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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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.
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Ages & Stages Questionnaire®
Ages birth-5 | Gloucester & Rockport | No cost
Chart your child’s growth and development through the nationally recognized Ages & Stages Questionnaire®.