Macaroni Kid
Westfield-Southwick
Macaroni Kid  

Thank You & Congratulations!


A big Macaroni thank you goes out to all of the wonderful local and online businesses that donated a prize or prizes to our Mother's Day Giveaway this year! Including:

Macaroni Kid's May Giveaway!


5 FREE visits to Amelia Park Children's Museum

This month's prize is provided by Amelia Park Children's Museum. It is a 5 FREE admissions that can be used all at once or over time. Whether your kids enjoy exploring space, putting on a puppet show, learning about animals or dressing up, Amelia Park Children's Museum is the place where learning is fun! The museum is located at 29 S. Broad St., Westfield.

CLICK HERE for entry form

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This Week's Calendar:


May 18th through May 24th

Friday, May 18 - Drop-In Playgroup

Your Westfield Family Center is a drop-in cooperative playgroup, open to the public. They provide a safe and friendly place for children and their parents or caregivers to meet and play, while providing support and friendship. It is a volunteer run center relying on donations.
Where: Second Floor, First Congregational Church, 18 Broad St., Westfield (use side entrance)
When: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM (Follows the Westfield Public School calendar and will not open for snow delays or cancellations)
Who: Families with children 5 years and younger
How: Just show up
Cost: Suggested donation of $2-$5 per family per visit (no one will be turned away due to inability to pay)
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Friday, May 18 - Terrific Twos and Threes

Enjoy songs, activities, stories and a craft. Siblings are welcome.
Where: Boys and Girls Library Activity Room, Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St., Westfield
When: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM (Also at 11:00 AM-12:00 PM)
Who: Ages 2-3
How: Registration is required by calling or stopping by the library
Cost: FREE
For more info: Pamela Weingart  (413) 562-6158 ext. 5    pweingart@westath.org
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Friday, May 18 - Game Night

Come join the loud rowdy fun of “Outburst”, a game for all ages!
Where: Huntington Public Library, 7 East Main St., Huntington
When: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-667-3506
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Friday, May 18 - Children's Storytime: "The Earth Book"

Join us as we read The Earth Book by Todd Parr. "I take care of the earth because I know I can do little things every day to make a big difference." In this book, we learn how we can all help to protect the Earth and make it feel good.
Where: Barnes & Noble Bookstore, 7 Holyoke St., Holyoke
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Recommended for ages 3-5
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-532-3200
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Saturday, May 19 through Sunday, May 20 - 33rd Annual Long Meddowe Days

A grand celebration of Longmeadow's long colonial history on the Town Green.History, fine antiques, kids' activities, food, music and much more. See a schedule of all the events here. No bikes or dogs allowed.
Where: Longmeadow town green
When: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Sunday 12-5pm)
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
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Saturday, May 19 - The Dog and Baby Connection Workshop

Helping families with dogs and toddler age children create safety and harmony at home. As babies hit their developmental milestones, the family dynamics within  the home will begin to change and may affect the family dog. We offer positive, practical ,and fun solutions to address the challenges that often arise. Answers to your questions about toddlers and safety. Advice about common trouble spots between dogs & toddlers in a home. Practical solutions and do-it-yourself techniques.
Where: Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society, 171 Union St., Springfield
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Recommended for families with children between the ages of 3 months and 3 years
How: Register online or by phone
Cost: $25.00 for 2 people attending
For more info: www.dpvhs.org or 413-781-4000 ext. 129
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Saturday, May 19 through Sunday, May 20 - Family Science Adventures

Discover the wonders of science! The Roving Scientist presents interactive demonstrations for the whole family in the museum galleries. You never know where they might be and what they have in store for you!
Where: Springfield Science Museum, 21 Edwards St., Springfield
When: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE with museum admission
For more info: (800) 625-7738
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Saturday, May 19 - Open Gym

Come flip, dance, use our 4 inground trampolines, rope swing and two foam pits!
Where: Roots Gymnastics, 209 Root Rd., Westfield
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: Ages 6-22
How: Just show up, but feel free to call ahead as they fill up quickly
Cost: $8.00 per person with safety waiver signed/on file
For more info: (413) 562-2333 www.rootsgymnastics.com
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Saturday, May 19 - Beethoven's Wig - Children's Classical Musical Concert

Join the Amelia Park Children's Museum in a journey through classical music! Richard Perlmutter has adapted a whole repertoire of children's songs to classical musical pieces. This will be a very engaging and entertaining concert!
Where: Amelia Park Children's Museum, 29 S. Broad St., Westfield
When: 1:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: $7.00 for children / $5.00 for member children / FREE for adults
For more info: 413-572-4014
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Saturday, May 19 - Read To Rover

Reading to these specially trained dogs can enhance self-esteem by offering non-judgmental, non-threatening attention while enhancing verbalization and improving communication and reading skills.Reading to these specially trained dogs can enhance self-esteem by offering non-judgmental, non-threatening attention while enhancing verbalization and improving communication and reading skills.
Where: Boys and Girls Library Activity Room, Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St., Westfield
When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Children in grades K-3
How: Space is limited-registration is required by calling or stopping by the library
Cost: FREE
For more info: Contact: Pamela Weingart  413-562-6158 ext. 5    pweingart@westath.org
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Saturday, May 19 - Family Fun Saturday: Pool Fun

Come play in our two pools with your family. An experience for everyone to enjoy! All children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the pool.
Where: YMCA, 67 Court St., Westfield
When: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: All ages but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE for members / $5.00 for adult non-members / $3.00 for children non-members
For more info: Contact: Bridget Daley 413-568-8631 ext. 322 or bdaley@westfieldymca.org
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Sunday, May 20 - 53rd Annual Cap Porter Memorial Horse Pull

The event will feature 2 weight pulling classes. Also a tag sale and tractor pull. Fair food booth will be open selling refreshments. Proceeds go to support the Westfield fair.
Where: Westfield Fairgrounds, Russellville Rd., Westfield
When: 9:00 AM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: $7.00 for adults / FREE for children 12 and under
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Sunday, May 20 - Victorian Lady Performance & Tea

Performance artist Kandie Carle will present her one woman show “The Victorian Lady, Dressing from Corset to Gloves”, followed by a Victorian Tea. The performance is audience interactive, informative and fun for ages 8 to 110!  To find out more about Kandie Carle, her theater background and her performances, please visit www.kandiecarle.com.
Where: Noble & Cooley Center for Historic Preservation, 42 Water St., Granville
When: 2:00 PM
Who: Recommended for ages 8 and up
How: Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.  Call or e-mail to reserve tickets.
Cost: $15.00 per ticket or 2 for $25.00
For more info:   413-357-8814 or ncchp.org@gmail.com
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Monday, May 21 - Playgroup

Come meet new friends & neighbors! Will not meet when public school is cancelled.
Where: Granville Public Library, 2 Granby Rd., Granville
When: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Parents & caregivers with children up to pre-school age
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: (413) 357-8531 granvill@cwmars.org
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Monday, May 21 - Drop In Playgroup

Come meet a new friend and have some fun!
Where: Boys & Girls Club, 28 W. Silver St., Westfield
When: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM (Also at 12:30-1:30pm)
Who: Ages 5 and younger accompanied by parent or caregiver
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Christine @ Community Partnerships for Children 413-568-5242
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Tuesday, May 22 through Wednesday, May 23 - Free Playgroup

Group includes free play, arts & crafts, snack and circle time. Parents must remain with children.
Where: Southwick Town Hall, College Hwy., Southwick
When: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM (Also on Fridays)
Who: Ages birth-5
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Contact: Park & Rec. Dept., Tracy (413) 569-5701
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Tuesday, May 22 - Drop In Playgroup

Join us for crafts, stories, songs, free play and more!  This is a great opportunity for your little one to meet new friends and enjoy structured activities and free play in a relaxed, happy atmosphere! 
Where: Agawam Congregational Church, 745 Main St., Agawam
When: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Children birth through age 5 with a parent or caregiver
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Contact: Janet (413) 786-7111 or jbrownacc@verizon.net
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Tuesday, May 22 - Open Gym for Little Sprouts

Come flip, dance, use our 4 inground trampolines, rope swing and two foam pits!
Where: Roots Gymnastics, 209 Root Rd., Westfield
When: 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
Who: Ages 3-5
How: Just show up, but feel free to call ahead as they fill up quickly
Cost: $7.00 per person with safety waiver signed/on file
For more info: (413) 562-2333 www.rootsgymnastics.com
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Tuesday, May 22 - Book Discussion Group For Kids

Join us as we discuss and play games based on the book "The Grimm Legacy" by Polly Shulman. Have you ever wondered what became of Cinderella's slippers or Sleeping Beauty's spinning wheel? What about the Mirror on the Wall? No? Well, neither had Elizabeth until she started working at the New York Circulating Material Repository....The first 10 people to sign up for this group will receive a free copy of the book.
Where: Boys and Girls Library Activity Room, Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St., Westfield
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Students in grades 3-5
How: Registration is required by calling or stopping by the library
Cost: FREE
For more info: Contact: Kristina Lareau   413-562-6158 ext.5   klareau@westath.org
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Wednesday, May 23 - Storytime

Please come share Free Story time with milk and cookies! Bring a pillow, blanket or rug to sit on and enjoy the stories. (Every Wednesday)
Where: Gran-Val Scoop, 233 Granby Rd., Granville
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Ages 10 and under
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-357-0164
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Thursday, May 24 - Children's Storytime: "Little Bee"

Join us as we read Little Bee by Edward Gibbs. Little Bee kicks off a playful chase through the jungle that ends in a surprisingly funny twist.
Where: Barnes & Noble Bookstore, 7 Holyoke St., Holyoke
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Recommended for ages 2-4
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-532-3200
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Thursday, May 24 - Morse Code Day

Stop in to learn your name and more in Morse Code.
Where: Huntington Public Library, 7 East Main St., Huntington
When: 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-667-3506
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Teen Scene:


May 21st through June 2nd

Monday, May 21 - Teen Book Discussion: "I Am Number Four"

Please try to read the entire book before the book discussion. The first 10 students to sign up for the book discussion will receive a free copy of the book to keep. Snacks are included!
Where: Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St., Westfield
When: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Students in grades 6-12
How: Registration is required by calling or stopping by the library
Cost: FREE
For more info: Contact: Patti Brose 413-562-6158 ext. 5   pbrose@westath.org
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Wednesday, May 23 - Teen Center

Teens will have access to our Wii system set-up in the Community Room. There will also be board games available or just come and chat with your friends.
Where: Southwick Public Library, 95 Feeding Hills Rd., Southwick
When: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Students in grades 7-12
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: (413) 569-1221 x-3
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Friday, May 25 - Movie Night

We will be watching “One for the Money” while snacking on popcorn!
Where: Huntington Public Library, 7 East Main St., Huntington
When: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Movie is rated PG-13
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-667-3506
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Saturday, June 2 - Teen Movie: "I Am Number Four"

An extraordinary young man, John Smith, is a fugitive on the run from ruthless enemies sent to destroy him. Changing his identity, moving from town to town with his guardian Henri, John is always the new kid with no ties to his past. In the small Ohio town he now calls home, John encounters unexpected, life-changing events -- his first love, powerful new abilities and a connection to the others who share his incredible destiny. Rated PG-13. Snacks and drinks will be provided.
Where: Boys and Girls Library Activity Room, Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St., Westfield
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Recommended for ages 13 and up
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Contact: Patti Brose  413-562-6158 ext. 5   pbrose@westath.org
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Plan Ahead:


May 25th through June 7th

Friday, May 25 - Children's Storytime: "Sign Language ABC"

Join us as we read Sign Language ABC by Lora Heller. Imagine being able to tell your friend a secret from way across the playground. Or spelling something to your brother or sister that your parents don't understand. You can -- with sign language!
Where: Barnes & Noble Bookstore, 7 Holyoke St., Holyoke
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Recommended for ages 4-7
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-532-3200
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Saturday, May 26 - Franklin Story Hour

In honor of World Turtle Day (5/23), we will be reading stories of our favorite fictional turtle “Franklin”, making a paper plate turtle and enjoying a turtle snack (goldfish crackers!)
Where: Huntington Public Library, 7 East Main St., Huntington
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-667-3506
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Thursday, May 31 - Children's Storytime: "Dinosaur Pet"

Join us as we read Dinosaur Pet by Neil and Marc Sedaka. Some kids have puppies or cats. But in this entertaining new picture book, a little boy cherishes something even bigger and better: his own dinosaur!
Where: Barnes & Noble Bookstore, 7 Holyoke St., Holyoke
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Recommended for ages 4-7
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-532-3200
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Friday, June 1 - Fun In The Sun Sign

Leslie Lewis, certified Signing Time Instructor, will be returning to lead this fun-filled sign language class for children.
Where: Boys and Girls Library Activity Room, Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St., Westfield
When: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Ages 3-5
How: Registration is required by calling or stopping by the library
Cost: FREE
For more info: Contact: Pamela Weingart  413-562-6158 ext.5   pweingart@westath.org
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Friday, June 1 - Children's Storytime: "Get Dressed!"

Join us as we read Get Dressed! by Seymour Chwast. Getting dressed can be fun as we read about how to get dressed to chase dragons, to sing, to make believe and to build a castles! Craft time with Ms. Louise to follow.
Where: Barnes & Noble Bookstore, 7 Holyoke St., Holyoke
When: 7:00 PM
Who: Recommended for ages 2-5
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-532-3200
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Saturday, June 2 - Kids Workshop: Organizer

Kids can build an organizer to store hair bands, race cars… or make a great gift for DAD! Kids will learn to build their very own organizer while learning tool safety. Have fun, make friends and gain a sense of achievement and work ethic. All skill levels welcome.
Where: The Home Depot, 514 E. Main St., Westfield
When: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: (413) 564-0680
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Saturday, June 2 - Family Movie: "Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2"

The Chihuahuas are back, and still barking in this sequel to the hit comedy that proved dogs have a lot on their minds. Rated G. Snacks and drinks will be provided.
Where: Boys and Girls Library Activity Room, Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St., Westfield
When: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: Contact: Pamela Weingart  413-562-6158 ext 5   pweingart@westath.org
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Sunday, June 3 - Antique Auto Show

This will be one of the larger auto shows of the year. Visitors can expect a wide range of cars including early antiques such as Model T’s, show cars from the 30’s & 40’s, street rods, sports cars, the dream cars of the 50’s and muscle cars of the 60’s and early 70’s. A food vendor will be on site all day for the convenience of visitors.
Where: The New England Air Museum, 35 Perimeter Road, Bradley Int'l Airport, Windsor Locks, CT
When: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Museum open until 5pm)
Who: All ages
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE with museum admission
For more info: 860-623-3305
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Thursday, June 7 - Children's Storytime: "Elmo Visits The Dentist"

Join us for a very special Storytime as guest reader Ms. Cindy, from Small Smiles, joins us to tell us all about the dentist! We will also read Elmo Visits the Dentist by Tom Brannon and other favorites.
Where: Barnes & Noble Bookstore, 7 Holyoke St., Holyoke
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Recommended for ages 4-8
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: 413-532-3200
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Macaroni Cares: Wildlife Weekend


And video camera giveaway!

Join the movement! Macaroni Kid is helping Dawn educate more than 2 million kids this spring about the issues affecting wildlife, from oil spills to backyard ecosystems. Check out the FREE, downloadable lesson plans and experiments for teachers and parents. The fun doesn't end in the classroom – you'll also find FREE "Wildlife Weekend" family activities that you can do in your own backyard.

To continue Dawn's 30+ year commitment to preserving wildlife, Dawn worked with their partners at The Marine Mammal Center and International Bird Rescue to ...

Macaroni Cares


It's Bug Season!

According to the National Pest Management Association, an unseasonably warm winter is expected to bring bugs and pests out of hibernation early this year, meaning we’re in store for prolonged mosquito season. Rather than turning to toxic bug sprays to fight against mosquito-borne viruses like West Nile and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE), Mom’s everywhere can count on PIC® to help protect their families from dangerous mosquito bites with two unique products that provide maximum protection with all-natural ingredients that don’t need to be applied to skin.

TWIST-IT ...

Macaroni Made


Moon Dough

I found this recipe for moon dough on Pinterest! It peaked my interest so we spent an afternoon playing in it.  It's really easy to make and both of my kids had a ball playing in the stuff.

What you need:

  • 8-16 cups of flour
  • 1-2 cups of baby oil
  • plastic bin
  • toys!

 

What you do:

Dump the flour in your plastic bin. I used 16 cups for my 2 little ones and it was the perfect amount for 2. You could double that or triple that based on ...


Macaroni Made


Strawberry Cream Cheese Shortcake

This super easy recipe is a delicious twist on traditional Strawberry Shortcake.

Ingredients:

  • 1 Box White or Yellow Cake Mix
  • 3 Eggs
  • 1 8 oz. Package Softened Cream Cheese
  • ¼ cup All Purpose Flour
  • 2 Quarts of Strawberries
  • ¼ cup Granulated Sugar
  • Whipped Cream

Directions:

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  • Wash and cut up fresh strawberries, mix in a bowl with granulated sugar and set aside.
  • Mix cake mix, flour, eggs, and cream cheese in a bowl, the dough will be stiff and you may need to hand kneed it.
  • Shape ...

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