MLC's May 2026 Newsletter ✨

April was an exciting and high-energy month at Big Mystic! Students had a fantastic time diving into a wide variety of clubs, choice activities, and engaging field trips that kept everyone active and involved.

One of the biggest highlights was the return of Minecraft Club, which sparked creativity, collaboration, and lots of excitement as students built and explored together. Repo Club was also a major hit—participants eagerly searched for hidden metal pieces to earn “money,” building teamwork, strategy, and problem-solving skills along the way. Other favorites included Flag Football, where students showed great sportsmanship and teamwork, as well as Sock Monkeys, RTS games, and a variety of creative crafts that allowed everyone to express themselves and try something new.

In addition to our in-house activities, our field trips brought even more fun and adventure. Students had the opportunity to explore new environments, strengthen friendships, and create lasting memories outside of the classroom setting.

Throughout the month, we saw incredible participation, positive attitudes, and strong community building among students. It was wonderful to watch them challenge themselves, support one another, and take pride in their accomplishments.

Overall, April was filled with creativity, teamwork, laughter, and growth. We’re excited to carry this momentum into May and continue providing fun, enriching experiences for all

Staff Recognition – Bridget

Bridget is a wonderful and caring member of our team who makes a positive impact every day. She brings kindness, patience, and dedication to everything she does, helping create a warm and welcoming environment for all the children. Bridget is always supportive and attentive, making sure each child feels seen, heard, and valued. Beyond her daily responsibilities, Bridget’s positive attitude and strong connections with the children truly stand out. She takes the time to build meaningful relationships and encourages children to be their best selves. Her commitment and compassion make a difference in our program, and we are so grateful to have her on our team.

Kid Recognition – Londyn

Londyn has been doing an amazing job and continues to shine as a positive member of our community. She takes great responsibility in helping with clean-up and always participates in choices with a great attitude. Her willingness to help out shows her strong sense of responsibility and care for the program.Londyn is also incredibly kind and respectful. She makes a point to greet staff with a friendly “hello” and always says “thank you,” showing her appreciation and good manners. Her kindness, positivity, and helpful spirit make her a wonderful role model for others.

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 another engaging and hands-on month at MELC! Throughout April, our focus shifted toward exploring weather, basic chemistry, and the science behind everyday phenomena, all while continuing to foster creativity and curiosity.

The children had the opportunity to learn about different types of weather and the science that drives them. Through fun and interactive discussions, they explored concepts related to weather patterns and simple chemistry. One of the highlights of the month was our exciting electrification experiment, where the kids used balloons and metal spoons to observe static electricity in action. This activity sparked lots of curiosity and excitement as they discovered how invisible forces can create noticeable effects.

To complement their learning, the children also engaged in creative projects, including crafting raindrops inspired by what they learned about weather. These hands-on activities allowed them to express their understanding in imaginative ways while strengthening fine motor skills and creativity.

In addition, we continued to build our connection with nature through a special nature walk in collaboration with Nature Linc. During this experience, the children explored their surroundings, used binoculars to observe different birds, and challenged themselves to identify and remember bird names. They also worked together to build a nest, encouraging teamwork, problem-solving, and an appreciation for the natural world.

Overall, April was filled with discovery, creativity, and meaningful outdoor experiences. It was wonderful to see the children so engaged as they explored science, nature, and their own creativity.

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 – Victoria has been doing a great job stepping up and showing growth this month! She has been more engaged during activities and choice time, making a strong effort to stay focused and involved. Victoria continues to build positive relationships with her peers and shows kindness throughout the program. We’re proud of the progress she’s making and excited to see her keep growing!

Staff – Aniana has been a wonderful part of the MLEC team. She brings a calm, supportive presence and is always ready to help wherever needed. Aniana builds strong connections with the children and creates a positive, welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable and included. Her dedication and caring attitude make a meaningful impact each day, and we are so grateful to have her as part of the MLEC 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.

Happy Birthday to our Kids!

Kimani 05/19

Nadia 05/25

Staff Brithday

Jinell 05/20

Holidays

Memorial Day 05/20

The MLC & MELC will be open as early as 1:00 pm on the following dates:

Somerville Public Schools:

May 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th (Every Wednesday)

Stoneham Public Schools:
No early release days scheduled for May

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

Annual Fundraising Friday May 8th - MLC/MELC is CLOSED

Senior Staff PD Day Friday May 22nd - MLC/MELC is CLOSED

Memorial Day Monday May 25th - MLC/MELC is CLOSED

Our Parent Meeting will be on Monday, May 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.

Paddington 2
Animated/Family | Ages 5+
Streaming on: Netflix / Prime Video

Minions: The Rise of Gru
Animated/Comedy | Ages 6+
Streaming on: Peacock / Apple TV

Encanto
Animated/Musical | Ages 6+
Streaming on: Disney+

We had a wonderful time at the Golden Gathering! A heartfelt thank-you to SHA for their support in making this event so special. Our Spring Mini Gardening Workshop + Lunch with MLC children was filled with smiles, meaningful connections, and a strong sense of community. We’re truly grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make the day so memorable. We look forward to many more gatherings like this! ✨

We’re also hosting our Annual Spring Event for Children on May —please click the link to find more information about the event! 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