Follow Your Interests!

January 27-February 2, 2024



Winter in New England is a unique season full of diverse activities that showcase history, science, folklore, and culinary delights. From the historical practice of ice harvesting to the interdisciplinary exploration of science and history in curling, cozy indoor puzzle-solving, the folklore-infused meteorology of Groundhog Day, and the cultural journey of chocolate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These learning opportunities offer an exploration of science, history, cognitive and social benefits, cultural traditions, and culinary delights, making winter in New England an enriching experience.

• From Pond to Pantry: Exploring New England’s Ice Harvesting Tradition
• Curling: A Unique Blend of Sport, History, and Geoscience
• The Art of Puzzles: Strengthening Minds and Intergenerational Play
• The Global Journey of Chocolate: Exploring its Art, Science, and Ethics 
• Groundhog Day: Exploring the Intersection of Folklore and Science

FEATURED WINTER FESTIVAL

4th Annual Fire & Ice Festival

Amherst, MA

Amherst BID invites the community to the 4th Annual Fire & Ice Festival on February 3, 2024. A fusion of warmth and wonder, the event promises cozy delights with hot cocoa and s’mores alongside fire pits from 2-7pm, an enchanting fire performance by Matica Circus at 5:30pm, and the glow of Luminaria at 6pm. Creativity sparkles with winter tie-dye crafting from 2-4pm and the artistry of Kamil Peters’ metal sculptures from 2-5pm. Engage with local heroes as the Amherst Fire Department showcases their truck and introduces Sparky, fostering connections and safety awareness. Hosted at the Amherst Town Common, this celebration, sponsored by Amherst College, is a canvas of community spirit, igniting joy and togetherness amidst the chill of winter.

FEATURED WINTER FESTIVAL

11th Annual Easthampton WinterFest

Easthampton, MA

The 11th Annual Easthampton WinterFest will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024. A major fundraiser to help support the health of Nashawannuck Pond, this event provides a winter celebration for the community near & far. Online events begin in January designed to engage the community, such as Nashawannuck Pond trivia contest, photo contest, snowflake making contest, & more. Look forward to an artisan /craft/vendor fair, horse drawn wagon rides, historical ice harvesting, magic shows, puppeteer, live animal education, bingo, live trivia & chili tasting. Easthampton Fire Dept is hosting the first Polar Plunge. Most events are free & donations are always welcome.

More info: nashawannuckpond@gmail.com. www.nashawannuckpond.org/winterfest

FEATURED EARLY CHILDHOOD EDU

The Smith College Center for Early Childhood Education at Fort Hill

Northampton, MA

The Smith College Center for Early Childhood Education at Fort Hill in Northampton, MA. offers high-quality full- and part-time early education and care in Northampton for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Three-, four-, and five-day schedules are available in all age groups. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach, the program emphasizes a strong sense of community, learning through in-depth projects, and the arts. The school includes large classrooms filled with natural light, extensive playgrounds, and dedicated music and visual arts studios. Exceptional teacher-child ratios allow for individual attention and creative curriculum. For more information: CECE@smith.edu; 413-585-3290; www.smith.edu/forthill

FEATURED PRESCHOOL

Brook Farm Preschool

at Berkshire Country Day School

Stockbridge, MA

Brook Farm Preschool at Berkshire Country Day School in Stockbridge, MA, understands that many families seek an independent preschool educational environment but need more coverage than a typical school calendar. Brook Farm Preschool for ages 2-4 offers at least 40 more days of care & coverage than peer schools. At Brook Farm, it’s nature & nurture on their inspiring 26-acre campus. The school implements the Reggio Emilia approach, which revolves around the children’s senses, relying on sight, sound, touch, and even taste & smell to assist with learning. As a result, the environment serves as the third teacher, and classrooms tend to look different than your average preschool, with large common spaces, natural elements, and lots of curiosity-sparking materials. For more information: info@berkshirecountryday.org; 413-637-0755; berkshirecountryday.org/brook-farm.

FEATURED SCHOOL

 The Hartsbrook School

Hadley, MA

Imagine a school that values and encourages the unique qualities of your child: The Hartsbrook School in Hadley, MA, provides just that, with warmth and attentiveness. Beautiful outdoor and indoor classrooms, storytelling, music, and creative problem-solving lay the foundations for future learning and deep social connection. Children’s imagination and empathy are awakened through the rich curriculum. Walking in the woods, visiting the school’s farm animals, and tending the gardens develop an awareness of and care for the natural world. Begin your exploration with a tour to learn more about their early childhood program for ages 2 years 9 months through 6 years. For more info, call 413-586-1908 x116 or visit their website: www.hartsbrook.org

FEATURED SCHOOL

The Common School

Amherst, MA

Searching for the right school for your child? A school where community, inclusivity, social justice, and environmental education are highly valued? Learn how these words are put into action at The Common School’s winter Open House on Saturday, January 27 from 10am-12noon. Visit their classrooms, play on their playground, meet their teachers, chat with current caregivers, participate in a sample early childhood movement class, and explore their beautiful campus situated amongst 140 acres of conservation land on Larch Hill in Amherst. Light refreshments provided. Questions? Contact Co-Head of School, Dana Kadish at outreach@commonschool.org or visit www.commonschool.org

FEATURED SCHOOL

The Montessori School of the Berkshires 

Lenox Dale, MA

The Montessori School of the Berkshires is excited to host their annual Winterfest Open House on Saturday, February 3, from 10am-12pm. Join current MSB families and visitors for activities, craft-making, and refreshments. Balloon Ben will also be on hand-twisting masterful balloon creations! The Montessori School of the Berkshires offers an authentic Montessori education for children 15 months through 8th grade. Montessori education supports the independence of the child and inspires children to develop independent thinking, self-assurance, inner discipline, and a love of learning. MSB is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year in Lenox Dale, MA. For more info, visit www.berkshiremontessori.org

FEATURED SCHOOL

Amherst Montessori School

Amherst, MA

Prospective parents are invited to attend an Open House event on February 3rd at Amherst Montessori School from 10-11:30am. This event will provide an opportunity to explore the enriching world of Montessori education, discover classroom environments, meet dedicated teachers, and understand the Montessori approach that nurtures independence, curiosity, and a love for learning. Attendees will learn how this educational style fosters children’s natural development, encouraging their unique talents and interests. The Open House aims to demonstrate how Montessori education prepares confident, creative, and well-rounded individuals for the world. Sign up at amherstmontessori.org/open-house.

FEATURED EVENT

Family Sparkle Party

Easthampton, MA

What IS a Sparkle Party? It is a celebration of all things dazzling and fabulous, hosted by Art in Motion, an Easthampton-based dance school that creates powerful artists through dance education. The Sparkle Party is a glittery, inclusive family gathering that combines movement, books, visual art, and creative expression for kids 10 & under and their caregivers. All families are invited to this FREE event! The party will be on Saturday, February 3, 2024, from 2-4pm in the Art in Motion studio in the Keystone building, 122 Pleasant St. in Easthampton, MA. Email Art in Motion with any questions at hello@artinmotion413.com.

FEATURED CHARTER SCHOOL

Pioneer Valley Performing Arts

Charter Public School

South Hadley, MA

Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School (PVPA) in South Hadley, MA, is now accepting applications for grades 7-12 for the 2024/25 school year. Application deadline: February 11, 2024. Lottery: February 16, 2024. PVPA is committed to supporting the artist in every student. Students from over 50 towns in grades 7-12 thrive in an arts-centered, creative, challenging learning environment. Join PVPA for an Open House and see why they are consistently voted one of the Best Charter Schools in the Valley! No tuition or audition is required. Apply online at www.pvpa.org/admissions. Questions? Email admissions@pvpa.org or call 413-552-1580 x228 for more information

FEATURED WINTER VACATION CAMP

Wolf Tree Programs

Montague, MA

Explore, play games, and learn wilderness skills! Wolf Tree in Montague, MA, offers school vacation week programs for the 2024 February and April school breaks for ages 8-12. These week-long outdoor programs are designed to foster children’s curiosity and connection to nature in a fun, safe, and supportive environment. Participants will work on their naturalist and wilderness skills with experienced and engaging instructors while building confidence and leadership. Looking beyond the school year, registration for Wolf Tree’s successful summer camp for children and teens opens on February 1st. Join Wolf Tree out in the woods for these weeks of exploration and connection to nature. More info at www.wolftreema.com.

Hilltown Families

See your message here!

Partner with Hilltown Families in your online advertising! Serving the region since 2005, Hilltown Families is an award-winning online communication network recognized as a leading family-strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” A trusted partner in your online marketing! To find out how we can partner in your online marketing and outreach, contact us for info on our affordable options and packages: hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.