North Suburban Family Network

Kathy's Korner

The staff of the North Suburban Family Network wishes you and your family a wonderful holiday season. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our families who have made donations to the NSFN. People have been supportive of our annual donation drive, bringing in supplies, and participating in our play and learn class suggested donation endeavor. We have been working hard researching grants, collaborating with other agencies, and planning fundraisers.

An additional way to help is to receive our flyers via e-mail. The e-mail list also offers me the opportunity to share upcoming events with you. Each dollar we save, each quarter we put in the Change for a Change jar is important. The money we are raising now is to ensure we are able to continue to bring you quality programs again next year. Each of us has concerns; financial, health, employment; but we can still work together and help each other through. Our staff is available to talk, to share your parenting stories and we have even been known to give a much-needed hug. Don’t sit home alone or go to the mall where it is a huge temptation to spend money. Come to the Family Network where there is always someone who will greet you with a smile and friendly hello.

Together We Can Make a Difference

Peace, Kathy

Chats with Kathy

If you would like to talk about a parenting issue, ask about preschools or daycare centers, or any topic of interest to you, please feel free to call, email or set a time taht I can reserve jsut for you. The NSFN has community resources and parenting information that we can share with you to help make your parenting journey as easy as possible.

NSFN Family Assistance Program

If you have gently used children’s clothing, cribs or baby equipment that you want to donate, call Karen Andrews at 781-338-7607 to arrange drop-off or pick-up. We appreciate your generosity, but please, no adult clothing, toys or car seats. Disposable diapers are always accepted, even opened packages of diapers.

Want a great way to teach your child the value of giving back to your community and helping those in need?

Include your child in your efforts to support the North Suburban Family Network. They will gain self-esteem while learning the importance of sharing and being a member of a family. Families pull together and help each other in times of need. In order to maintain, rebuild and grow the North Suburban Family Network, fundraising and donating have become a more prominent part of what we need to do. Below are two examples of ways for your family to contribute together.

Change for a Change

We’re all watching our pennies these days, but if your small change is annoyingly accumulating on your dresser or counter, collect it in a jar or container and bring it down to the Family Network.  Change for a Change labels for your containers are available in the Family Network office.  Children love to hear the clinking of coins as they deposit them into our jar.  Small change can make a big change for families.

Watch for Those Sales

Another way you can help the Family Network is by donating needed supplies. We are always in need of Clorox “Anywhere Hard Surface” sanitizing spray, Lysol disinfecting wipes, paper towels, baby wipes, bottles of water (small and gallon size), double stick tape, tissues and air freshener.  No donation is too small and is always greatly appreciated.

The North Suburban WIC:

Are you struggling to meet your weekly food bill?  Are you a new mom on unpaid maternity leave?  Has your family recently experienced a reduction in work hours or job loss?  You might be eligible for WIC benefits.  The North Suburban WIC, a program of Hallmark Health, is a health and nutrition program sponsored by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  Contact the Malden office 781-338-7578 to see if you are eligible.

The Community Partnership for Children (CPC) of Melrose, Stoneham and Wakefield

This is a unique program dedicated to providing quality early education and care opportunities for families of children who live in Melrose, Stoneham and Wakefield.  Information on how to access financial assistance for preschool and childcare is available. Please call for a consultation and have your family added to the voucher wait list today! The CPC also offers quality family entertainment events, parent workshops and professional development workshops for early childhood professionals.  For more information, please call (781) 246-6425.  The CPC is a non-profit program funded by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care, through the Wakefield Public Schools.

Childcare and Preschool Information:   www.eec.state.ma.us

The Massachusetts Dept. of Early Education and Care website allows parents and caregivers to request a listing by town of all licensed childcare providers and preschools.     Our office has a checklist of what to look for when visiting the sites.  Before signing your child up for any preschool or daycare, call the Office of Early Education and Care at 1-978-681-9684 to see if there have been any complaints filed against them.

Things for Dads

North of Boston Area Dads

Dads Drop-In Playtime: If you are interested in getting together with other Dads in the Melrose, Stoneham, Wakefield and surrounding communities, send e-mail to Tony at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to learn about weekly playgroups and other outings.

Family Programs

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren In Harmony              Registration required

The North Suburban Family Network, in collaboration with the Melrose, Stoneham and Wakefield Councils on Aging, and supported by community donations, offers a support group for grandparents and grandchildren. The program meets from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM on the second and fourth Monday of each month at the Life Care Center of Stoneham. The two- hour sessions offer support and speakers on subjects chosen by the participants. You are not alone. Come meet other grandparents who are actively raising their grandchildren.  The next meeting is on Monday, September 14th.

NEW PROGRAM IN COLLABORATION WITH WINCHESTER HOSPITAL

Through the generosity of the Melrose Sharing and Caring Foundation, the North Suburban Family Network in partnership with Melrose-Wakefield Hospital, Winchester Hospital, Criterion Stoneham, Early Intervention Program and the ARC of Eastern Middlesex, a six-week parenting education and support program for parents of premature infants is being offered. The program will begin in early
March and run through mid April from 1:00 to 2:30 PM, at the Family Network’s center at 16 Franklin Street in Melrose. “Parents Need Special Care Too!” will be facilitated by one of the Melrose-Wakefield Hospital maternity social workers. Each week, special topics will be presented by a variety of experts from the community and both hospitals. The topics to be covered will include journal writing, stress management, family dynamics, infant health and feeding, understanding the developing child, creating a personal support network and accessing community resources. Through this group, parents will have the opportunity to meet other parents of premature infants and hopefully develop on-going relationships. These relationships are key to building a strong family foundation by helping parents to cope with the ongoing stressors of parenting. For additional information, call Kathy at 781-662-2722.

Thursday, January 28 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Location: Perkins Hall, Melrose-Wakefield Hospital

You hoped your children would be best friends, but instead they seem to be at each other's throats. Don't despair because you're not alone. We will discuss why siblings fight, when and how we should intervene, when we should let them "work it out" and how we can support the development of loving relationships between brothers and sisters. Facilitated by Debbie Weinstock-Savoy, Ph D, LICSW and parent educator.

Routines, Rituals and Transitions Registration required

Monday, February 22 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Location: Perkins Hall, Melrose/Wakefield Hospital

Whether we are smoothing out the edges on "who had it first" or working with the challenge of a full-blown temper tantrum, there are times when every parent could use a few fresh ideas. Bedtime hassles, homework blues and rousting the tardy are issues this workshop series covers. Using alignment, active listening and a little child development know-how, parents can support children through the tough times. Find out why bribery, sarcasm and threats don't work, especially in the long run. Facilitated by Scott Noyes from Empowering Programs.

Fostering Resiliency in Children Registration required

Tuesday, March 16 7:00 PM -9:00 PM

Location: Perkins Hall, Melrose/Wakefield Hospital

The pressure of life today overwhelms many children and families. Some are working harder and longer just to survive. The obstacles and challenges seem overwhelming and the light at the end of the tunnel just may be a train quickly approaching head on. We must teach children the skills and attitudes that allow them to continue in spite of the challenges. These are known as .“protective factors”. This workshop will lead you to becoming a resiliency mentor. Presented by Jeanine Fitzgerald, Certified Behavioral Consultant, Better Behavior Bureau.

Wednesdays, Jan. 13 & 20, Feb. 3 & 10 7 – 9 PM

Location: Perkins Hall, Melrose-Wakefield Hospital

When a child has special needs, locating supports can be an overwhelming process! Presenters will provide an overview of the available services and how to access them. Learn about working with school systems and special education laws, government benefits and family support. There is no charge for these workshops. Sponsored by The Arc of East Middlesex, The Family Networks of Malden-Everett, North Suburban and Medford, Mass Families Organizing for Chance, Family Ties and Riverside Community Care. Register by calling Judy Santa Maria, The Arc of East Middlesex 781 942-4888 x 1-4022 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Family Fun at the Stoneham Theatre

Magician Scott Jameson (Ages 2.5 – 5 years) Registration required

Saturday, January 23 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM 781-662-2722

Location: Stoneham Theater, 395 Main Street, Stoneham (Please, no food or drink in the theatre.)

For over a decade Scott Jameson's magical performances have received rave reviews from a diverse range of audiences throughout the Northeast. His family-friendly theatrical brand of magic and juggling delights children, their parents and their parent’s parents. Magic by Scott Jameson is not a magic show in the typical “pull a rabbit out of a hat” sense.

Designed with family audiences in mind, Scott’s shows artfully combine magic and juggling with clever characterizations, physical skill, music, mime, storytelling and plenty of audience participation. Training in gymnastics, storytelling, mime, acting and dance has helped Scott create shows that have been called “Superb!” Be prepared to laugh, be amazed and take part in a unique show. This program is provided in collaboration with the Community Partnership for Children of Melrose, Stoneham and Wakefield and the Stoneham Theatre.

Music & Movement with Kidzfun (Ages 2.6 - 5 years)

Registration required

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Start times: 9:30 AM 10:10 AM 10:50 AM 11:30 AM (Choose one time)

Location: First Congregational Church, 121 West Foster Street, Melrose

This is a winter favorite of kids and parents. Theresa McLennan of Kidzfun will conduct a half hour program of music and movement that will delight your child and teach them about simple fitness. Choose one of four half hour sessions offered. This program is provided in collaboration This program is provided in collaboration with the Community Partnership for Children of Melrose, Stoneham and Wakefield and the First Congregational Church in Melrose.

Network News

Upcoming Coalition Meetings

Wednesdays, Sept. 23 & Nov. 18 - 6:30 PM  – 8:00 PM

The North Suburban Family Network is run by a Coalition comprised of staff, parents, local business people and representatives of human service agencies. The success of the network is based on all these people coming to the table, collaborating and sharing ideas. Our parents are a large part of that process. We meet every other month for 1.5 hours. Be a part of the future of the NSFN.

Shoes and Boots off During the Winter: Because of the sand, salt and snow this time of year, we ask all visitors to take off their shoes and boots before entering the drop-in playroom and classroom. Feel free to bring extra socks or slippers.

Chats with Kathy: If you would like to talk about a parenting issue, ask about preschools or daycare centers, or any topic of interest to you, please feel free to call, e-mail or set a time that I can reserve just for you. The NSFN has community resources and parenting information that we can share with you to help make your parenting journey as easy as possible.

Free Clothing Store: Sponsored by the NSFN Family Assistance Program and the North Suburban WIC Program. Available items include books, gently used maternity clothes, infant and children’s clothing (to size 10), diapers and baby essentials such as cribs, swings, strollers, bouncy seats and pack ‘n plays. If you are in need of a helping hand, call 781-338-7579. If you would like to donate items, call 781-338-7607.

Joint Meetings of The North Suburban Family Network (NSFN) and
The Community Partnership For Children of Melrose, Stoneham and Wakefield (CPC)

Wednesdays, January 20th & March 10th 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM Location: NS Family Network

Next fiscal year the NSFN and the CPC will be funded by one grant, the Coordinated Family and Community Engagement Grant through the MA Department of Early Education and Care. Members of the two Coalitions are meeting to discuss plans for the future. The two coalitions are comprised of staff, early childhood educators, parents, local business people and representatives of human service agencies. We are looking for parent members from Stoneham and Wakefield, as well as representation from clergy, businesses, childcare centers, family childcare and other community organizations that represent families.

Volunteers Needed

Call 781-662-2722 for more information.

Do you know someone who can give a few hours a week to the family network? We are looking for someone who can help answer doors and greet families coming to class or drop-in play. Hours would be from 9 am – 11 am any day during the week. A smiling face to greet you at the door is so important.