There is another kind of connection that is often overlooked. We are all so lucky to live in the Monadnock region – this is where people come to play in our lakes, our mountains, and more in the summer yet oftentimes we all just want a change of scenery ourselves. However, if you find yourself taking a staycation or you have a break between camps or you just want to meet new families, the programs at the River Center provide opportunities for families to connect with our own community.
Mackenzie, our family support specialist, will continue the ongoing Baby and Me group on Mondays from 9 am to 10:30 am for parents-to-be in their 3rd trimester to those with children up to 24 months. Parents keep an eye on their own playing children while gathering around for casual discussions with other grown-ups on topics from parenting to child development and more. While the group has had a growing waitlist for its indoor program, warmer temperatures mean that the group can meet outside and so more families can join in. Mackenzie and children’s teacher, Nicole are extending the weekly Mini Explorers program with the new Summer Explorers which is for all ages, but the focus is on families with children ages 3-9 years. This has been one of our most popular programs because of the great time everyone has getting together with other families in various locations throughout the region. Children can run, jump, climb, and get dirty while exploring places like the Hiroshi Loop Trail, Macdowell Dam, and more. Parents can still meet with other parents, children find new and old playmates, and everyone has fun and a break from their usual summer routines. Nicole and parent educator, Kelli will be running another popular program on Wednesdays– Families, Forests, and Farms – from the end of June to the end of August. Families will be going on summer adventures such as berry-picking, visiting the animals at the farm, exploring beautiful Rhododendron State Park and ending in a wrap-up celebration in August. Families get to visit places that they may not have otherwise visited before or they get to experience familiar locations in a group setting which always adds another level of fun and excitement! Mackenzie and Nicole are hoping you’ll join them for special family-fun events too. The first is a Family Picnic and Smores Night at Adams Playground on Friday, June 10. You bring your own picnic and we supply the smores. Fun and done! In August, they are planning another Family Movie Night with details to come. In addition to these summer programs, we have other services that we can connect you to. Our See the Able not the Label support group for parents of children with different needs meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays over Zoom. We also have ongoing services such as money coaching, home visiting, and resource referrals available to anyone who wants or needs assistance.. Our programs not only allow families many opportunities to connect with other families and each other, but they also allow parents and children to connect with the resources found in the region. There are so many beautiful locations and enjoyable outings to be had right here and by exploring what is in our own backyards gives us opportunities to build stronger connections with our own community. In doing so, this unites us and makes us feel as though we are a part of something bigger than ourselves. It makes us feel safe and secure where we live, allowing us to adapt and recover from stressful events because we know that there is support and caring beyond our own homes. So, connect with us at www.rivercenternh.org or give us a call at (603) 924-6800 and we can suggest a program that is right for you and your family. Download the program flyer here. Nisa Simila Communications and Money Matters Coordinator The River Center [email protected]
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