I am sure they came home with smiling faces to tell their parents about their day at school. Their younger siblings were excited to see them come home so they could play. Moms and dads were pleased that their children had a good day and now the younger sibling had someone to play with. Moms and dads all over Danbury may wonder what activities are available for their younger siblings to partake in during the day. Danbury has a wealth of activities that both children and adults can participate in. 

The Danbury Library has playgroups, story hours, and new rooms made especially for story time and a quieter space for children who have special learning needs. Both rooms are often staffed with a librarian who can guide you to activities and books appropriate for your child’s age. Baby University begins on Tuesday, September 5. This five-week class is for babies 6 months through 2 years and their parents, held in the Story Corner. Explore music, sign language, and movement. Contact the library directly at https://danburylibrary.org/baby-university/ to register. 

Playscapes at the different Danbury parks are open. On nice days, gather with other families at Kenosia, Rogers Park, or Highland Park for their playscapes, open spaces, swings, and exercise pathways. Getting outside helps to keep your family healthy and assists your child in developing gross motor skills such as climbing, learning to transverse stairs, learning safety practices, and allows parents to meet with other parents of similarly aged children. 

There are free community playgroups offered by community agencies and Danbury Public Schools. Families Network of Western CT offers Saturday morning playgroups, a wonderful opportunity for parents who work during the week to attend. Contact the Network at 203-791-8773 for their schedule of playgroups. 

The Morris St. Family Resource Center at Morris St. School offers their playgroup on Wednesdays at 10:00 and the DPS Family and Community Center (FACE) offers theirs at the same time at 17 Cottage Street. Both groups offer guided free playtime, stories, songs, fingerplays, art activities, and time to learn about available community resources to assist all families. No registration is necessary!! 

The Danbury Public School’s Preschool Special Education program is looking for typical peers to be role models in their part-day programs. Children learn readiness skills that prepare them for kindergarten, such as being part of a group, learning reading and math skills, and having fun playing with peers. For more information, call the director Michelle at 203-797-4990.

Danbury Public Schools offers many opportunities for families: ESL classes, Family University, People Empowering People (PEP), Parents Supporting Educational Excellence (PSEE), and more. For information, contact the Family and Community Engagement Center at 203-797-4734 or stop in to visit at 49 Osborne Street. 

Anne E. Mead, Ed. D. is the Director of Family, School and Community Partnerships for Danbury Public Schools. She can be reached at 203-830-6508 or by email at meadan@danburyu.k12.ct.us.