343 Results
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At Home with the Gibsons: House Museum TourOut & AboutThe Gibson House Museum in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood served as residence to three generations of Gibson family members and their household staff between 1859 and 1954. This tour invites visitors to explore the house and consider issues of class and culture through the stories and objects of the people who lived and worked here. Note: This tour climbs 5 flights of stairs and is just under an hour longSpring 2026 -
Avatar: Crafting the ElementsArts & CraftsBend the elements as you create crafts inspired by the four nations of the animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender. Hone your control of water, earth, fire, and air by making waterbender necklaces, firebender headbands, earthbender armor, airbender staffs, technique scrolls, mini Appa figures, and spirit animal masks. We’ll watch episodes of the series to spark ideas from the adventures of Aang and his friends. Master the elements and become an Avatar!SummerFun! 2026 -
BLAST, Babysitting & CPR Training ProgramLanguages & Life Skills (K-12)BLAST! Babysitting & CPR provides training in first aid, household safety, and some fundamentals of childcare. Get prepared to begin babysitting safely and competently, select safe and suitable games and activities, prevent accidents, and interview for babysitting jobs. We will also cover choking prevention and relief and how to call 911. Receive a CPR/AED certification.Spring 2026 -
WaitlistBabysitting BasicsCooking & Life HacksPlease note: This class runs 10:00 am-12:00 pm, Monday–Thursday only. You must be at least 12 years old. You will receive a babysitter’s ID card and a certificate of completion. This program is designed to better prepare you to become a capable, caring, and responsible babysitter. Understand the responsibilities and skills—including basic first aid and what to do in an emergency—and develop confidence in handling situations you may encounter when caring for young children. Upon completion, your services will be in high demand in the neighborhood! August 3-6 (M-Th), 10:00 am-12:00 pm, Ages 12+SummerFun! 2026 -
Starting SoonBackyard Bird Song IdentificationOut & AboutHave you ever wondered if that “tweet” is from a cardinal or a chickadee? Learn the language spoken by our feathered friends. Start with a few basic bird songs as a reference, then add to your repertoire with repetition and practice. You’ll learn the types of sounds birds make and why they make them, and explore common bird songs heard in Massachusetts. Each class will focus on approximately 10–15 different birds. Note: Have handy a notebook, pen, and a bird book if you have one.Spring 2026 -
WaitlistBackyard GamesGet Moving!Go outside and play! Get moving and have fun with tons of different backyard games. Aim flying discs into cans during Kan Jam, try to get bolas to catch onto the rungs of Ladder Ball, and toss bean bags into a classic cornhole board. Hit balls past your opponent off a trampoline net in Spikeball, test your precision in bocce by landing your ball closest to the Pallino, and pitch horseshoes to score a “ringer” on the stake. Enjoy the thrill of friendly competition and the challenge of mastering new games.SummerFun! 2026 -
WaitlistBake ShoppeCooking & Life HacksIf you can bake it, we will make it! Learn how to bake or improve your skills as you measure, mix, bake, and taste wonderful treats from start to finish. Recipes we may try include one-pan cake, banana bread, chocolate chip cookies, and more.SummerFun! 2026 -
WaitlistBallet & BeyondIn the SpotlightJeté your way through this week that’s all about dance. The primary focus will be on ballet, but we will also try modern, contemporary, and jazz, and do yoga stretches. We’ll also get inspired by famous dancers through listening to stories and doing crafts such as wire dancer sculptures and paper dolls with layered tutus. Learn short routines and collaborate with your classmates to choreograph your own.SummerFun! 2026 -
Starting SoonBasics of Earth ScienceHome & GardenExplore the captivating geological features of our planet. We will delve into different geological formations and processes, learning more about mountains, volcanoes, earthquakes, glaciers, deserts, and more, and highlight stunning examples like the Himalayas, Iceland’s tectonic activity, and the Grand Canyon. Online interactive tools such as Google Earth, the USGS Earthquake Map, and EarthViewer will help us visualize geological concepts and track recent global earthquakes. No prior knowledge or materials are required—just bring your curiosity about the complexities of the natural world.Spring 2026 -
WaitlistPhil Roeder (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)Basketball Hoops SquadGet Moving!Shoot some hoops! Beginning and recreational basketball players will practice dribbling, shooting, passing, and ball handling while also focusing on teamwork and supporting each other. We will review game rules, practice essential skills, and learn the art of offense and defense. Each day will include drills and a friendly game.SummerFun! 2026 -
WaitlistBatter Up! BakingCooking & Life HacksStep into the kitchen and go on a fun journey through the baking process. You’ll learn all about ingredients, measurements, and flavors as we make cookies, muffins, brownies, and cupcakes together. Discover the science behind each recipe, experiment with different combinations, make new friends, and enjoy lots of delicious treats along the way. Please note, this class is not gluten-free.SummerFun! 2026 -
Beer Tasting Basics: From Lagers to AlesFood & DrinkBeer is one of the world’s oldest and most diverse fermented beverages, with styles shaped by history, geography, and ingredients. In this guided tasting class, you will sample a curated selection of beers representing a range of classic styles, from crisp lagers to expressive ales. Learn how ingredients like malt, hops, yeast, and water influence flavor, aroma, and body, and how to taste beer more intentionally. Expect discussion, comparison, and plenty of time to enjoy what’s in your glass. Please note the price and time change from the print catalog. The tastings will be offered as listed here.Spring 2026 -
Best of Boston DayTrippersField TripsExplore Boston with five full days of exciting adventures. Activities may include a boat ride to George’s Island in Boston Harbor, where you’ll discover the island’s rich history. Get hands-on at the Museum of Science, visit the MIT Museum, and experience the mind-bending fun at the Museum of Illusions. Walk the historic Freedom Trail, exploring iconic landmarks like the State House. Take in a bird’s-eye view of the city from the Skywalk Observatory. We’ll also visit the Mapparium, a stunning three-story glass globe at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, and tour the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the U.S. Please note: Each day will begin and end at Thorndike Field in East Arlington in order to take the T from Alewife Station.SummerFun! 2026 -
Bike (& Scooter) SafetyLanguages & Life Skills (K-12)All participants must bring their bike (or scooter) and a bike helmet! Hop on your bike (or scooter) and join Officer Bryan White and other members of the Arlington Police Department for a fun and informative course on bike safety. Learn proper hand signals, how to travel on bike lanes and the bike path, and general tips on how to ride safely to school and around town. Please note: While this program is free, pre-registration is required for each child attending as space is limited. Please consider making a donation to our scholarship fund.Spring 2026 -
WaitlistBirdwatching 101: Field TripsOut & AboutObserve local birds on these birdwatching field trips. We will focus on different strategies for locating and identifying birds based on their appearance, songs and calls, behavior, and habitat. To get the most out of field trips, attendance at the Birdwatching 101 class is highly encouraged. Binoculars are highly recommended.Spring 2026 -
Board Game Design & PlayFantasy & GamesPut on your designer’s hat and create a board game. You’ll pick the look, the illustrations, and the highlights and pitfalls of the play. Design the movement, reward, and resource management systems and then combine them so that they work together. We’ll take breaks for group trivia, riddles, logic puzzles, and indoor and outdoor games.SummerFun! 2026 -
Braid-In Rug MakingFine Arts & CraftsTransform upcycled fabric into a beautiful, one-of-a-kind rug for your home. Rag rugs have a long history across cultures as a way to give new life to used textiles. Learn to repurpose bedsheets into rags and weave them into a rug using the braid-in method. There’s no sewing, knitting, or crochet required. You’ll also learn how to adapt the braid-in process for other creative projects. Most materials provided. New and returning students welcome. Please bring scissors. All other materials are provided. However, if you want to use specific colors, please bring your own sheets (flat or fitted in any size) or fabric.Spring 2026 -
Starting SoonBridge: Supervised PlayGames & TravelJoin other novice and beginner-level players for an enjoyable evening of playing Bridge in a friendly and supportive environment, whether you bring your partner or come on your own. During each session, you will play 8–12 pre-dealt hands with your classmates. Feel free to use your notes or ask questions during the game and receive real-time guidance from a certified bridge teacher and club director. The class will conclude with a debrief and review of the deals played. Please note: Walk-ins are not allowed. Please register and pay in advance for select dates or purchase the entire series at a discount.Spring 2026 -
Broadway BoundIn the SpotlightStep into the spotlight and explore iconic Broadway musicals—from classics like The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins to modern hits like Matilda, Wicked, and High School Musical. Sing solos, belt out group numbers, learn fun choreography, and create crafts inspired by each show. Get ready for some “wicked” fun as you “step in time” and become “revolting children” in your Broadway debut!SummerFun! 2026 -
Build-A-Brain WorkshopSTEAMExplore the weird and wacky world of brains. From squids with doughnut-shaped brains to spiders whose brains fill most of their bodies, and octopus brains that extend into their arms, discover how different types of animal brains control movement, senses, and behavior. Use what you learn to design a Frankenstein-style creature with a brain you build for unique abilities. Research, plan, sculpt, and bring your wild creation to life while applying real neuroscience concepts.SummerFun! 2026 -
Buttercream Blooms Cupcake DesignsFood & DrinkCreate beautiful buttercream flowers with ease using Russian piping tips—just one squeeze and a stunning bloom appears like magic! Learn to decorate cupcakes with petals and buds, and combine colored icing for eye-catching, multi-colored designs. All icing and decorating tools are included for use during class and yours to take home, so you can recreate your favorite blooms anytime. Please note: You will need to bring 10-12 unfrosted cupcakes (homemade or store bought) and a carrier or box to transport them. Bring an apron, if you like.Spring 2026 -
CPR & First Aid: Adults, Children & InfantsWellness & LifeThis American Heart Association Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED course trains participants to provide first aid, CPR, and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) in a safe, timely, and effective manner. Expect to learn about adult and child CPR and AED use, infant CPR, first aid basics including choking, medical emergencies, injury emergencies, environmental emergencies, preventing illness and injury, and opioid-associated life-threatening emergencies. This intensive, three-hour course is for anyone with little or no medical training. Participants will be emailed a course completion card, valid for two years. Educators and students can register at a reduced rate. Please register first and then email us within 24 hours and we will refund you for the amount. Important: Because this is a certification class, you must be on time. Students arriving more than 10 minutes late will be turned away and no refund will be granted.Spring 2026 -
WaitlistCamp-In!Cooking & Life HacksGet ready for a camping adventure. Set up tents, hammocks, lean-tos, and other creative sleeping structures. Practice building a safe fire (without actually lighting it) and make campfire meals like walking tacos, hot dogs on a stick, trail mix, and s’mores. Explore constellations, play games, create crafts, go on scavenger hunts, and take nature walks. Learn to read and draw maps, use a compass, tie knots, and more. Experience all the fun of camping—without the bugs!SummerFun! 2026 -
WaitlistCandy ShoppeCooking & Life HacksExplore your sweet side and learn how to make your own candy. Create a variety of homemade sweets, including hard candy, jelly candy, and beautiful chocolates. Dazzle your friends and family with your new confectionery skills. You’ll have plenty of tasty treats to bring home to share, as well as a stash to satisfy your own sweet tooth. Please note, this class uses nuts and peanuts.SummerFun! 2026