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Adoption Community of New England. Nonprofit organization providing adoption education since 1967. In Westborough, Mass. For information about programs, call (508) 366-6812. Or visit online at www.AdoptionCommunityofNE.org.
Amherst Family Center is a free drop-in program for parents and grandparents and their children. Located in downtown Amherst, the entrance is in the rear of the Unitarian Meetinghouse, 121 North Pleasant St. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a potluck lunch from noon to 1 p.m. On Wednesday and Friday, open 9 a.m. to noon. On Fridays, 9:30 to 11 a.m., an English Language Learner Parent Group meets. On Mondays, a Reach integrated play group meets at 9:30 a.m. (Pre-registration is required for the Monday playgroup: call (413) 585-1400.) For information, call (413) 256-1145.
Children's Museum at Holyoke (444 Dwight St.). Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m. "Think and Play Thursdays" for preschool children starts at 10:30 a.m. For information, call (413) 536-7048 Ext. 207 or online at www.childrensmuseumholyoke.org. Admission $6; Seniors, $3; children under 12 months, free.
Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst. Public art programs in the art studio are free with museum admission during regular museum hours. Museum admission: $7, adults; $5, seniors/youths/students; $20, family; free, children under 1. For more information, call (413) 658-1105 or online at www.picturebookart.org.
Earthwork Programs offers ongoing weekly and monthly programs for youth 6 and up. Children learn hands-on nature awareness activities such as ancient fire making, natural cordage, animal tracking, wilderness living skill, storytelling and more. Weekly and monthly programs are held at locations throughout the Pioneer Valley. Call Frank Grindrod, Earthwork Programs Director, at (413) 522-0338 or: www.earthworkprograms.com
Higgins Armory Museum. The Higgins Armory Museum in Worcester enjoys the distinction of being the only museum in the Western Hemisphere entirely devoted to the study and display of arms and armor. Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Closed Mondays (but open Feb. 18). Admission is $9, adults; $8, seniors; $7, children 6 to 16. Free to children 5 and under. Visit www.higgins.org for events and children's programming.
"The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens," 286 Prospect St., Northampton. Families with young children who have experienced the death of a close family member are invited to join this bi-monthly family support program. For families from Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden counties. For more information, call Shelly Bathe Lenn at (413) 584-7086 Ext. 124 or e-mail shelly.lenn@hrymca.org.
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame: Features hundreds of exhibits, interactive kiosks, memorabilia and more. An 80,000 square foot facility offers shooting baskets on a regulation court, measuring skills against sports legends in an interactive game, or anchoring a sportscast. Open Monday - Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: Adults: $16.99, Youths: $11.99 (5-15 years of age), Under 5 - free. Seniors: $13.99 (65+). For more information, call (413) 781-6500 or see: www.hoophall.com.
Old Sturbridge Village offers children's birthday parties on various themes, some seasonal, others offered year-round, for groups of up to eight children (ages 6 to 15) and two adults. Participants will don 1830s clothing and explore life in an earlier time. Details at www.osv.org. $165 fee ($135 for Village members). Parties are generally booked on Saturdays or during school vacation weeks at 10:30 a.m., noon, or 1:30 p.m. More information is available at (508) 347-0285 or online at www.osv.org.
"Art experiences for 2- to 4-year-olds," 10:30 a.m. at the Wheeler Memorial Library, 49 East Main St., Orange. Taught by Instructor Rachael Roberts. Registration and commitment to the series is necessary. Call Candy Cross at (978) 544-2495 Ext. 103.
"Storytime at Barnes & Noble," 335 Russell St., Hadley. 6 p.m. Free. Join us in the Children's Department for storytime, says Rebecca Fabian. We will read a book or two and then make a fun craft. Children of all ages are welcome. Please bring an adult friend. For more information, call (413) 584-2558.
"Music Kidz - Early Childhood Music and Movement." Sing along, play along, dance along at the place to explore, express and evolve understanding, appreciation and love of music. Ongoing registration. Tuesdays, 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. at Neighborhood Schoolhouse, 229 Western Ave., Brattleboro. First class free for new families. For information, call (802) 275-7478, or e-mail MusicKidz@aol.com.
Monday Nonotuck Park Playgroup, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., at the Nonotuck Park upper playground, Easthampton. Caregiver/parents and their children are welcome to play and make new friends! Free. Starting in May. Sponsored by the Easthampton Family Center. For information, call (413) 563-7672.
"Preschool Story Hour" at 10 a.m. at the Greenfield Public Library: Join Sally Ahearn Tuesday mornings for a weekly activity for children ages 5 and under. The hour includes stories, hand rhymes, and simple craft activities. For more information, call (413) 772-1544 Ext. 21. Free.
Rise and Read Story Hour at the Wheeler Memorial Library, 49 East Main St., Orange, Mass. Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m., bring your children to the Wheeler Memorial Library for an energizing hour of stories, songs, creative dramatics, and crafts. Call (978) 544-2495 Ext. 103 for information.
Nature's Story Time with Micky McKinley and friends, at the Hitchcock Center for the Environment, 525 So. Pleasant St., Amherst. "We'll read a storybook from our collection of wonderful nature-based children's books and follow it with a short activity," says McKinley. 11 a.m. Free. Pre-registration encouraged but not required. For information, call (413) 256-6006. www.hitchcockcenter.org.
MotherWoman Postpartum Stress Support Group. Free, drop-in group for mothers of infants and toddlers; siblings welcome up to age 4. A welcoming place for women with baby blues. Free child care and snacks. Community Action, 56 Vernon St., Northampton. Tuesdays, 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. For information, call Melanie at (413) 253-8990 or visit motherwoman.org.
"Sing with your Baby with Wendy Plummer." Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. starting Mar. 4 thru May 6. At the Jones Library, 43 Amity St., Amherst. For information, call (413) 259-3090.
"Cosmic Knitting Wizards," 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Wheeler Memorial Library, 49 East Main St., Orange. For all ages: Bring your knitting projects or come to learn how to knit with this energetic, creative multi-generational group. The Wizards do not meet during school vacations. For information, call Candy Cross at (978) 544-2495 Ext. 103.
Parents Helping Parents. Free and confidential parent support group in Amherst. If you're feeling frustrated or overwhelmed as a parent, come share your experiences while you gain support, parenting advice and encouragement from other parents. Group meets every Wednesday evening (no meeting April 23) in Amherst from 6:30 to 8 p.m., in the rear of the Unitarian Church, 121 North Pleasant St., Amherst. Call first: (413) 256-6940.
Sweet Dreams Story Hour at the Wheeler Memorial Library, 49 East Main St., Orange, Mass. Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Bring your children for a relaxing hour of stories, songs, creative dramatics, and crafts. Call (978) 544-2495 Ext. 103 for information.
"Beetle Bop," an Intergenerational Music and Movement Group for children preschool age and younger. Older siblings are also welcome. The free group meets at 10:30 a.m. at Rockridge Retirement Community, 25 Coles Meadow Road, Northampton. No reservations required. Children sing songs familiar to both the young and the seniors. Refreshments are included. For more information, call Julie at (413) 586-2902 Ext. 14 or e-mail jwysk@nedeaconess.com.
MotherWoman Support Group for Mothers of Young Children. Free, ongoing drop-in group to discuss the adjustment to and complexities of motherhood. Free snacks and child care. Amherst Family Center, Unitarian Church, downtown Amherst. Wednesdays, 10 to 11:30 a.m. For information, call Melanie at (413) 253-8990 or visit motherwoman.org.
Drop-in Playgroups. The Easthampton Family Center is holding drop-in playgroups on Wednesday and Friday mornings from 10 to noon at Christ United Methodist Church in Northampton. Caregiver/Parents and their children, up to 4 years old, are welcome to play, create, sing and make new friends! 271 Rocky Hill Road (Route 66). (413) 563-7672.
"Think and Play Thursdays at The Children's Museum at Holyoke," 444 Dwight St., Holyoke. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This weekly program is designed for preschool-age museum visitors and offers guided learning experiences emphasizing children's literature as a vehicle for exploration and fun. Free with museum admission. ($6, children and adults; $3, seniors; free, under age 1) For information, call (413) 536-KIDS
"Mothers Circle," a new program for non-Jewish mothers raising Jewish children. Free. Co-sponsored by the Jewish Family Service of Western Massachusetts and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. No prior knowledge is required. In Northampton on Thursday nights. For more information about the Northampton Mothers Circle, call Shoshana at (413) 439-1946 or Roz Torrey at (413) 582-6790. Also in Springfield on Tuesday mornings, call Lisa at (413) 737-2601 Ext. 134. www.themotherscircle.org.
"Preschool Story Time," 10:30 a.m. in the children's room at the Jones Library, Amity Street, Amherst. For information, call (413) 259-3090.
"Parenting Together: Infants, Toddlers and more," a drop-in group to discuss the successes and challenges of parenting. Every Thursday (except Apr. 24) from 10 to 11:15 a.m. in the rear of the Unitarian Church, 121 North Pleasant St., Amherst. Free. Sponsored by the Amherst Family Center. For information, call Randa at (413) 256-1125.
"Mother Goose on the Loose:" Friday morning story hour at the Greenfield Public Library with Kay Lyons. 10 to 10:45 a.m. for infants; 11 to 11:45 a.m. for toddlers. For more information, call (413) 772-1544 Ext. 5. Free.
"Storytime at Barnes & Noble," 335 Russell St., Hadley. 10 a.m. Free. Join us in the Children's Department for storytime, says Rebecca Fabian. We will read a book or two and then make a fun craft. Children of all ages are welcome. Please bring an adult friend. For more information, call (413) 584-2558.
"Astronomy Every Saturday." Free public programs for all ages in Amherst and Northampton every Saturday, April through November. For more information, go online to www.amherstastronomy.org.
Saturday morning story hour at the Buckland Library for young children, 10:30 a.m. This program, supported by the Family Networks of Franklin County and the Trustees, gives parents and children an opportunity to share books together. Includes a craft and a snack. Free. For information, call (413) 625-9412.
Families who have experienced the death of a close family member are invited to meet others, share, make art and new friends Sunday afternoons at the Hampshire Regional YMCA in Northampton. Sponsored by The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens. Prior registration required; call Shelly Bathe Lenn at (413) 584-7086 Ext. 124 for more information.
"Baskets and More: A Family Friendly History Workshop" at Historic Deerfield. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn about the many types and uses of baskets for 18th-century Native and English people of New England. Make a basket to take home. Included with general admission: Adults, $14, youths 6-21, $5; under 6 and members, free. For info, call (413) 775-7214 or online at www.historic-deerfield.org.
"The Pop Rockets: Be Noisy in the Library Show!" at the Jones Library, 43 Amity St., Amherst. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Get ready to dance and rock out to Pioneer Valley's own popular pop/rock band for kids and their grownups! Free, thanks to Friends of Jones Library and The Amherst Cultural Council.
"Storytime: The Lorax" at the Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls. Geared toward 4 to 8-year-olds. 11 a.m. to noon. Free. For info, call (413) 863-3221 or online at www.greatfallsma.org.
"Teddy Bear Tea with Mrs. Claus," at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. 11 a.m. Bring your favorite Teddy Bear and have tea and lunch. Mrs. Claus will read "Brown Paper Teddy Bear." Award-winning kids' menu will be available. For information, call (413) 665-1277.
Children's Meditation Course" at the Vipassana Meditation Center in Shelburne Falls. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For kids aged 8 to 12. Learn to meditate practicing an ancient technique of breath awareness. There will be time for crafts, games and stories. Course is offered on a donation basis. For information, call (413) 625-2160 or online at www.dhara.dhamma.org.
"Roots & Wings," monthly drop-in group for mothers of teens and young adults. First Sunday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Synthesis Center, North Pleasant Street, Amherst. $10 per session. For information, call (413) 253-8990.
"Storytime: Baby Animals" at Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls. Join Refuge staff in reading stories about baby animals. Some hands-on activities and, weather permitting, an outside adventure. Free. For information, call (413) 863-3221 or online at www.greatfallsma.org.
"Maisy the Mouse Visits the Holyoke Merry-go-round." 1 to 3 p.m., 221 Appleton St., Holyoke. Rides are $1 or 6 for $5. For more information, call (413) 538-9838 or online at www.holyokemerrygoround.org.
"Fancy Nancy Luncheon" at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. 11 a.m. Dress fancy for the luncheon and we will read the book, "Fancy Nancy," by Jane O'Connor. Award-winning kids' menu will be available. For information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Remington Family Fun Day" at the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, 225 South St., Williamstown. Noon to 4 p.m. Saddlel up and ride a pony, create bucking bronco sculptures, be entertained by Cowboy Rudy, visit the miniature horse petting zoo, watch "Mr. Ed" episodes, and enjoy family-frirendly "inside Scoop" talks on Remington Looking West with the curator. Admission is free November through May. For more information, call (413) 458-2303 or visit www.clarkart.edu.
"Third Saturday Hike Series with Body Shoppe." 9 a.m. to noon. Free. For ages 12 and older. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation & Environmental Center. 99 Millers Falls Road, Northfield. Join this group hiking experience through beautiful natural areas as a part of your path to fitness. This route: Turners Falls Bike Path. Northfield naturalist Beth Bazler will share natural and cultural history. Body Shoppe Web site www.tbs-opt.com. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
"Teddy Bear Tea with Mrs. Claus," at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. 11 a.m. Bring your favorite Teddy Bear and have tea and lunch. Mrs. Claus will read "Brown Paper Teddy Bear." Award-winning kids' menu will be available. For information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Sheep Week for Kids," at Winterberry Farm, 21 Teawaddle Hill Road, Leverett. Each kid takes care of a ewe and her lamb/s all week, weighing and measuring and just hanging out. For children in grades 2 and up, who bring a lunch each day. From 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Limited to 8. $240 per child. Call (413) 548-3940 or visit www.winterberryfarm.org.
"Patriot's Day at The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round," 221 Appleton St., Holyoke. Make a flower pop craft. 1 to 3 p.m. For information, call (413) 538-9838 or online at www.holyokemerrygoround.org.
"Live Music for Kids," at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. Guitarist Tom Carroll will play interactive kids' music. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Earth Day at The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round," 221 Appleton St., Holyoke. Bring a tin can for an earth-friendly planting project. 1 to 3 p.m. For information, call (413) 538-9838 or online at www.holyokemerrygoround.org.
"Celebrate Earth Day" with award-winning singer/storyteller Sarah Pirtle. 10:30 a.m. at Wheeler Memorial Library, 49 East Main St., Orange. Free. For information, call Candy Cross at (978) 544-2495 Ext. 103.
"Live Music for Kids," at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. Guitarist Tom Carroll will play interactive kids' music. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Webkinz Day at The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round." Bring your Webkinz for a ride and receive a raffle ticket for a Webkinz Horse. Webkinz crafts and fun! For information, call (413) 538-9838 or online at www.holyokemerrygoround.org.
"Skip into Science," with certified elementary teacher Cynthia LeBlanc, who will share stories, songs and lots of hands-on activities involving science and nature. 6 p.m. at the Wheeler Memorial Library, 49 East Main St., Orange. Free. For information, call Candy Cross at (978) 544-2495 Ext. 103.
"Pig Out on Reading," with Farmer Minor and his real, life, large and famous pig, Daisy. 1:30 p.m. at the Wheeler Memorial Library, 49 East Main St., Orange. After hearing stories and reading to Daisy, at about 2:15 p.m. all ages are welcome to pet Daisy, take pictures with her and have their faces painted. Free. For information, call Candy Cross at (978) 544-2495 Ext. 103.
"Spring Chick Craft at the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round," 221 Appleton St., Holyoke. 1 to 3 p.m. For information, call (413) 538-9838 or online at www.holyokemerrygoround.org.
"Dinner with Santa," at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. Santa will join each table. 4:30, 5 and 5:30 p.m. Reservations suggested: (413) 665-1277.
"Linking Reading and Music," by the Pioneer Valley Brass Low Brass Trio. 10 a.m. Come attend this concert for free at the Wheeler Memorial Library, 49 East Main St., Orange. For information, call (978) 544-2495 Ext. 103.
"Spring Blossom Tree Craft at The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round," 221 Appleton St., Holyoke. 1 to 3 p.m. For information, call (413) 538-9838 or online at www.holyokemerrygoround.org.
"Basic Birding." Join staff at the Great Falls Discovery Center (2 Avenue A, Turners Falls) to look for birds in the neighborhood. 8 to 10 a.m. Open to birders of all ages and abilities. Free. For information, call (413) 863-3221 or online at www.greatfallsma.org.
"Skin-n-Bonz Junkyard Brass Band." 2 to 3 p.m. at the Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls. This hands-on early childhood music enrichment event is sure to delight. Bring your children to make their own instruments and jam with the Dixieland Band. Free. For information, call (413) 863-3221 or online at www.greatfallsma.org.
"Fancy Nancy Luncheon" at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. 11 a.m. Dress fancy for the luncheon and we will read the book, "Fancy Nancy," by Jane O'Connor. Award-winning kids' menu will be available. For information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Backyard Poultry," a how-to workshop for families, at Winterberry Farm, 21 Teawaddle Hill Road in Leverett. We'll talk about raising chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and guineas. 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. $25 per family. For information, call (413) 548-3940 or visit www.winterberryfarm.org.
"The Mane Event!" Horse fun for kids at the Holyoke Merry-go-round, 221 Appleton St., Holyoke. Horseracing fun in honor of the upcoming Kentucky Derby. Horse crafts, horse games and fun. Free Webkinz horse raffle. Noon to 4 p.m. For information, call (413) 538-9838 or online at www.holyokemerrygoround.org.
"Family Fiddleheads, Flowers & Frogs." 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. For ages 6 and older. Free. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center. Stroll along the banks of the Connecticut River and feast your senses on the beauty of spring wildflowers, the green/earthy taste of just picked and boiled fiddle heads and the sounds of an enthusiastic spring peeper chorus. Program begins at Northfield Mountain Visitor Center. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
"Teddy Bear Tea with Mrs. Claus," at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. 11 a.m. Bring your favorite Teddy Bear and have tea and lunch. Mrs. Claus will read "Brown Paper Teddy Bear." Award-winning kids' menu will be available. For information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Play and Healing Spring Festival: A free, fun-filled day for the whole family on World Laughter Day." 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Rain date: May 10) Sweetser Park, Main Street, Amherst (across from The Black Sheep). Featuring: Hula hooping, new games, Laughter Yoga, Tai Chi/Qi Gong, Ultimate Medicine Ball and other fun and wholesome activities. Sponsored by The Play for All Cooperative. For information, call (413) 253-3562 or online at http://playforall.ning.com.
"A Walk/Run to Remember," sponsored by The Garden: A center for Grieving Children and Teens. Registration ($30) at 8:30 a.m. at Hampshire Regional YMCA, 286 Prospect St., Northampton. Free entertainment and snacks following with The Pop Rockets and Clifford, the Big Red Dog. Call Shelly for more information: (413) 584-7086 Ext. 124.
"Frogs and Toads: A Singing Tribute to Arnold Lobel," 3 p.m. at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst. Free. (Does not include museum admission.) For information: (413) 658-1105.
"Fancy Nancy Luncheon" at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. 11 a.m. Dress fancy for the luncheon and we will read the book, "Fancy Nancy," by Jane O'Connor. Award-winning kids' menu will be available. For information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Sensational Seasons! Buds & Blossoms," a free workshop for families with young children. 10 to 11 a.m. Join educator Rachel Roberts for hands-on art and science activities exploring the parts and processes of plants in springtime. No pre-registration required. Sponsored by the Great Falls Discovery Center. For more information, call (413) 774-7290 or e-mail robertsrml@verizon.net.
"Third Saturday Hike Series with Body Shoppe." 9 a.m. to noon. Free. For ages 12 and older. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation & Environmental Center. 99 Millers Falls Road, Northfield. Join this group hiking experience through beautiful natural areas as a part of your path to fitness. This route: Erving Mountain Road via Mt. Crag to Northfield Brushy Mountain on the M&M trail. Northfield naturalist Beth Bazler will share natural and cultural history. Body Shoppe Web site www.tbs-opt.com. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
"Northampton Community Music Center's Springfest!" 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., downtown Northampton. Free. Enjoy the music of students and faculty members in a joyous, casual environment! For more information, call (413) 585-0001.
"Teddy Bear Tea with Mrs. Claus," at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. 11 a.m. Bring your favorite Teddy Bear and have tea and lunch. Mrs. Claus will read "Brown Paper Teddy Bear." Award-winning kids' menu will be available. For information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Children's Day of China and Japan." 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. atop Memorial Park at the Kiwanis Shelter, Brattleboro, Vt. For all ages: Music, games, craft activities, calligraphy, poetry. Free event with donations appreciated to offset cost of space rental. Potluck refreshments: Bring a dish or snack to share. Event combines the early May Japanese festival with the early June Chinese festival. Sponsored by the Asian Cultural Center of Vermont. For information, call (802) 257-7898 Ext. 1 or visit www.asianculturalcentervt.org.
"Fancy Nancy Luncheon" at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. 11 a.m. Dress fancy for the luncheon and we will read the book, "Fancy Nancy," by Jane O'Connor. Award-winning kids' menu will be available. For information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Wildweed Walk Along the Mill River in Northampton," with naturalist Blanche Derby. Sponsored by the Appalachian Mountain Club. 1 to 3 p.m. Free. Meet in front of the Smith College Parking Garage on West Street in Northampton. For information, call (413) 584-3381.
"Farm Day for Teens" at Winterberry Farm, 21 Teawaddle Hill Road, Leverett. We'll do one or two farm projects, spend a lot of time with the animals, eat a big farm lunch and more. $5. For more information, call (413) 548-3940 or visit www.winterberryfarm.org.
"Teddy Bear Tea with Mrs. Claus," at Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle, South Deerfield. 11 a.m. Bring your favorite Teddy Bear and have tea and lunch. Mrs. Claus will read "Brown Paper Teddy Bear." Award-winning kids' menu will be available. For information, call (413) 665-1277.
"Boys on the Farm," at Winterberry Farm, 21 TeawaddleHill Road, Leverett. A day just for boys (grades 1-6). We'll do chores, build a pen and a birdfeeder to take home and more. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Kids bring a lunch; snacks provided. Limited to 6 boys. $45. For information, call (413) 548-3940 or visit www.winterberryfarm.org.
"Fun with Art: An Art Class for Children & Caregivers." Wheeler Memorial Library, Orange. In this three-workshop series, students will complete three projects under the direction of Instructor Rachel Roberts. Must register and commit to the series. Limit of 8 child/caregiver pairs. Free. Call (978) 544-2495 Ext. 103 to register. Made possible by the Library Services and Technology Act.
"Family Breeding Bird Survey." 8 to 10:30 a.m. For ages 6 and older. Free. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center, 99 Millers Falls Road, Northfield. After a brief indoor introduction to some birds we might see, we'll head out on the property to look for nesting birds including stops at our bird boxes. Bring binoculars if you have them. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
"Eating Local the Wild Way, with Blanche Cybele Derby." 1 to 3 p.m. For ages 12 and older. Free. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center. Author, artist, life-long forager and cook, Blanche's 30 years of foraging and preparing wild foods give her an intimate knowledge of plants through the seasons. Take this field walk to learn which plants are in season and how to gather and prepare them at home. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
"Paddling Vernon to Pauchaug with the Conn. River Watershed Council." 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For ages 12 and older. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center. Join River Steward Andrea Donlon and naturalist Beth Bazler on this 6-1/2 mile paddle from the Vernon Dam, by nesting bald eagles, the mouth of the Ashuelot River and a Native American settlement site. Fee: $10 per boat with own boat; $25 with own boat shuttled; $50 with rental. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
"Third Saturday Hike Series with Body Shoppe." 9 a.m. to noon. Free. For ages 12 and older. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation & Environmental Center. 99 Millers Falls Road, Northfield. This route: Northfield Mountain, mountain laurel and ledges on the solstice. Northfield naturalist Beth Bazler will share natural and cultural history. Body Shoppe Web site www.tbs-opt.com. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
"Meadowedge Art Open House," in Bernardston. 1 to 4 p.m. Check out 4 upcoming afternoon workshops for the summer: Fabric arts, clay, printmaking and stone carving. For children 4 to 13. For information, call Cynthia Fulton at (413) 648-0045 or log on to www.meadowedgeart.com.
(OK) "Beach Buddies." 9 a.m. to noon. For ages 6 and older. Free. Participants will collect animals from the Northfield Mountain Pond and then work in research teams using magnifiers and simple tools to observe pond life. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
(OK) "Third Saturday Hike Series with Body Shoppe." 9 a.m. to noon. Free. For ages 12 and older. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation & Environmental Center. 99 Millers Falls Road, Northfield. Join this group hiking experience through beautiful natural areas as a part of your path to fitness. This route: Wendell State Forest to Farley on the M&M Trail. Northfield naturalist Beth Bazler will share natural and cultural history. Body Shoppe Web site www.tbs-opt.com. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
(OK) "Third Saturday Hike Series with Body Shoppe." 9 a.m. to noon. Free. For ages 12 and older. Sponsored by Northfield Mountain Recreation & Environmental Center. 99 Millers Falls Road, Northfield. Join this group hiking experience through beautiful natural areas as a part of your path to fitness. This route: Northfield Mountain to Erving on the M&M Trail. Northfield naturalist Beth Bazler will share natural and cultural history. Body Shoppe Web site www.tbs-opt.com. Pre-register by calling (800) 859-2960.
Please submit your upcoming events for our next issue and online at valleykids.com by e-mailing them to Chris Harris at charris@recorder.com. Put "Valley Kids Calendar" in subject line. Or call (413) 772-0261 Ext. 265.