Mama may have, Papa may have But God bless the child that's…read moregot his own (Billie Holiday) There are over 4,000 Boys and Girls Clubs across the U.S. The very first one was founded here, in Hartford, CT in 1860. The Connecticut operation has locations spread across every corner of the state "to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens". Last night we attended a fundraising gala for Hartford's newest B&G Club, the beautiful South End Boys and Girls Club. It's located "in a neighborhood that needs it most" as explained by Guest Speaker Luke Bronin, Mayor of Hartford. The evening was titled "Great Futures and Open House, and the program started as soon as we stepped off the bus and were serenaded by a children's brass band. There were 300 guests in attendance and we really enjoyed touring the various rooms -one for music, one for dance, one for technology, one for art, etc. The highlight of the evening was a formal presentation hosted by ESPN's Sage Steele. Other speakers besides the Mayor were Claire Burns of Hartford Insurance (the lead sponsor), Sam Gray, CEO and President of the Boys and Girls Club of Hartford, and Ismael -Hartford's 2023 Youth of the Year. There was a massive auction of donated goods and services and food were provided by DORO Catering of West Hartford. It was a very inspirational evening and if you're looking for a good cause to support, you might want to check out the Boys and Girls Club.

My kids attended cadence academy on and off for 4 years. The staff was professional, friendly and…read morecaring, and courteous of our needs. If I had another child I would definitely send them here!

Our son graduated from Cadence in June after 3+ years of attendance and they really went above and…read morebeyond to make this major milestone extra special (we even got pictures of them in caps and gowns which was so precious)! We are so grateful for our time at Cadence and if we had the chance to choose them again, we would. We've been lucky to have some incredible teachers (Miss Elida, Miss Stephanie and Miss Narinee) for both of our children (our daughter still attends) and really appreciated Kindergarten Club for our son, too! We feel confident that his transition to Kindergarten will be as smooth as possible thanks to the excellent start and education that Cadence provided. THANK YOU!

This center has continually surpassed my expectations over the course of the past year. They employ…read morea diverse staff that brings a variety of teaching styles that keep the activities fresh and engaging for all of the children; the infants, toddlers and preschool. The kids are always learning something new and they are always having fun (while developing the social skills). Monthly and weekly themes and lessons are consistent, clear, and well communicated with the parents to allow them to be involved and able to follow up and easily provide enrichment after school. Communication across the board is too notch. Throughout the day parents get regular updates via the Brightwheel app, including pictures, meal updates, and potty and/or diaper changing schedules. The app is also used to send centerwide messages from the staff, as well as personal notes to alert us to any issues the children may be having. I could go on forever about my experience and have nothing but positive things to say about FFLL. I highly recommend 'Foundations' to anyone who is in need of childcare and/or preschool. If you are currently looking you owe it to your children to call and set up a tour with the director Marie! I have had direct experience with different ages and classes. I can assure you that you will find compassionate, caring and engaged teachers in every room who will work with you to achieve the goals you have for your child!

Wonderful staff. Caring fun environment!! Structured learning. Genuine care and concern for…read morechildren, staff and parents. I did a lot of searching before choosing Foundations. My four children attend and wouldn't think of sending them anyplace else.

Wow wow wow- this is the playground of all play grounds. I met another mom who travels to this…read moreplayground because it is one that her child's unique abilities are considered. So many unique structure to play and be in the outdoors. Both my boys said this is their new favorite park. Their favorite features were the basketball hoops and the circular merrigo-round made for one person. There's so much more- a braille reading library. Safety fence with a safety lock to keep kids inside. Huge parking lot. There's also motivational quotes all around with so much color. The buddy beach is bright and there's also a rock sharing area. This park has thought of everything to make everyone have a sense of belonging. The only negative was the picnic tables that are covered are also used for parties. They may come out to ask you to move to accommodate a birthday party. Which was a major pain for us as we had a full on picnic spread out. The staff was very kind and allowed us to stay when they recognized we had a bunch to move.

A very large and nice playground. There is a mini basketball court, climbing playscape, zipline…read moreunder a fake airplane, etc. The playground is located in the back parking lot area of the Mandell Jewish Community Center. It opens everyday from 8 am to sunset. There is a porta potty available. This was built in 1996 and was the first all inclusive playground for children of all abilities in the area. We went on a Saturday and it was super busy. You have to keep a hawk eye on your babies because they can get lost in the crowd. There is a pavilion with picnic tables. The play area is fenced in and has plenty of parking. In the end, I can't wait to come back on a weekday when it's less busy.