Calendar of Events
Looking for something fun to do? The Parent Express Calendar of Events includes information on museum and nature activities, playgroups, storytimes, workshops and classes, music and theater performances, and family support and education throughout Windham and Cheshire counties. The calendar is updated as new events come in, so be sure to bookmark the page (just click Ctrl-D on your keyboard) and check back regularly for the latest offerings.
If you have an event you would like to ad to the calendar, please send an e-mail to calendar@parentexpress.net. The deadline is the second Wednesday of the month prior to publication (i.e.; content for September needs to be submitted by the second Wednesday of August). If you have any questions, please call (603) 352-6278 or (802) 257-8630.
Last Updated: Wednesday, June 3, 2009
June 2009 Calendar:
General Events • Museum, Farm and Nature Activities • Weekly Playgroups • Storytimes • Classes/Workshops for Children •
Music and Theater • Family Support and Education
Music and Theater • Family Support and Education
General Events
Friday 5
Chesterfield. Wildlife Encounters: 6:30 p.m. As the summer reading program is “Summertime, and the Reading is Easy,” the variety of live animals presented will represent summer. Presented by The Friends of Chesterfield Library. Chesterfield Town Hall.
Saturday 6
Woodstock. Trek to Tastes on the Trails of Woodstock: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Woodstock Trails Partnership announces a new event celebrating impressive network of 30 miles walking trails, bounty of locally grown and produced foods, and healthy living. Starting at the Forest Center of the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park walks to delicious local food will take place for every age and ability. Information: www.woodstockvt.com or www.walkwoodstockvt.com.
Wednesday 10
Keene. City of Keene Parks & Recreation Department Summer Concert: 7 to 8:30 p.m. American Legion Post #4 Band. Bring your own lawn chair and enjoy. COST: free but donations are appreciated. Recreation Center, 312 Washington St. Information: (603) 357-9829.
Saturday 13
Winchester. Monadnock Youth Healthy Choices Family Fun Day: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date: June 20. This event will include ATV safety training, bicycle rodeo, Kung fu demonstrations, door prizes, goodie bags, and more. Monadnock Speedway, Route 10. Information: Angela Stebbins, (603) 239-8390.
Keene. Creative Dance Festival Day-Dr. Seuss: 9:30 and 10:45 a.m., 12:30, 1:45, 2:30 and 4 p.m. COST: $5. MoCo Arts, 76 Railroad St. Information: (603) 357-2100, www.moco.org.
Sunday 14
Keene. Creative Dance Festival Day-Dr. Seuss: 2 and 4 p.m. COST: $5. MoCo Arts, 76 Railroad St. Information: (603) 357-2100, www.moco.org.
Tuesday 16
Keene. Storytime Theatre-Dr. Seuss: 5:30 p.m. COST: $5. MoCo Arts, 76 Railroad St. Information: (603) 357-2100, www.moco.org.
Wednesday 17
Keene. City of Keene Parks & Recreation Department Summer Concert: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Westmoreland Town Band. Bring your own lawn chair and enjoy. COST: free but donations are appreciated. Recreation Center, 312 Washington St. Information: (603) 357-9829.
Monday 22
Keene. JUST Dance Summer Camp: through June 26, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ages 4-8, After Care, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. COST: $185. MoCo Arts, 76 Railroad St. Information and registration: (603) 357-2100, www.moco.org.
Westminster. Free Children’s Concert: Yellow Barn Music Festival presents the award-winning percussion ensemble, So Percussion, at Kurn Hattin Homes, in the main Kurn Hattin auditorium building at 12:45 p.m. Open to the public. Information: (802) 387-6617 ext. 101.
Tuesday 23
Charlestown. Voices of the Past Cemetery Walk: 6:30 p.m. Presented by the Charlestown Historical Society. Dressed in period costume, these earlier neighbors tell of their lives and times, making the history of the community come alive. Forest Hill Cemetery. COST: donation. Information: Joyce Higgins, (603) 826-9726.
Brattleboro. Free Children’s Concert -Yellow Barn Music Festival presents the award-winning percussion ensemble, So Percussion, at Mulberry Bush Daycare Center on the grounds of Retreat Healthcare in the Main Building at 10 a.m. Program for young children, open to the public. Information: (802) 387-6637 ext. 101.
E. Dummerston. Free Concert for Children and Families – 6:30 p.m. at Evening Star Grange on East-West Road in East Dummerston. Award-winning percussion ensemble, So Percussion, will perform presented by Yellow Barn Music School & Festival. All Welcome. Information: (802) 387-6637 ext. 101.
Wednesday 24
Keene. City of Keene Parks & Recreation Department Summer Concert: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wild Nightz. Bring your own lawn chair and enjoy. COST: free but donations are appreciated. Central Square Bandstand. In case of rain, Recreation Center, multi-purpose room. 312 Washington St. Information: (603) 357-9829.
Friday 26
Townshend. Be Creative at the Library: 10 a.m. Summer reading program kickoff. All children are welcome to register and join in the fun and games. COST: free. Townshend Public Library. Information: (802) 365-4039.
Saturday 27
Gilsum. 45th Annual Gilsum Rock Swap and Mineral Show: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy a touch of country fair flavor as more than 70 dealers and swappers with gems, jewelry or minerals exhibit items for sale or trade. COST: free, but donation requested. Rain or shine. Gilsum Elementary School and Community Center, 640 Route 10.
Brattleboro. Tour de Book: three beautiful bike rides start and end at the Retreat Petting Farm on Route 30. COST: $25/adults; $5/youth who provide their own pedal power; free for children in bike trailers. Food and drink are provided at rest stops, and all proceeds will help support the Windham County Reads Bookmobile Program. Information: (802) 257-5725, wcreads@sover.net. Registration: windhamcountyreads.org/tourdebook.asp.
Sunday 28
Gilsum. 45th Annual Gilsum Rock Swap and Mineral Show: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. See June 27 for description.
Monday 29
Keene. Music & Movement Camp: through July 3, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ages 4-8, After Care, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. COST: $185. MoCo Arts, 76 Railroad St. Informatiion and registration: (603) 357-2100, www.moco.org.
Springfield. Meeting Waters YMCA Lewis Day Camp Session 1A: June 29-July 3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (plus bussing time). Bussing from Brattleboro, Dummerston, Putney, Westminster, Bellows Falls, Walpole, Alstead, and six other Vt. and N.H. towns. Swim lessons, free swim, archery, canoeing, arts and crafts, adventure games, sports, nature, theater arts. Ages 6-13. COST: $150 plus $25 registration fee. Financial assistance available and child care subsidy accepted. Information: www.meetingwatersymca.org, info@meetingwatersymca.org, (802) 463-4769.
Springfield. Meeting Waters YMCA Lewis Day Camp Session 1: June 29-July 10, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (plus bussing time). Bussing from Brattleboro, Dummerston, Putney, Westminster, Bellows Falls, Walpole, Alstead, and six other Vt. and N.H. towns. Swim lessons, free swim, archery, canoeing, arts and crafts, adventure games, sports, nature, theater arts. Ages 6-13. COST: $275 plus $25 registration fee. Financial assistance available and child care subsidy accepted. Information: www.meetingwatersymca.org, info@meetingwatersymca.org, (802) 463-4769.
Mondays
Bellows Falls. Family Fun Night: 5 p.m. Rockingham Public Free Library, 65 Westminster St. Information: (802) 463-4270.
Tuesdays
Bellows Falls. Knit Wits: 5 to 7 p.m. No program on Tuesday, Jan. 20. Rockingham Public Free Library, 65 Westminster St. Information: (802) 463-4270.
Keene. Knitting @ Your Library: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Held in the Youth Program Room at the Keene Public Library, 60 Winter St. Information: Gail Zachariah, (603) 352-0157.
Wednesdays
Rindge. 4th and 5th Girls Book Club: 3:15 p.m. Second Wednesday of the month. Public school and homeschool girls welcome. A book is read and discussed the following month along with a craft. 60 minute program. Ingalls Memorial Library. Information: Mrs. Connor, (603) 899-3303 or georgi@ingallslibrary.com.
Rindge. Middle School Girls Book Club: 3 p.m. Third Wednesday of the month. Public school and homeschool girls welcome. A book is read and discussed the following month along with a craft. 60 minute program. Ingalls Memorial Library. Information: Mrs. Connor, (603) 899-3303 or georgi@ingallslibrary.com.
Rindge. Lego Club for Boys: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Fourth Wednesday of the month. Public school and homeschool girls welcome. Ages 5 and up. 60 minute program. Ingalls Memorial Library. Information: Mrs. Connor, (603) 899-3303 or georgi@ingallslibrary.com.
Thursdays
Bellows Falls. Afterschool Activities. 3:30 p.m. Rockingham Public Free Library, 65 Westminster St. Information: (802) 463-4270.
Guilford. Walk To The Library After School: 3:15 p.m. For ages 6-12. Meet Cathi on the school porch and walk with her down to the library. Each week there’s an art or craft project, as well as great books, card and board games, and four public access computers. Homeschoolers are welcome to participate too. Guilford Free Library. Information: (802) 254-6545.
Keene. Guitar Hero (Wii) Battle of the Bands: Thursdays, 3 to 5 p.m. Get your Guitar Hero World Tour (Wii) band together and show your stuff. A running score of contestants will be kept and at the end the winning bands will be announced. Keene Public Library, 60 Winter St. Information: (603) 352-0157.
Fridays
Bellows Falls. Dungeons and Dragons. 5 to 9 p.m. Pre-registration required. Rockingham Public Free Library, 65 Westminster St. Information: (802) 463-4270.
Brattleboro. Belly Dancing For Life – At Any Age! Thursdays March 5 through April 9. 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. This beginner belly dance class is for all shapes, sizes, and ages. Build posture, flexibility, and coordination while learning the basics of belly dance movement in a fun and supportive environment. COST: $60/6 weeks, $13/walk-in. Brattleboro Memorial Hospital, Brew Barry Conference Center. Information or registration: (802) 257-8877.
Guilford. Walk To The Library After School: 3:15 p.m. For ages 6-12. Meet Cathi on the school porch and walk with her down to the library. Each week there’s an art or craft project, as well as gazillions of great books, card and board games, and four public access computers. Homeschoolers are welcome to participate too. Guilford Free Library. Information: (802) 254-6545.
Rindge. Homeschoolers Program. 2 p.m. Second Friday of the month. Preschool through middle school age children. Each month a different theme, guest speakers. 60 minute program. Ingalls Memorial Library. Information: Mrs. Connor, (603) 899-3303 or georgi@ingallslibrary.com.
Saturdays
Rindge. Family Lego Time: 9:30 to 11 a.m. Boys, girls, and parents can drop in and have fun building things with Legos. Ingalls Memorial Library. Information: Mrs. Connor, (603) 899-3303 or georgi@ingallslibrary.com.
Museum, Farm and Nature Activities
Saturday 6
Keene. Children’s Activities at the Keene Farmer’s Market: 9 a.m. to noon. Sponsored by Stonewall Farm. Worm composting! Get dirty, and explore the role that the worm plays in gardening. Story time and children’s activity. Stonewall Farm Booth, Gilbo Avenue. Information: (603) 357-7278.
Saturday 13
Keene. Fun on the Farm: Big Trucks Day: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., antique tractor display; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., climb up on our farm equipment and see what it’s like. Also, refreshments, scooped ice cream, hay rides and the farm stand will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. COST: nominal admission fee. Stonewall Farm, 242 Chesterfield Road. Information: (603) 357-7278, www.stonewallfarm.org.
Wednesday 17
Grafton. Mighty Acorns Preschool Explorers Club: 10 a.m. to noon. Ages 3-5. Celebrate the start of summer with this fun-filled time for preschoolers and their caregivers. Explore the outside and inside the museum. Enjoy hands-on creativity that connects children more closely to the natural world. COST: $3/members; $7/non-members. Pre-registration preferred. The Nature Museum at Grafton, 186 Townshend Road. Information: (802) 843-2111, www.nature-museum.org.
Saturday 20
Woodstock. 4th Annual Spring Wagon Ride Weekend: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring half-hour narrated horse-drawn wagon rides around the farm fields and along the Ottauquechee River. Billings Farm & Museum, Route 12. Information: (802) 457-2355, www.billingsfarm.org.
Sunday 21
Woodstock. 4th Annual Spring Wagon Ride Weekend: See June 20 for description.
Monday 22
Woodstock. Wild & Woolly Week: through June 26, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For children ages 8-14. Meet and learn about the farm’s Southdown ewes and lambs. Hands-on activities will include weaving and spinning, rug braiding, knitting, and dyeing wool. Also, ice cream making, hiking, writing sheep poetry, touring the barns and more. COST: $225 members/$275 non-members. Billings Farm & Museum, Route 12. Space is limited. Information and registration: (802) 457-2355.
Wednesday 24
Bellows Falls. Backyard Pollinators: Butterflies, Bees…and Flies? 7 p.m. Certified Wildlife Habitat Naturalist Bonnie Caruthers will discuss the lives of pollinators, the part they play in human lives, the threats they face, and the difference people can make in their own backyard. Co-sponsored by The Nature Museum at Grafton, Rockingham Library, Ascutney Mountain Audubon, and partially funded by TransCanada. COST: free. Rockingham Free Public Library. Information: (802) 843-2111, www.nature-museum.org.
Ongoing
Brattleboro. Retreat Petting Farm: Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm; Sunday, 12-4pm. Family fun for all ages. Pet and interact with more than 50 farm animals. Open rain or shine. Route 30, next to the new Grafton Village Cheese facility. Information: (802) 257-2240, www.theretreatfarm.com.
Grafton. Grafton Ponds Nordic Ski and Recreation Center: Information or a complete schedule of events: (802) 843-2211, www.graftonponds.com.
Norwich. Summer Camp Program Registration: Register now. Explore, invent, play, create, swim, hike, and discover nature up close. The Montshire offers a host of terrific summer camp opportunities for children in preschool to those entering 8th grade. One week sessions beginning June 22 to Aug. 21. Register online at www.montshire.org/summercamp2009. Information: (802) 649-2200, www.montshire.org.
Weekly Playgroups
Mondays
Keene. Morning Playtime (infant to 2-years): 10am-Noon. 2nd and 4th Monday. Home, Healthcare, Hospice and Community Services. Information and location: Elizabeth Raposa, parent outreach coordinator, (603) 355-3082.
Keene. Monadnock Waldorf School Parent-Child Playgroup: 9-11am or Noon-2pm. For children up to age 3 ½ accompanied by a parent. The morning includes playtime for the children and activities to keep parent hands busy, too. Stories, songs, snack, and outside play all led by an experienced teacher. Siblings up to 4 ½ are welcome. COST: $75-$150 per session. Monadnock Waldorf Nursery-Kindergarten, 424 Old Walpole Road. Information and registration: (603) 357-4442.
Tuesdays
Bellows Falls. Falls Playschool Playgroup: 12:30-2:30pm. Children ages birth to 5 are welcome with their parents or caregivers. Monthly themes, snacks and fun. Falls Playschool, 12 Church St. Information: Jen Leonard, (802) 428-2013; Lori McDermid, (802) 463-4354; fallsplayschool@hotmail.com.
Brattleboro. Playgroup: 2-4pm. For young children of African and Caribbean descent and their families. During open swim at Living Memorial Park swimming pool in Brattleboro. All are welcome in an effort to promote cross-cultural interaction. Contact info: (802) 874-4770 or (802) 380-6263.
Keene. ToddlerTime: 1pm. For ages 2-3. Home, Healthcare, and Hospice, Marlboro Street. Information: Elizabeth Raposa at (603) 355-3082, or Mary Cullity at (603) 352-2253.
Keene. Preschool Playtime: 10:30am-Noon. For children and parents up to age 5. An unsupervised program, but children have access to the mats, balls and craft materials. COST: $20/family for the season. Keene Recreation Center, 312 Washington St. Information or registration: (603) 357-9829.
Keene. Playgroup Sponsored by the Cheshire Valley Playgroup: 10am-Noon. At-home dads welcome. Meets year-round at the playground equipment at Wheelock Park (weather permitting). Information: Call John and Laura at (603) 357-7602.
Rockingham. Playgroup: 10-11:30am. Rockingham, including Bellows Falls and Saxton River, and Athens, and Grafton. Facilitated by Tracy Binet-Perrin Early Education Outreach Coordinator. We will read a story, have a snack and try a themed activity. Cherry Hill Playground. For more information, call Tracy at (603) 363-4245.
Wednesdays
Bellows Falls. Drop-In Playgroup: 9:30-11am. Children birth to 5-years-old. Snack and activities provided. Cornerstone Pediatrics. Information: (802) 463-2020.
Peterborough. Parent-Child Playtime with Beth Bradford and Eliot Pelletier: 6-7pm. An expense-free evening out for families. Free supper, followed by playtime with your child. Peterborough Unitarian Universalist Church. Information: (603) 924-6306 or thefamilycenter@thefamilycenter.us.
Newfane. Playgroup: 9:30-11am. For ages 5 and under and their caregivers. Join Kerri Beebe for the fun with age appropriate activities, healthy snack, and an opportunity to make new friends. COST: free. Newfane Congregational Church. Information: (802) 254-3742, ext. 127.
Rockingham. Playgroup: 10-11:30am. Rockingham, including Bellows Falls and Saxton River, and Athens, and Grafton. Facilitated by Tracy Binet-Perrin Early Education Outreach Coordinator. We will read a story, have a snack and try a themed activity. Athens Kindergarten Playground. For more information, call Tracy at (603) 363-4245.
Winchester. Playgroup: 9:30-11am. For children up to 2 years. United Church of Winchester. Information: Mary Cullity, (603) 352-2253.
Thursdays
Bellows Falls. Falls Playschool Playgroup: 9:30-11:30am. Children ages birth to 5 are welcome with their parents or caregivers. Monthly themes, snacks and fun. Falls Playschool, 12 Church St. Information: Jen Leonard, (802) 428-2013; Lori McDermid, (802) 463-4354; fallsplayschool@hotmail.com.
Hinsdale. Hinsdale Playgroup: 5-6:30pm. Join us for play, snack and a craft project. First Congregational Church, 36 Main St. Information: Liz, (603) 336-8381.
Keene. Preschool Playtime: 10:30am-Noon. For children and parents up to age 5. An unsupervised program, but children have access to the mats, balls and craft materials. COST: $20/family for the season. Keene Recreation Center, 312 Washington St. Information or registration: (603) 357-9829.
Rockingham. Playgroup: 10-11:30am. Rockingham, including Bellows Falls and Saxton River, and Athens, and Grafton. Facilitated by Tracy Binet-Perrin Early Education Outreach Coordinator. We will read a story, have a snack and try a themed activity. Cherry Hill Playground. For more information, call Tracy at (603) 363-4245.
Fridays
Hinsdale. Hinsdale Playgroup: Fridays, 9-10:30am. Join us for play, snack and a craft project. First Congregational Church, 36 Main St. Information: Liz, (603) 336-8381.
Keene. Monadnock Waldorf School Parent-Child Playgroup: 9-11am. For children up to age 3 1/2 accompanied by a parent. The morning includes playtime for the children and activities to keep parent hands busy, too. Stories, songs, snack, and outside play all led by an experienced teacher. Siblings up to 4 ½ are welcome. COST: $75-$150 per session. Monadnock Waldorf Nursery-Kindergarten, 424 Old Walpole Road. Information and registration: (603) 357-4442.
Rockingham. Playgroup: 10-11:30am. Rockingham, including Bellows Falls and Saxton River, and Athens, and Grafton. Facilitated by Tracy Binet-Perrin Early Education Outreach Coordinator. We will read a story, have a snack and try a themed activity. Saxton Rivers Elementary School Playground. For more information, call Tracy at (603) 363-4245.
Saturdays
Winchester. Playgroup: 9:30-11:30am. 2nd and 4th Saturdays/month. Hosted by Winchester Learning Center and Home Healthcare Hospice and Community Services. Information: Penny at (603) 239-7347 or Mary Cullity at (603) 352-2253.
Ongoing
Brattleboro. KidsPLAYce: Wednesday-Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 11am-5pm. An innovative indoor children’s play space for children from birth to 8-years and their adult companions. COST: $6/children, adults are free. KidsPLAYce, 20 Elliot St. Information: Annette or Tim, (802) 254-5212 or www.kidsplayce.org.
Keene. Sophia’s Hearth: For parents, infants, toddlers, ages 4 weeks to 2.5 years. New Saturday playgroup for parents and infants, ages 10-20 months. Sophia’s Hearth Family Center. For information and registration: (603) 357-3755.
Storytimes
Brattleboro. Rhyme Time: 10:30am. For ages up to 5. Wednesdays, Stories, songs, music, and movement. Children’s Room, Brooks Memorial Library. Information: (802)254-5290 x110.
Bellows Falls. Story & Craft: Tuesdays, 10:30am.For ages 7 and under. 2-3 stories, an age-appropriate craft, and playgroup. Stories and Music: Fridays, 10:30. Rockingham Free Public Library. Information: (802) 463-4270, bfyouth@sover.net or www.youseemore.com/rockingham.
Chesterfield. Storytime: Mondays, 10:30am, 4th Saturday/month, 10am. Chesterfield Library. Information: (603) 363-4621.
East Dover. Preschool Storytime: Wednesdays through Dec. 17, 10:30am. Storytimes are free, open to the public, and feature a different theme and craft activity each day. Dover Free Library. Information: (802) 348-7488, or doverfreelibrary1913.org.
East Dover. Toddler Twenty: Wednesdays, 10am. A 20-minute program for children through age 2 and their parents or caregivers. This program features interactive rhymes, songs and simple stories. Dover Free Library. Information and registration: (802) 349-7488.
Guilford. Storytime: Tuesdays, 10:45am. For babies and toddlers. Cathi Wilken or Laura Lawson Tucker presents a program of songs, fingerplays, books and activities. Other siblings are welcome too. Guilford Free Library. Information: (802) 254-6545.
Jacksonville. Story Time: Mondays, 10:30-11:30am.For toddlers and preschoolers. Join us for songs, activities, stories and crafts. Whitingham Free Library, Route 100. Information: (802) 368-7506.
Jaffrey. Drop-In Storytime: Mondays through Dec. 15, 10:30am. For toddlers, 2-year-olds, 3-year-olds, and their caregivers. Come for stories, songs, fingerplays, and (often) simple crafts. Jaffrey Public Library, 38 Main St. Information: (603) 532-7301.
Jaffrey. Drop-In Preschool Storytime: Wednesdays through Dec. 17, 4 p.m. All preschoolers ages 3-5 are invited to come for stories, songs, fingerplays, and simple crafts. Jaffrey Public Library, 38 Main St. Information: (603) 532-7301.
Keene. Preschool Storytime: Tuesdays, 1:30pm, or Wednesdays, 10am Lapsit for Babies and Caregivers: Thursdays, 10 or 11am Toddler Two-Times for Young Kids and Caregivers: Friday, 10 or 11am Saturday Stories and More: Saturdays, 10am. This drop-in storytime will include stories, songs, finger plays, and sometimes simple crafts. Appropriate for children of all ages and their parents or caregivers. Family Bedtime Stories and Songs: Tuesdays (except 8/12), 6:30pm. Get into the bedtime routine with sleepy time stories and songs appropriate for children ages 2+ and their parents and caregivers. Keene Public Library, 60 Winter St. Information: (603) 352-0157.
Marlborough. Pre-School and Toddler Story Time: Thursdays, 10:30am. For ages 2+. Stories, songs and crafts. Frost Free Library, 28 Jaffrey Road. Information: (603) 876-4479.
Newfane. Weekly Toddler Story Hour: Thursdays, 10:30am. Babies also welcome. Moore Free Library, 23 West St. Information: (802) 365-7958.
Rindge. Story Time: For ages 3-5. Mondays, 11am, or at the repeated program on Thursdays, 11am. Ingalls Memorial Library, 203 Main St. Information: (603) 899-3303.
Sullivan. Storytime: Thursdays, 10:30am. Sullivan Public Library. Information: (603) 847-3458.
Townshend. Preschool Storytime: 1st and 3rd Friday, 10am. Simple crafts and stories. Townshend Public Library. Information: (802) 365-4039.
Whitingham. Toddler Story Time: 10:30am. Books, songs and crafts for preschool-aged children. For more information, call the Whitingham Free Public Library at (802) 368-7506.
Classes/Workshops for Children
Wednesdays
Farmers and Foragers: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. 11-14 year olds. Marty Castriotta leads the program. Includes maple sugaring, greenhouse planting, building, teamwork and springtime farm life. Information: 835-2495.
Ongoing
Brattleboro. Creating With Clay: Fall 2008 classes for all ages. We work with stoneware clays and food-safe glazes. All materials and firings are included in the tuition cost. For a complete schedule of classes: www.creatingwithclay.com, or contact Bonnie Stearns at (802) 254-8355 or bstearns@sover.net.
Brattleboro. BMC Music Adventure Program for Children with Disabilities (ages 7-19): Thursdays, 3:45-5:30pm. An engaging experience filled with percussion instruments, singing, creating rhythms, making new friends and having fun. COST: $175/8 sessions. Information and registration: Laura, (802) 257-7024, Darlene, (802) 254-9528, Brattleboro Music Center, (802) 257-4523.
Brattleboro. Music Together with Deb Z: Mondays. A master at keeping babies, toddlers, and preschoolers engaged as she leads them, along with parents and caregivers, through a series of song, dance, rhythm, tonal and instrument play. The Neighborhood School House. Information: (802) 362-2971 or www.musicwithdebz.com.
Brattleboro. Movin’ Into Music: Wednesdays, 9am. Children ages 1-5 sing songs, explore creative movement, try out rhythm instruments and play a variety of imaginative musical games led by Annie Frelich of the popular performing duo The Annies. Summer session features songs of sun, sea and silliness. Parents, siblings & caregivers are welcome. Annie's Jigglin' Jelly Bowl class CD available. Summer session begins 6/18 for 5 weeks / $15 class – join in at any time. Free demo class. Information and registration: Brattleboro Music Center, (802) 257-4523.
Brattleboro. Musickidz-Music Together: Mondays at 9:30am; Wednesdays at 9:30am, 10:30am and 2pm; and Fridays at 9:30am. You and your child (ages birth to 5 years), sing-along, play-along, and dance-along to a rich variety of music, while developing tonal and rhythmic skills that last a lifetime. Don’t miss the perfect way to help child grow musically in these opportune years! Free class for first time families. New England Youth Theater, 100 Flat Street. Information: (802) 275-7478, or MusicKidz@aol.com.
Brattleboro. Brattleboro Parks and Recreation Center Programs: Offerings include youth and kindergarten soccer leagues, youth field hockey, gymnastics classes. Information: (802) 254-5808. Downloadable program at www.brattleboro.org.
Brattleboro. The Asian Cultural Center of Vermont: Classes, workshops and events for children and adults ages 2 and up. Programs include Chinese for preschoolers; Chinese for teens and adults; tai chi for adults and teens; Art classes and workshops. 814 Western Ave. Information, or for a complete listing/description of events, (802) 257-7898, www.asianculturalcentervt.org, or e-mail acc.vt@verizon.net.
Keene. Momma and Baby Yoga: Mondays, 11am-Noon. Come enjoy the company of moms and new babes as we relax, stretch, and rejuvenate. COST: free. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic, Conference Room 3. Information: Kristen, (603) 352-9850.
Keene. The Moving Company: Workshops and classes for children and adults including creative dance, art classes, musical theatre classes, yoga, pilates, and more. For a complete schedule call MoCo at (603) 357-2100 or visit www.moco.org.
Keene. Music Together Classes for Monadnock Families: Music and movement classes for children from birth to age 5, along with their parents or caregivers. Weekly classes offered on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings. Information: (603) 357-4693.
Keene. Children’s Dance: Call for schedule. Children inherently know the joy of movement to music. Our experienced professional dance teachers will nurture and direct that joy of movement giving all children of all ages the opportunity to explore and excel in dance. The Moving Company, 76 Railroad St. Information and registration: (603) 357-2100 or www.moco.org.
Keene. Keene Parks and Recreation Center Programs: Offerings include dance classes, open gym, tae kwon do classes. Information: (603) 357-9829 or www.ci.keene.nh.us/parks. Swanzey. Things to Do Studio: Stitching, art, craft classes for children, teens, and adults. West Swanzey Road. Information: (603) 762-0849 or thingstodostudio.blogspot.com.
Townshend. BMC Children’s Chorus: Thursdays, 3:30-5pm. For ages 9-14. The repertoire includes folk, classical, sacred, secular and world music. COST: $100. Townshend Elementary School. Information and registration: BMC at (802) 257-4523.
Walpole. Movin Into Music: Tuesdays, 10am. For children ages 1-5. Walpole Town Hall. Sing songs, explore creative movement, try out rhythm instruments and play a variety of imaginative musical games led by Annie Frelich of the performing duo The Annies. Classes are ongoing. Parents, siblings and caregivers welcome. Information and registration: Brattleboro Music Center, (802) 257-4523.
Music and Theater
Tuesdays
Brattleboro. BMC Prima Orchestra: 3:30-4:15pm. Designed to give new string players an opportunity to make music with others, learn the basic of orchestra playing, and to improve general music skills. COST: $25/semester. Brattleboro Music Center. Information or registration: (802) 257-4523.
Keene. Open Mic Night at Brewbakers: 7:30-9:30pm. 2nd and 4th Tuesday/month. Sing, play music, act. Sign-up sheet on the back wall. Brewbakers, Main Street. Information: (603) 355-4844.
Wednesdays
Modern Dance for Kids: 3:30 to 5 p.m. 6-9 year olds. Information: Lydia Parham Brown, (603) 852-5549.
Thursdays
Keene. Open Mic: 1st Thursday/month. 7pm Prime Roast, Main Street. Information: (603) 352-7874.
Ongoing
BMC Music School Instrument & Voice Lessons: Monday-Saturday, 9am-7pm. Individual music lessons, for students of all ages and abilities, are available in 15 different instruments and voice taught by the 30 talented and dedicated faculty members of the BMC’s Music School. Brattleboro Music Center. Information or to schedule lessons, (802) 257-4523.
Family Support and Education
Thursday 4
Brattleboro. BMH New Moms Network: 9:30 to 11 a.m., Baby, You’ve got Personality! Researchers believe that each child starts life with an inherited set of nine personality traits. Learn about your baby and yourself, and discuss ways to maximize your potential as a mom, and your baby’s potential. Free. Brattleboro Memorial Hospital, Birthing Center. Information: Dawn Kersula, (802) 257-8226.
Mondays
Bellows Falls. Parents Together Support Group: 6-7:30pm. Mutual self-help support group, guided by trained co-leaders, for anyone in a parenting role; childcare available; healthy snack provided. For more information or to sign up, call (802) 254-6686 or (800) 244-5373.
Brattleboro. Car Seat Fitting Station: 3-5:30pm. Did you know that 4 out of 5 car seats are not installed correctly? Make an appointment to have your car seat checked by a CPS technician, free of charge. Rescue Inc., 541 Canal Street, Brattleboro, VT. Information or appointments: (802) 257-7679.
Bellows Falls. Car Seat Fitting Station: Second Tuesday of the month, 3-6 pm. Due to the overwhelming response to the Brattleboro fitting station, Safe Kids and the Governors Highway Safety program will be sponsoring a car seat fitting station at Durand Ford, Route 5. Information or appointments: (802) 463-3783.
Bellows Falls. Parents Together Support Group: 6-7:30pm. Mutual self-help support group, guided by trained co-leaders, for anyone in a parenting role; childcare available; healthy snack provided. For more information or to sign up, call (802) 254-6686 or (800) 244-5373.
E. Dummerston. Babytime Classes: 9am. For parents with babies up to pre-crawling. A 6-week program including baby massage, baby movement, learning infant cues, the importance of tummy time, and other interesting scientific and fun ways to understand and be with babies. COST: $60. Dummerston Healing Arts, 375 Middle Road. Information: (802) 254-8080, or kate@dummerstonarts.com.
E. Dummerston. Toddlertime Classes: 10:30am. For parents with children crawling to age 3. A 6-week program including movement, song, and dance with toddler age children in classes that combine neuroscience and play. Classes vary on theme, and include sign language and snack. COST: $60. Dummerston Healing Arts, 375 Middle Rd. Information: (802) 254-8080, or kate@dummerstonarts.com.
Keene. Mom and Baby Yoga: 11am. Drop-in. Cheshire Medical Center/Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene, Conference Room 3, Court Street. No registration necessary. COST: Free.Information: Kristen, (603) 352-9850.
Peterborough. For Single Parents Support Group: 5:30-7pm. On-going program for single parents to help strengthen the family. Includes supper and children’s program. The Family Center. Information and registration: (603) 924-6306.
Tuesdays
Brattleboro. La Leche League Support Group: 9:30-11:30am. 2nd Tuesday/month. Mother-to-mother breastfeeding support for pregnant women and moms of babies/toddlers. Kidsplayce. Information: Call Carole at (802) 254-5264 or Michelle at (802) 254-5765.
Keene. “Off Our Rockers.” Grandparent/Kinship Circle: 6-8pm. First and last Tuesday/month. Support group for grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, who are parenting children. Free meal & MFS children’s program. Sponsored by Parent Outreach. Monadnock Family Resource Center, 30 Washington St. Information and registration: Elizabeth Raposa, (603) 357-6870, ext. 114.
Keene. Parenting Class: “Moms” Club: 10-11:30am. 1st Tuesday/month. Cheshire Medical Center/Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene, North Conference Room 1, North Building, LA. Moms with babies newborn to two years old are welcome. Lactation consultant available to answer questions. Monthly speakers. Information: Education, Training & Development, (603) 354-5454, ext. 2410.
Keene. Circle of Parents: 6-8pm. 3rd Tuesday/month. A group to help manage the stress of parenting. Parent Outreach Program. Information and location: Elizabeth Raposa, parent outreach coordinator, (603) 355-3082 or eraposa@mfs.org.
Wednesdays
Marlborough. Open Forum Parenting Workshops: 6:30-7:30pm. The second Wednesday of the month. Featuring parent educator and Assistant Librarian Jane Richards-Jones. Jane holds an informal discussion forum on a specific topic, such as discipline and the young child or living with your pre-teen. Come with problems, questions, comments, and solutions and enjoy a moderated discussion. For more information, call the Frost Free Library at (603) 876-4479.
Putney. Birthing From Within®: 6-8:30pm. Wednesdays, May 21-June 25. Incorporates lively discussions, practical information, and memorable exercises. Supports the physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual aspects of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. COST: $125-$160/couple (sliding scale). Scholarships available. Information or registration: Annique at (802) 236-7657.
Thursdays
Bellows Falls. Parents Together Support Group: 6pm. Mutual self-help support group, guided by trained co-leaders, for anyone in a parenting role; childcare available; healthy snack provided. Information and location: Noreen Oles at (802) 254-6686.
Brattleboro. Building Bright Futures of Southeastern Vermont (formerly the Early Childhood Council of Windham County): 1st Thursday, alternating evening and afternoon meetings. Building Bright Futures brings together public and private early childhood educators, health and human services providers, community organizations, parents and others to educate, collaborate and advocate for optimal development of children aged birth-6 and their families. Call for meeting dates or more information: (802) 258-2273.
Brattleboro. Parents Together Support Group: See description above. Call for location and to be placed on waiting list. Information: Noreen Oles at (802) 254-6686.
Brattleboro. Kinship and Foster Care Support Group: 9:30-11am. Join other grandparents, relatives, and other foster parents caring for young children for support, ideas, and resources. Childcare available by reservation one week in advance. EES Conference Room. Information: David Bayer or Jennifer Mazur, facilitators, at (802) 254-3742.
Keene. Single Parent Support Group: 6-8pm. 2nd & 4th Thursdays. Free childcare, meal provided. Sponsored by Parent Outreach Project. Headstart Building, School Street. Information and childcare registration: Elizabeth Raposa at (603) 355-3082.
Keene. Adoptive Parents Circle: 5:30-7:30pm. 1st and 3rd Thursdays. Light meal and children’s program. Monadnock Family Resource Center, 30 Washington St. Information and registration: Elizabeth Raposa , (603) 357-6870, ext. 114.
Saturdays
Keene. Prenatal Yoga: 10am. Open to all pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy. Cheshire Medical Center/Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene, Conference Room 6, Court Street. No registration necessary. Information: Kristen, (603) 352-9850.
Sundays
Keene. Drop-in Support Group for Men: 7pm. All men are invited, no obligation, some come to talk, others to just listen. A program of the Monadnock Men’s Resource Center. Volunteer opportunities currently available. All training provided. LifeArt Center, 25 Roxbury St. Information: (866) 969-6672 or info@MMRConline.org or www.mmrconline.org.
Ongoing
Brattleboro. Pregnancy, Birth and Parenting Workshops at Sprout: Don’t forget to check out all of Sprout’s workshops where there are many great speakers and topics of interest. Information: Sprout, (802) 254-2600, info@sproutparenting.com or www.sproutparenting.com.
Brattleboro. Safe Sitter Babysitting Class: For ages 11-13. These classes will help young people become more confident caregivers. COST: $40. Drew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital. Information and waiting list: (802) 257-8325.
Grafton. Volunteers needed for Nurturing Parenting Program: parenting education class, involving the whole family. Held at Grafton Elementary School. Information: call Noreen Oles at (802) 254-6686.
Hillsborough County. Parent-Child Connections Programs: Children’s Enrichment Program, Parent-Child Playtime, For Single Parents, For Young Parents and Their Babies. Offered by The Family Center in partnership with Southern New Hampshire Services. Information and complete schedule of programs: (603) 924-6306 or thefamilycenter@thefamilycenter.us.
Keene. Cheshire Mediation: TDoes your family have the beginning-of-school-year blues? Cheshire Mediation has trained volunteers to help you arrive at solutions to such problems as chores, allowances, and who gets the car Friday night—solutions that everyone can live with. Cheshire Mediation in Keene provides free parent/youth mediation services to all families in Cheshire County. If this sounds useful to you, or you would like some more information: Call Kate Kerman at (603) 357-9673 or online at www.cheshiremediation.org.
Keene. Phoenix House Keene Center – Adolescent Outpatient Services: Self-Assessment Saturdays for Youth. A prevention and intervention program for at-risk youth (ages 12-22) who are experimenting with alcohol and drugs, Saturdays, 9am-1pm; Monadnock Adolescent Treatment Initiative, a mobile outpatient alcohol/substance abuse treatment and positive youth development program for teens and young adults (ages 12-24). For more information, or to make a referral: Alisa Bento, (603) 358-5035, ext. 6474, or abento@phoenixhouse.org.
Keene. Prenatal and Postpartum Services: Services include childbirth education; Caring for Moms and Babies; Water birth and doula class; Prenatal aquatic exercise; breastfeeding support; sibling class; mom and baby exercise. Cheshire Medical Center/Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene. Information: (603) 354-5454 ext 2410 or www.Cheshire-med.com.
Keene. Prenatal Smoking Cessation Education & Support Group: Call for dates and times. Pregnant moms and their partners learn about ways to help reduce/quit smoking, how to deal with people who smoke around them, and meet other moms to find out what is working for them. Cheshire Medical Center/Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene. Information and registration: Cheshire Medical Center, Prenatal Coordinator’s office, (603) 354-6641.
Windham County. The Welcome Baby Program: Offers a one-time free (and fun!) visit to parents who live in Windham County with infants. The Welcome Baby Program introduces parents to the resources of the school system and the community. Traditionally, a community volunteer welcomes the baby into the community and delivers a bag with gifts from local businesses, brochures from area agencies, health and safety information, tips on child development, and information on parenting and local opportunities to network with other parents. This visit is also available to families with newly adopted young children and new residents with young children. Information: Kerri at Early Education Services, (802) 254-3742, ext. 127.
If you have an event you would like to ad to the calendar, please send an e-mail to calendar@parentexpress.net. The deadline is the second Wednesday of the month prior to publication (i.e.; content for September needs to be submitted by the second Wednesday of August). If you have any questions, please call (603) 352-6278 or (802) 257-8630.