Did you know that the Children’s Department at the Cheshire Public Library visits almost every preschool in Cheshire once a month?  Did you know that Cheshire Birth-to-Three child development experts visit library programs to answer questions caregivers have?  Did you know that the library participates at local festivals such as Fall Festival, Strawberry Festival, Touch-a-Truck and more?  Over the past two and half years the Children’s Department has been partnering with local organizations who serve youth to share resources, expertise, and reach more people.  Below is a brief summary of a few of our partners.

Cheshire Birth-to-Three:
Cheshire Birth-to-Three program has a highly qualified and experienced staff consisting of a physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech pathologist, social worker and special education teachers. The staff makes home visits to provide speech, physical, occupational and/or educational services. In addition, B-3 hosts the Parent/Child Resource Center which is a playgroup for children ages 0-3 and their parents.

If you have concerns regarding your child’s development, either attend the Parent/Child Resource Center at Darcey School (call for times 203-272-9108) or call Infoline at 1-800-505-7000 and request the Cheshire Birth-to-Three Program. The Birth-to-Three Team can conduct a complete developmental evaluation in your home.

Artsplace:
Artsplace provides a creative environment for students to explore their artistic endeavors. This is possible with our fantastic teaching staff (many national award winners) of over 20 professional artists.  Art classes and workshops are offered in a wide variety that are suitable for all ages and levels. The youngest Artsplace student is three and the oldest is ninety nine. Artsplace is a most uncommon art school in that standard supplies are provided for all classes.

Cheshire Parks and Recreation:
The Cheshire Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide variety of activities to the residents of Cheshire and maintains the beauty of the many parks in our town.  The department maintains and schedules six major park facilities, the Youth Center, and the Community Pool.

Visit their website to find classes and other activities for yourself or your young one.  They offer everything from adult yoga to toddler music classes. Visit here to learn more.

Cheshire YMCA:
The Cheshire Community YMCA is the premier child care provider by offering a safe and nurturing environment in which children are encouraged to develop social skills through age appropriate curriculum. They offer everything from enrichment classes for youth, preschool to aftercare for elementary school students.  Visit their Child Development page to find out more about their youth services.

Musical Folk:
Musical Folk offer Music Together^® Program, Ukulele and Movement classes! Have you ever wondered what you can do to nurture the musical growth of your child, regardless of your own musical ability? Experience Music Together and find out how important–and how fun–your role can be!  Music Together® classes build on your child’s natural enthusiasm for music and movement while developing important musical, social, cognitive, physical & language skills.