The great state of Massachusetts, often called 'Mass' by its friendly inhabitants, is as vibrant and colorful as a giant paint palette left out in the rain by a forgetful elephant named Edgar. It’s where the Atlantic Ocean gushes enthusiastically over the sandy beaches, where the quaint townhouses smile like warm chocolate chip cookies, and where the kids are as creative as Picasso’s paintbrush on a sugar rush! These kids are not your ordinary children. Oh, no! They’re magical engineers of paper, glitter, and glue – the Art & Craft Virtuosos of Mass! They can turn an egg carton into an elegant castle, a sock into a swooning puppet princess, or a handful of macaroni into a thrift store-worthy necklace. They're like wizards, with paintbrushes instead of magic wands, creating worlds out of popsicle sticks and dreams. Their leader is a whimsical character named Doodle McSpray, an old sea captain with a beard as wild as a porcupine’s dream and a hat decorated with glittering bottle caps. Doodle loves to tell stories about his adventures on the high seas, each one more wildly exaggerated than the last. Once, he claimed to have seen a rainbow-colored whale that spat out colorful water jets, which he used to paint his ship! But what Doodle loves most is inspiring the kids. He teaches them how to see the fantastic in the ordinary, how a simple box could be a rocket to the moon, or a paper plate could be a warrior's mighty shield. The kids of Massachusetts, with their art & craft creations, bring a splash of joy and whimsy to their lovely state; a testament to their creativity, imagination, and Doodle McSpray's tall tales!
Read morebest art-crafts programs in Springfield, MA


What began in a humble New York City apartment with just a single student, Spark, has since blossomed into an enriching program impacting thousands of children. Our unique educational approach combines the elements of art, yoga, meditation, and nature to create a holistic learning environment. This distinctive blend is what sets Spark apart, allowing us to reach and inspire a multitude of children in truly meaningful ways. With an array of offerings to accommodate various schedules and needs, Spark has something for everyone. Our services extend beyond the standard after school and weekend classes to include holiday and summer camps, birthday parties, portfolio preparation, private classes, and custom pods. We also welcome homeschool groups and are thrilled to announce the recent addition of a forest school program to our repertoire. You can find Spark on-site in various schools and at our main studio located in the Upper West Side. But we're not stopping there - we're also planning to expand to the Upper East Side and Brooklyn. For our families in Pennsylvania, we run the program from our family studio there. And if you're not in close proximity to any of our locations, don't worry. We offer in-home instruction and virtual options to ensure that Spark can reach you, no matter where you are. We invite you to explore all the ways you can experience Spark and look forward to helping bring our program to you.


At the North End Youth Center (NEYC), our goal is to empower young people to reach their full potential by helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in life. We offer an array of programs for students of all ages, including Distance Learning, Before and After School, and Summer Camp. Our experienced staff guide and mentor students to develop beneficial, long-term relationships and help them to become productive, engaged members of society. With remote sites at The Ivy Academy (Elgin) and The Ivy Academy II (Geneva, IL), NEYC is able to provide students with access to the services they need, no matter their location.


Harriett Merriam, daughter of Charles Merriam, the man behind Merriam-Webster Dictionaries, founded Springfield Day Nursery in 1883. This was in response to a desperate need for child care among Springfield’s hardworking families. Now known as Square One, the organization provides tailored education and support services for every child and family. Our mission is to foster a lifelong love of learning, giving children the skills they need to make smart decisions and to grow strong in all aspects of life.


At HCS Head Start, we offer free traditional part-day early childhood programs to eligible families. With the full-day option, parents who are working or enrolled in school full-time can enroll their children in our comprehensive program – with fees ranging from sliding scale to full tuition. We are more than just an early childhood education center. We also provide an array of family and parent support services such as cooking classes, money management guidance, parenting classes, and a healthy relationships program. We encourage parents to become involved in their children’s education and our HCS Head Start community.


stress and more smiles when your child is in our care. Our structured, developmentally appropriate curriculum encourages exploration and discovery while fostering social and emotional growth. At Giggle Gardens, your child will learn, giggle and grow. Our highly trained and dedicated staff are devoted to providing a safe, nurturing and stimulating learning environment. We are committed to fostering each child’s creativity and independence. Giggle Gardens is a place for your child to learn, giggle and grow in a positive, caring atmosphere. Our programs are designed to help children develop the skills necessary to become successful, confident adults. We strive to provide a fun and engaging learning experience where children make new friends and build lasting memories.


At Square One, we believe that children and families thrive when they are surrounded by high-quality early education, supportive adults and a safe and healthy environment. We strive to provide educational and other supportive services that meet the needs of each child and family. Through our offerings, children and families are given the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence they need to make informed decisions and build a strong foundation for their future. We work hard to ensure that our services create a safe and nurturing environment that allows children to grow and develop in a positive way.


Camp Massasoit is the ideal spot for your kids to have a summer to remember. Kids aged five through twelve will find programs tailored to their age and maturity level, helping them grow, learn and have a blast! With plenty of activities and a safe, supportive environment, your kids will be able to explore and develop their skills and interests in a way that’s both fun and age-appropriate. Camp Massasoit provides an unforgettable summer experience for children ages five through twelve. Every activity is designed to be developmentally appropriate for each stage of physical and cognitive growth. Kids can explore new things, discover their passions and develop their talents in a safe and encouraging environment. You can rest assured that your kids will have a summer of growth and adventure.


At Square One, our mission is to promote the healthy development of children and families. We strive to create an inviting, safe and nurturing environment where each child and family served can reach their full potential. Our programs are designed to help children and families develop the skills necessary to become successful, lifelong learners. We seek to provide the highest quality of care and support to ensure that children and families have the skills and tools needed to be successful in their own home and in the community.

The Zoo in Forest Park is a wonderful place to visit for the whole family! With a mission to promote public awareness and appreciation for animals and the environment, this non-profit organization strives to make a difference. Spend a day exploring the zoo and admiring the variety of wildlife. Learn about the importance of conservation and how you can help protect and preserve our planet. The zoo offers educational programs and activities for all ages, perfect for a fun and informative day out. You can learn about different species of animals, how they interact with their environment, and the impact humans have had on their habitats. Kids can also take part in fun hands-on activities such as crafting projects or animal encounters. The Zoo in Forest Park is a great place to visit for a day of fun and learning. Discover the amazing diversity of the animal kingdom, while helping to promote public awareness and appreciation for all animals and the natural environment. With educational programs, activities, and conservation efforts, it's a great way to show your support for the planet and its inhabitants.


At HCS Head Start Inc., we believe that all children deserve the opportunity to learn and achieve their full potential. We have been providing high-quality early childhood education services for children and families in Western Massachusetts since 1965. Our program is located in cities and towns such as Brimfield, Chicopee, East Longmeadow, Granby (Shared with Community Action), Hampden, Holland, Holyoke, Indian Orchard, Longmeadow, Ludlow, Monson, Palmer, South Hadley (Shared with Community Action), Springfield, Three Rivers, Wales, and Wilbraham. We strive to create an environment that is safe, welcoming, and nurturing for children and families. Our program focuses on school readiness by providing quality educational experiences that promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. We take pride in providing comprehensive services that include education, health, nutrition, and social services. Our goal is to ensure that our children and families have the resources they need to foster healthy growth and development. At HCS Head Start Inc., we are committed to providing the community with the best early childhood education services available. We are proud to have been providing quality services for more than 50 years and continue to strive for excellence. We strive to create a supportive and enriching environment for children and families that will ensure their success now and in the future.


The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is a nonprofit organization that is committed to advocating for the needs and interests of children. Their Program Standards serve as a guide for early childhood educators, providing best practices for working with children from birth to age 8. Through NAEYC Accreditation, programs for young children are held to the highest standards in the industry. They must meet guidelines that guarantee a secure and healthy environment for children, have knowledgeable teachers, access to appropriate teaching materials, and a curriculum that is both stimulating and developmentally appropriate. At our centers, we strive to uphold the NAEYC Program Standards for the benefit of every child in our care. Our staff is highly trained and our resources are top-of-the-line, so that our students receive the best possible education.


We strive to build a strong foundation for our community members by ensuring that they have access to the resources and skills they need to thrive. The core of MLKFS’s mission is to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals, families, and youth, where they can develop the tools to better their lives and reach their potential. MLKFS works to provide these individuals and families with the support they need to make their dreams a reality, while also empowering them to take charge of their own lives. MLKFS is passionate about helping the community, and offers a variety of services such as after-school programs, educational and college readiness assistance, and cultural experiences such as art, dance, and sports. We believe in providing our community members with the resources and skills they need to succeed, and are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals, families, and youth can thrive.


At The Kids’ Place we’ve been providing quality child care services since 1982. Our staff is our most important resource, with many policies and practices resulting from staff collaboration and expertise. We use the Creative Curriculum©, a nationally recognized curriculum, with learning centers featuring blocks, manipulatives, art, math, science, and dramatic play. We believe that play is children’s work, so we emphasize learning through play. We’re proud to have grown to six locations throughout western Massachusetts, and we enjoy seeing many of the children we taught come back – looking for the same quality of education they once received to provide now to their own children.


Introducing Giggle Gardens Learning Center, Day Care! With over 20 years of experience, Giggle Gardens has been providing a safe and structured environment for infants, school age children, and preschoolers in Springfield, MA, and the surrounding western MA area for years. Our team of professionals are dedicated to providing a place where learning begins and friendships are forged. At Giggle Gardens, we believe that learning is fun and should be a joyful experience for all children. Our stimulating atmosphere provides a variety of activities and experiences to foster growth and development in our students. We also strive to create a positive atmosphere where children can socialize and have fun. Our teachers are committed to ensuring that children have plenty of opportunities to laugh and giggle while learning. At Giggle Gardens Learning Center, Day Care, we understand that families are the cornerstone of our community. We are proud to have welcomed hundreds of families into our program and are excited to invite your family to join us too! Our mission is to make sure each and every child feels safe, secure, and happy while learning and growing.


Head Start offers a strong foundation for children to acquire the skills they need to do well in kindergarten and beyond. At our licensed facilities, we work to ensure kids are ready for school by providing quality educational, health, nutritional, and social services. By taking advantage of these services, children can get a jump-start in their academic and life journey. No matter where your child is at in their development, our program can help them reach their full potential. Our dedicated staff is here to help support the development of your child’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical skills. Our centers are fully licensed by the MA Department of Early Education and Care so you can be sure that your child will receive the best care in a safe and secure environment. Our goal is to make sure your child is set up for success in kindergarten and beyond. So if you’re looking for a program that provides a solid foundation for your child’s academic and life journey, then come to Head Start and let us help your child reach their fullest potential.


Welcome to Cooley Street KinderCare, located in Springfield, MA! Our center is designed to provide your child with a secure and safe environment to learn, play, and feel supported. From our playground and secure building to our different learning areas, we help children build confidence and develop important life skills. With a theme-related curriculum and daily activities, your child will have a fun and stimulating learning experience. Our passionate teachers and staff love getting to know and support each family in our circle. We make sure your child is engaged socially and academically and is given the opportunity to form meaningful connections with their friends. Our goal is to help your child develop a strong sense of self-confidence for life. Contact the center director to learn more about our child care options and to schedule a tour!


At Little Friends Child Care Center, we understand the importance of providing an enriching environment for your child. Our program is designed to foster your child’s development through an integrated curriculum that is tailored to meet the individual needs of each student. We strive to provide a nurturing and supportive environment that promotes growth in the social, emotional, cognitive, linguistic, and physical development of every child. We also understand that access to high-quality care can be a challenge for many families. That’s why we offer a variety of enrollment options, including parent pay, several funded care programs, and a free state preschool for income eligible families. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment that is available to all families.


At NNCC, we understand that families are the cornerstone of a strong, healthy community. That's why we strive to empower families and individuals in the Hampden County area by providing advocacy, public, and human services. Our programs are designed to help families enhance their quality of life and their ability to preserve and support one another. We offer a wide range of services, including community advocacy, childcare, health services, disability services, and more. By providing these services, we hope to make a positive impact on the lives of our community members, helping them to lead healthier, more successful lives.


Parents of 15 month old children have a great option in the Springfield area for early education. Acorn Learning Center is a quality learning center that offers its students a variety of age appropriate educational activities. Through play, outdoor exploration, special field trips, and in-house guests, children get to learn, explore, and grow in a safe and nurturing environment. With certified teachers and decades of combined experience, Acorn Learning Center is the perfect place for parents to trust their little ones to get the best care and education.


Giggle Gardens Learning Center is a place where learning and friendships blossom! Our commitment to quality care and education for young children is what sets us apart. Roxanne Turowsky, owner and founder of Giggle Gardens Learning Center, has been providing a safe, structured environment for children to learn, socialize, and have a few giggles for over two decades. Hundreds of families have already joined the Giggle Gardens family, and we are always welcoming more. Giggle Gardens Learning Center is a place where every child can learn, grow, and make lasting friendships. Our staff is dedicated to providing quality care and education for young children and creating a safe and fun environment for all. Roxanne Turowsky has been leading Giggle Gardens since day one, creating a place for children to learn and have fun at the same time. Since its founding in 2000, Giggle Gardens has been a home for hundreds of families and we look forward to welcoming yours, too! At Giggle Gardens Learning Center, we believe in fostering learning, friendships, and of course, a few giggles. For the past 20 years, Roxanne Turowsky and her team have been providing a safe, structured environment for children to learn and grow. Our commitment to quality care and education for young children has been the cornerstone of Giggle Gardens since its founding. Join the hundreds of families who have welcomed Giggle Gardens into their lives and become part of our learning family today!


Bright Futures Early Learning Center is committed to providing a nurturing and enriching environment specifically designed to meet the needs of children from birth through age five. Our program offers experiences that promote learning and development in a secure and loving atmosphere. We are proud to be a part of the Mason Wright Foundation and look forward to providing a bright future for the children we serve. At Bright Futures Early Learning Center, we are proud to be part of the Mason Wright Foundation. Our center is located in the Mason Wright Senior Living building at 74 Walnut Street in Springfield. We have been providing childcare here since 1999 and became an official part of the Mason Wright family in 2017. At Bright Futures, we believe that all generations can benefit from interaction, learning, and growth. We often arrange activities that combine our childcare students with the senior citizens of Mason Wright. These activities provide a unique and special opportunity for children and seniors to connect. We strive to create a nurturing and enriching environment for the children we serve. Our program is specially designed to meet the needs of children from birth to age five, and we are dedicated to providing experiences that foster learning and development in a safe, loving atmosphere. We look forward to giving the children a bright future!


The Boys & Girls Club Family Center has been a part of the Springfield community for over a century. During this time, it has adapted to the changing needs of the community and continues to provide a safe haven and support for families and children. The mission of the Club is to help all young people, especially those in need, reach their fullest potential as responsible and caring citizens. To ensure this mission is met, the Club is supervised by a Board of Directors, with Board President Tonya Ward in charge and Executive Director Keshawn Dodds overseeing day to day operations.


Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) has been offering technical and comprehensive education since 1967, continuing the pioneering legacy of the Springfield Armory. STCC offers a wide range of programs, from manufacturing and STEM to healthcare, business, social services, and the liberal arts. With some of the most affordable programs in the area, STCC provides unequalled opportunity for the vitality of Western Massachusetts. As a Hispanic Serving Institution, STCC is committed to closing achievement gaps and providing students with an opportunity to transform their lives intellectually, culturally, and economically. Students are supported to become thoughtfully engaged and socially responsible graduates. With such a wide range of programs available, STCC is the perfect choice for those looking to further their education.


The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is a non-profit corporation that is devoted to advocating for the needs and interests of children from birth to age 8. Their Program Standards have been crafted to give early childhood educators a set of guidelines to follow when working with young children. The NAEYC Accreditation process ensures that programs for young children are founded on up-to-date knowledge and research on child development and early childhood education. To meet these standards, each of our centers strives to provide a safe and healthy environment where children can thrive, with teachers who are adequately trained and have access to quality teaching materials. Furthermore, we challenge our children with a curriculum that is appropriate to their developmental stage.

Are you looking for a child care service for those going back to school or continuing with remote learning? Look no further—our center has you covered! We offer 6:30am-5:30pm care for ages 5-13, along with transportation in the morning and afternoon for those who need it. We even offer remote learning for those who choose not to go back to school. Plus, we have before and afterschool service, a summer camp, and regular taekwondo classes for both afterschool kids and regular students. There’s even more—art & craft, movie time, science, and sports activities are all part of the package. We’re the program recommended by public schools, and our Google reviews confirm it. At our center, we provide more than you’d expect from a child care service. Not only do we provide care for those going back to school or continuing with remote learning, but we also offer transportation, remote learning options, and before and afterschool services. We even have a summer camp and regular taekwondo classes for both afterschool kids and regular students. We make sure to provide plenty of fun, too, with art & craft, movie time, science, and sports activities. We’re the program of choice for public schools, and our Google reviews prove it. When it comes to child care services, our center is the place to be. We offer 6:30am-5:30pm care for ages 5-13, along with transportation in the morning and afternoon for those who need it. We even offer remote learning for those who choose not to go back to school. Plus, our center has a summer camp and regular taekwondo classes for afterschool kids and regular students. We also make sure to provide plenty of fun activities, like art & craft, movie time, science, and sports. Our program is recommended by public schools, and Google reviews confirm it.


At HCS Head Start Inc., we understand the importance of strong foundations in early childhood education. That’s why, since 1965, we’ve been dedicated to providing high-quality services to children and families in Western Massachusetts. Our services are available in Brimfield, Chicopee, East Longmeadow, Granby (Shared with Community Action), Hampden, Holland, Holyoke, Indian Orchard, Longmeadow, Ludlow, Monson, Palmer, South Hadley (Shared with Community Action), Springfield, Three Rivers, Wales, and Wilbraham. We believe that all children deserve an equal chance to start their educational journey on the right foot. Our experienced team is dedicated to giving each child the individual attention they need to reach their full potential. We strive to make sure that all children have the language, cognitive, and social skills they’ll need to succeed. At HCS Head Start Inc., we’re committed to providing the best possible early childhood education services. With over five decades of experience in the field, we strive to give every child the opportunity to excel. Our programs are designed to fit the needs of each child, helping them to reach their full potential and set them up for a lifetime of success.


Welcome to our Family Home Child Care! Located in Pacific, Washington, we are a licensed daycare with license number 640029. Our warm and welcoming environment is suitable for children ages birth to 12 years old, with a maximum capacity of 12 children. We are a husband and wife operation who have been in business for 13 years. In addition to running a successful daycare, we are also the proud parents of two beautiful children. Our 11-year-old daughter and 4-year-old son are both a testament to our commitment to providing quality childcare. Our children are a key part of our childcare program, and we are dedicated to providing the same level of care and attention we would give our own children. At our Family Home Child Care, we provide a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. With 13 years of experience, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for your child. We are passionate about our commitment to offering the best family care in the Pacific, Washington area.


At Playful Minds, we understand the importance of providing a safe and nurturing environment for your children. Our certified and energetic staff is dedicated to going the extra mile to meet the needs of every individual child. We are proud to be part of the Connected Learning in Afterschool and Summer Partnership (CLASP), formerly known as Hasbro Summer Learning Initiative, and collaborate with the local library to provide specific assignments and required reading for the respective grade levels. We are committed to helping your children learn, grow, and have fun this summer. Our program is designed to stimulate their minds through creative play, outdoor exploration, arts & crafts, music, and songs. We offer an affordable setting with a variety of creative, physical, and intellectual activities that will keep your children engaged and entertained. Join us and let your children discover their potential this summer!

At the YMCA of Greater Springfield, we have been making a positive impact on our community since 1852. As the fourth oldest YMCA in the world, the second oldest in the country, and the third oldest in North America, we provide programs and services that strengthen the community and empower individuals. We serve 22,000 members and program participants annually, with core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Our Y offers something for everyone, from babies to seniors, and everything in between. We provide educational experiences for children, a safe haven for kids after school, thrilling outdoor activities during summer camp, healthy living guidance for families, and social outlets for members of the community. We know that our work is essential for the individuals and families in our area, and we are proud to have been making a difference for over 160 years.


Located in the Pioneer Valley, the Berkshires and Cape Cod areas, the Home serves children, adolescents, and families with special needs, helping them to cope with behavioral, psychiatric, and cognitive issues that may have been a result of their experiences. The Children's Study Home is committed to providing individualized service plans for each child or adolescent, taking the time to assess their needs and creating a plan that will foster their recovery, growth, and overall wellness. The team of professionals strive to provide a supportive environment where children can learn and grow, and families can feel supported and connected. With the help of the Home, families and children can gain the skills and confidence they need to succeed in life.


Corrie's Caring Hands is a family daycare located in the center of sixteen acres. With eighteen years of medical experience, Corrie provides a safe and nurturing environment for your child to grow and learn. At Corrie's Caring Hands, your child is encouraged to explore a variety of projects and activities throughout the day. To ensure that your child is provided with the proper nutrition, Corrie offers healthy meals and snacks. Furthermore, a curriculum based routine ensures that your child receives a well-rounded education. Corrie's Caring Hands strives to provide a safe, educational, and caring environment, all while maintaining a home like atmosphere. The spacious and fenced in yard provides ample opportunity for outdoor play. With Corrie's medical background and curriculum based routine, your child will have a safe and fun learning experience.


At MWFD, we believe that each child is unique and should be nurtured in a safe and secure environment. We strive to provide a stimulating learning environment where children are challenged and encouraged to develop their full potential. Our teachers and staff are dedicated to helping children reach their learning goals and to foster a love of learning that will last a lifetime. Our curriculum is designed to support the individual needs of each child, incorporating a wide range of activities and experiences that promote physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. We emphasize active learning, hands-on activities, and social interaction with peers and teachers. Through field trips, physical education, and music, we create a fun and engaging learning experience for all of our students.


Bright Futures Early Learning Center is a unique child care facility that provides the perfect balance of learning, exploration, and play. We are fully dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for every child. Our experienced and qualified staff members are dedicated to meeting the needs of each child, from infants through age five. We provide a wide range of activities that develop the whole child, including art, music, physical education, and circle time. Bright Futures Early Learning Center is proud to be part of the Mason Wright family. We are an affiliate of the Mason Wright Foundation, which also operates Mason Wright Senior Living and Colony Care at Home. Located in the Mason Wright Senior Living building at 74 Walnut Street in Springfield, our childcare facility has been a part of the Mason Wright family since 1999. At Bright Futures, each child is nurtured and encouraged to grow. We provide a safe, stimulating environment for infants through age five, and our experienced and qualified staff members are dedicated to meeting the needs of each child. Our activities promote physical, intellectual, and social-emotional development. From art, music, and physical education to circle time, children have the opportunity to explore and learn in a variety of ways. Bright Futures is also a great way for different generations to interact. Our childcare facility and the Mason Wright residents regularly participate in activities together, providing a special way for them to learn and grow together. We are proud to be part of the Mason Wright family, and look forward to welcoming new children and families to our unique center.


My program is designed to be child-led and full of activities that stimulate the imagination and encourage hands-on learning. We explore letters and numbers, build with blocks and Legos, engage in creative play and read books together. Music and dancing are also a great way to have fun and express ourselves! My years of experience, both professionally and personally, have given me a great understanding of how children learn and how to create a positive atmosphere where their learning can thrive. It brings me so much joy to watch the children grow and discover new things each day – it’s truly the best part of my job!


At Playful Minds LLC, they believe that the key to fostering a child’s love of learning is to create a nurturing, structured, and creative environment. This will help to build a strong foundation of positive skills and encourage self-confidence in your child. By providing a safe and supportive environment, they are able to guide your child in their development and progress in all areas. At Playful Minds LLC, their goal is to help your child become a lifelong learner. They understand that early childhood is the time to create a positive attitude towards learning and that a supportive, creative atmosphere is the best way to do this. With their experienced staff and carefully designed programs, they can help your child reach their full potential and build confidence in their own abilities. Playful Minds LLC strives to make learning fun and engaging for your child. They use creative activities, structured play, and positive reinforcement to help your child grow in all areas of development. They believe that by providing a safe and supportive environment, your child will have the best chance at success. They will help to guide your child in their development and progress, all while fostering an enthusiastic love of learning.