We are a drop-in Center for children from birth through kindergarten and those who care for them.
All are welcome!

Mission Since 1985 the mission of the Parents Center has been to provide a safe and friendly space for children (specifically 0-5) and their caregivers to meet and play: a place for parents* to find support, information, affirmation and friendship.

The Center is a non-profit co-operative designed to evolve with its members. We are governed by the Parent Advisory Committee (a volunteer group) and the Center's Director (who is hired by the committee).

*When we refer to 'parents', the term is understood to be inclusive of grandparents and other caregivers who accompany children to the Center. All are welcome!

We are a cooperative providing:

• Fun and educational spaces for: climbing, riding toys, crafts, puzzles, books, trains, dramatic play, building blocks, and other forms of exploring
• A place for families to meet, socialize, and have fun
• A lending library for parents
• Community resource information
• Nutritious snacks for the kids and coffee and tea for the grown-ups
• Check out this article about us

Location

We have three large rooms in the basement of Edwards Church, at the corner of Main & State Streets in downtown Northampton. Thanks to the generosity of the church, space is rented for a nominal fee. (The Center is not church-affiliated) Please use the rear entrance off State Street, and leave all strollers outside the back door. Do not park in the church lot.

Schedule

We're open mid September to late May. We generally follow the Northampton Public School calendar for vacations and holidays. Please see "calendar" page for more information.

• Monday -- Thursday 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Snack time 10:15 to 10:45
• Clean up begins at 11:10
• Circle time starts after clean up around 11:20.
• Music Classes are most Thursdays from 11 to 11:30.

If schools are closed due to the weather, the Center will not be open. Unexpected closings will be announced on our message line at (413) 582-2636 and posted on our Calendar and Facebook page.

How Much Does it Cost?

Everyone is welcome. Visitors donate $0-$5 per visit per family, or make a membership donation for $100 for the whole year. Financial assistance is available. No one will be turned away because of an inability to pay.

For registration form Click Here

Funding

The Northampton Parents Center is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that operates on a small budget. Our funding comes from membership and daily donations, fundraising events, donations from community members and in part from from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care through a grant administered by Northampton Public Schools and the Collaborative for Educational Services.

Volunteer

NPC Volunteer Form

 

Guidlines

NPC Parent Handbook

 

We look forward to meeting you!