♦ Hiking ♦ Agricultural Fair ♦ Regional Heritage ♦ Rural Heritage ♦ Placemaking ♦ Community Meal ♦ BBQ ♦ Food Festival ♦ Greek Food ♦ Peaches ♦ Zoology ♦ Marine Biology ♦ Bones ♦ Snakes ♦ Beavers ♦ Livestock ♦ Birding ♦ Butterflies ♦ Entomology ♦ Citizen Science ♦ Green Living ♦ Date Night ♦ Salsa Music ♦ Kirtan ♦ Train Rides ♦ Arts Night Out ♦ Installation Art ♦ Fine Art ♦ Figure Drawing ♦ Poetry ♦ Literary Studies ♦ Ballet ♦ Folk Traditions ♦ Collaborative Consumption ♦ Fundraiser
These are just a few of the community-based education (CBEdu) highlights we featured this week in our eNewsletter for the week, Aug 31-Sept 6, 2019. Click through, peruse our list, and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play! ♥ Want to have our highlights and spotlights delivered to your inbox every Thursday? Click here to subscribe!
Learn Local. Play Local. is supported in part by a grant from the Agawam, Buckland, Deerfield, Gill, Hadley, New Salem, Plainfield, Shelburne Southampton, Tolland, and Westhampton Cultural Councils, local agencies that are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
100+ Suggested Events in Western MA: August 31-September 13, 2019
August 29, 2019 at 6:00 am (Hilltown Families)
Tags: Community Based Education, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Western MA, western massachusetts
Awarded the “Essential Agent of Change Award” by the MDPH’s Massachusetts Essentials for Childhood, Hilltown Families is recognized as a leading family strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families continues to support the development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, farms, individuals, schools, and non-profit organizations are invited to collaborate with Hilltown Families in their community outreach. With 9,000 opt-in subscribers and 2.5+ million visits to our web site alone, Hilltown Families can deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out about our affordable advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by contacting us at info@hilltownfamilies.org… and scroll down to discover community-based educational events and community building opportunities happening this weekend and next week in Western MA!
SUBSCRIBE to our eNewsletter to stay up-to-date!
Class Directory
Reserve your spot today!
It’s time to reserve your spot in Hilltown Families’ annual Class Directory! Advertise your class, enrichment program, or private lesson in the region’s go-to, online resource for community-based educational opportunities in Western Massachusetts! Reach thousands of families in the region with our 2019-2020 Class Directory which will featured classes, enrichment programs, and private lessons happening across Western Massachusetts for children, teens, and lifelong learners. Add your listing at any time.
Take advantage of our special advertising package (pdf)!
More Information. | Reserve a spot. | Submit your listing.
Bulletin Board
Fall Sales
Shop local and smart! Stock up and save at River Valley Co-op this Fall at their three sale events. Get huge deals on full case discounts and more. August 21-September 3, Back to School Sale: Everything you need for back-to-school for you or your little ones. September 4 -17, Stock Up & Save with Co-Op Basics: 10% off over 300 everyday items and savings on cases. September 18-October 1, Squirrel Away Savings: Great deals on items perfect for the pantry or freezer. Stock up and enjoy them for months to come! For information on these amazing sales and more, visit River Valley Co-op online at www.rivervalley.coop or call 413-584-2665. Or better yet, stop by! Open from 8am-10pm. River Valley Co-op is located at 330 North King St. in Northampton.
Open House: Sep 4
Join Pioneer Valley Ballet for its 2019-2020 Season. PVB offers 11-week pre-professional ballet training sessions in the fall, winter, and spring, plus community dance classes for toddlers, children, teens, and adults. FALL KICKOFF: Fall Session begins September 9. Get to know PVB at its Open House on September 4. Then get excited for The Nutcracker at the “In a Nutshell” party on September 7. Join the cast: Nutcracker Community Auditions (ages 5-10) will also be held September 7, for performances December 13-15. No dance experience necessary. Pioneer Valley Ballet is located in the Eastworks Building at 116 Pleasant Street in Easthampton, MA. Visit them online to explore classes and events and to register. 413-527-6363 ♦ www.pioneervalleyballet.org
Start – ing Sep 17
Nerissa Nields Local Chorus. Northampton, MA ♦ Nerissa Nields runs a Local Chorus for ages 5-13, a performance group in 3-part harmony. Rehearsals are Tuesdays from 4-4:45pm at The Montessori School of Northampton starting September 17, 2019, and running for 15 weeks through MLK day (no meetings on school holidays). Cost: $225. For older kids who want a challenge, Nerissa offers Focus Chorus, a four-part harmony group for ages 11-16. Meetings are Tuesday evenings from 7:15-8:15pm in Little Blue Studio in Northampton. Cost is $265 for 15 weeks, starting September 17, 2019. nerissanields.com
Miss Leticia Music School. Amherst, MA ♦ Ukulele, Guitar, Bass, Drums, a Capella, and Voice lessons, all in one location for all ages. Beginning Groups include Beginning Ukulele I & II, Beginning Guitar, Beginning Rock Band, and Girls Rock Band. Intermediate/Advanced Groups include Ukulele, Guitar/Ukulele, Intermediate Boys Rock, Adv Girls Rock Band. Adult classes include Beginning & Intermediate Guitar, Beginning & Intermediate Ukulele, and Rock Band. Many more private and group lessons available. Teachers include Leticia Davies (Guitar/Ukulele, Voice); Rusty Daniels (Rock Guitar, Bass, Drums); Gruff Davies (Rock Band); Rhys Davies (Rock Band). After school, evening, and weekend classes. For complete schedule & to register: www.missleticia.com ♦ missleticiamusic@gmail.com
Celtic Heels & Devine Dance in Greenfield, MA. Celtic Heels offers more than just a dance class. Their goal is to foster a love of both dance and life. They offer empowerment, optimism, and confidence in their growing dancers. They are a performance school with a focus on teamwork where each student is allowed to progress at their own comfort level while being challenged along the way. Their class offerings in Irish Dance, Ballet, and Tap set a solid foundation for rhythm, balance, extension, and strength that can be applicable in many other activities. Classes offered on Tuesdays & Thursdays in Greenfield. Information and registration: 413-475-3353; celticheels@gmail.com; www.CelticHeelsDance.com.
The School for Contemporary Dance and Thought Youth Dance Program in Northampton is an all-inclusive movement program designed to ignite creativity, curiosity, and individuality in children and teens through a mutual love of moving our bodies! This program is intended to bring together students of all backgrounds in a safe space in which they can learn together and from another while doing what our bodies were made to do…move! Classes are offered for different ages and interests, and provide a structured platform for age-appropriate technique, improvisation, composition and play! SCDT Youth Dance is an ideal place for students of all levels interested in developing their knowledge of dance and movement, while having a whole lot of fun doing so. Learn more and enroll at www.scdtnoho.com.
Nonotuck Community School is accepting applications for children 15 mos. to 5 years for a September start date in their 12-month program. Open from 7:30am-5:30pm and located in Northampton, Nonotuck has well-appointed classrooms, daily access to indoor and outdoor play spaces an art studio, yoga instruction, Kaboom! Imagination Play equipment, gardening & more. The curriculum is play-based and impaired by progressive early childhood education theory. A parent cooperative, Nonotuck emphasizes community, emotional intelligence, and resilience, and provides ample opportunities for cognitive, artistic, social, emotional, and physical development throughout the school day. Contact info@nonotuck.org, 413-586-5996, or online at www.nonotuck.org.
ADVERTISE HERE: Want to reach thousands of families living across Western MA? See your community event, after-school program, summer camp, class, school, open house, audition, homeschool program, workshop, volunteer opportunity, wellness program, local business, fundraiser, or non-profit featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter! Find out about our affordable advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by contacting us at info@hilltownfamilies.org.
Featured Directories
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
August 31-September 13, 2019
Saturday, Aug 31 • Sunday, Sept 1
Monday, Sept 2 • Tuesday, Sept 3 • Wednesday, Sept 4
Thursday, Sept 5 • Friday, Sept 6
Saturday, Sept 7 • Sunday, Sept 8
Monday, Sept 9 • Tuesday, Sept 10 • Wednesday, Sept 11
Thursday, Sept 12 • Friday, Sept 13
Weekly eNewsletter | Advertise/Sponsorship | Cultural Itineraries | Berkshire Family Fun
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| en Español
25 Children’s Books For Back-to-School
August 28, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Contributing Writer, Lisa Woods)
Tags: Back to School, Literacy, Reading List
“Back to school!” These words can evoke a variety of emotions in the hearts of children everywhere. For some, this time can be full of anxiety and concerns over making friends, fitting in, and finding their way around a new school or classroom. Even self-directed learners and homeschool families can feel the jitters associated with a new year of learning. Stories are a great way to prepare for what’s to come and to soothe worries about the new school year. Children will feel more confident when they see characters in books thriving in new learning environments. Here are 25 titles selected by Western MA mom, Lisa Woods, just in time for the new school year.
Community-Meals: The Sunday BBQ!
August 27, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families)
Tags: BBQ, Community Meal
Strengthening a Sense of Place through Community Barbeques
Throughout history, community has been built through the sharing of food. Shared throughout the world as a universal human need, food provides a common thread through which all people can be woven together. Community meals offer much to families regarding learning opportunities, supporting intergenerational engagement, storytelling, and establishing a shared history. An additional benefit of community meals is that the theme of food serves as a common interest for all those involved, providing a foundation upon which for further connections to be built. During the late summer, community harvest meals are great intergenerational opportunities to sit down with neighbors of all ages, making connections and nurturing relationships across the generations. Participating in a community meal does more than filling your belly… it strengthens the social fabric of the community by developing a sense of place in our children!
There are a few annual community harvest meals to check out in the late summer include the Plainfield Volunteer Fire Department annual community chicken barbecue. On the Sunday before Labor Day, dinner is served starting at 1pm and includes a 1⁄2 barbecued chicken, locally grown baked potato, corn on the cob, homemade cole slaw, dinner roll, slice of watermelon and a beverage. Behind the Shaw Memorial Library. Main Street. Plainfield, MA.
Mid-September is the annual Florence Public Chicken Barbecue Community! From 12-3pm, hosted by the Florence Civic and Business Association. 90 Park Street, Florence, MA.
If a public BBQ has you motivated to heat up the barbeque at home, here’s a bit of culinary inspiration to get you in the kitchen with your kids to help prep a delicious meal:
CBEdu Resource: Bees and Flowers
August 26, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families, Resources, Videos)
Tags: entomology, Honey Bee, Insects, Native Species, Pollinators
Native Species: Community-Based Educational Resources
Human beings have been harvesting honey and keeping hives for around nine thousand years. Traditional cultures in Africa, Northern Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean have worshiped bee goddesses as a way of venerating these amazing creatures. In Lithuania, for instance, the traditional bee goddess is known as Austeja. It is said that in traditional Lithuanian communities, it is forbidden to argue or quarrel in the presence of a bee, and if one comes upon a dead bee, it is buried ceremonially. Closer to home, the custom of “telling the bees” was practiced as a tradition in early America, a custom brought over from Europe. After a death in the family, the beekeeper would “tell the bees” so they too could enter proper mourning. It was thought that otherwise the bees might not produce honey or leave the hive to pollinate our crops. — And why is it that bees are so revered across cultures and time? Could it be that their contributions towards pollination is vital to the survival of 80% of the world’s plant species? Bees and flowers have an amazingly close relationship. Flowers need bees to reproduce, and bees need flowers to feed their colonies. Take away one, and the other would disappear too. It begs the question: When it comes to evolution, which came first, the bees or the flowers?” Find out in this video by It’s Okay to Be Smart:
“Over the past 15 years, numerous colonies of bees have been decimated throughout the world, but the causes of this disaster remain unknown. Depending on the world region, 50% to 90% of all local bees have disappeared, and this epidemic is still spreading from beehive to beehive – all over the planet. Everywhere, the same scenario is repeated: billions of bees leave their hives, never to return. No bodies are found in the immediate surroundings, and no visible predators can be located.” Want to learn more? Check out a copy of More Than Honey from your local library, a documentary that explores the effects of colony collapse disorder, the phenomenon responsible for bees’ recent scarcity.
Rowan Jacobson wrote a book, published in 2008, called Fruitless Fall. He identifies multiple causes of stress to the bees, showing how they all work together to contribute to colony collapse. He also interviewed several beekeepers (some local to him in Vermont) who are having success at building stronger and more resilient colonies. Superb book, very readable and informative about bees in general, and groundbreaking in its approach to colony collapse.
Other resources to check out from your library include these titles: The Life and Times of the Honeybee
“Bee Song” written by Lui Collins, music by Lui Collins and Anand Nayak,
©2009 Lui Collins, Molly Gamblin Music/BMI and Dizzy Dog Music/ASCAP
HFVS Family Vacation Episode with Guest DJ, Jason Didner (Radio Show/Podcast)
August 25, 2019 at 8:00 am (Hilltown Family Variety Show, podcast)
Tags: Lisa Loeb
Listen to Podcast:
Family Vacation Episode
with Guest DJ, Jason Didner
Fire up the engine in the family car and hit the road with “Jersey Jason” Didner, from the Jungle Gym Jam. Jersey Jason will be playing his favorite songs related to family vacation time.
Saturday from 9-10am & Sunday from 7-8am
August 24th & 25th, 2019
WXOJ LP – 103.3 FM – Valley Free Radio
Northampton, MA
FEATURED VIDEO: “Along a 30-mile stretch of road in North Dakota, massive scrap metal sculptures seem to sprout from the earth and touch the sky. But where did they come from? In an effort to bring more visitors to his dwindling town of Regent, Gary Greff began welding the figures in 1989. Each sculpture takes five to six years to complete, making this project a true labor of love.” – What’s your “passion project?”
Archived Podcasts ♦ Radio ♦ Facebook ♦ Twitter
Listen to Podcast:
PLAYLIST
- Lindsey Buckingham – “Holiday Road” – [National Lampoon’s Vacation Soundtrack]
- The Go-go’s – “Vacation” – [Vacation]
- Jason Didner and the Jungle Gym Jam – “Jam Packed” – [Lollipop Motel]
- The Not-Its – “Busy” – [KidQuake!]
- Joanie Leeds and the Night Lights – “Are We There Yet?” – [Bandwagon]
- Frances England – “Explorer of the World” – [Explorer of the World]
- Jazzy Ash – “Throw Me Sometin’ Mista!” (featuring Mista Cookie Jar) – [Home]
- Frank Oz & Kermit the Frog – “Movin’ Right Along” – [The Muppet Movie Soundtrack]
- Hullabaloo – “10-4 Good Buddy” – [Road Trip]
- Justin Roberts – “Obsessed by Trucks” – [Jungle Gym]
- Little Rockers – “I Wanna Go Somewhere” – [Ready for Rockin’]
- Yosi – “Friends Around the World” – [Under a Big Bright Yellow Umbrella]
- Marsha Goodman-Wood – “Gravity Vacation” – [Gravity Vacation]
- Bon Jovi – “Who Says You Can’t Go Home – Duet with Jennifer Nettles” – [Have a Nice Day]
- Jason Didner and the Jungle Gym Jam – “Lollipop Motel” – [Lollipop Motel]
Learn Local. Play Local.: Contra Dance to Monarch Butterflies. Gaelic Harvest Festival to Shaker Food Traditions.
August 23, 2019 at 4:00 pm (Suggested Activity)
Tags: CBEdu, Community Based Education, Community Development, Experiential Learning, Lifelong Learning, Personalized Learning, place-based education, Placemaking, self-directed learning, Sense of Place
Community-Based Education Highlights
for Western Massachusetts
New England Heritage ♦ Agricultural Fairs ♦ Grange Fair ♦ Rural Heritage ♦ Gaelic Harvest Festival ♦ Shaker Food Traditions ♦ Tomato Festival ♦ Food Truck Festival ♦ Food History ♦ Nutritional Anthropology ♦ Graham Crackers ♦ Community Meal ♦ Civics ♦ Cultural Studies ♦ Placemaking ♦ Motorama ♦ Bike Repair ♦ Back To School ♦ History Hike ♦ Hilltown History ♦ Holyoke History ♦ Civilian Conservation Corps ♦ Geology ♦ Zoology ♦ Junior Rangers ♦ Native Species ♦ Beavers ♦ Mammals ♦ Equine Studies ♦ Equine Therapy ♦ Birding ♦ Monarch Butterflies ♦ Mindfulness ♦ Theater Studies ♦ Shakespeare ♦ Art Studies ♦ Installation Art ♦ Van Gogh ♦ Leonardo Da Vinci ♦ Figure Drawing ♦ Dance Studies ♦ Contra Dance ♦ Literary Studies ♦ Scrabble ♦ Singing ♦ Youth Symphony ♦ Classical Music ♦ Astronomy ♦ Physics ♦ STEM
These are just a few of the community-based education (CBEdu) highlights we featured this week in our eNewsletter for the week, Aug 24-30, 2019. Click through, peruse our list, and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play! ♥ Want to have our highlights and spotlights delivered to your inbox every Thursday? Click here to subscribe!
Learn Local. Play Local. is supported in part by a grant from the Agawam, Buckland, Deerfield, Gill, Hadley, New Salem, Plainfield, Shelburne Southampton, Tolland, and Westhampton Cultural Councils, local agencies that are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
100+ Suggested Events in Western MA: August 24-September 6, 2019
August 22, 2019 at 6:00 am (Hilltown Families, Suggested Events)
Tags: Community Based Education, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Western MA, western massachusetts
Awarded the “Essential Agent of Change Award” by the MDPH’s Massachusetts Essentials for Childhood, Hilltown Families is recognized as a leading family strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families continues to support the development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, farms, individuals, schools, and non-profit organizations are invited to collaborate with Hilltown Families in their community outreach. With 9,000 opt-in subscribers and 2.5+ million visits to our web site alone, Hilltown Families can deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out about our affordable advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by contacting us at info@hilltownfamilies.org… and scroll down to discover community-based educational events and community building opportunities happening this weekend and next week in Western MA!
SUBSCRIBE to our eNewsletter to stay up-to-date!
Class Directory
Reserve your spot today!
It’s time to reserve your spot in Hilltown Families’ annual Class Directory! Advertise your class, enrichment program, or private lesson in the region’s go-to, online resource for community-based educational opportunities in Western Massachusetts! Reach thousands of families in the region with our 2019-2020 Class Directory which will featured classes, enrichment programs, and private lessons happening across Western Massachusetts for children, teens, and lifelong learners. Add your listing at any time.
Take advantage of our special advertising package (pdf)!
More Information. | Reserve a spot. | Submit your listing.
Bulletin Board
Fall Sales
Aug 24
Ice Cream, Hot dogs, Tacos OH MY! The Look Park Food Truck Festival is back for it’s 3rd year on Saturday August 24th from 12pm to 6pm. 20+ Food trucks, music and more! Grab the kids and enjoy some of your favorite snacks or try something new! Entrance to Food Truck Festival is FREE! Vehicle entrance fee does apply. Visit www.lookpark.org or call 413-584-5457 for details.
Open House: Sep 4
Featured Directories
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
August 24-September 6, 2019
Saturday, Aug 24 • Sunday, Aug 25
Monday, Aug 26 • Tuesday, Aug 27 • Wednesday, Aug 28
Thursday, Aug 29 • Friday, Aug 30
Saturday, Aug 31 • Sunday, Sept 1
Monday, Sept 2 • Tuesday, Sept 3 • Wednesday, Sept 4
Thursday, Sept 5 • Friday, Sept 6
Weekly eNewsletter | Advertise/Sponsorship | Cultural Itineraries | Berkshire Family Fun
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| en Español
Supporting Seasonal Learning in the Late Summer with Community-Based Educational Resources & Opportunities
August 20, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families)
Late Summer Resources & Opportunities that Support Seasonal Learning Through Community-Based Education
Photo credit: (c) Sienna Wildfield
For many, Labor Day marks the end of the summer, but warm days extend well beyond the first Monday in September. Take advantage of the full summer season by engaging in community-based resources that support your interests, education, and community values before the cold weather sets in.
Resources like conservation organizations, local waterways, harvest meals, and even cornfields are just a few resources that can support both self-directed and facilitated learning during these last few weeks of summer.
5 Featured Culinary Art Resources in Western MA
August 20, 2019 at 9:00 am (Cheryl Allan Carlyle)
Tags: culinary arts
Hear Me Roar: Culinary Arts in Western Massachusetts
Art You Can Eat
By Cheryl Allan Carlyle
Food is fundamental. At its core, it is our life source; something required for survival. But anyone who’s ever bitten into that perfectly balanced bite, or those fresh-from-the-oven cinnamon rolls knows that it’s so much more complex than that! Food has always been a cornerstone of our traditions, as we pass recipes down from one generation to the next, sharing age-old secrets and creating memories across the dinner table. For example, if a dish tastes like it’s “missing something” and you can’t figure out what it is, I was taught that a pinch of salt most often times does the trick (the art of a simple fix!).
To talk about cooking in a column about discovering artistic inspiration feels only natural. I grew up in a family rooted in culture, where food was honored and appreciated. When we think of food as art, it goes beyond just tossing some ingredients in a pan and stirring. The act of preparation is an art within itself. Whether it’s learning proper knife skills, allowing the dough to proof long enough to create the perfect loaf of bread, or knowing the difference between minced, chopped, and julienne, the culinary artist has as much to learn about their medium as does the painter or sculptor.
I’ve spoken to individuals who have a desire to increase their culinary creativity, but feel overwhelmed in the kitchen. They don’t know where to begin, or doubt their ability to create something they can truly be proud of. We live in a state rich in culinary history – the first culinary arts school was founded in Boston in the 1800s. This month, I encourage anyone who has ever dreamed of joining the ranks of Julia Child to let the inspiration lead. Our Western Massachusetts community offers abundant opportunity to connect with local chefs who are passionate about sharing their secrets with you! Here are a few I recommend: Read the rest of this entry »
HFVS Surprise Episode with Guest DJ, Surprise Episode with Guest DJs, Randy & Dave (Podcast/Radio Show)
August 18, 2019 at 8:00 am (Hilltown Family Variety Show, podcast)
Tags: podcast, Radio Show
Listen to Podcast:
HFVS Surprise Episode with Guest DJs, Randy & Dave
Sometimes things happen that aren’t quite what you’d expect. Hit songwriters Randy Sharp and Dave Kinnoin, known in the children’s music business as Randy & Dave, bring you songs that are full of surprises.
Saturday from 9-10am & Sunday from 7-8am
August 17 & 18, 2019
WXOJ LP – 103.3 FM – Valley Free Radio
Northampton, MA
Featured Video: The surprising truth of which life form REALLY dominates the earth…
Archived Podcasts ♦ Radio ♦ Facebook ♦ Twitter
Listen to Podcast:
PLAYLIST
• Randy & Dave – “Absolutely Nowhere to Go” [Snorkel]
• Connie Francis – “High Hopes” [Connie Francis Greatest Hits Volume One]
• Justin Roberts – “Henrietta’s Hair” [Pop Fly]
• Kare Strong and Josh Goforth – “The Family Over the Hill” [Rivers of Love]
• Katherine Dines – “The Goobaws” [Hunk-Ta-Bunk-Ta Boo-2]
• Randy & Dave – “Squirrel” [Snorkel]
• Eric Ode – “Bobby Brought a Skunk to the Pet Parade” [Trash Can]
• Val Smalkin and Silly Goose – “Itsy Bitsy Spider” [live in studio]
• Bill Harley – “I’m Busy” [Dinosaurs Don’t Say Please]
• Randy & Dave – “Mixed-Up Day” [Snorkel]
• Jonathan Sprout – “Washington’s Hat” [American Heroes]
• Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer – “Ballet Dancing Truck Driver” [Changing Channels]
• Dana Cohenour – “Cow in the Car” [Dana’s Best Travelin’ Tunes]
• Randy & Dave – “Snorkel” [Snorkel]
[Original broadcast: July 28 & 29, 2018]
Learn Local. Play Local.: Starfish to Glass Art. Social Movements to Rural Heritage.
August 16, 2019 at 4:00 pm (Highlights)
Tags: CBEdu, Community Based Education, Community Development, Experiential Learning, Lifelong Learning, Personalized Learning, place-based education, Placemaking, self-directed learning, Sense of Place
Community-Based Education Highlights
for Western Massachusetts
Folk Traditions ♦ Rural Heritage ♦ New England Heritage ♦ Agricultural History ♦ Textiles ♦ Agricultural Fair ♦ 4-H ♦ Sustainable Living ♦ Art Studies ♦ Teen Art ♦ Installation Art ♦ Van Gogh ♦ Social Movements ♦ Picture Book Art ♦ Glass Art ♦ Music Studies ♦ Shape Note Singing ♦ Symphony ♦ A Cappella ♦ Classical Music ♦ Community Concert ♦ Lawn Concert ♦ Dance Studies ♦ Contemporary Dance ♦ Folklore ♦ Theater Studies ♦ Shakespeare ♦ Outdoor Performance ♦ Fairies ♦ Starfish ♦ Rabbits ♦ Beavers ♦ Amphibians ♦ Geology ♦ Astronomy ♦ STEM ♦ Computer Coding ♦ Architecture ♦ Economics ♦ Culinary Design ♦ Community Meal ♦ Tea Time ♦ Blueberries ♦ Peaches ♦ Harvest Supper ♦ Creative Free-Play ♦ Paranormal ♦ Roller Derby ♦ Tai Chi & Aikido ♦
These are just a few of the community-based education (CBEdu) highlights we featured this week in our eNewsletter for the week, Aug 17-23, 2019. Click through, peruse our list, and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play! ♥ Want to have our highlights and spotlights delivered to your inbox every Thursday? Click here to subscribe!
Learn Local. Play Local. is supported in part by a grant from the Agawam, Buckland, Deerfield, Gill, Hadley, New Salem, Plainfield, Shelburne Southampton, Tolland, and Westhampton Cultural Councils, local agencies that are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
100+ Suggested Events in Western MA: August 17-30, 2019
August 15, 2019 at 6:00 am (Hilltown Families, Suggested Events)
Tags: Community Based Education, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Western MA, western massachusetts
Awarded the “Essential Agent of Change Award” by the MDPH’s Massachusetts Essentials for Childhood, Hilltown Families is recognized as a leading family strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families continues to support the development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, farms, individuals, schools, and non-profit organizations are invited to collaborate with Hilltown Families in their community outreach. With 9,000 opt-in subscribers and 2.5+ million visits to our web site alone, Hilltown Families can deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out about our affordable advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by contacting us at info@hilltownfamilies.org… and scroll down to discover community-based educational events and community building opportunities happening this weekend and next week in Western MA!
SUBSCRIBE to our eNewsletter to stay up-to-date!
Class Directory
Reserve your spot today!
It’s time to reserve your spot in Hilltown Families’ annual Class Directory! Advertise your class, enrichment program, or private lesson in the region’s go-to, online resource for community-based educational opportunities in Western Massachusetts! Reach thousands of families in the region with our 2019-2020 Class Directory which will featured classes, enrichment programs, and private lessons happening across Western Massachusetts for children, teens, and lifelong learners. Add your listing at any time.
Take advantage of our special advertising package (pdf)!
More Information. | Reserve a spot. | Submit your listing.
Bulletin Board
Enjoy an hour of free kid-friendly fun with your lunch this August at River Valley Co-op in Northampton on their deck from 11am-12noon. Performances from different local organizations and performers include, Angora Bunnies! with Laurel Ledge Farm Fiber on August 21. Stop by, grab your favorite lunch from the deli, and come out to their deck for a delightful hour of music, art, literature, history, or nature. River Valley Co-op. 413-584-2665. 330 North King Street, Northampton, MA.
Do you know children who are talented instrumentalists? Are they motivated to practice and to make music with other young musicians? The Pioneer Valley Symphony Youth Orchestra offers a dynamic & supportive ensemble environment for talented musicians in middle & high school. Directed by Steven Bathory-Peeler, the PVSYO performs in 2 standalone concerts and also collaborates with the Pioneer Valley Symphony Orchestra. Chamber ensemble opportunities are also offered. The PVSYO rehearses at Greenfield High School on Sundays from 5:30-7:30pm during the school year. AUDITIONS FOR ALL INSTRUMENTS will be held in Greenfield on Sun, Aug 25, 3-5pm & Thurs, Aug 29, 6-8pm. Visit www.pvsoc.org/youth-orchestra to learn more or register for an audition.
Register now for Will Bike 4 Food, a cycling event to benefit The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. The 9th annual event will start at the Lion’s Club Pavilion on Sunday, September 29, 2019. This event is a special opportunity for riders of all ages and riding abilities to enjoy a fun-filled day with other cyclists while helping to feed our neighbors in need. Choose the 10, 25, 50, or 100-mile route through the scenic Pioneer Valley. You can choose to ride as an individual or form a team. Participating cyclists are invited to stay for an After-Party at the finish line. Enjoy a cookout and craft beer, music, games, and more. Register now for the lowest fundraising minimum and to guarantee your free t-shirt. To register or donate, visit willbike4food.org.
Featured Directories
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
August 17-30, 2019
Saturday, Aug 17 • Sunday, Aug 18
Monday, Aug 19 • Tuesday, Aug 20 • Wednesday, Aug 21
Thursday, Aug 22 • Friday, Aug 23
Saturday, Aug 24 • Sunday, Aug 25
Monday, Aug 26 • Tuesday, Aug 27 • Wednesday, Aug 28
Thursday, Aug 29 • Friday, Aug 30
Weekly eNewsletter | Advertise/Sponsorship | Cultural Itineraries | Berkshire Family Fun
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| en Español
Sing About Science and Math
August 13, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families)
Tags: educational songs, Math, Science, STEM, University of Washington's Sing About Science and Math Project
University of Washington’s Sing About Science and Math Project: Songs for Teaching, Learning & Fun
For many young learners, rhythm and repetition can be a very effective way of learning new words and remembering the names of things. Children easily learn commonly sung songs with lyrics of all kinds, and we use their ability to learn lyrics as a way to share information. Take the ABC’s for example – it’s a song that we use to teach the letters of the English alphabet, it’s fun and easy to sing, and matching the names of letters to different parts of the rhythm helps to support children in remembering the order that the go in.
Songs don’t just have to be used to convey basic ideas to the youngest of learners, though – there are educational songs for kids of all ages and about all kinds of things! The University of Washington’s Sing About Science and Math Project offers an online database of over 7,000 songs that cover an immense variety of topics in technology, biology, environmental science, physics, chemistry, math, engineering, and medicine. The database, which has been growing since 2004, includes tunes for kids of all ages – meaning there are songs about the periodic table for kindergarteners, high school sophomores, graduate students, and grandparents, too, like this one by They Might Be Giants:
The site’s search function allows for parents and educators (and older students) to search by more than just topic… Read the rest of this entry »
Using Community Resources to Support and Inspire an Interest is Art
August 12, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Art, Resources)
Tags: Art, Art Appreciation, art education, Community Based Education
Local Resources Support Community-Based Studies of Art
Park Hill Orchard in Easthampton is home of “Art in the Orchard,” an orchard-based gallery of outdoor sculptures and installation art to peruse with family. Bringing “Culture into Horticulutre,” the orchard features the work of dozens of artists whose work is brought to life amongst the apple trees and changing landscape as we move from summer to fall.
Art is ever-present in life, and serves as an important means of communication and self-expression. Much of childhood is spent adding art to the world, and there is much to learn from exploring art and engaging in methods of creation!
Resources abound for learning about everything from art history to art materials, and here in western Massachusetts, the bulk of art-related learning resources are community-based.
From museums to community organizations to art spaces, there are endless ways for families to learn about and engage in the arts… and we have a great list for you! Read the rest of this entry »
Conversation Highlights: The Sunday Evening Edition, August 11, 2019
August 11, 2019 at 6:00 pm (Hilltown Families)
Tags: Astronomy, Autism News, Beach, Biology, Fibonacci Sequence, Food Traditions, Golden Ratio, marine biology, Math, Meteor Showers, mindfulness, Mythology, Nature Based Learning, nature-deficit disorder, Peaches, Perseids Meteor Shower, Physiology, S'mores, Sand Dollars, Teens, thunderstorms
HFVS Food Episode with Guest DJ, Gunnar Madsen (Podcast/Radio Show)
August 11, 2019 at 8:00 am (Family Radio Show, podcast)
Tags: podcast, Radio Show
Listen to Podcast:
HFVS Food Episode with Guest DJ, Gunnar Madsen
From Beans to Pancakes to Egg Salad, all tastes are considered in week’s episode. Learn about how corn is in your car, your home, your clothes, and your medicines. Songs about sharing food, renting food, and even calling food will keep your toes tapping and your mouth watering. — www.GunnarMadsen.com
Saturday from 9-10am & Sunday from 7-8am
Aug 10 & 11, 2019
WXOJ LP – 103.3 FM – Valley Free Radio
Northampton, MA
Featured Video: “Egg Salad in the Sun” by Gunnar Madsen
Archived Podcasts ♦ Radio ♦ Facebook ♦ Twitter
Listen to Podcast:
PLAYLIST
- Cab Calloway – “Everybody Eats When They Come To My House” [Hi De Ho Man]
- The Bobs – “Food To Rent” [Songs For Tomorrow Morning]
- Chops – “I Like Cereal” [Ping Pong Playa Soundtrack]
- They Might Be Giants – “John Lee Supertaster” [No!]
- Gunnar Madsen – “I Am Your Food” [I Am Your Food]
- Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention – “Call Any Vegetable” [Absolutely Free]
- Dave Van Ronk – “One Meatball” [No Dirty Names]
- Gunnar Madsen – “In My Soup” [I Am Your Food]
- Lambert, Hendricks & Ross – “Farmer’s Market” [The Hottest New Group In Jazz]
- Gunnar Madsen – “Egg Salad In The Sun” [I Am Your Food]
- Harry Nilsson – “Coconut” [Personal Best: The Harry Nilsson Anthology]
- The Presidents Of The United States Of America – “Peaches” [The Presidents Of The United
- States Of America: Ten Year Super Bonus]
- Gunnar Madsen – “10,000 Pancakes” [I Am Your Food]
- Monty Python – “Spam” [Monty Python Sings]
[Original broadcast: July 21 & 22, 2018]
Learn Local. Play Local.: Chinese Painting to Bike Repair. Meteor Showers to Sturgeon Moon.
August 9, 2019 at 4:00 pm (Highlights)
Tags: CBEdu, Community Based Education, Community Development, Experiential Learning, Lifelong Learning, Personalized Learning, place-based education, Placemaking, self-directed learning, Sense of Place
Community-Based Education Highlights
for Western Massachusetts
New England Heritage ♦ Agriculture History ♦ Agricultural Fairs ♦ Rural Heritage ♦ Farmers’Market ♦ Country Fair ♦ Apple Orchard ♦ Book Sale ♦ Downtown Celebration ♦ Lawn Concert ♦ Zoology ♦ Mammals ♦ Bats ♦ Beavers ♦ Religious Studies ♦ Kirtan ♦ Folk Traditions ♦ Bike Repair ♦ Theater ♦ Shakespeare ♦ Hansel & Gretel ♦ Mother Goose ♦ Art Studies ♦ Chinese Painting ♦ Van Gogh ♦ Picture Book Art ♦ Social Movements ♦ Reading To Dogs ♦ Literacy ♦ Literary Studies ♦ Music Studies ♦ Music Festival ♦ Symphony ♦ Classical ♦ Contemporary Dance ♦ Placemaking ♦ Collaborative Consumption ♦ Sustainability ♦ Skillshare ♦ Creative Free-Play ♦ Commerce ♦ Architecture ♦ Aviation ♦ STEM ♦ Physics ♦ Yo-Yo ♦ Natural History ♦ Astronomy ♦ Planetarium ♦ Meteor Shower ♦ Constellations ♦ Sturgeon Moon
These are just a few of the community-based education (CBEdu) highlights we featured this week in our eNewsletter for the week, Aug 10-16, 2019. Click through, peruse our list, and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play! ♥ Want to have our highlights and spotlights delivered to your inbox every Thursday? Click here to subscribe!
Learn Local. Play Local. is supported in part by a grant from the Agawam, Buckland, Deerfield, Gill, Hadley, New Salem, Plainfield, Shelburne Southampton, Tolland, and Westhampton Cultural Councils, local agencies that are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
100+ Suggested Events in Western MA: August 10-23, 2019
August 8, 2019 at 6:00 am (Hilltown Families, Suggested Events)
Tags: Community Based Education, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Western MA, western massachusetts
Awarded the “Essential Agent of Change Award” by the MDPH’s Massachusetts Essentials for Childhood, Hilltown Families is recognized as a leading family strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families continues to support the development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, farms, individuals, schools, and non-profit organizations are invited to collaborate with Hilltown Families in their community outreach. With 9,000 opt-in subscribers and 2.5+ million visits to our web site alone, Hilltown Families can deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out about our affordable advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by contacting us at info@hilltownfamilies.org… and scroll down to discover community-based educational events and community building opportunities happening this weekend and next week in Western MA!
SUBSCRIBE to our eNewsletter to stay up-to-date!
Class Directory
Dead-line: Aug 30
Reserve your spot today!
It’s time to reserve your spot in Hilltown Families’ annual Class Directory! Advertise your class, enrichment program, or private lesson in the region’s go-to, online resource for community-based educational opportunities in Western Massachusetts! Reach thousands of families in the region with our 2019-2020 Class Directory which will featured classes, enrichment programs, and private lessons happening across Western Massachusetts for children, teens, and lifelong learners. Add your listing at any time.
Take advantage of our special advertising package (pdf)!
Deadline to register: August 30th.
More Information. | Reserve a spot. | Submit your listing.
Bulletin Board
Wed in Aug
Aug 25 & 29
Sep 29
Featured Directories
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
August 10-23, 2019
Saturday, Aug 10 • Sunday, Aug 11
Monday, Aug 12 • Tuesday, Aug 13 • Wednesday, Aug 14
Thursday, Aug 15 • Friday, Aug 16
Saturday, Aug 17 • Sunday, Aug 18
Monday, Aug 19 • Tuesday, Aug 20 • Wednesday, Aug 21
Thursday, Aug 22 • Friday, Aug 23
Weekly eNewsletter | Advertise/Sponsorship | Cultural Itineraries | Berkshire Family Fun
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| en Español
People-Watching! Supporting Language Arts, Theater & Community Awareness
August 6, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families)
Tags: Diversity, Language Arts, People Watching
Late-Summer People-Watching as Inspiration for Young Writers and Thespians
A fun way to learn about a local culture, people-watching can serve as a great tool for young writers and thespians too! The observations made in a particular context can help inspire or contribute to the development or portrayal of a character. Visit some of our suggested people-watching locations!
Inspiration can come in many forms for young writers and creators, and the sparks that ignite the creative process can sometimes come from unexpected places. Often, inspiration can come from experience, allowing works to be created as a result of personal experience, but other times, inspiration needs to come from external sources. A great (and always accessible) source of inspiration is people-watching – an activity that can lead to everything from laughter to critical and reflective observations about human nature.
People-watching is especially useful for young writers and thespians, as close observation of human behavior can help with character development in writing, and can help actors, directors, and costume designers draw from experience when portraying characters from a story. Best when done in a situation in which you are not directly involved, people-watching can allow those to participate to gather useful information about how people move and talk, as well as the choices that they make, the clothes that they wear, and the people who they associate with. People-watching can feel a bit like judging people, but when observations are made through careful, critical thought, they are much more useful than the snap judgments that are sometimes made at first glance, and an excellent way to develop an appreciation and acceptance of the wonderful diversity found in our communities. Read the rest of this entry »
Summer Storms: A Reading List
August 5, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Nature Based Education, Reading Lists, Robin Morgan Huntley)
Tags: Book List, Children's Literature, educational guide, integrated learning, Language Arts, Literacy, Literary Guides, Meteorology, Nature-Based Resources, Reading List, Summer Storms, Weather
With the heat of August in New England come evening thunderstorms, lighting up the sky, providing a soundtrack, and cooling the earth. This month we are featuring titles exploring summer storms. This booklist includes a variety of titles for weathering storms of all kinds, from thunder and fog to hurricanes and floods. Not only do these storm titles touch upon relevant late-summer themes, but in some cases serve as important reminders of how to take on challenges and meet fears head-on, with the storms serving as metaphors for difficult moments in life. Read the rest of this entry »
HFVS Guest DJ, Lisa Loeb (Radio Show/Podcast)
August 4, 2019 at 8:00 am (Hilltown Family Variety Show, podcast)
Tags: Lisa Loeb
Listen to Podcast:
Guest DJ, Lisa Loeb
Lisa Loeb is a singer-songwriter and founder of the Camp Lisa Foundation to send kids to summer camp. In this episode of the Hilltown Family Variety Show, Lisa plays some of her favorite songs about summer and camp from her own catalog of music and from other favorites!
Saturday from 9-10am & Sunday from 7-8am
August 3rd & 4th, 2019
WXOJ LP – 103.3 FM – Valley Free Radio
Northampton, MA
FEATURED VIDEO: “Father Abraham”
Archived Podcasts ♦ Radio ♦ Facebook ♦ Twitter
Listen to Podcast:
PLAYLIST
- Lisa Loeb – “Best Friend” [Camp Lisa]
- Elizabeth Mitchell – “You Are My Sunshine (Pt. 1)” [You Are My Sunshine]
- Lisa Loeb – “The Cookie Jar Song” [Camp Lisa]
- Super Simple Songs – “Peanut Butter & Jelly” [Humpty Dumpty & More Kids Songs]
- Lisa Loeb – “When It Rains” [Camp Lisa]
- The Hues Corporation – “Rock The Boat” [Rock The Boat]
- Ray Anthony and His Orchestra – “The Bunny Hop (Vocal Version)” [Capitol Collectors Series]
- Melanie – “Brand New Key” [Beautiful People: The Greatest Hits of Melanie]
- Christopher Cross – “Sailing” [Christopher Cross]
- The Surfaris – “Wipe Out” [Wipe Out]
- Lisa Loeb – “Stay (I Missed You)” [Tails]
- Neil Young – “Love is a Rose” [Decade]
- Renee & Friends – “Starfish and Coffee (feat. Maya Rudolph)” [Simpatico]
- The Monkees – “Last Train to Clarksville” [The Monkees]
- Joni Mitchell – “The Circle Game” [Ladies of the Canyon]
- Sister Sledge – “We Are Family” [We Are Family]
- Lisa Loeb – “It’s Not Goodbye” [Camp Lisa]
Learn Local. Play Local.: Fairy Tale to Folk Stories. Cider Pairing to Agricultural History.
August 2, 2019 at 4:00 pm (Highlights)
Tags: CBEdu, Community Based Education, Community Development, Experiential Learning, Lifelong Learning, Personalized Learning, place-based education, Placemaking, self-directed learning, Sense of Place
Community-Based Education Highlights
for Western Massachusetts
Revolutionary War ♦ Agricultural History ♦ Native American Heritage ♦ Shaker Foodways ♦ British Culture ♦ Blacksmithing ♦ Qi Gong ♦ Contemporary Dance ♦ Music Studies ♦ Musical Instruments ♦ Music Performance ♦ Classical Music ♦ Lawn Concert ♦ Outdoor Film ♦ Theater Studies ♦ Immersive Theater ♦ Fairy Tale ♦ Folk Stories ♦ Literature in Translation ♦ Nutritional Anthropology ♦ Cider Pairing ♦ Tea Time ♦ Lobster ♦ Marine Biology ♦ Beavers ♦ Owls ♦ Native Species ♦ Astronomy ♦ Economics ♦ Urban Ecology ♦ Rowing ♦ Helicopter ♦ Bike Repair ♦ Magic ♦ Paranormal ♦ Renaissance Fair ♦ Native American Festival ♦ Skillsharing ♦ Folk Traditions ♦ Community Meal ♦ Intergenerational ♦ Creative Free-Play ♦ Placemaking ♦ Commercial Free
These are just a few of the community-based education (CBEdu) highlights we featured this week in our eNewsletter for the week, Aug 3-9, 2019. Click through, peruse our list, and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play! ♥ Want to have our highlights and spotlights delivered to your inbox every Thursday? Click here to subscribe!
Learn Local. Play Local. is supported in part by a grant from the Agawam, Buckland, Deerfield, Gill, Hadley, New Salem, Plainfield, Shelburne Southampton, Tolland, and Westhampton Cultural Councils, local agencies that are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
100+ Suggested Events in Western MA: August 3-16, 2019
August 1, 2019 at 6:00 am (Hilltown Families, Suggested Events)
Tags: Community Based Education, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Western MA, western massachusetts
Awarded the “Essential Agent of Change Award” by the MDPH’s Massachusetts Essentials for Childhood, Hilltown Families is recognized as a leading family strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families continues to support the development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, farms, individuals, schools, and non-profit organizations are invited to collaborate with Hilltown Families in their community outreach. With 9,000 opt-in subscribers and 2.5+ million visits to our web site alone, Hilltown Families can deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out about our affordable advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by contacting us at info@hilltownfamilies.org… and scroll down to discover community-based educational events and community building opportunities happening this weekend and next week in Western MA!
SUBSCRIBE to our eNewsletter to stay up-to-date!
Class Directory
Dead-line: Aug 30
Reserve your spot today!
It’s time to reserve your spot in Hilltown Families’ annual Class Directory! Advertise your class, enrichment program, or private lesson in the region’s go-to, online resource for community-based educational opportunities in Western Massachusetts! Reach thousands of families in the region with our 2019-2020 Class Directory which will featured classes, enrichment programs, and private lessons happening across Western Massachusetts for children, teens, and lifelong learners. Add your listing at any time.
Take advantage of our special advertising package (pdf)!
Deadline to register: August 30th.
More Information. | Reserve a spot. | Submit your listing.
Bulletin Board
Aug 3-4
The Massachusetts Renaissance Faire is returning to the Cummington Fairgrounds on Aug 3 & 4. Enjoy all-day entertainment! Cheer for your favorite knight at the joust, watch as dancers flirt with fire, laugh with fairies, enjoy Renaissance music and much more. There are plenty of activities for children and adults to create memories together. Test your strength against a knight, listen to stories by an Auld Celt, shoot a real bow and arrow, and shop over 50 mystical vendors. Stay late on Saturday for their Adult-Only shows. Sunday, Aug 4 is Pet Day! They would love to see your well-behaved buddies at their faire. More info, including for overnight camping, at MassRenFaire.com.
Aug 3, 4, 6
Voted “Best Summer Theater,” PaintBox Theatre closes out its Sweet 16th Season by asking a prehistorically puzzling question, How Do Dinosaurs Go To School? Beloved Author Jane Yolen asks, “How Do Dinosaurs Go To School?” in her beloved children’s book. They’ve tasked themselves to try and answer that very question. PaintBox takes this ‘tail’ and twists it PaintBox style. Callum LaFrance tackles this feat, short arms, long neck, and all. Shows are: Aug 3, 10:30am & 1pm, Aug 4, 10:30am & 1pm, and Aug 6, 10:30am & 1pm at Williston Theater (18 Payson Avenue, Easthampton, MA.) Tickets: $10 at the door or at BrownPaperTickets (children under 2 are free.) paintboxtheatre@gmail.com, paintboxtheatre.org.
Wed in Aug
Aug 25 & 29
Sep 29
Featured Directories
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
August 3-16, 2019
Saturday, Aug 3 • Sunday, Aug 4
Monday, Aug 5 • Tuesday, Aug 6 • Wednesday, Aug 7
Thursday, Aug 8 • Friday, Aug 9
Saturday, Aug 10 • Sunday, Aug 11
Monday, Aug 12 • Tuesday, Aug 13 • Wednesday, Aug 14
Thursday, Aug 15 • Friday, Aug 16
Weekly eNewsletter | Advertise/Sponsorship | Cultural Itineraries | Berkshire Family Fun
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Farmers’ Markets | Storyhour & Playgroups| en Español
Summer Camping Adventures Promote Nature-Based Play and Learning
July 30, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families)
Tags: Camping, Experiental Learning, Nature Based Learning, nature based play
Summer Camping Adventures Promote Nature-Based Play and Learning
Camping is one of the most classic outdoor adventures of childhood, and thanks to the wealth of state parks and forests found locally, there are endless camping adventures to be had in western Massachusetts! From exposing young campers to sleeping outside to allowing children to experience all aspects of the local landscape, camping trips are full of meaningful experiences.
The long days and warm nights of summer provide the perfect conditions for family camping, a tradition that serves as one of childhood’s most classic summer adventures. Camping trips not only allow children to learn how to live outside of their homes, but provide them with the opportunity to engage in experiential learning about their surroundings during all hours of the day (and perhaps the night, too). From afternoon playtime in the woods to an evening of fireflies and campfires to the misty early morning hours that bring endless bird songs, camping trips offer ceaseless exposure to the sights, sounds, and smells of the world. As an added bonus, children who connect with their surroundings are many times more likely to practice environmentally friendly and conservation-minded behaviors as adults. Read the rest of this entry »
Fibonacci Sequence & Golden Ratio Drive Nature-Based Education
July 29, 2019 at 12:00 pm (Hilltown Families)
Tags: Fibonacci Sequence, math at home, Mathematics, nature based education, nature by numbers, nature education, nature patterns
Nature’s Patterns Reveals Mathematical Reasoning
The Fibonacci sequence describes the pattern in which flowers fit the most seeds possible into their centers.
Nature is filled with patterns – spirals, in particular, are especially noticeable in species of plants and animals. Sunflowers, for example, seem to spiral their seeds from their centers in some sort of mathematical pattern. Snail shells, too, show growth rings that become gradually larger as they spiral away from the shell’s center. Evergreen cones, heads of broccoli and cauliflower, and tree branches all display noticeable iterations of this spiraling pattern, too.
The spirals that appear all around us are no accident of nature – while they’re beautiful to look at, their purpose is much more important than vanity alone. Beneath the aesthetically pleasing shapes of petals, seeds, and branches are two fascinating mathematical concepts that explain nature’s tendency to expand in spirals. Read the rest of this entry »
HFVS Rock and Keep Rolling Episode with Guest DJ, Tim Seston (Podcast/Radio Show)
July 28, 2019 at 8:00 am (Hilltown Families)
Tags: podcast, Radio Show
Listen to Podcast:
HFVS Rock and Keep Rolling Episode with Guest DJ, Tim Seston
Exploring a single word through music can uncover the many ways we use language on an everyday basis. In this episode of the HFVS, the word “roll” in Rock and Keep Rolling is used to describe the movement of waves, wheat fields, and a manatee. It describes the fun of rolling down a hill to the more sophisticated meaning of letting something roll off you back. A roll can be a food item, or a drum sequence, or quite simply the partner of rock. – www.frompagetoplay.com
Saturday from 9-10am & Sunday from 7-8am
July 27th & 28th 2019
WXOJ LP – 103.3 FM – Valley Free Radio
Northampton, MA
Featured Video: Tim Seston – “Here to Play”
Archived Podcasts ♦ Radio ♦ Facebook ♦ Twitter
Listen to Podcast:
PLAYLIST
- Tim Seston – “Bring on the Thunder” [On a Roll]
- Doobee Brothers – “Black Water” [Best of the Doobees]
- Fran Friedman – “The Colors of the Earth” [Dreams for Tomorrow]
- Justin Roberts – “Rolling Down the Hill” [Lemonade]
- Tim Seston – “Rolling in the Mud” [Here to Play]
- Little Richard – “On Top of Spaghetti” [A Child’s Celebration of Silliest Songs]
- Karen K & the Jitterbugs – “Slow Roll” [Blue Bike Chronicles]
- Dorothy Cresswell – “Mary Manatee” [More Songs for Curious Kids]
- Keith Boynton – “Be Like a Duck” [Philadelphia Chickens]
- Tim Seston – “Jelly and Coral” [On a Roll]
- Andy Z – “This Land is Your Land” [Classic Songs & Traditional Tunes]
- Ratboy Jr. – “Bill” [Champions of the Universe]
- Wayne Potash – “Seven Nights to Rock” [Don’t Forget the Donut!]
- Liz Buchanan – “Rockin in the Rabbit Hole” [Once Upon a Tune]
- Uncle Devin – “Drum Roll Call” [Drum Tales!]
- Tim Seston – “On a Roll” [On a Roll]
Original broadcast: June 15th & 16th, 2018
