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Amherst, Massachusetts is a charming and vibrant town located in the heart of the Pioneer Valley. Known for its exceptional educational institutions and strong sense of community, Amherst is an ideal place for families looking to raise children in a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment. Education is at the forefront in Amherst, with top-notch public and private schools offering an excellent standard of education. The highly-regarded Amherst Regional Public Schools provide a comprehensive and inclusive curriculum, while the prestigious Five Colleges consortium, consisting of Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, offers a wealth of educational resources for all ages. Beyond formal education, Amherst also offers plenty of entertainment options for families. The vibrant downtown area is sprinkled with unique shops, bookstores, and art galleries, creating a lively atmosphere. Families can explore the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, which showcases captivating exhibits and offers interactive programs for children. The scenic outdoors beckons with numerous parks, hiking trails, and the nearby Amethyst Brook Conservation Area, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and recreational activities. Community events and festivals, such as the Taste of Amherst and the Amherst Block Party, bring locals together and foster a strong sense of camaraderie. Families can also enjoy cultural performances at the Fine Arts Center or catch a movie at the Amherst Cinema, known for its diverse selection of independent films. In summary, Amherst, MA is a welcoming community that prioritizes education and offers a plethora of opportunities for families. With its exceptional schools, access to renowned colleges, and a wide array of entertainment options, Amherst provides an enriching and well-rounded upbringing for children while fostering a strong sense of community.

Local Events

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Nov1014:00 PM
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Nov10-1114:00 PM
Scavenger Hunt Wrentham event image
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Happy dancing parents draw
Nov120:00 AM
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Nov1310:30 AM
Happy dancing parents draw
Nov14-170:00 AM
Pinocchio: The Musical event image
Nov1410:30 AM
Happy dancing parents draw
Nov1522:30 PM
Tot Shabbat, Dinner, Intergenerational Service event image

Local Activities

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Riding horses is an experience like no other. It allows us to bond and become one with our beloved equine partners. From the moment we first get on a horse, we can feel the connection and the trust that develops between us and our horse. For those of us who have been riding for years, we know the joy of soaring over jumps and galloping across fields with a magnificent creature. At Infinity Equestrian, we strive to create an environment where horse and rider can come together in harmony and support each other's growth. We invite you to join us on this journey of discovery and friendship!

a group of children in karate uniforms

At Moving Zen, participants have fun in a safe and respectful environment while developing confidence, well-being, and a sense of mastery. Through the practice of karate, children learn to focus and build self-discipline, while adults gain physical fitness, stress relief, and skills for self-defense. Our classes provide a great way for students to gain physical and mental strength while having fun. Our instructors are certified and experienced in teaching traditional Japanese karate. They are dedicated to helping each student reach their goals, from learning basic martial arts skills to mastering advanced techniques. Our classes foster a sense of respect, self-discipline, and self-improvement among all participants.

a group of people standing next to a cow

Welcome to our family-owned and operated equine facility! We offer riding lessons in hunt seat and dressage for all ages and abilities. Our team is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for both horse and rider, ensuring a positive learning experience. We also host several horse shows and clinics on the farm throughout the year. Our mission is to help our riders reach excellence in horsemanship, by providing continuing education and valuable experience. Come visit us and gain the knowledge and skills you need to become a better horse and rider. We look forward to having you join us!

a group of women dancing

Bellydance classes are an exciting way to learn a skill, make new friends, and express yourself through dance. Sahina is a bellydance performer, instructor, and costume designer based in Western Massachusetts since 2006. She focuses on inspiring her students to create an environment of creativity and expression. Sahina produces student showcases to provide a supportive atmosphere for students to show off their dancing. Additionally, she emphasizes musicality and knowledge of the various bellydance styles. With her classes, you will be able to perfect your technique and have a great time. Sahina is dedicated to helping her students reach their full potential. Whether you are looking to learn a new skill, make new friends, or express yourself through dance, Sahina's bellydance classes are the perfect way to do so. Her classes emphasize musicality and knowledge of the exciting variety of bellydance styles. Additionally, she provides a safe and supportive environment for students to practice and show off their gorgeous dancing. If you are interested in scheduling a performance or taking classes, please visit the links below for more information.

a group of girls posing for a photo

At Woodside Children's Center, we are proud to provide a safe and nurturing environment for your little ones. With more than 25 years of experience, we are dedicated to providing superior childcare and early education to infants, toddlers and preschoolers for families in the Amherst College community. Located in a Victorian home near the Amherst College campus, our non-profit center offers admission priority for Amherst College families. We understand the importance of finding quality care for your children and that's why Woodside Children's Center is committed to providing the best in childcare and early education. Our experienced staff help children learn and grow in a safe and nurturing environment. With a commitment to excellence, we offer a stimulating and engaging learning experience for your little ones. At Woodside Children's Center, our priority is the safety and wellbeing of your children. We strive to create an atmosphere of trust and respect that is based on mutual understanding and communication. With our commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment, your little ones can experience the joy of learning in a fun and stimulating environment.

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Located at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, this college offers baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral level programs to help you reach your goals. The faculty at the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing are dedicated to providing students with the best education and experience possible. They use their advanced clinical skills and innovative research to create an engaging and comprehensive learning experience. Students benefit from state-of-the-art technology and techniques, preparing them for their career in whatever healthcare setting they choose. Making the decision to pursue a career in nursing is an important one. At the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing, you can trust that you are getting a quality education and the necessary skills to be successful in the field. The faculty is determined to help you reach your goals, no matter if you are a freshman entering college, changing professions, or advancing in the nursing field.

a girl wearing a helmet and ice skates

Our USFSA Learn to Skate curriculum is designed to be fun and engaging, so that kids can stay enthusiastic about learning to skate from the time they begin lessons until they reach their goals, recreational or competitive. At the Skating Club of Amherst, we believe that success in figure skating is achieved through the processes of learning. Our USFSA Learn to Skate curriculum is tailored to ensure that kids stay motivated and excited about learning to skate from the moment they start. Whether their goal is recreational or competitive, our program will give them the tools they need to reach their goals. We also offer adult classes, so that adults can join in the fun and reach their goals too.

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From the sprawling campus to the unique amenities, like the Mead Art Museum and the Amherst College Museum of Natural History, there’s something for everyone. Enrollment in Amherst College's iD Tech summer program is a great way for parents and kids to get a taste of collegiate life. With a sprawling 1,000-acre campus that includes athletic facilities, a wildlife sanctuary, a forest for studying ecology, and multiple trails and biking paths, it's no wonder Amherst College is such a sought-after option for students interested in exploring the great outdoors. On top of that, the college is home to the Mead Art Museum, the Amherst Center for Russian Culture, and the Wilder Observatory, making it a truly unique experience.

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At Cushman Scott Children's Center, we are proud to offer an independent, non-profit educational center for children aged 15 months to 8 years old. Our program creates an enriching educational environment, providing traditional preschool education with optional summer and extended-day programs. We are dedicated to providing flexible options to meet each family's individual needs. Our goal is to help each family create the Cushman experience that is right for their child. At Cushman Scott Children's Center, we offer a comprehensive program designed to meet the needs of children aged 15 months to 8 years old and their families. Our curriculum is enriched with traditional preschool activities, as well as optional summer and extended-day programs. We understand that every family is unique, so we provide flexible options to accommodate each family's individual needs. Our mission is to ensure that every family is able to find the Cushman experience that is perfect for their child.

two boys in karate uniforms

Tae Kwon Do is an activity that is open to people of any age or physical condition. With its unique blend of physical and mental exercise, it is a great way to reach your goals, whether they be physical, mental or spiritual. Not only does it help to build strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness, but also encourages self-confidence and inner calm. At Tae Kwon Do, participants of any age or physical condition can benefit from its unique blend of physical and mental exercise. You can be sure that no matter your goals, be it fitness, self-defense, or inner peace, Tae Kwon Do can help you achieve them. Through practice, you can develop strength, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and a peaceful inner calm. Moreover, it can also help to boost self-confidence.

a group of people in white karate uniforms holding swords

Aikido of Amherst is the perfect place to learn this ancient martial art! Located in Amherst, Massachusetts, Aikido of Amherst provides a safe, respectful, and encouraging environment for all members to learn and develop. Instruction is available to both adults of all ages and adolescents over 12, so everyone can benefit from Aikido’s many benefits. This traditional martial art form is a great way to improve physical and mental conditioning, while learning effective self-defense techniques. With Aikido of Amherst, students can use deep breathing, relaxation, centering, and body alignment to move with the energy of an attack and take advantage of their attacker’s force. If you’re looking to learn a martial art in a positive environment, Aikido of Amherst is the perfect place for you!

a group of people in karate uniforms

At Amherst College in Massachusetts, our club sport focuses on providing a comprehensive martial arts education. Our training incorporates Isshinryu Karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, as well as techniques from various other styles. We embrace the traditional elements of each style while also developing fighters who are versatile and well-rounded. Our club sport at Amherst College is a great opportunity for students to learn martial arts in a supportive environment. Our instructors offer training in Isshinryu Karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, as well as techniques from Muay Thai, Kung Fu, and Tae Kwon Do. We emphasize the importance of staying true to traditional elements, while also preparing fighters for both the ring and life.

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Pineapple Dance School provides a place where any student can come and learn the art and beauty of dance. Led by Artistic Director Charlotte Doyle, the school has an incredible faculty with a wealth of knowledge and experience to share. They don't just teach the latest trends, but also revive the knowledge of the great teachers and styles from the past. At Pineapple Dance School, students are given the opportunity to compete solely with themselves, while also enjoying the support of their peers and the community. The atmosphere is about fostering excellence, having fun, and learning to respect the art of dance. With a focus on community, inquiry, and improvement, Pineapple Dance School offers something for everyone.

a person playing a piano

Catherine Iselin's classes provide a great opportunity for budding musicians to learn the basics of reading music alongside piano technique and music theory. With the focus on classical music from the baroque era to the modern day, students can also pick their own musical styles, like rock, jazz, folk, and contemporary. To help students build fine motor skills and hand coordination, various clapping and tapping exercises are incorporated into the lessons. This approach gives students the tools to confidently process and perform challenging rhythms and polyrhythms. Catherine Iselin's classes offer a unique experience for young musicians to excel in music reading skills. By blending classical music with modern styles, students can learn the fundamentals of music theory and piano technique, while also getting a chance to explore their personal preferences. With the use of clapping and tapping exercises, Catherine Iselin helps students to develop their hand coordination and fine motor skills, ultimately enabling them to take on more advanced rhythms and polyrhythms.

a group of children posing for a photo

At Capacidad, we understand that the environment we exist in is only part of the equation when it comes to creating a welcoming atmosphere. We believe that creating an atmosphere of acceptance, respect and understanding is the most important part of any setting. We strive to create an environment that celebrates our differences without reducing people to a checklist of material items. At Capacidad, we recognize that the most important aspect of creating a comfortable atmosphere is teaching kids the skills of critical thinking and conflict resolution. We believe that these skills are essential for children to learn in a natural and kid-friendly setting. We strive to foster an atmosphere that encourages learning and growth without minimizing the importance of food, clothing, music, etc. to cultures around the world. At Capacidad, we believe that creating a comfortable space for people to learn and grow is essential. We understand that while food, clothing, music, etc. are all important components of culture, people are so much more. We strive to create an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding while teaching kids the skills of critical thinking and conflict resolution in a natural, kid-friendly environment. We believe this is the best way to ensure that everyone is welcomed and valued for who they are.