Strengthening Families Month
April is Strengthening Families Month!
Join us in promoting the safety and well-being of Montana's children and raising awareness about child abuse prevention. This month, communities across the state are coming together to strengthen families and build a brighter future for our kids.
Keep an eye out for blue pinwheels around Helena—how many can you find? Be sure to find the Early Childhood Collaborative's Pinwheel Pals, too! They are also a part of our Week of the Young Child festivities!
Click here to check out the digital scavenger hunt!
Visit DPHH’s website to learn more about events, resources, and ways to support Strengthening Families Month. Let’s grow stronger together!
Pinwheel Pal Scavenger Hunt
Can you find all the Pinwheel Pals? Join our digital scavenger hunt!
Pinwheel Pals are cardboard cut out dolls that appear in business windows during the month of April to raise awareness throughout our community about the importance of early childhood with facts in one hand and in the other a blue pinwheel that represents Strengthening Families Month.
The Early Childhood Collaborative wants you to find 16 Pinwheel Pals that are hanging out in downtown Helena. Match the fact on the Pinwheel Pal to the Beanstack Badge and tell us where you found the Pinwheel Pal. If you find all 16 Pinwheel Pals, you'll be entered into a drawing for a $50.00 Walmart gift card.
Click here to sign up for Beanstack and register for the challenge!
Click here for more information.
Birth and Baby Expo
Location: Education Center at St. Peter’s Health, 2475 East Broadway Street, Helena. Use the Main Entrance.
Audience: New or expecting parents or anyone who wants to learn about the services available in the community during pregnancy and the first year or two of life.
Cost: Free
About: There will be tours of the Women’s and Children’s Unit, Car Seat Safety Technician, and many providers in the community focused on pregnancy, birth and the first year(s) of life.
No need to sign up or register ahead of time. Come anytime between 10 am- 2 pm.
World Migratory Bird Day Festival
World Migratory Bird Day festival is back! Join in the celebration of birds with this free, family-friendly event. There is something for everyone to enjoy: guided bird walks, live raptors, bird boxes, nature journaling, bird crafts and activities.
Click here for more info.
Bereaved Mother's Day
We just want to acknowledge all the grieving mothers out there.
You are still a mom even if you can’t hold your little one.
You are not alone.
Click here for a short video to learn more.
Reminder: we have regular loss events and a loss specific email list. Visit our loss page for more information.
Moms Like Me (in Bozeman)
While this event is located in Bozeman, there is representation from Helena - and the loss community - this year!
Moms Like Me has become an annual, well-loved, community event to raise awareness about the realities of becoming a mother. The event aims to honor the beauty and complexity of motherhood and address the isolation and shame that comes with it.
For more information visit the event page on the Roots Family Collaborative website: Moms Like Me — ROOTS
Mother's Day
Happy Mother’s Day to all you amazing moms out there. Here are a couple places doing something special in honor of Mother’s Day:
Broadwater Hot Springs & Fitness
Want to add something? Email Maureen at mbjerke@sphealth.org
Rodney Street Block Party
A fun, family-friendly block party on Rodney Street in Helena. Free and open to the public. Free food, games, and live music. A resource fair will provide interested community members with information about mental and behavioral health services available to kids and adults alike. Join us for a meaningful afternoon and bring your friends.
Click here for more information.
Click here to see the flyer.
Sober Delight: Let's Talk About Alcohol
Free and Open to the Public
Let's talk about alcohol! Join us for an evening of important conversation, non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, more snacks, pizza, and community-building. Our special guest, Supaman, will join us for the evening. Childcare is provided for interested parents and caregivers.
Click here for more information.
Supaman Concert
Free and open to the public.
Outdoor Concert and Resource Fair Featuring Supaman - Award-winning hip hop artist, fancy dancer, and motivational speaker.
Award-winning hip hop artist, fancy dancer, and motivational speaker, Montana's own SUPAMAN will be in concert on Helena's Walking Mall on Thursday, May 22. Playing multiple sets from 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM in front of Ten Mile Brewery, this is a community event and concert you do not want to miss!
Non-alcoholic drink specials will be featured at nearby breweries and bars.
Click here for more information.
Want more information on Supaman? Click here to see some of his videos.
Bicycle Rodeo
A fun-filled day of biking activities at St. Peter's Health Medical Group - Broadway. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, there's something for everyone at our event. Participate in exciting bike obstacles, learn important safety tips, and enjoy a day of outdoor fun with friends and family.
Age Group: Kindergarten to Junior High
For more information, click here.
Click here for the flyer.
Honoring our Grief by the Creek
Join us for a gentle gathering by Tenmile Creek* to honor the many forms of grief that come with parenting — whether you're mourning a child, a pregnancy, or a dream that never came to be. *Please Note: We mean Tenmile Creek - the actual Creek, not Ten Mile the brewery!
We'll spend time by the water, crafting small boats from natural materials (bark, leaves, sticks) and sending them downstream. You’re welcome to bring a camp chair or blanket, take part in the activity, or simply sit and be in the presence of others who understand.
There’s no expectations — just a shared space to honor grief in a peaceful setting.
Logistical Information:
All ages are welcome but please know we will be outside and by water. Please dress - and plan - accordingly.
There are no bathrooms on site. There is a gas station nearby, though.
If you ever feel like you’re unsure if you’re welcome at these loss events, please reach out. I’m always happy to chat or answer questions. Maureen: 406-461-4449 (call/text) or mbjerke@sphealth.org.
Wave of Light
Join the Early Childhood Collaborative in lighting a candle at 7 pm to recognize and remember all the babies who died too soon.
Our version of the Wave of Light is all inclusive. You are welcome to come light a candle whether it was you who lost a baby or someone you know. Maybe you never got the chance to have a baby, you are welcome. Maybe you lost your “baby” when they were 18 years old - you are welcome, too. Maybe you just want to come and show your support and that is welcome, too.
We will have battery operated candles to place in a heart shape with live music by local musician Joslyn Dollar and hot cocoa to sip on while we come together in community to honor the babies we hold in our hearts and the loved ones who miss them.
If you have questions, reach out: Maureen Bjerke at mbjerke@sphealth.org or 406-461-4449 (call or text)
Image Dancing: Minis
This class is for 2.5 - 4.5 year olds. Let them move some energy out of their body!
Not the right age group?
Image Dancing is offering free classes for everyone this week! They have options for the whole family. Check out their website for more information and the schedule of classes you can try.
Click here to sign up for the class.
This is a weekly offering from Image Dancing but free this week to celebrateWeek of the Young Child!
Adventure Friday at Stonetree: Provider Edition
We see you, early childhood providers—now it’s time for YOU to have some fun! Enjoy a FREE evening of climbing and connection at Stonetree Climbing Center. No experience needed—just bring your sense of adventure! Come unwind, move, and recharge in our supportive and engaging space.
This offer is for anyone working in early childhood: providers, teachers, directors, and assistants.
No need to RSVP ahead of time, just come anytime between 5-7 pm.
For more information, visit Stonetree’s website.
Big Splash Movie Bash
Have you ever seen Finding Nemo while swimming?! Well, here is your chance at Helena’s own Dive-In Movie Theater!
Join us for a fin-tastic evening at the YMCA for Family Friday as we wrap up our Week of the Young Child festivities. Families are invited to swim, splash, and watch Finding Nemo right from the pool.
Leave your floaties and toys at home – the YMCA will have all the supplies you need for a great evening with family and friends.
Audience: All families
Cost: $5 per person.
You can just show up or register ahead of time here.
Click here to see their flyer.
Elevate Montana Family Friday
Join Elevate Montana for Family Friday during Week of the Young Child! This special event is designed for parents and children (ages 5-11, but all are welcome) to enjoy a meaningful, hands-on experience together while learning about the power of positive experiences in childhood development.
Creative Activity (30 min): Parents and kids will create an "I Know How To…" flower craft, celebrating growth and achievements with glue sticks, markers, and more!
Interactive Learning (45 min): A session for parents on the Building Blocks of Hope, featuring practical strategies to create positive experiences at home, a book list for parents, and coloring sheets for kids in a cozy corner.
RSVP encouraged but walk-ins are welcome! Email Maureen or Rebecca to let us know you’re coming and how many to expect.
Adventure Friday at Stonetree: Family Time
Climb, explore, and have a blast at Stonetree Climbing Center! On this special Adventure Friday, adults can purchase a $15 day pass and bring up to two kids (ages 4-12) for FREE. Whether you’re new to climbing or a seasoned pro, our bouldering gym is the perfect place to challenge yourself and have fun with your kids in a welcoming community space. Come climb with us!
No need to RSVP ahead of time, just come anytime between 3 – 5 pm.
For more information, visit Stonetree’s website.
School Visit for Preschoolers: Bryant Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Bryant Elementary School for story time with the Principal and a tour of the school.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
School Visit for Preschoolers: Four Georgians Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Four Georgians Elementary School for story time with the Principal.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
Helena Field School Tinkergarten Class
Play based learning Tinkergarten class at Mount Helena City Park! In this class we will engage all of our senses, and tap into our unique human superpower of Empathy as we work together to create a feast for all ... It all starts with one stone, and some nature treasures!
Audience: Children ages 18 months - 8 years (but older or younger siblings are always welcome to come along).
Cost: Free
Click here for more information and to sign up.
Family Farm Tour
Join Rocking Tree Farm for a special Week of the Young Child Family Farm Tour!
Baby animals, plant seeds, and just enjoy some good ol’ fashion fun.
Click here to see the flyer.
Cost: Free
Audience: All ages
Visit their website for more information: rockingtreefarm.com
Lyrical II
Fun combos with Hip Hop inspired movement & foundations, including popping, locking & breaking.
This class is for children 8 - 12 years old (approximately). Click here for more information on their Lyrical classes.
Click here to sign up for the class.
Image Dancing is offering free classes for everyone this week! Check out their website for more information and the schedule of classes you can try.
Hip Hop II
Fun combos with Hip Hop inspired movement & foundations, including popping, locking & breaking.
This class is for children 9-12 years old (approximately). Click here for more information on their Hip Hop classes.
Click here to sign up for the class.
Image Dancing is offering free classes for everyone this week! Check out their website for more information and the schedule of classes you can try.
School Visit for Preschoolers: Rossiter Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Rossiter Elementary School for a short film and games, with time for you to ask questions.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
Hip Hop I
Fun combos with Hip Hop inspired movement & foundations, including popping, locking & breaking.
This class is for children 5 - 9 years old (approximately). Click here for more information on their Hip Hop classes.
Click here to sign up for the class.
Image Dancing is offering free classes for everyone this week! Check out their website for more information and the schedule of classes you can try.
Jazz I / II
A variety of across the floor progressions of turns, kicks, jumps and more in each class.
This class is for children 7 - 11 years old (approximately). Click here for more information on their Jazz classes.
Click here to sign up for the class.
Image Dancing is offering free classes for everyone this week! Check out their website for more information and the schedule of classes you can try.
School Visit for Preschoolers: Jefferson Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Jefferson Elementary School for story time with the Principal.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy: Family | Jim Darcy: Parents | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
School Visit for Preschoolers: Kessler Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Kessler Elementary School for story time with the Principal.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
Artsy Thursday
Join us for Artsy Thursday with a fun and interactive Fizzy Painting activity! Kids will mix food coloring, water, and baking soda to create their own unique masterpieces. Then, watch the magic happen as they spray or drop vinegar or lemon juice onto their artwork for a fizzy, bubbly reaction!
This hands-on activity encourages creativity, curiosity, and a little bit of science, too! Perfect for young artists and explorers alike. Drop in anytime between 2 and 4 PM!
School Visit for Preschoolers: Smith Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Smith Elementary School for story time with the Principal, do a fun activity and enjoy a little snack.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
Toddler Tales
Dance, sing, rhyme, and read during this energetic storytime designed to help toddlers acquire fundamental knowledge such as shapes, numbers, colors, and more. This storytime is geared for toddlers up to three years old and their caregivers. Toddler Tales is approximately 30 minutes long, followed by a 30 minute open-play session.
Click here for more information.
This is a reoccurring event so if you can’t make this week, check it out another time! Find more information on what the Library has to offer on their website.
Creative Movement Class - Thursday
New students ages 8 and under can take a free class at Cohesion all week long!
About: Creative movement uses music, play and imagination for fun and exciting dance and movement exercises. Click here for more information.
Location: Cohesion Dance Project; 1020 Argyle Street; Helena, MT
Audience: Children ages 3 - 5 years old
RSVP: You do not need to RSVP ahead of time but please arrive early to get signed in. Free classes are first come, first serve with a capacity of 10 students.
Need a different time? Creative Movement for 3-5 year olds without a caregiver is also happening:
Monday 4 - 4:45 pm. Click here for more information.
Wednesday 5:30 - 6:15 pm. Click here for more information.
Questions or More Info: Contact Jess Partridge at 406-422-0830 or visit cohesiondance.org
Child + Caregiver Creative Movement
New students ages 8 and under can take a free class at Cohesion all week long!
About: Explore joyful movement using multi-sensory props and fun music while making meaningful connections with your infant/toddler. Sing rhymes and experience the BrainDance approach to learning movement nurturing cognitive and physical development of children ages 2-23 months.
Location: Cohesion Dance Project; 1020 Argyle Street; Helena, MT
Audience: Children ages 2 - 23 months and their caregivers
RSVP: You do not need to RSVP ahead of time but please arrive early to get signed in. Free classes are first come, first serve with a capacity of 10 students.
Questions or More Info: Contact Jess Partridge at 406-422-0830 or visit cohesiondance.org for class details.
Creative Movement Class - Wednesday
New students ages 8 and under can take a free class at Cohesion all week long!
About: Creative movement uses music, play and imagination for fun and exciting dance and movement exercises. Click here for more information.
Location: Cohesion Dance Project; 1020 Argyle Street; Helena, MT
Audience: Children ages 3 - 5 years old
RSVP: You do not need to RSVP ahead of time but please arrive early to get signed in. Free classes are first come, first serve with a capacity of 10 students.
Need a different time? Creative Movement for 3-5 year olds without a caregiver is also happening:
Monday 4 - 4:45 pm. Click here for more information.
Thursday 9:15 - 10 am. Click here for more information.
Questions or More Info: Contact Jess Partridge at 406-422-0830 or visit cohesiondance.org
School Visit for Preschoolers: Jim Darcy Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Jim Darcy Elementary School for a family fun mixer.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
School Visit for Preschoolers: Broadwater Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Broadwater Elementary School for story and craft time with the Principal.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
School Visit for Preschoolers: Hawthorne Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Hawthorne Elementary School for story time with the Principal, a tour of the school and treats.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
School Visit for Preschoolers: Warren Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Warren Elementary School for story time with the Principal
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
School Visit for Preschoolers: Central Elementary
Helena School District would like to welcome young children to their neighborhood school to celebrate Week of the Young Child. This is a great opportunity for preschoolers to visit their future school and do something fun before their big transition! Your neighborhood school is excited to meet you!
Bring your preschooler to visit Central Elementary School for story time with the Principal and a tour of the school.
Not the right school? Visit the full list of events to find your neighborhood school’s event or click on your school below:
Broadwater | Bryant | Central | Four Georgians | Hawthorne | Jefferson | Jim Darcy | Kessler | Rossiter | Smith | Warren
Unsure of which school? Click here to enter your address and find your school.
Questions? Reach out to Allison Balboni at abalboni@helenaschools.org
East Helena Story Time
A half hour of stories and corresponding activities that are geared towards preschool ages. All ages welcome.
More information here: lclibrary.org/144/East-Helena
Work Together Wednesday
Week of the Young Child’s Work Together Wednesday!
ExplorationWorks Early Explorers class will be themed for Work Together Wednesday. ExplorationWorks Science Center’s Early Explorers education program gives preschool-age children an opportunity to experience interactive science activities led by skilled educators passionate about learning. Early Explorers Classes are geared for kids ages 0-5 and their care givers.
Early Explorer’s is a regular offering, visit ExplorationWorks website to see all opportunities.
Montana Capitol Tour
Special offering during our Reading in the Rotunda event:
Join the Montana Historical Society on a fun and educational tour of the Capitol building.
Location: Montana State Capitol Building; 1301 E. 6th Ave; Helena
Audience: Everyone!
Cost: Free
No need to sign up or register, just show up a few minutes before 10 am on the first floor of the Capitol next to the Information Desk (Next to the sign that reads: Capitol Tours Meet Here)
Did you know you can tour the Capitol any time at 9 am or 3 pm?