Like every new parent, the minute my first child entered the world, I was immersed in the crazed world of new parenthood. When I saw a flyer for , advertising a play space and classes for babies and toddlers, I felt relief knowing there were places to go with my new baby.
This week I returned to Families First. Now that my children are out of the toddler years, I hadn’t been there for awhile. Upon stepping inside, I was immediately flooded with fond memories. It was nice to see that the play space and classrooms had been renovated, and the addition of a homey library. A music class was in session, with a room full of babies and toddlers clapping as the music teacher sang songs. Older kids were also showing up for the Practically Preschool program, where they are gently introduced into the world of preschool with structured activities with their caregivers. I was also amazed and happy to see that they kept costs down. A membership is only $75 a year.
Located on Baltic Street, Families First was founded in 1979.
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“It was created as a place to offer new parents in the neighborhood a comfortable place to meet, share their new roles, and learn about parenting, while their children played safely nearby," said Interim Executive Director, Barbara Prete. "It was a drop-in center that welcomed parents and caregivers, reducing the isolation and alleviating some of the stress of child rearing in the city.”
This Saturday is their annual carnival, which takes place on Baltic Street from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. For $20 a family, you can spend the entire day at the carnival. If you don’t want to shell out the $20, they also sell tickets for each activity.
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More like a block party for the under four set than a carnival, featured activities include a petting zoo, bouncy castle, art and craft projects and a bake sale, among others.
A huge highlight is the fire truck. Kids are allowed to go on the truck and talk to a real firefighter. The carnival also features a carousel with swings gently revolving around a wonderful toyland, a strolling musician and a DJ.
Parents of toddlers should really take a peak inside Families First during the carnival to check out the play space and classrooms. Just seeing the children’s artwork up on the walls, and the cozy library/reading space, you can see how important Families First is to the community.
Prete says Families First has earned a unique reputation through the years as a place where little children "can really learn."
"I believe this educational aspect is most significant," she said. “They do seem to grow socially right before our eyes, under the careful nurturing and informed guidance of the teaching staff.”
When I walk by Baltic Street this weekend, I know I’ll get sentimental as I remember all of the Families First carnivals I attended with my kids. Although we have graduated out of what seemed to be the never-ending baby and toddler years, I’m glad other families can enjoy this amazing annual carnival.
In a neighborhood that is transforming daily, it’s refreshing to know affordable places like Families First still exist.
