Services for Families

Blaze a new path.

From playgroups to parent workshops, preschool to afterschool, Pathways for Children’s services support thriving children and families.

 
 
  • Building Blocks

    Early Head Start

    3 months –2.9 years | Gloucester, Essex, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Rockport | No cost

    The earliest years are the time of greatest development and opportunity. Give your child a healthy start with free, high-quality toddler care and family-centered services.

  • A chalkboard

    Head Start

    Ages 2.9-5 | Beverly, Boxford, Danvers, Essex, Gloucester, Hamilton, Ipswich, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Middleton, Peabody, Salem, Topsfield, Rockport, Wenham | No cost

    Help your child prepare for kindergarten with our free, award-winning preschool program and family support services.

  • The sun

    School Age Care

    Grades K-5 | Gloucester | Cost dependent on family income

    Keep your kids safe, learning, and having fun in our year-round after-school and school vacation program.




  • Exploration Vacation

    Grades K-5 | Gloucester, Cape Ann & North Shore | $295/week

    Join us this summer for learning through play, fitness, and weekly field trips at our summer program for school-age children.

  • Pathways Family Resource Center -Salem

    Families | North Shore & Massachusetts | No cost

    We provide resources that help children and families reach their full potential through parenting and youth programs, support groups and workshops, and information and resources.


  • Family Recovery Support

    Children & Families | Essex County | No cost

    A community‑rooted program that helps children and families impacted by substance use across Essex County, MA.

  • Books

    Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

    Ages birth-5 | Beverly, Essex, Gloucester, Manchester, Peabody, Rockport, Salem | No cost

    Give the delight of life-long learning to your children by building up their library with one free, age-appropriate book delivered home every month.

  • parent education programs icon

    Parent Education Programs

    All Ages | Essex County | No cost

    Parents can enroll in a variety of support groups and evidence-based parenting classes, including Nurturing Parenting Program®, Active Parenting™, Positive Solutions, and Parenting Journey.



  • A bicycle

    Play to Learn Playgroups

    Ages birth-5 | Gloucester, Rockport, & other families as space allows | No cost

    Play and learn with your child, meet new families and enjoy creative activities together!

  • icon of caregivers with a child

    Parents are Children's First Teachers

    For caregivers | Gloucester & Rockport | No cost

    We’re here for you! Reach out to connect with one of our experts for information, ideas, and solutions to meet the ever-changing needs of your child.

  • Person Cheering

    Parent Mentee

    For Parents | Cape Ann & North Shore | No cost

    Looking for a supportive relationship to help you move forward in life and parenting? Our Parent Mentors have got your back.

  • A pencil and ruler

    Ages & Stages Questionnaire®

    Ages birth-5 | Gloucester & Rockport | No cost

    Chart your child’s growth and development through the nationally recognized Ages & Stages Questionnaire®.