MLC's April 2026 Newsletter ✨

What an exciting and activity-filled month March has been here at Big Mystic! The kids had an incredible time diving into a wide variety of engaging and enriching activities throughout the program. From hands-on experiences to high-energy games, there was truly something for everyone to enjoy. One of the biggest highlights of the month was Deny’s Cooking Club. The kids loved getting involved in the kitchen, learning new recipes, practicing basic cooking skills, and building confidence as young chefs. A standout moment was when they got to try Deny’s special bagel recipe—it quickly became a favorite and was a huge hit with everyone! The smiles and excitement during cooking sessions made it clear how much they enjoyed the experience.

In addition to cooking, the kids explored the world through National Geographic activities. They learned about animals in the wild, their habitats, and how they survive in different environments. These sessions sparked curiosity and encouraged thoughtful discussions, as the kids discovered fascinating facts and shared what they learned with one another.

Of course, there was no shortage of fun and movement! Popular favorites like Super Beat Sports and Super Smash Bros kept everyone active, energized, and engaged. Whether they were working on coordination, teamwork, or just having fun with friends, these activities brought lots of laughter and excitement to each day.

Throughout the month, it was wonderful to see the kids building friendships, trying new things, and creating lasting memories together. March was truly a fun-filled and memorable time at Big Mystic, and we are so proud of all the enthusiasm and positivity the kids brought to the program. We can’t wait to see what adventures, learning opportunities, and exciting moments April has in store!

Staff Recognition – Sadun

Sadun is a truly dedicated and caring member of our team who consistently goes above and beyond to support the children. He is always willing to take the time to help kids with their homework, making sure they feel confident and understood every step of the way. His patience and encouragement create a positive learning environment where children feel comfortable asking questions and growing academically.

Beyond academics, Sadun brings great energy to the program. He loves jumping into activities and joining in during choice time, actively playing alongside the kids and helping make every moment engaging and fun. His enthusiasm, kindness, and commitment make a meaningful impact on the children each day, and we are grateful to have him as part of our team.

Kid Recognition – Adam

Adam is a wonderful and enthusiastic member of the Big Mystic community who brings positivity wherever he goes. He is always excited to be involved in everything happening in the program, whether it’s helping with announcements or confidently calling out the daily choices. His eagerness to participate shows his strong sense of belonging and pride in being part of the group.

Adam is also an incredible friend to his peers. He is always willing to lend a helping hand, support others, and make sure everyone feels included. His kindness, leadership, and positive attitude make him a great role model for others to look up to. Adam’s presence truly helps create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.

New month, new fun activities!

Every day of the week, we create lesson plans according to our daily themes:

Movement/Mindfulness Monday: Activities to get the body moving, whether it's yoga and connecting with their minds, playing kickball, or a game of capture the flag.

STEAM Tuesday & Thursday: Science, math, technology, arts and crafts, oh my! These activities focus on creativity and building.

Service Learning Wednesday: Activities focused on giving back to our community, whether it's making a card for the elderly or picking up trash in our neighborhood!

Fun Friday: Activities based on all things fun! The activities range from cooking and baking to playing at the park.

It’s been a wonderful and enriching month at MELC! Throughout March, our curriculum focused on exploring the world of art history while also encouraging meaningful connections with nature.The kids had the opportunity to learn about different art movements, starting with realism and gradually transitioning into modern art. They explored how artistic styles have evolved over time, discovering how artists express ideas, emotions, and stories in unique ways. Through hands-on projects, the children experimented with their own creativity—trying out new techniques, working with different materials, and creating pieces inspired by what they learned. It was exciting to see their imaginations grow as they developed their own artistic voices.

Alongside their art exploration, the kids also spent time engaging in nature-based activities outdoors. These experiences allowed them to connect with their environment, observe seasonal changes, and appreciate the natural world around them. Whether it was exploring outdoor spaces, participating in group activities, or simply enjoying fresh air, these moments helped foster curiosity, teamwork, and a sense of calm and balance.

Overall, it has been a thoughtful and creative month at MELC, filled with learning, self-expression, and outdoor exploration. We’re so proud of the kids for embracing new ideas and experiences, and we’re looking forward to building on this momentum in the months ahead!

Congratulations to This Month’s Staff and Kid

Kid – Nova has been such a wonderful addition to our program! As a new member, she has quickly found her place and built positive connections with both staff and peers. Nova has shown great confidence in joining activities, working through challenges, and participating during homework and choice time. We are so proud of how smoothly she has adjusted and how well she fits into our MLEC community!

Staff – Hugo has continued to be an amazing part of the MELC team. Even though he joined recently, it truly feels like he has been here all along. As a former Mystic kid, Hugo brings a natural connection to the program and jumps right in whenever help is needed. He is always eager to support, especially during homework and choice time, and builds strong relationships with the youth. We’re so happy to have him as part of the MELC family! 🌟

New month, new fun activities!

Every day of the week, we create lesson plans according to our daily themes:

Movement/Mindfulness Monday: Activities to get the body moving, whether it's yoga and connecting with their minds, playing kickball, or a game of capture the flag.

STEAM Tuesday & Thursday: Science, math, technology, arts and crafts, oh my! These activities focus on creativity and building.

Service Learning Wednesday: Activities focused on giving back to our community, whether it's making a card for the elderly or picking up trash in our neighborhood!

Fun Friday: Activities based on all things fun! The activities range from cooking and baking to playing at the park.

Mangoes are a sweet and exciting treat for April! They’re soft and bursting with tropical flavor that makes snack time extra special. Mangoes are full of vitamin C and other nutrients that help keep your body healthy and energized. You can enjoy them fresh, add them to fruit salads, or blend them into delicious smoothies. Bright, tasty, and full of sunshine—mangoes make April feel extra fun and refreshing!

Happy Birthday to our Kids!

N 04/18

Khadijah 04/25

Staff Brithday

Lenz 04/15

SY 04/22

Holidays

Patriots' Day 04/20

The MLC & MELC will be open as early as 1:00 pm:

Somerville Public Schools:

April 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th (Every Wednesday)

Stoneham Public Schools:

April 15th (Early Release – Professional Development Day)

Thank you for understanding that the MLC & MELC will be closed. We appreciate your consideration during our planned closing on the following days:

Our Parent Meeting will be on Monday, April 13th

• Meetings are on the second Monday of the month unless stated otherwise.
• Parents are responsible for arriving at 5:30 pm, eating family dinner together in the community room, and signing them back in for childcare during the meeting.
• Parent Meetings time is 6:00-7:30pm.

Sing 2
Animated/Musical | Ages 6+
Streaming on: Netflix / Prime Video

The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Animated/Adventure | Ages 6+
Streaming on: Peacock / Apple TV

Peter Rabbit
Animated/Comedy | Ages 5+
Streaming on: Netflix / Prime Video

We had an incredible time at our Community Craft Night, and it truly turned into a joyful celebration of creativity, connection, and community spirit! The room was full of energy as so many families and children came together to create, laugh, and share special moments. From colorful crafts to smiling faces, it was wonderful to see everyone engaged and enjoying the evening side by side. Captain Diogo A. DeOliveira from the Community Relations Division of the Somerville Police Department also joined us and participated in the crafts with MLC families and the community, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the event.

We are so grateful to all the families and participants who took the time to join us and make the night so meaningful. Your presence, enthusiasm, and creativity are what truly bring these events to life. A heartfelt thank you as well to our amazing staff, whose hard work, dedication, and care made this event possible from start to finish. It was a beautiful evening filled with connection and fun, and we can’t wait to host more moments like this together!

We’re also hosting our Annual Spring Event for Children on May —please click the link to find more information about the event! More details are coming soon, so please stay tuned—we can’t wait to celebrate together! 🎉 https://mysticlearningcenter.org/spring-for-children-2026

As of January, MLC and MELC have openings for school-age children (youth ages 5 in kindergarten through 13). Give us a call (617-623-0110) or send an email (info@mysticlearningcenter.org) if you have any questions or are interested in enrolling your child(ren).

We're licensed by Massachusetts to provide child care for youth between the ages of 2.9 -13 years old. Youth with special needs can attend up to age 16. Click the link below for more info.

** At the moment we aren't accepting children under 5 due to not having a Lead Preschool teacher.

The Human Service Division of the City of Somerville Department of Health and Human Services is now available to take online referrals for services through a new online contact form. Referrals may be completed by individuals directly seeking services, parents or guardians, service providers, or community partners.

The services provided are available at no cost to Somerville residents of all ages and include:

• Supportive counseling for individuals and families
• Briefcase management
• Service coordination for individuals and families
• Information and Referral to services
• Including mental health services, utility and benefits assistance, workforce development, housing support, youth services, financial literacy, legal assistance, survivor services, literacy, and language development, public health services, substance misuse services for youth.

• School consultation, support, and advocacy