Category Archives: School Breaks

Inclusive Youth Rock Band Program

Plugged In is a unique nonprofit youth rock band program in Needham where young musicians of all levels and needs are welcome. Registration is open for both the spring and summer sessions.

Spring Session Registration (ages 7-19)
Spring session classes begin: February 2nd
Registration deadline: January 22nd
Information and online registration form: Plugged In

Plugged In Music That Matters Summer Day Camp (ages 11-18)
Session I dates: July 9th – 20th (maximum of 25 students per session)
Session II dates: July 23rd – August 3rd (maximum of 25 students per session)
Hours: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (extended hours available)
Information and online registration form: Plugged In

Founded in 2002, Plugged In now has over 150 students from all over Massachusetts. Some students experience emotional and learning difficulties, such as ADD, depression, and low-self-esteem and/or have special needs such as autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. In the loving and non-competitive atmosphere at Plugged In, all differences are transcended through a shared passion for music, the teamwork involved with using music to help others and an atmosphere of compassion and fun.

In addition to weekly ensemble band classes, private lessons, songwriting workshops, summer camp and community performances, five times a year Plugged In students perform in benefit concerts that raise money for causes and organizations chosen by the students themselves. Plugged In provides a nurturing and supportive community to which young musicians feel a sense of belonging, an opportunity to express and be acknowledged for their musical interests and a chance to use their music to help others around the world.

Complimentary Summer Camp Advisory Service

Summer 365 is a complimentary service that matches your child to the experience of a lifetime. One that best suits their interests, personality—and your specific needs and requirements. With first-hand knowledge of over 500 camps and programs in the ever-growing portfolio, Summer 365 takes great pride in their relationships and are confident in providing unbiased recommendations. This first-hand knowledge plus a friendly “get to know you” philosophy are what creates the best, most qualified matches.

Selecting the right camp is an important decision. They are here for you every step of the way including:
-A curated list of camp of recommendations
-Help planing home visits, tours, and rookie days
-Ongoing resource for tips, advice, and insight

Every child deserves the gift of summer. GIVE SUM is a special scholarship fund for families who would otherwise not be able to afford to send their children to camp. For every child that they help place in a camp or program, Summer 365 will make a donation to this fund.

Plan your child’s best summer ever! Contact meredith@summer365.com or 617-320-0620.

Public Speaking and Debate Workshop

Lumos is running a 2-day Debate Workshop during December, February, and April vacation breaks. Your child will study public speaking, critical thinking, and leadership with experienced instructors.

The class is lots of fun and very active – a good class even for shy or quiet kids. The class is open to students Grades 6-9. For more information call 617-901-4564. Register at: camp.lumosdebate.com/workshop/

Newton Parks and Rec Winter programs

Sign up for a class at the Newton South Recreation Complex. Located at Newton South High School, this program offers classes for youth and adults on Sundays from January 7th – February 11th. Sign up for Science Robotics, Quick Start Tennis, Cardio Tennis, Badminton Instruction, Family Badminton, Pickleball, Open Workout, Walking and Weights and more. Registration is available online at activityreg.com then click on Massachusetts, then Newton Parks and Recreation. Email Channon Ames DiCiurcio at cames@newtonma.gov with any questions or check out http://www.newtonma.gov/gov/parks/indoor_recreation_centers/south.asp

December Vacation Programs for children in Kindergarten – 6th grade at the Lower Falls Community Center. It’s like summer camp in the Winter! Enjoy a variety of activities including sports, arts and crafts, inside games, gym, creative writing and more. Each day features a fun special event. Sign up by day or for all 3 days on December 27th, 28th and 29th.  Standard day 8:30 am – 3:30pm or extended day 8:15 am – 5:30 pm available.

Registration is available online at activityreg.com then click on Massachusetts, then Newton Parks and Recreation. Email Channon Ames DiCiurcio at cames@newtonma.gov with any questions or check out http://www.newtonma.gov/gov/parks/vacation.asp.

December School Vacation Camp

No plans for December school vacation week? JCC Greater Boston’s School Vacation Camp offers busy families flexible scheduling, early drop off/extended day, lunch options, and tons of fun.

Kids choose from activities including sports, swimming, arts and crafts, dance, cooking, board games, rock climbing and more. Special highlights include bingo, bowling, talent show, and a New Year’s Eve party with DJ. Come for one day or as many days as you would like!

Everyone welcome. CIT positions for grades 7-9 available at a reduced rate (please call for
details). Early bird rates available. Register at bostonjcc.org/schoolvacations. For more
information, visit bostonjcc.org/schoolvacations , contact schoolvacations@jccgb.org or call 617-558-6529.

December 26th – 29th, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Veterans Day Basketball Clinic

ASA Hoops is hosting a Veterans Day Clinic for boys & girls, ages 7-14. These clinics emphasize a healthy balance of fun, skill development and competitive play.

In addition they are offering after school and Saturday skills classes for ages 7-13. Check out all of the classes and clinics here: www.asahoops.com. For questions please email Coachb@asahoops.com.

Veteran’s Day Clinic November 10th, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Mackenzie Center, 1337 Centre Street, Newton

Fall programs at the Y

Early Fall programs are currently running at the Y. Registration for Late Fall Programs, including YBA, the Youth Basketball Association League, opens in early October. Program options include:

  • Swim Lessons – for all ages including Parent & Child classes
  • Sports Leagues –YBA Basketball, Soccer, Flag Football
  • School Vacation Week Programs
  • Music and Creative Arts programs
  • Personal Training and Small Group Training

Visit wsymca.org to download a copy of the Early & Late Fall Program catalog, or stop by the Y and they can help you register.

Kids Night Out – October 6th, 6:00 – 10:00 pm
Drop off your kids ages 7-13 for a fun Friday night with YMCA qualified childcare staff. They order pizza for dinner and keep the children entertained with games, swimming, movies and sports. $25 per child for WSYMCA members and $30 for non-members. A 20% discount is offered per child for those with two or more children. Go out for the night and take advantage of this low-cost alternative to hiring a babysitter. For more information, contact Jeremy Smith at jeremys@wsymca.org

FREE Family Fun Night –  October 10th, 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Join for an hour of free family fun! Family Fun Nights are open to the community. All are welcome to enjoy gym activities, a bouncy house and snacks courtesy of The Belmont Savings Bank Foundation.

Financial Assistance is always available for Y Memberships and Programs. The West Suburban YMCA is a non-profit charitable organization and it is their mission to never turn anyone away due to an inability to pay. Please contact our Membership Department at 617-244-6050 x3653 for financial assistance with membership or program participation.

Drop-In Vacation Week PlaySpace

Looking for something fun to do with the kids over school vacation week? Come to Art & Music with Paula Gannon, with time for Play & Snack too! No registration needed, just drop in! For children ages 18 months – 5 years with a caregiver. $10.00 per child or $25.00 per family. Call 617-796-1540 for more information.

April 19th and April 21st,  9:30 – 11:00 am
Newton Cultural Center at City Hall, 1000 Commonwealth Avenue