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P&K Parents and Kids magazine wants to bring you all the resources you need as you enter the world of parenthood. The following is a list of local organizations that offer support programs, social opportunities and educational seminars in your area.
40-Something Moms, Cambridgeyourclearvoice@msn.com.
A discussion group for “40 Something Moms" discusses the full range of both concerns and pleasures of mothering over 40. Offered through "Your Clear Voice Services" and Suzan Wolpow LMHC, the group meets from 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month, in Cambridge. $25/month. For more information, call 617 441-0758.
Adoptive Families Together, Brookline, Jamaica Plain and Roslindale
www.mspcc.org
This group offers information and support to anyone who has any connection to adoption. There are many different centers and group located throughout the Boston area, in Brookline, Jamaica Plain and Roslindale. Each group has specific dates for each of their groups. Brookline meets the fourth Wednesday of the month from 10:30 a.m.-noon; the Jamaica Plain group meets the first Friday of each month from 7 –9 p.m.; and the Roslindale group meets the third Wednesday of the month from 7-8:30 p.m. Visit www.mspcc.org for locations and more information.
Holds their meetings the second Tuesday of every month at 210 Winter Street, Suite #101, Weymouth from 10-11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Amy Anderson or Laurie McGrath at (800) 482-5788.
At Home Dad
www.athomedad.comAt home dad is a resource Web site for fathers who choose to stay home to raise their children. Created by North Andover resident and stay-at-home dad Peter Baylies, the site includes links to local playgroups, resources and the blogs of other fathers who stay home. Recently, Slowlane.com, a searchable online network for stay at home dads with the mission of helping dads connect with other dads, merged with At Home Dad. The site includes information on how to start playgroups, articles, research information and links to other dad-related sites.
Boot Camp for New Dads, Weymouth
www.southshorehospital.orgThis workshop pairs rookie dads with veterans to discuss the joys and challenges of the baby-father relationship. One session. Call South Shore Hospital Women’s and Family Health at 781-340-8332 for dates and times.
Boot Camp for New Dads, Beverly
www.beverlyhospital.org
One month class at Beverly Hospital in Beverly. This course is designed to teach new fathers about the joys and difficulties of becoming a new father. The class meets Saturday mornings 9 a.m. to noon. The cost for the course is $20; fathers should register by calling the Beverly Hospital Parenting Education office at 978-927-9103.
Breast Feeding Support, W. Bridgewater
www.keepingpace.org
Held Wednesdays 10-11:30 a.m. for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. Support group is held by a mother volunteer. No registration necessary, meetings are held at Keeping Pace with Multiple Miracles at 194 S. Main St. W. Bridgewater. Call 508-559-0040 for more information.
Childbirth Education classes at Beverly Hospital
www.beverlyhospital.org
To register for the following childbirth education classes, it is requested that expectant mothers call the Parent Education office by their fourth month to check for availability, dates, times and location of classes. Classes fill rapidly and are scheduled on a first-come, first-serve basis. To register, please call: 978-927-9103. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required (alternative payment options are also available). MasterCard and Visa accepted or a check made payable to Beverly Hospital and mailed to: Parent Education, Beverly Hospital, 85 Herrick Street, Beverly, MA 01915. All classes are held on the Beverly Hospital campus.
Concord Family Network, Concordwww.concordfamilynetwork.org
The Concord Family Network, run by a group of parent volunteers, seeks to unite, inform and engage Concord families with young children up to age 8. The group is currently working on sponsoring Dads Night Out events and Dad and Me outings for fathers and children. Yearly membership dues are $20. For more information, email concordfamilyntwk@yahoo.com. Dads Are Great, Medford
Dads Are Great Provides specialized time for dads and those in a fathering role. This weekday and Saturday program sponsored by Medford Public Schools and the Medford Family Network involves caregivers and children in activities such as swimming, hiking and trips to zoos and museums. For registration information, contact Program Director Marie Cassidy at 781-393-2106. Dads of Children With Autism, WestwoodSupport group run by the South Norfolk County ARC. Connect, learn and provide mutual support with other fathers of children with ASD. This group meets the fourth Tuesday of every month from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Lifeworks conference room, 79 Clapboardtree St. No group meeting in July and August. Contact John at 617-868-4858, ext. 206 for more information.
Early Pregnancy Loss Support Group, Brockton
www.sshosp.org
Meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at South Shore Hospital in Brockton. Registration is not necessary and the class is free. Any woman wishing to attend should go to the maternity waiting room at the hospital, and receptionist will direct you from there. For more information, please call 781-682-5015.
www.expectantmothersguide.com
This online guide and resource, tells parents where they can find many family orientated things around Boston. From portrait centers to consignment shops and beyond, anyone looking for something for their families should look here first.
Families First, headquartered in Bostonhttp://www.families-first.orgEvents held in various towns and cities
Families First strengthens families of all backgrounds and life circumstances by providing parenting education and support through seminars, workshops, and special events. We help parents build positive, rewarding and satisfying relationships with their children so that they will develop into healthy, productive and caring members of their communities. We also train professionals from diverse disciplines to enhance their capacity to support today's families.
Family Rhythms, Natickwww.familyrhythms.net
Lee H. McKenzie, RN, MSN, MA and Michael D. McKenzie, MD, FAAP are the co-founders of Family Rhythms, Inc., of Natick, a business dedicated to fostering harmony in family life. They are experts in child development, parenting and family life and are the parents of two children. Michael is also a practicing pediatrician in Natick. They can be reached at 774-290-1012.
Fathers & Familieswww.fathersandfamilies.orgFathers and Families is a Massachusetts non-profit organization made up of men and women who believe that fathers are an essential part of a child's life and that divorce or separation should not change this. This Web site includes information on current state laws, support services and lists of resources for dads. For more information, contact Fathers and Families at 617-542-9300 or email info@fathersandfamilies.org.
The Father Resource Networkwww.father.com
This interactive resource site features articles, essays, Web links, message boards and chat rooms all for dads and covers subjects ranging from expectant fathers to father-daughter relationships to parenting teenagers.
Father Support Services, Catholic Charities Northwww.ccab.org
A series of programs designed for all fathers to help them improve relationships with their children and become a positive influence in their lives. Programming includes Fatherhood Groups in Lynn and Peabody, outreach to fathers in the community and workshops. For more information, call 781-539-2312.
Gay Fathers of Greater Boston, Walthamwww.gayfathersboston.org
Gay Fathers of Greater Boston is a support group for gay fathers that provides a safe, confidential and welcoming forum for talking about the issues of gay fatherhood. The group also organizes member events and outings for fathers and children such as museum trips and parties. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of every month at the First Parish Church in Waltham, 50 Church St., from 7 to 9 p.m. There is a voluntary donation at the door of $2. Annual membership dues are $25 for individuals and $35 for couples residing at the same address. For more information, email info@gayfathersboston.org or call 617-742-7897.
Growing FITwww.growingfit.com
A service organization by local founders providing a comprehensive wellness program which provides stress management, work/family balance, parent education, confidence building, and other services dedicated to the well-being of individuals.
Healthy Pregnancy Workshop for Young Moms, Beverly
www.beverlyhospital.org
In addition to the Connecting Young Moms Support Group, A *Healthy Pregnancy Workshop*, is also available. This two-hour class is to be attended in the first or second trimester, focusing on healthy pregnancy. There is no fee. To register or for further information, please call 978-922-3000, extension 2720.
Following the Healthy Pregnancy Workshop, a Childbirth Series is offered to assist young woman and their support people to prepare for the birth. The class meets one evening a week for seven weeks. There is no fee, pre-registration
is required by calling 978-922-3000, extension 2720.
Hypnobirthing Class, Beverly
www.beverlyhospital.org
Four class series at Beverly Hospital, meeting on Tuesday evenings in Beverly. Along with information about this relaxing birthing technique, participants will go on a tour of the Beautiful Beginnings, the birthing unit at the hospital, and a prenatal breastfeeding class on a different evening. For registration, mothers should call Beverly Hospital Parenting Education office at 978-927-9103.
Home School Dads is a resource Web site geared specifically towards fathers who home school their children full- or part-time. The site offers links to home schooling organizations throughout Massachusetts.
Insight Education, Bryantville
This website that offers support to parents and teachers to introduce them to new learning strategies to aid a child’s development. Through the website, caregivers can find out more information about workshops and DVDs. The organization is local, based in Bryantville and offers many workshops each year. www.insighteducation.com
Infant Loss Support Group, Beverly
www.beverlyhospital.org
Parents who have lost an infant at anytime during pregnancy through early infancy are invited to attend the Loss Support Group. The support group is held at
Beverly Hospital, 85 Herrick Street, Beverly. The group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 7-9 PM in the Kauders Conference Room. Pre-registration is not required and there is no fee.Those wishing further information may call the
Community Relations Department at 978-236-1650. Please note that in July this group will be meet on July 15 and December on the 16th.
Insight Educationwww.insighteducation.com
InSight Education Center, founded in 1993 in Massachusetts, is an organization that provides parents and teachers with up-to-date information and proactive strategies regarding child development and behavior management of children from birth to age 20. For more information, visit call 781-294-8004
International MOMs Clubwww.momsclub.org
They are a support group designed just for the at-home mother of today. Monthly activities for moms and kids. Many offer playgroups. 40 chapters in Massachusetts. Find local groups or start your own chapter via Web site.
Isis Maternity, Brookline, Needham & Arlingtonwww.isismaternity.com
If you're newly pregnant, adjusting to parenthood or seeking fun activities for a toddler, Isis Maternity is the place for you. Each time you visit our centers, you'll be greeted by the most knowledgeable and friendly staff in the Boston area. Our programs are led by experts in their fields who are passionate about parents and babies, and our stores are stocked with proven products that have been carefully screened for quality.
Lactation Support Program, Boston
Offered through the Children’s Hospital Boston. The program offers support and education for breastfeeding mothers, how to use breast pumps, how to maintain milk supply while separated from their babies among various other topics. The Lactation Support Program is located at The Center for Families at the Children’s Hospital. For more information and dates, visit www.childrenshospital.org.
An international, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization dedicated to providing education, information, support, and encouragement to women who want to breastfeed.Find local groups via Web site.
Lesbian and Gay New Parent Support Group, Jamaica Plain
Free group, open to all gay and lesbian new parents. The group meets every Friday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Curtis Hall in Jamaica Plain. The group is aimed towards parents with children less than one year old.
Massachusetts Children’s Trust Fundwww.mctf.org
The MCTF supports parents by providing funding, training, and program models that expand the capacity of communities to work with parents and children. The organization’s Fatherhood Initiative program provides information, links, parenting tips and a Fatherhood Kit, which includes resources, activities and ideas and is available to download from the site. For more information, contact the Massachusetts Children’s Trust Fund at 617-727-8957 or email info@mctf.state.ma.us.
Mothers & More
www.mothersandmore.org
Mothers & More is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of mothers through support, education and advocacy. We address mothers’ needs as individuals and members of society, and promote the value of all the work mothers do.
MotherTime Support Group at the North Shore Birth Center.
The North Shore Birth Center conducts a free MotherTime support group that meets on Wednesdays from 10 AM - 12 Noon. The support group meets at the North Shore Birth Center located on the campus of Beverly Hospital, 85 Herrick Street, Beverly. There is no fee or pre-registration required. All are welcome to attend. To learn more about the support group or the North Shore Birth Center, call 978-927-7880.
Massachusetts Mother of Twins Founding Chapter
www.mmota-founding.org
www.nomotc.org
Group includes over 150 mothers of twins, triplets and quadruplets. Founded in 1956 by Rita Lewis of Arlington, MMOTA-Founding Chapter is the original chapter for the organization now known as the National Organization of Mothers of Twins Club, Inc. (NOMOTC).
The Mother Connection, Inc. (TMC), Merrimack Valley
www.themotherconnection.org
A fun, supportive and educational community organization for mothers and families in the Merrimack Valley area of Massachusetts.
Mother Talk Support Group, Milford
Meets the first Wednesday of each month at the Milford-Whitinsville Regional Hospital staff room. The group focuses on new mothers with infants from newborn to six months old. The group meets from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; for more information call 508-473-1190 ext. 2756.
National Center for Fatheringwww.fathers.com
The National Center for Fathering provides research-based training; practical tips and resources to help men be the involved fathers, grandfathers and father figured their children need. Includes links with information on how to start local National Center for Fathering programs such as Watch DOGS (Dads of Great Students) and Coach Dads, an interactive father/child program designed to get fathers “off the bench” and involved in preparing their children for success.
Newton Mothers’ Forum, Newton
www.newtonmoms.com.
Founded in 1997, the Newton Mothers’ Forum is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to bringing mothers and families of young children together. Our purpose is to provide opportunities for mothers in Newton and surrounding communities to connect with each other through educational, social and volunteer service events, with the objective of building a community for themselves and their families.
North River Collaborative Family Network, Rocklandwww.northrivercollaborative.org/familynetwork.html
The NRC Family Network offers free programs and support services for families residing in Abington, Bridgewater, East Bridgewater, Hanover, Hanson, Raynham, Rockland, West Bridgewater and Whitman. Each month, the group hosts Buddy Night. Dads, Grandpas, Uncles or friends are invited to have a night of fun with their special little one. This is a chance for a child and their special adult male to spend some time together. For more information, and for dates and times, contact the North River Collaborative Family Network, 93 George St., at 781-681-9736.
Parents Helping Parents
www.parentshelpingparents.org
The Parental Stress Line is a 24 hour confidential and anonymous helpline for parents who need to talk about problems they are having with their children.800‑632‑8188. A volunteer counselor is available 24 hours a day.Confidential and anonymous Parents Support Groups meet weekly at many locations in Massachusetts. At these group meetings, parents can talk to other parents about how to improve their relationships with their children. To find a group near you, call 800‑882‑1250.
Parents of Tots
www.parentsoftots.org
Volunteer run program for mothers and their children (up to age 6). Activities through the program include: mother’s book clubs, play groups and field trips. There are chapters of this organization in many parts of Massachusetts including Lynnfield, Reading, Saugus, Peabody/Danvers. For a complete list of locations visit www.parentsoftots.org or call Carolynne DiMare at 781-245-5422.
Parent Talk, Inc., Needham
www.parenttalk.infoParent Talk is a non-profit organization designed to provide parents of young children emotional and educational support. In addition to a lecture series and newsletter, the group also sponsors a Dad’s Night, where members can join other Parent Talk dads for sporting events and other social activities. For more information, email dadsnight@parenttalk.info.
Parenting Resource Associates, Lexingtonwww.parentingresourceassociates.org
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educating, supporting and coaching the adults who make a day-to-day difference in the lives of children.
Pediatrics Nowwww.pediatricsnow.com
PediatricsNow was founded in 2005 by Wayland resident Gwenn Schurgin O’Keeffe, M.D., F.A.A.P. As a mother and pediatrician, Dr. Gwenn saw a void in consumer health information for today’s busy families and began her quest to get practical health information out to as many local parents as possible. With the world almost exclusively online, Dr. Gwenn decided to create a place to share her columns with as many families as desire to read them and created a e-community where families could interact together and learn from each other. A virtual small New England town, served up on each family’s computers. Parents now are too busy to “do coffee” but we can “do a virtual cup” every now and again.
Plymouth Family Network, Plymouthwww.plymouthschools.com/pfn
The Plymouth Family Network, which provides support to families with children under the age of four and expectant parents living in the town of Plymouth, offers Dad’s Playgroup, a playgroup for dads-only and their children, birth to 48 months. Held one or more Saturday each month, Dad’s Playgroup offers fathers a place to spend quality time with their kids and to meet other dads. Meets at the PFN Center at 91 Carver Road. For dates and times, call 508-732-0166.
Post-Partum Adjustment Group at Beverly Hospital
The Post-Partum Adjustment Group is held on the first and third Fridays of each month from 10 AM - 11 AM in the Doctors* Conference Room, located on the first floor of Beverly Hospital. Refreshments are served. Babies are welcome. The Post-Partum Adjustment Group is available to Help with those who struggle with life*s challenges and Depression following the birth of a baby. The group is facilitated by Carnie Hansen, LICSW. Pre-registration is not required. There is no fee. For further information, please call 978-922-3000, extension 2716.
Postpartum Depression Group, Newton
Held at Newton-Wellesley Hospital the first and third Wednesday of the month from 7:15-9:00 p.m. The class is free and focuses on women dealing with depression, anxiety or psychosis after the birth of their child. For more information call 524-2542 or 837-4242.
Quincy Mothers' Cooperative
The Quincy Mothers' Cooperative (QMC) is an independent organization for parents founded over 25 years ago – with members from Quincy, Massachusetts and surrounding areas. Our mission is to provide a network of support through a variety of activities, playgroups, social events and an active online group as we celebrate the joys and tackle the challenges of parenthood. To become a member of the Quincy Mothers' Cooperative: please contact us at membership@quincymothers.com
Rookie Season, Newburyportwww.ajh.org
Rookie Season is a chance for new fathers to get together and discuss the challenges and joys of fatherhood. Led by a seasoned dad, participants are welcomed and encouraged to bring their children up to age one. Offered through Anna Jacques Hospital, the group also includes a question and answer session with a staff nurse. Rookie Season meets the first Saturday of every month at the Women’s Health Care Offices at AJH, 25 Highland Ave. and is free of charge. For more information, contact 978-463-1060.
Saturday Club, Brookline, Norfolk, Somerville, South Boston and West Roxbury
www.saturdayclubplaygroups.com
Playgroup for working parents. Joining the Saturday Club is free. As a member, you’re not obligated to attend a minimum number of play dates or make an advanced commitment to attend, but are able to take advantage of numerous local and national discounts from deals at the TD Banknorth Garden to online clothing companies. The Saturday Club has locations in Brookline, Norfolk, Somerville, South Boston and West Roxbury
With locations in Brookline, Needham and Arlington, Isis Maternity Centers offer a wide range of services and products for new and expectant parents. During the Centers’ Time for Dads program, dads come with their babies and meet other new fathers, learn about the infant’s development, health and safety, and find some cool new ways to soothe, settle and play with young babies. Call Isis Maternity Centers for registration and membership information and class times. In Needham, call 781-429-1597; Arlington, 781-429-1598 and Brookline, 781-429-1599.
Triplets, Moms, and Morewww.tripletsmomsandmore.org
Triplets, Moms, and More is a support group for families and families-to-be of triplets, quads and more. Based in Massachusetts but serve members throughout New England.
Warmlines
www.warmlines.org
WarmLines Parent Resources provides a centralized source of comprehensive information which supports parents by connecting them to each other and to resources in their communities. For information about WarmLines membership, please call 617-244-INFO or info@warmlines.org. Fee assistance is available.
Wellspring House, Gloucesterwww.wellspringhouse.org
Wellspring House is a non-profit organization annually provides education, emergency shelter, affordable housing, job training, family support and mentoring programs to hundreds of families on Boston's North Shore. In addition to programs such as Parent Connection and Strengthening Families, Wellspring also runs a Father’s Group. For more information, contact Wellspring Cape Ann Families at 781-281-7856.
West Suburban Chapter of Massachusetts Mothers of Twins Association
Holds monthly meetings, informational seminars and more. For more information, visit www.wscmmota.org
Wide Horizons for Children
www.whfc.com
his website contains almost anything pertaining to adoption in the Boston area. The website offers class information and registration and the opportunity to see pictures of children waiting to be adopted. The website offers a vast variety of information pertaining to adoption and how others can help.
Y3K Tutor in Your Home
www.y3ktutorinyourhome.com
Serves Massachusetts students from their homes. Y3K tutors will come to the home of the child to serve their needs. Y3K will also tutor students in special education, ADD and ADHD, Aspergers, Autistic, gifted and regular education.
