August Newsletter

What a fantastic month July has been here at The Big Mystic! From laughter-filled days to exciting club adventures, our campers made memories that will last all summer long. One of the highlights was the Sea Monkeys Club, where kids discovered the fascinating world of sea monkeys what they are, how they live, and how to care for them. It was hands-on science fun that sparked lots of curiosity and excitement. In Daffe’s Nutrition Club, campers dove into the world of healthy eating. They learned all about different food groups, what those foods do for our bodies, and best of all — they got to enjoy everything they learned about! It was a delicious mix of education and exploration, and the kids truly enjoyed trying new things. Our Ecotarium Club offered a deep dive into science and future careers. Each week, campers explored something new, from what it’s like to be an athletic trainer or a cardiologist, to other STEM-focused topics that opened their eyes to endless possibilities. They asked great questions, tried out activities, and walked away with tons of knowledge. Meanwhile, creativity blossomed in our Crochet Club, where kids picked up all kinds of new techniques. They made fun, hands-on projects like their very own pom-pom ducks, and we were amazed by their focus, creativity, and how proud they were of their creations. Outside of club time, the summer spirit was in full swing with water games with The Dojo, team challenges, and surprise activities brought everyone together in the best way. July at The Big Mystic was packed with learning, laughter, and new friendships, and we’re so proud of all the growth we’ve seen in our campers. We can’t wait to keep the momentum going into August.

This month we are excited to announce our Kid and Staff nominees: Neveah and Alchess!

Neveah: Is always ready to help and goes above and beyond when needed. She joins in during choice time, learns with the kids, and brings a positive attitude every day. Her support and energy make a big difference!

Alchess: comes to Mystic every day with a big smile and a great attitude. He’s always ready to jump into activities, help out his friends when needed, Alchess brings fun energy wherever he goes.

Thank you, Alchess and Neveah for your hard work, dedication, and constant willingness to help and support everyone this month!

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.

Summer has truly been HOT this year. The sun has given us great tans and good swims at the beach. The first half of this month, we had our ocean week themes which had the MELC do some water and shark based choices. Our favorites from the themes were painting sea shells with Aniana and Charlene and Drawing Puffer Fish with Kayla and Fishy Fishy with Isaiah .Of course we loved our activities with Daffe. The other half of July our theme was Around the World, which gave us some very interesting choices and field trips. Our favorite field trip we went on was Legoland, especially watching the 4D movie. We also enjoyed seeing art from around the world at the Museum of Fine Art. We liked all of our arts and craft choices.

We are so excited to see what August has in store for us!!

Big Congratulations to this months Staff and Kid Super Stars: Emile & Charlene

Emile: Even though this is Emile's first summer, he has fit in like he has always been apart of the MELC. Emile always has a big smile on his face and he is always ready to take on the day whether its the pool or a really fun museum we go to. He is very friendly to everyone and is always lending a hand, especially to his besties at the little Mystic. We are so glad he is here, and can not wait to see what the rest of the summer brings us.

Charlene: Charlene is a great member of the little mystic and truthfully, we would not know what to do without her. She has been A1 with her choice game lately. All of them being perfectly on theme this summer. She has stepped up as a leader and she is showing she can only go up from here.

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.

Stay tuned for our weekly menus!

Starting this August, our food menu will now be available weekly on Talking Point

This month, look out for peaches, nectarines, plums, and melons they’re perfect for a refreshing snack or a fun dessert. You’ll also find sweet corn, tomatoes, eggplant, and summer squash in season. These veggies are great for grilling, tossing into pasta, or adding to sandwiches and wraps. We’re especially excited to share that we’re growing our own cherry tomatoes and regular tomatoes nothing beats the taste of fresh-picked!It’s been so inspiring to see our students get excited about trying new flavors and making healthy choices. Let’s keep the summer energy going with food that’s fresh, fun, and full of color. Happy August and happy eating!

Happy Birthday to our Kids!

Daniella - 8/7

Carl- 8/9

Gennaro- 8/15

Rosemarie - 8/15

Kevin- 8/30

Happy Birthday to our Staff

Jessica R. - 8/13

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

Tuesday August 26th - Staff P/D

Monday September 1st - MLC Closed

Friday August 29th - No school MLC open 7:30am-5:30pm

Monday September 1st - No School & MLC Closed

Our Parent Meeting will be on Monday, August 11th

• 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.

PIP Committee meeting will be on Monday, August 18th , from 5:30- 6:30 pm at the Mystic Learning Center.

• Karate Kid
• Wild Robot
• IF

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