Allston-Brighton Family Network Playgroups

I’ve had bad experience with this organization (Family Nurturing). As a new mom, I was very excited to know about the playgroups and programs. Unfortunately, almost each time I go to attend a playgroup, either there is no playgroup taking place or the person never shows up. I have gone to the Hyde Park/​Roslindale and even the Brighton and ⁵⁄₆ times, the same thing. I think this is very unfortunate and unprofessional for a community based organization. I have called to complain several times and no one has yet to respond. I am very disappointed and hope the organization gets called out on this. New moms looking for playgroups or other assistance, please look elsewhere and don’t waste time or gas going to these groups. I recommend going to your nearest library instead.

This community based organization, ABFN for short, has all kinds of great programs for kids and families, but the programs that I can personally vouch for are the playgroups offered at the Dighton school in Brighton. They have groups for children ages 1 – 4. I take the toddler I babysit to one of the groups and it is the highlight of our week. They have two large clean bright rooms full of interesting toys. The playgroup is free form play for the first 45 minutes and then there is circle time with songs and games. It is a very well organized space and the woman who runs the playgroups does a really excellent job. Each time she puts out different toys and suggests activities. The toys are all sterilized after each class. A really nice group of moms/​caretakers and their toddlers come each time. The playgroups are free and yet are better than any of the toddler classes that we have paid for. They even have a playgroup for Spanish speakers. If you live in the Allston-​Brighton area I highly recommend it.