Families First in Brooklyn, NY 11201

A wonderful support center for parents and caregivers, Families First offers all kinds of classes and workshops.

The drop-in playspace provides a regular opportunity for children to play together in a well-equipped play rooms. Facilities include a toy area, library, art room, and plenty of safe room to explore with riding toys, puzzles, blocks, mats, and more.

Classes for babies, toddlers, and school age children are offered in music, movement, science, cooking, tumbling, and art. A pre preschool program, Practically Preschool, introduces little ones ages 18-36 months to structured play in a classroom setting.

Individual parent/caregiver workshops, with expert guest speakers on specific topics related to family life and child development, are scheduled throughout the year. Topics include CPR, child discipline, separation anxiety, choosing a nursery school, sibling rivalry, nutrition, sleep problems, anxieties of parenting, public schools, and anger management. Parent suggestions for new classes often lead the way for innovative workshops as well.

Small support groups of women, men, and couples meet weekly to discuss common concerns about their children, parenting, careers, or whatever is on their minds. Ongoing groups and special groups for new mothers are led by professional staff members.

Throughout the year, Families First coordinates special events for members as well as the entire Downtown Brooklyn community. Past events have included "Super Saturdays," pot luck suppers, holiday parties, open house events, and an annual street fair.

Families First, as a not-for-profit membership organization, relies heavily on parent volunteerism - a great way to get to know members of the community. The membership year runs September through June; visit website for more information.

In addition to classes, workshops, and support groups, members are entitled to full use of the Center during drop-in hours, including some Saturday morning programs throughout the year. Besides coming by for classes, guests are always welcome to come by the Center to say "hello" to the fish and browse the bulletin boards and library corner, or come for an afternoon to dabble in the arts and crafts room or play in one of the playrooms.

Members may bring along a guest one time (there's a $10 visitor fee per class). Thereafter, the guest must pay a membership fee to use the Center. All guests must register in the office.