Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services Monthly Newsletter
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March is here, bringing longer days, warmer weather, and fresh opportunities to connect! As we step into spring, we’re excited for all the fun and meaningful activities ahead. From engaging youth programs to community events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s embrace the season of growth and new beginnings together!
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Girls With A Purpose
Girls with a Purpose is designed specifically for 4th and 5th-grade girls! This unique opportunity offers a supportive space where girls can forge positive connections with peers while embracing their individual strengths. Girls are encouraged to be authentic and celebrate their uniqueness in this creative environment.
When: Tuesdays – Starting March 18
Time: 8:00AM – 8:45AM
Where: HKIS
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Meet the Animals of Cold Goat Farms for Week of the Young Child
Join us for a delightful spring morning filled with fun and learning! Meet friendly sheep and goats while discovering the process of making wool. Enjoy a engaging story and a simple craft as you interact with the animals.
When: April 15, 2025
Time: 9:30-10:30
Where: Cold Goats Farm
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Tasty Tuesday with Storybook Friends for Week of the Young Child!
Join us for a fun-filled, food-themed storytime where little ones can engage with beloved storybook characters in creative ways! Enjoy hands-on activities inspired by More Spaghetti, I Say and Pete the Cat and the Perfect Pizza Party, followed by exciting food-themed games. To top it all off, those who wish can enjoy a refreshing Popsicle in the reading garden!
This event is perfect for children from birth to age 5. Please note that adults must remain on the premises with children under 12.
When: April 15, 2025
Time: 1:00-2:00 PM
Where: Killingworth Library
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Daffodil Days at Halfinger Farms for Week of the Young Child
Come out on a beautiful Spring morning and pick a bunch of daffodils at Halfinger farm. The first 5 daffodils you pick are free. You are welcome to pick more to purchase to support your local farmers! Join Teen Role models for fun activities, such as temporary tattoos and a craft. Enjoy a small snack and hanging out in nature. This is a perfect April Vacation activity to do with your children! Take an opportunity to take great photos of your fun day.
When: April 16th
Time: 10:30-11:30 AM
Where: Halfinger Farm
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Mindfulness Crafting Hour for Week of the Young Child
Brainerd Library is partnering with HKYFS during Week of the Young Child to support children and families in unplugging for wellness! Join the awesome staff at Brainerd for an hour of mindfulness crafting and story fun! Participants (all ages welcome!) will create sensory crafts that promote the practice of being present in the moment and paying attention to
thoughts, feelings, & sensations.
No registration necessary!
When: April 17, 2025
Time: 10:30-11:30 AM
Where: Brainerd Library
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Paper Quilting Bee w/Haddam Historical Society for Week of the Young Child
The Haddam Historical Society is partnering with HK Youth and Family Services to celebrate the Week of the Young Child! We invite children in preschool–3rd grade to join us at the Thankful Arnold House Museum on Friday, April 18 from 10–11am for “A Paper Quilting Bee.” Participants can choose to color in a paper quilting square or paste precut scrapbook papers onto a paper quilting square to make a beautiful design inspired by historic examples. This program is FREE, but space is limited, and registration is required.
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Connection Quest
HKYFS invites you to this full-day of adventure designed to enhance communication and connection between boys and a trusted male guardian.
Make memories of a lifetime and build on communication skills to help support your child in the following years!
Join HKYFS and Deer Lake Outdoor Center facilitators on an all-day adventure on their guided ropes courses and challenges!
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HKI/MS Students Recognize the Global Day of Unplugging
Haddam-Killingworth Intermediate and Middle School students are invited to participate in a fun poster contest designed to raise awareness about the Global Day of Unplugging, which is recognized from sunset on March 7, 2025 to sunset on March 8, 2025.
The Global Day of Unplugging is a twenty-four hour period for people of all ages to make a concentrated effort to unplug from screens, smartphones, social media, video games and any other device. It is an opportunity to connect with friends, family, community, and yourself, in activities that matter to you.
The average American spends more than seven hours looking at a screen every day. That’s 106 days a year. (datareportal.com, June 2021). The Common Sense Census (2020) reports that teens spend seven hours and twenty-two minutes on screens, not including school or homework. This number has been rising drastically since 2015.
Read More Here.
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10 Facts You Should Know!
- Most HK Youth Are Substance-Free
– 86% of youth in the HK community choose not to use substances of any kind. The majority of young people are making healthy choices!
- Your Brain is Still Growing
– The human brain continues developing until around age 25. Using substances like alcohol, nicotine, and cannabis can interfere with memory, learning, and decision-making.
- Vaping is Not Harmless
– Many e-cigarettes contain high levels of nicotine, which is highly addictive and can harm brain development. Some vapes also contain harmful chemicals linked to lung damage.
- Cannabis Affects Academic Performance
– Regular cannabis use in teens can impact attention, memory, and learning, leading to lower grades and reduced academic success.
- Alcohol and the Teen Brain
– Underage drinking can increase the risk of developing alcohol dependence later in life and impairs judgment, increasing the chance of risky behaviors.
- Fentanyl is a Hidden Danger
– Illicit drugs like fake pills and powders may contain fentanyl, a powerful opioid that can cause overdose even in small amounts.
- Prescription Drugs Are Not Always Safe
– Misusing medications that aren’t prescribed to you can be dangerous. Even common painkillers can be addictive and lead to serious health issues.
- Sports & Substance Use Don’t Mix –
Using substances like alcohol, cannabis, or nicotine can reduce endurance, strength, and reaction time, affecting athletic performance.
#ProtectYourGame
- Mental Health Matters
– Many teens use substances to cope with stress or anxiety, but healthy alternatives like exercise, talking to a trusted adult, or practicing mindfulness can be more effective long-term solutions.
- Parents Play a Big Role
– Teens who have open conversations with their parents about drugs and alcohol are 50% less likely to use substances than those who don’t. Talking early and often makes a difference!
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Teen Trailblazers is Back!
Teen Trailblazers is Back!
This summer, teens in grades 7-10 can join us every Wednesday for exciting adventures to places like Lake Compounce, Six Flags, Brownstone, and more!
It’s the perfect way to make new friends, explore new places, and have tons of fun.
Don’t miss out—registration opens in April!
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Summer Community Service
Kickstart your community service hours with HKYFS!
We offer organized volunteer opportunities this summer, plus chances to give back all year long. Visit our website for details on unique, planned service events where you can earn your hours.
Registration opens in April—space is limited, so don’t wait to sign up!
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