The Firefly Center is officially up and flying, offering inspiring classes for both children and parents in Old Avon Village. Started by two Simsbury moms, Jane Costello and Karin Lefranc, their goal is to provide a place for families to connect and to enroll in enriching classes from Love & Logic Parenting Series to a Weekly Storytime.
“As mothers passionate about supporting parents and improving the well-being of children and families, we are thrilled to offer a growing list of classes and programs. I’ve been envisioning this center for over a decade,” says Costello. “People want and need a safe place to talk about the challenges of raising children, and issues that we all face in today’s world. So many people in the community have reached out to us, offering support and great suggestions. We are evolving daily.”
With self-serve coffee and tea, and a hip studio feel, parents will find themselves slowing down and taking a moment to breathe. Children’s classes include yoga, manners classes and acting classes. The Firefly Center has partnered with The Hartford Children’s Theatre to offer two acting classes: Storytime Theater (ages 5-7) and Act Out! (ages 8-12). The programs are offered simultaneously (in two separate classrooms) to make life easier for parents, who want to sign up siblings.
Expectant parents can enjoy prenatal yoga, and infant & child CPR, and parents can take the popular, Love & Logic® classes. In addition, A wonderful weekly New Mom’s Group starts May 25.
“Families today are stressed with lots of responsibilities and pressures,” adds Lefranc, who is not only a certified children’s yoga and etiquette teacher, but also the author of the just published children’s picture book, A Quest for Good Manners. “Our kid classes, from yoga to acting, enable children to tap into their imagination and free themselves from worry and negative self-talk. When children are being creative, they are expressing their unique spirit, which builds mindfulness and self-confidence.”
The Grand Opening Celebration will be Friday, June 3, from 12-5 pm. Parents and children can come and enjoy free classes, including Firefly Yoga and Story Time, plus Firefly Crafts and Music. Karin Lefranc will read from her just published book, A Quest for Good Manners. Acclaimed photographer Eileen Broderick will capture each child’s light in a free photo shoot from 1–3 pm. While children are in classes, Blueprint Parenting will teach parents five easy strategies to get kids to listen. Meet and greet our program and resource teachers while enjoying delicious snacks. Special discounts and fun giveaways. More details at www.thefireflycenter.com.