Infants/Babies

Baby Signs at Fields Corner Branch Library

 

Babies can't talk, but they can use signs to communicate with parents and other caregivers. Come join us for six sessions of Baby Signs, presented by Suzanne Cort and sponsored by Fields Corner Children Thrive. Registration is strongly encouraged. There will be no session on the Friday after Thanksgiving.

 

Parent-Infant Playgroup begins Mar. 16

Photo by Rob of http://www.barretthall.net/photoblog/Parents need friends too! The Family Nurturing Center of Massachusetts invites Dorchester families to attend a Parent-Infant Playgroup. The group is free and open to all resident families with infants birth - 12 months of age. Playgroup meets on Wednesdays March 16 to May 4, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Dorchester CARES Family Resource Center, John Marshal Elementary School, 35 Westville Street, Dorchester, MA 02124. For more information, contact Noemia at 617-474-1143 ext. 252 or email nmonteiro@familynurturing.org

Organized by the Dorchester Welcome Baby Program of the Family Nurturing Center.

Dimock Health Center

Phone: 

(617) 442-8800 (x1324 for "General Information")

Email: 

contactdimock@dimock.org

Website: 
Mission: 

At Dimock, we believe every life is precious. We commit to enhance the quality of life of each individual we serve, of the people we employ, and the communities in which we live by providing accessible, comprehensive, innovative, culturally competent health and human services

Location

Dimock Health Center
55 Dimock St
Roxbury, MA 02119
United States
Key Programs Offered: 

Adult Basic Education and GED Services - ext 1219 For more than 30 years, Dimock has operated education and training programs to improve the quality of life of its students and their families. All programs are free to qualified applicants.GED programs are designed to prepare students for all areas of the GED exam. Adult Basic Education programs are planned to help students improve basic reading, writing and math skills. Boston Pediatric and Family AIDS Project (BPFAP) - ext 1331 Case Management Services - ext 1324 Case Management Services help those living with HIV/AIDS take better care of their health and organize their lives for the benefit of all those around them. Case manager make referrals about estate planning, help with health care proxies, etc. Community Care Center - ext 1324 Dimock Community Care Center’s HIV Services emerged in 1991 amidst a clear need in the community for AIDS-related services and was designed to reach a cross-section of people of color at varying risks for HIV/AIDS. Today, prevention and education staff, Case Managers, a Primary Medical Staff, as well as Dimock Substance Abuse and Mental Health departments work together to address the issues of those in our community who are at risk as well as those who are living with the virus that causes AIDS. Early Head Start - ext 1461 Early Head Start provide comprehensive support for families and their children in the areas of education, health, nutrition and mental health. Early Head Start is for families with pregnant mothers and for parents with children ages 0-3.The program encourage parents to envision their role as their child’s primary teacher. Parents are supported in such areas as health and nutrition, pre-natal education, GED/literacy and employment/training. Early Intervention Program - ext 1375 The Dimock Early Intervention Program provides a range of therapeutic service and support to children, from birth to age three, and their families. The Early Intervention Program is certified through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. A goal of the program is to help a family support and sustain their child’s maximum developmental growth in the context of the family’s everyday life. All services are voluntary. GirlsWorld - ext 1437 GirlsWorld is a collaboration of Dimock Community Health Center and the Boston Institute for Arts Therapy. Two twelve-week sessions include four major components: Expressive Arts Groups, Academic Support, Mentoring, Community Service and a Physical Activity (ex. Golf, Basketball, Aerobics and Swimming). GirlsWorld grew out of services designed specifically for girls. Girlsworld motivates young women to develop their potential by remaining true to their dreams. Young women are encouraged to develop self-confidence and coping skills needed to resist negative peer pressure. Girl’s World provides a variety of creative outlets such as theater arts, photography and creative writing. Head Start - 617-822-4020, ext 19 Head Start provide comprehensive support for families and their children in the areas of education, health, nutrition and mental health. Head Start is designed for families with children ages 3-5. The program encourage parents to envision their role as their child’s primary teacher. Parents are supported in such areas as health and nutrition, pre-natal education, GED/literacy and employment/training. At Dimock, we believe every life is precious. We commit to enhance the quality of life of each individual we serve, of the people we employ, and the communities in which we live by providing accessible, comprehensive, innovative, culturally competent health and human services. HIV Counseling and Testing - ext 1324 HIV Counseling and Testing is available on an anonymous and confidential basis. All services are available in English and Spanish, both by walk-in or appointment. The Mary Eliza Mahoney Emergency Family House Shelter - ext 1151 The program is designed for families having difficulties in finding and securing safe affordable housing. While locating and securing safe, permanent housing for guests is the main focus, Mary Eliza Mahoney staff work to assist all families in navigating service-based programs both on and off campus. This new housing program provides food, shelter, health care, youth services and referral services for education, training and housing through pro-active case management. The Minority AIDS Initiative (MAI) - ext 1326 The Minority AIDS Initiative (MAI) provides health education and referrals to the Substance Abuse population, African American and Latino HIV positive men involved in the criminal justice system. Preschool - ext 1466 A center-based preschool educational program, Dimock’s Preschool is licensed to serve 95 at-risk 3 and 4 year old children, the program has been accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, since 1996. The Preschool provides children with opportunities for learning and exploration as the foundation for the basic skills in language, reading, and problem-solving. Further it provides a rewarding and stimulating environment that is not only safe but challenging for youngsters and helps parents develop more effective strategies for dealing with children at home. Peer Leadership Program Dimock knows that youths have special needs and that sometimes it’s much easier to talk to another teen. Dimock’s Peer Leaders are an integral part of the planning, development, and delivery of services to youths. Using peer-to-peer discussions, interactive video, role-plays, and workshops they encourage discussion and awareness on a range of issues. SmartKids After School Program - ext 1463 The mission of the Smartkids After School Program is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children and their families. Our directors and staff are committed to fostering social, emotional and academic development. Working unified with families, city resources and communities and educators for the prosperity of our students and their futures. Smartkids provide a quality play based educational program to meet the academic needs of children. The staff recognizes each child as a unique individual with special needs and talents. We maintain a safe comfortable environment, which encourages respect for one’s self and others. The program is full year and offers a variety of activities, which includes, but not limited to Academic Enrichment, Culture and Arts, Physical activities, a computer Lab and a Library. We accept vouchers. Tae Kwon Do The Tae Kwon Do Program teaches youngsters (4-teenagers) how martial arts including sparring, weaponry and forms can be important for good physical health and discipline. This program promotes self-esteem, responsibility, and learning, in all of which empower youths to make healthy lifestyle choices. Youth Entrepreneurship Program This program helps youth build basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, and encourages them to think creatively, make decisions, solve problems, and always be open to learning. Using entrepreneurship as a vehicle, the program captures and brings to life, often for the first time, the imaginations and abilities of low-income young people.

Community Meeting Space Available: 

No

Created: 
11/22/2010

Crispus Attucks Children's Center, The

Phone: 

(617) 445-1420

Hours of operation (or meeting times & dates): 

Monday through Friday from 7:45 AM to 5:45 PM

Mission: 

The Crispus Attucks Children's Center, Inc. (CACC) is a nonprofit corporation providing early childhood education services for infants, toddlers and preschool children from one month to seven years of age. The premier childcare center for low-income children in the city of Boston, CACC's comprehensive program addresses all aspects of development in young children and offers counseling, education and support to parents.

CACC is concerned with the total development of each child through creative and well-supervised educational activities in a child-centered environment where youngsters are actively involved in the learning process and are supported in their individual growth. Activities are designed to foster social and emotional maturation, develop self-expression and communication skills, support cognitive development through active explorations and provide opportunities for physical exercise.

Since its inception 35 years ago, we have placed particular emphasis on the academic preparation of minority children. The curriculum is designed to provide the basic foundation and skills that are essential prerequisites to success in school including a concentration in the areas of reading, math, writing, science and the use of computers.

CACC currently serves 234 children in three program areas. The Infant Program (one month to 14 months), the Toddler Program (15 months to 2.8 years), and the Preschool Program (2.9 to seven years). Each program's curriculum and learning activities are age-appropriate and implemented with attention to individual participant needs, interests and developmental levels. The Center is open Monday through Friday from 7:45 AM to 5:45 PM., and all children receive a full breakfast, lunch and snack each day.

Location

Crispus Attucks Children's Center
105 Crawford Street
Dorchester, MA 02121
United States
Key Partners: 

Health Insurance Quotes
Bay Cove Early Intervention
Boston University School of Dentistry
Child Care Choices of Boston Early Intervention Program
Children’s Services of Roxbury
Family Services of Greater Boston
The Home for Little Wanderers
MA Department of Early Education & Care
MA Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children
New England Eye Institute
READBoston
Roxbury Community College
United Way of Mass Bay
Urban College (ABCD)
Whittier Street Health Center

Key Programs Offered: 

Infant, Toddlers, Pre-K

Anti-Violence

Crispus Attucks has developed a groundbreaking project to develop a preschool anti-violence curriculum. This program was created with the assistance from The Louis D. Brown Peace Institute, Lesson One, and the Harvard School of Public Health through Dr. Deborah Prothrow-Stith.

Unfortunately, exposure to violence has become a regular occurrence in our society. Preschoolers have a difficult time expressing their thoughts and emotions. They don’t have the language skills to communicate about a traumatic event, and this ultimately can lead to aggressive behaviors, which can lead to suspensions and eventually termination from early education programs. Our Violence Prevention curriculum helps children deal with the emotional impact of violence and give teachers tools to help the students communicate their feelings in non-aggressive ways.

Community Meeting Space Available: 

No

Created: 
11/22/2010

FAST FACTS

Early childhood education for over 200 children ages one month to six years

Established in 1971

Serving families throughout the Greater Boston area

Second largest provider of Infant and Toddler care in Boston
65 teachers and staff

Creative and well supervised educational activities

Newly renovated 15 classroom facility with a natural playground, onsite kitchen,
gymnasium, and computers in every classroom

Annual Budget: $2.6 million

St. Mary's Center for Woman and Children

Phone: 

(617) 436-8600

Hours of operation (or meeting times & dates): 

Afternoon/Morning

Mission: 

St. Mary's Women and Children's Center is a diverse community of professionals dedicated to improving the lives of all women, children, and families who struggle against a variety of life altering traumatic events. Through a culturally competent, strengths-based practice, we strive to treat all individuals with respect. In order to promote diversity and cultural competency, St. Mary's is committed to undertaking strategies and actions that embrace and value differences and similarities among employees, families, and the community. We recognize diversity and empowerment as powerful forces for change, innovation, and opportunity. We are committed to creating hope, increasing awareness, and promoting the ability to discover one's own voice and to act. Caritas Christi is a regional health system of compassionate caregivers that embodies the spirit of Christ's healing ministry and demonstrates excellence in service, research and education.

Location

90 Cushing Avenue
Dorchester, MA 02125
United States
Community Meeting Space Available: 

No

Created: 
11/29/2011

DOTtots: A Weekly Neighborhood Playgroup

Mailing Address (if different than physical location): 

DOTtots Playgroup
C/O C. Gillis
14 Hinckley Street
Dorchester, MA 02125

Phone: 

(617) 436-8227

Hours of operation (or meeting times & dates): 

Thursday mornings 9:30-11:30 AM

Mission: 

Parents and caregivers of children under 5 are invited and encouraged to attend this weekly neighborhood playgroup. It is a great opportunity to connect with other local parents and give your child(ren) an opportunity to socialize with other youngsters. Come for support, conversation, even snacks! We have toys and equipment for children from birth to preschool and everyone is welcome.

Location

Dunn Hall at Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish
800 Columbia Road
Dorchester 02125
United States
How to get involved/application guidelines and procedures: 

Just come on in and play

Community Meeting Space Available: 

No

WIC Program, Dorchester South

Phone: 

617-825-0805 (Fields Corner); 617-825-3822 (Codman Square); 617-265-4380 (Neponset);

Hours of operation (or meeting times & dates): 

Codman Square Health Center

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday
9:00 AM — 7:00 PM

9:00 AM — 5:00 PM

9:00 AM — 7:00 PM

9:00 AM — 5:00 PM

9:00 AM — 1:00 PM
Codman Square Health Center

450 Washington Street

Dorchester, MA 02124

Phone: (617) 825-3822

Fax: (617) 436-4093

Dorchester House-Fields Corner

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday
9:00 AM — 7:00 PM

9:00 AM — 5:00 PM

9:00 AM — 7:00 PM

9:00 AM — 5:00 PM

9:00 AM — 1:00 PM
Dorchester House Multi–Service Center

1353 Dorchester Avenue

Dorchester, MA 02122

Phone: (617) 825-0805

Fax: (617) 825-1109

Neponset Health Center

Wednesday

Thursday

Saturday
8:30 AM — 7:00 PM

8:30 AM — 12:30 PM

9:00 AM — 1:00 PM
Neponset Health Center

398 Neponset Avenue

Dorchester, MA 02122

Phone: (617) 265-4380

Fax: (617)825-1109
Mission: 

The WIC Program improves the health status of families by providing nutrition and health education, nutritious foods and referrals to other health and human services. WIC achieves this by collaborating with community, healthcare,retail food stores, state and federal patners.

You can download a WIC program brochure here.

Location

Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Ave
Dorchester, MA 02122
United States
Key Partners: 

Massachustts WIC Program

How to get involved/application guidelines and procedures: 

Call for an appointment and apply.

Key Programs Offered: 

WIC’s goal is to help keep pregnant and breastfeeding women and kids under age 5 healthy. To do this, WIC provides:

  • Personalized nutrition consultations
  • Checks to buy free, healthy food
  • Tips for eating well to improve health
  • Referrals for medical and dental care, health insurance, child care, housing and fuel assistance, and other services that can benefit the whole family 

But that’s not all! WIC also offers breastfeeding classes, one-on-one breastfeeding support, as well as immunization screening and referrals. wiC also provides parents with opportunities to talk with other parents about nutrition and other health topics that are important to their families.

Breastfeeding Warmline: Please call us at (617) 533-2243 with your breastfeeding questions or concerns. A breastfeeding peer counselor will contact you within 24 hours.

Free Drop-In Mom's Group: The Mom group offers information and education about parenting and nutrition, breastfeeding support and the chance to connect with other moms. Every Friday 11:00 AM-12:30 PM at the WIC room, the Dorchester House Multi-Service Center, 1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester, MA. For more information please call the WIC office at (617) 825-0805.

Community Meeting Space Available: 

No

Created: 
05/06/2011

College Bound Dorchester

Phone: 

(617) 282-5034

Hours of operation (or meeting times & dates): 

Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm

Mission: 
To equip Dorchester students with the attitude, skills and experience to graduate from college, using education as a means to transform the neighborhoods of Dorchester.
 
At College Bound Dorchester, formerly FDNH, we believe in the transformative power of education. Every day we have the privilege of working with students from ages 3 months to 70 years. Our teachers, mentors, peer leaders and staff provide the supports these students need to realize their future goals. We take this responsibility seriously and know that, if we are successful, we have the power to change not only individual lives but also the entire Dorchester community.

We are creating an organization that will provide all of our students with the attitude, skills and experience to graduate from college and succeed in life. We know there are challenges ahead and obstacles in our way. However we also know that as we work harder and focus on high expectations and data driven assessment, the paths of opportunity will open for all.

Location

18 Samoset Street
Dorchester, MA 02124
United States
Key Partners: 

How to get involved/application guidelines and procedures: 

Visit collegebounddorchester.org

Key Programs Offered: 

Bartholomew Family Child Care The Little House Log School Ruth Darling Child Care Center

Provide ABE/ESOL and Child Care: 9am to 2pm.

Computer Skills classes for enrolled students.

Community Meeting Space Available: 

No

Also (or Previously) Known As...: 

Federated Dorchester Neighborhood Houses, Inc. (FDNH)

Created: 
11/29/2011

On November 4th 2009, College Bound Dorchester received the Coming Up Taller Award for its Art a la Carte program at a ceremony hosted by First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House. At the ceremony, Mrs. Obama commended Art a la Carte and all of the award winners by stating, "Ultimately, each of your programs is using achievement in the arts as a bridge to achievement in life." She continued, "You ask our young people to dream, and you give them the tools to fulfill those dreams. You affirm that their contributions are valuable, and their success matters to all of us. You help them see beyond the circumstances of their lives to the world of possibility that awaits them. And for that, we honor you."

VIP Child Care Inc.

Phone: 

(617) 825-1880

Hours of operation (or meeting times & dates): 

M-F: 7:30am-5:30pm

Mission: 

To provide quality child care to residents of the greater Boston area.

Location

VIP Child Care Inc.
103 Clayton St
Dorchester, MA 02122
United States
Community Meeting Space Available: 

No

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