Parent and Family Support
There is a saying that it takes a village to raise a child. We understand this collective effort and provide parents with free resources that help families and children develop and grow to become their best.
Ways to Get Involved
Boston Family Engagement Network
Providing programs and resources for families to promote learning, healthy development, school readiness, and success starting at birth
Parent University
Giving parents of Boston Public School students a means to advocate and support their children's learning
Community Centers
Connect with your community and explore a range of education, recreation, and enrichment programs in Boston's network of community centers.
Parks and Playgrounds
Spend time outdoors and connect with your community by exploring the many parks and playgrounds around Boston
Join Your Local Library
The Boston Public Library (BPL) offers free educational events for children
Join A Family Friendly Event
Connect with your community by joining one of the City's free family friendly events
Teen Parent Playgroup
The Boston Public Library is hosting Teen Parent Playgroup sessions this Fall
LET'S GET OUTSIDE
Popular Playgrounds and Parks In Boston
Get outside and explore popular Playgrounds and Parks In Boston
Special Events in Boston Parks
Every year the Parks Department brings engaging programs and events to parks throughout the City of Boston. Don't miss out on these free, fun events!
Parks Sports and Activities
We offer free athletic programs, clinics, and camps in neighborhood parks across the City.
Family Friendly Events Around Boston
Take part in the many family events around Boston!
Hike Boston
Hike Boston is a week-day day-time hiking series where we invite you to join us for a walk in one of Boston's parks or urban wilds.
The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University
The Arnold Arboretum is open everyday, and it's Free!
Prenatal and Early Childhood Resources
Prenatal and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program
The evidence base for home visiting is strong and growing. Early childhood home visiting connects new and expectant parents with a family support specialist.
New and Expecting Parents
A resource that gives new and expecting parents, and their children, access to support for building a healthy future.
The Basics
A resource to help families from all backgrounds benefit from the unique opportunity that the early years provide to shape a child's future.
Enrichment Resources
Museum Passes
Get free and discounted museum passes through the Boston Public Library.
MFA Free Memberships
The Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) offers free memberships to new US citizens living in Massachusetts, and living artists with artworks in our collection.
BOKS Kids
A free physical activity program for kids of all ages and abilities.
BPL Early Childhood Events and Classes
The Boston Public Library (BPL) offers free educational events and classes for children, including: story time, STEM, arts and crafts. music, dance, and much more.
KidsJam
A free early childhood (3-5 years old) interactive music education program provided by Berklee College of Music.
Read Boston
Promoting early literacy in the City of Boston
Social and Emotional Development
Handhold
A resource-rich organization that guides parents in caring for their child's mental and emotional wellbeing
Social and Emotional Development Toolkit
A toolkit to help parents start a conversation with their child's doctor regarding how their child acts or feels
Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Resource Guide
A guide that provides caregivers with resources for infant and early childhood mental health
Food Resources
Food Justice
This office links families to healthy food resources that are affordable, easy to find, and reflect the many cultures of our City.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Provides low-income families with a monthly budget to help buy food.
Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program (WIC)
Provides free of charge services like healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to families who qualify.
Greater Boston Food Bank Pantry Locations
This organization partners with food pantries across Eastern Massachusetts helping people find food and grocery help in their communities every year.
List of Food Resources in Boston
Flyer in 12 Languages listing Food Resources in Boston
Financial Resources
Low Income Resources
A resource that offers assistance and support with basic needs.
Babysteps Savings Plan
Families receive $50 from the Massachusetts government when they open a College Investing Plan within a year of their child's birth or adoption.
Boston Saves
The City gives K2 Boston Public School students $50 when parents start a financial savings account.
TAFDC
Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC) is an economic assistance (cash benefit) program.
Boston Public Library
Free financial empowerment classes.
Childcare Financial Assistance
Vouchers help families pay for childcare. Payments are made directly to the childcare provider. To qualify, parent income must be below a certain percentage of the federal poverty level based on family size.
