Cape Cod Coalition for Children

The Cape Cod Coalition for Children has a long history of providing tools for parents, activities for kids, and support for families on the Cape!

What is the Cape Cod Coalition for Children?

The Cape Cod Coalition for Children provides grant-funded, education and support programs for families with infants, toddlers, and school-aged children. Based in Falmouth and Mashpee, they offer play and learn groups, workshops, parenting classes, support groups, developmental screenings, community events, and assistance linking parents with childcare providers and other support groups. The goal of the Coalition for Children is to create a strong foundation for the area’s children, families, and community as a whole.

Many free programs are made possible by the Coordinated Family and Community Engagement Grant through the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. These programs provide local, family-focused activities and services that support parents as their child’s first teacher.

During the Covid Pandemic, Bethany Gay, the Coalition’s coordinator began virtual programming  with a daily newsletter featuring early learning, fine motor skills, art, movement, and science activities. The Coalition for Children didn’t let the pandemic stop them from supporting Cape families and parents. They also produced lots of fun video content for kids including Spanish for Kids, Playtime with Nancy, LapBabies activities, and even videos produced by Falmouth High School students, which were a big hit!

The Coalition for Children also began offering Story Walks. These setups allowed kids to get outside, socialize, and exercise while staying safe. The story walks were such a popular activity that they continued throughout the summer! Keep an eye out for recent stories like Mo Willems’ Are You Ready to Play Outside? and Each Peach Pear Plum by Allan and Janet Ahlberg. These walks cultivate a love of literacy and reading that will hopefully last a lifetime!

As a mother and former teacher, Bethany Gay loves her job as the Coalition’s Coordinator, and has seen how important the work they do is firsthand. She remembers taking her own daughter to activities, and how important that was for her as a parent new to the area to meet other families. Bethany loves that she can now pass along the support to the community, “Every parent needs tools,” Bethany says, “and that’s just what the Coalition for Children provides.”

She also loves working with the little ones, planning out the activities and enjoying the expressions the kids make when they are engaged in the learning activities. “I love seeing parents and kids working together!” she says.

What the Coalition Can Offer You

The Cape Cod Coalition for Children is currently looking for new families to join their ParentChild+ program! The program was founded to reduce high school dropout rates by connecting with families and kids before they even enter school. Working with kids 18 months to 4 years old, the ParentChild+ focuses on early literacy, school readiness, and success, and provides free books, toys, and literacy activities to participating families. If you or someone you know is interested, reach out to the Coalition for Children through their website.

Their next Saturday STEAM special event on September 28th will be held at the Waquoit Bay Visitors Center from 11am to 1pm. This event is geared towards children ages 3 to 6 accompanied by a caregiver to explore the fascinating world of insects and spark their creative curiosity.There is not cost for this event but you need to sign up beforehand to assure a spot for your child.

There is always something happening at the Coalition for Children, don’t miss out on their activities, events, and groups! Many preschool groups meet on a weekly basis or you can take advantage of their special events. Check out their event schedule to keep current and find out how to involve your child!