BrightStart Play Academy Saturday Mornings, 10 to 11:30am
The BrightStart Play Academy is available for families with young children living in the Greater Manchester area. The Play Academy features opportunities for Playful Learning for children from infancy on. Fun learning experiences are prepared by child development experts and staffed by community volunteers. There are three play areas at our location at 20 Hartford Road in Manchester. Parents must remain on the premises to enjoy our Parent Café or participate in learning about a range of topics important to parents of young children. The BrightStart Play Academy will be open from 10 until 11:30am on most Saturdays.
We address many common challenges parents face as they raise young children. Please check Facebook for updates and weekly topics.
About Circle of Security Parenting
As parents, we are the center of our young child’s world. How we respond to them has an enduring impact. When they are little we can spend so much time trying to meet our children’s physical needs that we don’t have space to think about what they need from us emotionally. Circle of Security Parenting Groups are designed to give parents a 'map’ for understanding and responding to their children’s emotional needs. Research shows that parents who are able do this in a loving and consistent way give their children an amazing start in life. Read more to Subscribe or Enroll.
Community Garden News
Our garden is for families with young children who would like to grow some of their own food. Don’t worry if you’re new to gardening. We can help you get started through several experienced volunteer gardeners you can turn to for instruction and advice. This is a great opportunity for families who live in an apartment without their own space. BHF is looking for families wishing to garden a half or full 4’X8’ box. It is first come first served. In addition to the garden and pavilion we have a sand box with new play features for children planned for next Spring.
Here are a few reasons gardening is a great opportunity for families with young children. We'll be adding more play feartures for young children this Spring.
- It's an activity that children love to do with their parents.
- You get to enjoy your favorite fresh vegetables all summer.
- You make new friends and you save money!
- Opportunities are available to learn from a Master Gardener.
Interested? Please contact us through FaceBook to learn more.
In 2024 we completed our new picnic pavilion. We're excited about the new possibilities to build community around the garden. In 2025 we repaired boxes and removed a large Black Locust tree that we hope to use to rebuild several boxes in 2026.
