Who We Are

Infancy to Independence is a weekly parent-run playgroup and parent education center with two chapters in Massachusetts. The Metrowest chapter is open to Acton-area parents and children ages one through four, regardless of race, religion, creed or sex.

I to I members provide an atmosphere for positive parent-child interaction and search for ways to make parenting easier and more enjoyable and to raise emotionally healthy children. The group's mission is parent education, parent support and positive child and parent interaction.

We are NOT a nursery school, a mother's co-op or a group of experts. Our primary aim is NOT parent socializing, although of course this is an important component of our program.

General Philosophy

We are all learning how to be parents as our children grow. We learn these skills from different sources, including books, professionals and other parents. While there isn’t one set of tactics that is right for everyone, by learning about and practicing positive parenting techniques, we can apply and make habitual methods of choice. And with this knowledge, the support of other parents and some patience, we build confidence and foster self-esteem in ourselves and our children.

The I to I program is designed to provide parents with information, encouragement and support, in order to make parenting easier and more enjoyable. I to I helps educate parents in ways to enhance their care and interaction with young children and enrich their immediate environment. It is a place where they can share childrearing information and guidance and work through parenting challenges. Through informal conversations, discussion groups and observation, parents learn new communication skills, discipline techniques and effective parenting. I to I also provides a safe, fun and creative setting for young children. Children engage in enriching, stimulating, age-appropriate activities and experiences that enhance their development. They interact with and model after children of different ages and caring, friendly adults.

What We Do

I to I’s weekly meetings include periods of free play, simple projects, circle/music time, snack time and discussion groups.

How It Works

I to I does NOT employ PAID staff. The successful operation of our program depends entirely on the volunteer efforts of member families, who are asked to donate work hours each semester as a condition of membership. Tuition costs vary at each location but are generally extremely affordable.

The Metrowest chapter has two semesters, one in Fall (September – January) and one in Winter (February – June). Each semester runs for 16 weeks, following the local school calendar. Classes are not held during the summer, but informal free-play dates are scheduled by the program coordinators/presidents.