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Let's Talk Mental Health: A Community Learning Day

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Let's Talk Mental Health: A Community Learning Day

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Come be part of the conversation! Choose workshops on a variety of mental health topics. Free to attend. Open to all. Presentations geared towards ages 14 and up.

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Recovery support available from someone who gets it, right here in Harwich.

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Recovery Resource Outer Cape Health Flyer

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Spending time outside, disconnecting from technology to connect with nature, has benefits for mental health and physical health.

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Why Forest Therapy Can Be Good for Your Body and Mind

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Forest therapy (AKA forest bathing) can help declutter your mind and may even boost your physical health. Learn how to work this practice — and the great outdoors — into your busy life.

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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

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Skip to main content

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

988

¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!
Haga clic aquí para obtener información sobre cómo acceder a todos los servicios en español.

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Stock photo by iStock.

The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We're committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

About The Lifeline

Anyone could be struggling with suicide. Find more specific resources below.

I'm Struggling With Individuals with Neurodivergence

We understand that every struggle is different. Experience the stories of people like you, and how they overcame crisis to find hope and recovery.
read stories of hope & recovery

First, you'll hear an automated message featuring additional options while your call is routed to your local 988 Lifeline network crisis center.

We'll play you a little music while we connect you to a skilled, trained crisis worker.

A trained crisis worker at your local center will answer the phone.

This person will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and get you the help you need.

988 Lifeline Center calls are free and confidential, and we're available 24/7.

Show What Happens When You Call The Lifeline

Everyone Plays A Role In Suicide Prevention

Get in touch

Call the Lifeline

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Skip to main content We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. 988 ¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!

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Suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ young people.

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The Trevor Project | For Young LGBTQ Lives

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The Trevor Project provides 24/7 crisis support services to LGBTQ young people. Text, chat, or call anytime to reach a trained counselor. Free and confidential.

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24-7 resource for crisis intervention and suicide prevention.

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The Samaritans on Cape Cod & the Islands

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Home | The Samaritans on Cape Cod & the Islands

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The Samaritans on Cape Cod and the Islands is a nonprofit organization that provides support to people experiencing crises.

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Helpline for finding substance use harm reduction, treatment, recovery, and problem gambling services in Massachusetts.

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Why the Helpline The Helpline is the only statewide, public resource for finding substance use treatment, recovery, and problem gambling... Read more »

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Offering a variety of supports to aid in recovery including coaching and groups.

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Recovery Services - Outer Cape Health Services

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At Outer Cape Health Services we believe that all those affected by substance use disorders deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Our Recovery Services provide integrated treatment that incorporates the best clinical and medical practices and evidence-based treatment strategies to ensure patients who have a substance use disorder (SUD) diagnosis receive the medication, tools/skills, education, and knowledge needed to achieve positive health, wellness and recovery outcomes. OCHS’ Recovery Services staff use a harm reduction approach that supports multiple pathways of recovery.

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Suicide prevention, mental health education, and grief support programs on Cape Cod and the Islands.

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Sharing Kindness is a nonprofit that provides suicide prevention, mental health education and grief support programs on Cape Cod.

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Alateen Meeting in Brewster on Thursdays

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Alateen Meeting in Brewster on Thursdays

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This Alateen meeting for teens concerned about the substance use of a friend or family member occurs on Thursdays at 5:00PM.

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Family Support Group run by Gosnold and held weekly at the Harwich Police Department on Mondays 6:00-7:30PM.

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For Families | Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment In Massachusetts | Gosnold Behavioral Health

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Gosnold assists family members and loved ones at all stages of addiction through education, intervention, and support. To speak directly to a Reaching Out

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Information provided by Barnstable County about available supports, programs, and resources for substance use disorder and recovery.

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When it comes to substance use, choice matters - our choices as individuals and our choices as a society. Whether it be a young person standing at a party being offered alcohol for the first time, or a person in active addiction deciding now is the time to take steps toward recovery, their choices will impact their lives and the lives of those around them.

Working in areas across prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery, we are united in our efforts to empower each citizen to believe that "My Choice Matters."

AdCare Virtual Trainings

The mission of AdCare Educational Institute is to advance awareness, knowledge and skills in the prevention, intervention and treatment of substance abuse and related public health issues.

The Institute accomplishes its mission through the development and implementation of high quality, yet affordable training programs and educational events. Activities are offered to individuals and organizations who directly or indirectly encounter problems associated with substance abuse or are affected by other public health issues.

For a full list of available trainings, visit https://adcare-educational.org/.

Ongoing

SAMHSA Training

SAMHSA is committed to providing regular training and technical assistance (TTA) on matters related to the mental and substance use disorder field as they deal with COVID-19. View the updated available TTA resources to assist with the current situation.
SAMHSA Practitioner Training

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When it comes to substance use, choice matters - our choices as individuals and our choices as a society. Whether it be a young person standing at a party being offered alcohol for the first time, or a person in active addiction deciding now is the time to take steps toward recovery, their choices will impact their lives and the lives of those around them.

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Offering a variety of supports and services including inpatient and outpatient for substance use disorder, behavioral health, and dual diagnosis.

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Home | Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment In Massachusetts | Gosnold Behavioral Health

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At Gosnold, we offer a full, end-to-end continuum of care for behavioral health and substance use disorders through a wide range of comprehensive treatment

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A wide variety of supports are available including food, micro loans, WIC resources, and more.

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Offering Services To Create Meaningful Change.

For the past 36 years, Lower Cape Outreach Council has been dedicated to providing short-term emergency food, clothing and financial assistance to residents of the 8 towns that constitute Lower Cape Cod: Brewster, Chatham, Eastham, Harwich, Orleans, Provincetown, Truro, and Wellfleet.

Our clients have regular access to one of the nine food pantries within the towns we serve. Our clients have access to fresh produce, meat, non-perishable items and so much more.

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Client Services - Lower Cape Outreach Council

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Offering Services To Create Meaningful Change. For the past 36 years, Lower Cape Outreach Council has been dedicated to providing short-term emergency food, clothing and financial assistance to residents of the 8 towns that constitute Lower Cape Cod: Brewster, Chatham, Eastham, Harwich, Orleans, Provincetown, Truro, and Wellfleet.

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If you are a Massachusetts resident who has a WIC or EBT card, you may be eligible for some additional discounts including heating, internet, and entry to cultural organizations and events.

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Please do not include personal or contact information. You will not get a response

The feedback will only be used for improving the website. If you need assistance, please contact the Nutrition Division and Mass WIC Program.

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WIC participants can receive discounts on heating bills, Internet connections, and tickets to over 200 museums and cultural organizations. Click below for more information:

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How to Talk to Your Teen About Substance Use

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How to Talk to Your Teen About Substance Use

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Good tips on talking with teens about substance use.

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Adolescence is a tricky time. Teenagers are just beginning to establish their identities and this often means testing the limits of parental controls. When it comes to drugs and alcohol, pushing the boundaries can lead to dangerous territory.

Setting clear rules about substance use helps give teens the structure they need to stay safe. Let's be realistic: You can't guarantee that your rules won't be broken. But research shows that kids who have clear rules are less likely to get into serious trouble than kids who don't. Even when the rules are broken, teens whose parents have clearly outlined what is and isn't acceptable are less likely to run to extremes and more likely to make safer choices.

So you need to have the talk, but for a lot of parents initiating a potentially difficult conversation is daunting. A few guidelines can help get the ball rolling and make for a smoother, more productive experience for all.

Springing a serious conversation on your teenager can make her feel ambushed and defensive. Give her a heads up before hand and make sure to be clear about what the conversation will entail, so everyone can be on the same page. "Tomorrow night let's have a talk about drinking and drugs. You're not in trouble. I just want to talk about where we stand and hear any concerns you might be having."

Clearly spell out your rules and the specific consequences of breaking them. Avoiding ambiguity lets your teenager know where you stand, and research shows that kids tend to be safer when parents set limits. And for kids who are being pressured to do something they aren't comfortable with, it can make it easier for them if they know they can use their parents as an excuse for saying no.

Be very clear about your reasons for prohibiting substance use. Teenagers are often ordered to do things without being given a clear reason why and by explaining yourself you're inviting them to have a more open, adult conversation.

The potential consequences of drinking and using drugs are real. Any kind of experimentation is illegal when you're a teenager, and it's dangerous.

Be honest and rational. Obviously, some illegal substances are more dangerous than others. Heroin is more perilous than pot. But any substance can be harmful: one beer is intoxicating but 10 beers could be deadly.

And any substance use impairs judgment and kids are more likely to find themselves in problematic and potentially dangerous situations like driving drunk or having unwanted or risky sexual encounters. It can affect them in school, too. If they get caught it could go on their record-something they won't want when they're applying to colleges-and if they play sports they could be cut from the team.

Speak to your kids the way you'd like to be spoken to. Teenagers are acutely sensitive to condescension, and it's important to remember that at the end of the day they are the ones who will make the final decisions. Treat them like the adults you want them to become. By showing respect you're modeling good behavior and letting them know you expect them to act responsibly, not just for your sake, but for their own as well.

Give kids a chance to express their concerns and feelings. They may have been hoping for a chance to ask questions or check in about something troubling. Opening an equal, active dialogue will increase the chances that your teen will feel comfortable being honest with you in the future.

Parents sometimes feel hypocritical hiding their own experiences. If your daughter asks if you've ever tried drugs, you can choose to keep your experiences private (not everything in your history needs to be available to your kids) or to share them, but don't reminisce or otherwise glamorize your experiences. You can also explain that as a parent, it's your job to help them avoid things they will regret, and substance use definitely increases the chances of doing something you will regret.

What we want, first and foremost, is for kids to be safe. Being open and honest with your kids about drugs encourages them to reciprocate. One way to create safeguards for your teen is to have an "amnesty policy."

In an amnesty situation, your child can call and ask for help without incurring the regular repercussions they might have if they tried to hide their behavior. Amnesty policies keep kids safe and encourage them to make appropriate choices without letting them off the hook.

For example: If your child (or their designated driver) is drunk at a party and they want to leave, they can call you and ask for a ride or cab fare instead of putting themselves at risk. They'd then be allowed to come home and go to bed without yelling or grounding. In the morning, you and them could have a talk about their drinking and safety.

Talking to your teen about substance abuse should be a process, not a single event. Risk factors for substance use can change and multiply as teenagers weather the trials and pressures of adolescence. Keep an eye out for changes in your child's mood and demeanor, shifting peer groups, and other signs that it might be time to check in about their safety and your expectations.

Make sure they know your conversation is an open-ended one and that it's a two-way street - "I'm going to be checking in with you about this sometimes, and if you have any questions or concerns, you can always ask me, too." Keeping the lines of communication open will help you and your teenager feel engaged and safe during a potentially turbulent time.

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How to Talk to Your Teen About Substance Use - Child Mind Institute

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Research shows that clear rules help keep kids safe. How to talk to your teen about substance use and what to do - for parents and caregivers.

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TED Talk: How Every Child Can Thrive by Five

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TED Talk: How Every Child Can Thrive by Five

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This fabulous talk is given by 7 year old Molly Wright of Australia who talks about the importance of early childhood development.

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“What if I was to tell you that a game of peek-a-boo could change the world?” asks seven-year-old Molly Wright, one of the youngest-ever TED speakers. Breaking down the research-backed ways parents and caregivers can support children’s healthy brain development, Wright highlights the benefits of play on lifelong learning, behavior and well-being, sharing effective strategies to help all kids thrive by the age of five. She’s joined onstage by one-year-old Ari and his dad, Amarjot, who help illustrate her big ideas about brain science. (This TED Talk was produced in collaboration with Minderoo Foundation as an educational tool for parents and caregivers around the world and is supported by UNICEF.)

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Talking With- Not AT- Young People About Substance Use

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Talking With- Not AT- Young People About Substance Use

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Tips for talking with teens about substance use.

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Teens and young adults using drugs and alcohol is not new. Neither is the challenge of speaking with them about the dangers and implications.

However, what is changing are the substances young people are using and the ways they're exposed to them. We're also learning more about how drugs, alcohol, and nicotine affect growing bodies and brains.

Here, Amy McCarthy, LICSW, clinical social work director of the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's Hospital, shares how parents and caregivers can effectively approach the subject with their children in authentic and respectful ways.

Know what to look for

McCarthy says the first step in talking with your child about substance use is knowing what to look for as signs of substance use and substance use disorders. These can include:

Mood changes - in either direction
It's important to notice if your normally happy child is suddenly withdrawn or sad, and it's equally as important to notice if your typically irritable child is suddenly more upbeat.

"You may think a sudden improvement in your child's mood means they're feeling better or coping better," McCarthy says, "but it may be that substance use is relieving them of some of their stresses or difficulties, so it's not bad to be thinking of where did this sudden shift come from?"

New friends or social behavior
McCarthy encourages parents and caregivers to pay close attention to who their child socializes with - both in-person and online. Social media platforms have become a big player in exposing young people to new social circles as well as substances and substance use.

A drop in performance
If you see a dramatic change in your child's grades or performance at school or a job, you may want to consider substance use as a factor.

McCarthy warns not to jump to conclusions. "Young people experience so many developmental, hormonal, and social changes just as part of growing up," she says. "But if something feels off to you, trust your gut and seek support."

Draw from your own experience, but recognize the differences

"I remind parents that the substances they may have been exposed to when they were younger are not the same potency as what we're seeing today," McCarthy says. "And we're seeing a lot of mixing - or cutting - of substances with others, so people don't always have a sense of what they're ingesting."

Still, McCarthy states the importance of drawing from your own experience when relating to your child about substance use.

"Being able to reflect on your own substance use when you were younger, and whether there was a particular trigger that caused you to start using, can help when trying to relate to your child," McCarthy says.

However, McCarthy stresses understanding the uniqueness of your child's experience.

"It's important for parents and caregivers to appreciate that their child will have their own reasons for using, but at the same time not to dismiss the behavior."

Be prepared

You have to be prepared that if you're going to ask your kids questions about substance use, you may get answers that are difficult to hear.
- Amy McCarthy, LICSW

Spontaneously asking your child if they're using drugs, alcohol, or tobacco/nicotine can make everyone defensive, McCarthy says, so she encourages framing conversations broadly and planning ahead.

For instance, you can mention a news story or local talk about students using a particular substance and then ask your child their thoughts about it.

McCarthy also suggests giving your child notice that you want to discuss something serious.

"Families get so little time together," McCarthy says, "so if you hijack the little quality time you have to unexpectedly discuss a heavy topic, it could cause your child to pull away."

"People thrive when they have choice," McCarthy says. "So reinforce the idea that they don't have to talk about it right away, but they do have to talk about it."

These suggestions come with a warning:

"You have to be prepared that if you're going to ask your kids questions about substance use, you may get answers that are difficult to hear," McCarthy says.

"There's an opportunity for parents to model for their children how to regulate emotions and stay calm. If you're asking your child to speak openly and honestly and you then lose your temper and get upset at their response, you're sending a message that your child can't discuss these things with you."

McCarthy also reminds parent not to villainize or apply stigma to their responses or experiences.

"You don't need to have all the answers," she says. "But it's important that your child knows you are a safe space for them to go."

The Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program (ASAP) at Boston Children's helps patients and families deal with the underlying concerns that are often responsible for substance use. The team includes addiction medicine physicians, child psychiatrists and social workers trained to uncover and address the emotional and mental health issues that frequently contribute to young people's problems with alcohol and drugs.
Learn more about ASAP.

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Talking with - not at - young people about substance use - Boston Children's Answers

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Health and Parenting - Talking with - not at - young people about substance use The Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program at Boston Children's Hospital helps parents and caregivers talk to their children about substance use.

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A wide variety of information and links to resources can be found on the county's website.

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Human Services Archive - Barnstable County

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Barnstable County’s Department of Human Services plans, develops and coordinates regional solutions to Cape Cod’s most pressing health and human service issues. We foster and support collaborative initiatives with data analysis, strategic planning, and investment of county, state and federal resourc…

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Giving Praise and Encouragement to Children

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Giving Praise and Encouragement to Children

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This article does a great job of describing how to give specific and meaningful praise and encouragement to children.

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Praise helps children and teens feel good about themselves, which boosts their confidence. Praise can also encourage children to behave in positive ways.

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Offering parenting workshops on many different topics.

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PLAYGROUPS, PARENTING EDUCATION, SUPPORT & WORKSHOPS
Offered from Provincetown to Barnstable at community venues and virtually
PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL PROGRAMS

To register: Call Cape Cod Children's Place, 508-240-3310
Program Calendars in English, Spanish, Portuguese are below.
Registration for July/August programs begins June 26th.

Programs are no cost to all.
Sign up for our quarterly newsletters on the bottom of our home page to receive each season's program calendar by email.
Click on the blue text below for program details.

Early Childhood Education Councils

For detailed information about how to engage in our Community Councils click here

Playground Fun with Friends, 9:30-10:30 am, 5 week series 7/18-8/15; at Peter Homer Park, South Yarmouth; ages 0-6 CANCELLED

Other Family Activities with CCCP

Reading Around Town with your new Principals at Dennis-Yarmouth libraries. Dates and times to be determined. Call Cape Cod Children's Place to register.

Tuesday evenings, Dads' Talk, virtual, 6:30-7:30 pm, monthly with Paul Melville, 7/18 & 8/15

Dads in Recovery, 6pm, Tuesdays meet with Danny Rodrigues on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday. Join peer support group on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday. Register at CapeDadsGroups@gmail.com or 774-722-3305

New Mom's Group - Thursdays, 10-11am; Weekly, starting May 18th, 2023 at Cape Cod Children's Place, 10 Ballwic Rd. Eastham
Registration is required by contacting Becky Fischer, MA Postpartum Doula at becky@earlycaredoula.com

Our playgroups allow family members and their children to enjoy the opportunity to make social connections, engage in age appropriate play with peers, while learning to build social and emotional skills with qualified leaders, at a variety of locations from Barnstable to Provincetown. Through songs, crafts, art, music, nature exploration and play, children's intellectual, social and emotional competency is enhanced by the experience.

Speak with our program leaders, CCCP staff and other parents to learn about community & local youth programs, Cape Cod Children's Place resources, and how to access community services for families with young children from Barnstable to Provincetown. Contact us for additional support needs at 508-240-3310.

All programs are no cost and funded by MA Dept of Early Education and Care through a CFCE grant, the Children's Trust, and other local grants.
Serving Lower/Outer Cape, Dennis-Yarmouth, Barnstable communities

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Program Offerings - Cape Cod Children's Place

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PLAYGROUPS, PARENTING EDUCATION, SUPPORT & WORKSHOPS Offered from Provincetown to Barnstable at community venues and virtually PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL PROGRAMS To register: Call Cape Cod Children's Place, 508-240-3310 Program Calendars in English, Spanish, Portuguese are below. Registration for July/August programs begins June 26th. Programs are no cost to all.

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Support for parents and families.

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Our center is here for you. We work hard to be a resource for our community.

We are always looking for volunteers to help us make our vision a reality. We'll help you find a way to volunteer that best suits you.

We couldn't accomplish our goals without the help of supporters like you. Thank you for your time and donations that makes this possible!

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Our center is here for you. We work hard to be a resource for our community. We are always looking for volunteers to help us make our vision a reality. We'll help you find a way to volunteer that best suits you. We couldn't accomplish our goals without the help of supporters like you.

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The Wellness Benefits of the Great Outdoors

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The Wellness Benefits of the Great Outdoors

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There are many benefits to spending time outside!

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With spring approaching and cabin fever at an all-time high, we can now look forward to the many wellness benefits associated with getting outdoors.

"The physiological response to being outside in nature is real, and it's measurable," said Michelle Kondo, a research social scientist with the USDA Forest Service's Northern Research Station. "There are many physical and psychological benefits of nature that scientists have observed, which can better help us understand how nature supports wellness in the body, mind and community."

1. Physical Wellness
Being outside in green spaces supports an active and healthy lifestyle, which has shown to increase life expectancy, improve sleep quality and reduce cancer risk.

"Many of the benefits afforded to us by green spaces partially results from more opportunities to be active," said Kondo. "Being in outdoor green spaces can increase a person's motivation, too."

For example, some studies have shown that natural outdoor environments in urban spaces are more enticing for physical activity and are more likely to motivate people to exercise, leading to higher levels of fitness.

Studies also show that being outside in nature is relaxing, reducing our stress, cortisol levels, muscle tension and heart rates - all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

"Since scientists have gained access to data sets, sometimes capturing an entire country's population of medical records and hospital data, we are finding that patient diagnoses and chronic illness risk are often related to where an individual lives and their proximity to green spaces," said Kondo. "And that's a correlation that is likely to strengthen as we conduct more studies."

Along with supporting physical wellness, nature also bolsters mental wellness in the individual.

2. Mental Wellness
There are many mental wellness benefits associated with being outside in green spaces, such as lower risk of depression and faster psychological stress recovery. Studies have shown that being in nature can restore and strengthen our mental capacities, increasing focus and attention.

One experiment asked two groups of people to perform a mentally strenuous task, such as a math test. One group is asked to take their break in a green space, outside in a park, while the other takes their break near a busy street intersection. The results suggested that the group in the natural setting showed increased focus and higher levels of concentration than the second group.

Another major component of mental health is social connection. The outdoors serves as a venue to come together with friends and family and connect with the larger community.

"This togetherness is especially important for us now," said Kondo. "We are finding that isolation is a killer, and that the outdoors really provides that space for us to come together under trees or to walk together along trails."

3. Wellness in the Community
Access to nature can benefit entire communities such as reducing environmental stressors commonly found in cities: air pollution, noise and heat.

"Our research is really focused on different types of environments and how they affect people," said Kondo. "For example, we have studied vacant city lots, the cleaning and greening of those vacant lots, planting grass and a couple of trees, and the impact that change has on the surrounding community."

Cleaning and greening have been shown to reduce overall neighborhood crime by 13% and reduce nearby residents' feelings of depression by 41%.

Nature in densely populated areas also has been shown to affect how people interact with one another. "We've found in neighborhoods that receive tree plantings or other greening initiatives, that people tend to have better attitudes towards their neighbors, "said Kondo, "which in turn often results in better relationships."

Conclusion
Whether it is a park in your neighborhood or exploring the vast landscapes of national forests and grasslands, there are benefits to be had when we step outside.

"Wellness is wholistic in that it is comprised of physical and mental health as well as the health of our communities," said Kondo. "All of these benefits add up and reduce adverse impacts on our bodies, and have restorative characteristics. So get outdoors and enjoy nature's gift of wellness."

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The wellness benefits of the great outdoors | US Forest Service

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With spring approaching and cabin fever at an all-time high, we can now look forward to the many wellness benefits associated with getting outdoors. "The physiological response to being outside in nature is real, and it's measurable," said Michelle Kondo, a research social scientist with the USDA Forest Service's Northern Research Station.

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Some great trails located in your backyard (or really close!).

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Click the links further below for each numbered trail destination to see trail maps, driving directions to trailheads, conservation history & photo galleries.

Click the town-wide map at the right to view paved bicycle trails (shown in red) and the locations of the fourteen numbered trail destinations.

We're so glad you are curious about discovering the many trails in Harwich and all that they offer including scenic vistas, diverse habitats, and opportunities to see wildlife. The trail map links below are easily viewable on your smartphone. For a printed hard copy trail guide, please visit any of the numbered conservation destinations and pick up your guide at the trailhead kiosk. We also supply the Harwich Chamber of Commerce (#1 Schoolhouse Road, Harwich Port, 02646) with trail guides.

Thank you for supporting our land preservation, stewardship, and educational work. Together, we make a lasting, local difference for land, water, wildlife, and people. Enjoy exploring the great outdoors!

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Click the links further below for each numbered trail destination to see trail maps, driving directions to trailheads, conservation history & photo galleries. Click the town-wide map at the right to view paved bicycle trails (shown in red) and the locations of the fourteen numbered trail destinations.

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Whether it's a beach, a nature trail, a hike through the many ecosystems, or a bike ride, the National Seashore has got something for you

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The great Outer Beach described by Thoreau in the 1800s is protected within the national seashore. Forty miles of pristine sandy beach, marshes, ponds, and uplands support diverse species. Lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and wild cranberry bogs offer a glimpse of Cape Cod's past and continuing ways of life. Swimming beaches and walking and biking trails beckon today's visitors.

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Cape Cod National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service)

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The great Outer Beach described by Thoreau in the 1800s is protected within the national seashore. Forty miles of pristine sandy beach, marshes, ponds, and uplands support diverse species. Lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and wild cranberry bogs offer a glimpse of Cape Cod's past and continuing ways of life.

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A great resource listing the many hiking and walking trails throughout the Cape

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Hiking on Cape Cod | Hiking Trails on Cape Cod

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Explore 100+ scenic walking and hiking trails on Cape Cod! Find Conservation areas, paved paths, National Seashore and beaches. There's a lot to explore.

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Some great gardens and nature trails here!

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Thornton Burgess Society | Green Briar Nature Center & Jam Kitchen

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Our mission is to inspire reverence for wildlife and concern for the natural environment as taught in the writings of conservationist and naturalist Thornton W. Burgess.

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So many options for learning inside, and some great nature walking options outside!

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Cape Cod Museum of Natural History | Brewster, MA

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We inspire appreciation, understanding and stewardship of our natural environment and wildlife through discovery and learning.

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Need some help with food? Clothing? Fuel assistance? Family Pantry is the place for you! Their caring staff is available to assist you in choosing the food you need and helping you to connect with other basic necessity needs.

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Programs at The Family Pantry of Cape Cod

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Programs at The Family Pantry of Cape Cod

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Urgent financial assistance for meeting basic needs.

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The Needy Fund is a tax-exempt 501(c)3 organization, registered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with Tax ID # 22-2480332. Contributions to the Needy Fund are tax-deductible as charitable contributions as defined under state and federal laws. Donors who contribute $250 or more will receive a letter of receipt from the Needy Fund by mail for IRS tax purposes.

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Childcare Network through Community Action Committee of Cape Cod & Islands

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Childcare Network through Community Action Committee of Cape Cod & Islands

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For help locating affordable childcare and afterschool programs as well as subsidies/vouchers

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Community Action Committee of Cape & Islands, Inc

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Child Care Network (CCN) also offers early education programs and providers technical assistance and professional development opportunities to support their delivery of high-quality early education and care to children.

For Families

Are you looking for child care and would like some help finding the program that is right for you and your child? Maybe you have questions about how to pay for child care?

For Providers

Are you interested in becoming a licensed family child care provider or teacher in a child care program? Maybe you are considering participating in the state subsidy program?

For Communities

Are you interested in other groups involved in early education and care? Maybe you are looking for additional resources in the community?

Make an Appointment

Families that currently have a voucher have two ways to schedule their reassessment appointment. To set up an appointment or for more information, call 508-778-9470. Or, use the link below to access our online appointment scheduling option.

Check out upcoming events with Child Care Network and Community Action Committee

Check out the Child Care Network Training Newsletter

More about Massachusetts early education policies

Get Answers

We're here to help you! Please fill out this form and we will get back to you.

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Child Care Network * Community Action Committee of Cape & Islands, Inc

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Child Care Network (CCN) offers early education programs and providers technical assistance and professional development opportunities to support their delivery of high-quality early education and care to children.

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For resources, supports, information, and guidance related to any immigration questions or concerns, this is the place to go.

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Community Action Committee of Cape & Islands, Inc

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legal counsel and assistance

The Immigration Resource Center provides free legal counsel and assistance for immigrants and their families. Services are accredited and fully confidential based on your needs and regardless of your legal status. We also offer help to become a U. S. Citizen.

Do You Want to Become a U.S. Citizen?

Free Citizenship preparation classes. Citizenship Interview & test preparation. Assistance with Naturalization Form (N-400), fee waivers, disability exceptions.

We're Trained to Help You!

To set up an appointment or for more information, call 508-771-1727 Hyannis, MA and ask for the Immigration Resource Center. Bilingual staff available Monday through Friday.

Check out our Events and Outpost Sites.

Office of Refugees & Immigrants, Massachusetts Immigration and Refugee Advocacy, Protecting Immigrant Families, and other Community Resources

Get Answers

We're here to help you! Please fill out this form and we will get back to you.

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Immigration Resource Center * Community Action Committee of Cape & Islands, Inc

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The Immigration Resource Center provides free legal counsel and assistance for immigrants and their families. Services are accredited and fully confidential based on your needs and regardless of your legal status. We also offer help to become a U. S. Citizen.

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For all things housing- finding affordable housing, first-time homebuyer classes and programs, rent assistance, and so much more, HAC's caring staff can help you.

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SUCCESS STORY

New Home Gives Cataumet Client Hope for Future

"Everything I have now is because of Housing Assistance," Vanessa said. "I don't think I would be the same person I am now without them."

After spending 18 months in shelter, Vanessa and her son were able to successfully transition into one of our apartments at High Meadow Townhomes which we completed in the fall of 2018. More than a year later, Vanessa has stability and hope for what the future will bring.

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Housing Assistance services are available during regular business hours by phone at (508)-771-5400 and by emailing hac@haconcapecod.org. We are open in Hyannis and Orleans for limited face-to-face meetings from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. Section 8, MRVP rental voucher holders: faster service - start online All other

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Need some help with rent, a housing emergency loan, or support around a housing issue? Give HECH a shout.

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Since its creation, HECH has grown into a professionally managed, multi-service organization, while still maintaining its grassroots commitment to low and moderate income families. HECH has developed affordable housing providing both rental and homeownership opportunities to stabilize Cape communities. Today, HECH self-manages a portfolio of 44 rental units. It also administers rental assistance programs funded by local municipalities; oversees town funded housing rehabilitation programs for emergency home repairs for qualifying residents; manages the Libby Arnold Stevens Resident Stabilization Fund providing emergency assistance to residents of Barnstable County; and continues to actively help families' access affordability resources and assistance from a variety of sources.

In 1993, HECH founded The Children's Center, located on Sisson Road in Harwich. This successful year-round early education/preschool program serves 27 families from Wellfleet to Yarmouth each year and is an important affordability resource for working families. HECH administers the Libby Arnold Stevens Scholarship Fund for Working Families and the Libby Arnold Stevens Endowment Fund for The Children's Center, both of which help The Children's Center carry out its mission of providing affordable childcare solutions for working families.

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Home - HARWICH ECUMENICAL COUNCIL FOR HOUSING

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HECH was founded in 1990 by a group of caring residents and concerned clergy to address the crisis of homelessness in Harwich and the surrounding towns.

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If you are a foster parent, a guardian, or any non-biological parent raising a child and you need some help getting clothing, comfort items, diapers, and more- Cape Cod Foster Closet is the place to go!

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We got a call Friday at 3 p.m. and the kids arrived at 7... a sister and brother, ages 1 and 2. When I unpacked the black trash bag that the social worker left, the clothes were filthy and most were for older children. I called the Foster Closet and we were able to get pajamas, underwear, socks and two outfits for each of the kids that same night.

Image by RitaE on Pixabay

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Support for tuition for therapy programs, school supplies, holiday gifts, clothing, and groceries.

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Upcoming Events | Harwich Children's Fund

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Playing Outside: Why It's Important for Kids

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Playing Outside: Why It's Important for Kids

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This is a great article that talks about the benefits for kids of time to just play outside.

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By: Danette Glassy, MD, FAAP & Pooja Tandon, MD, FAAP

No matter what the weather brings, playing outside is good for kids. There is scientific evidence that playing outside improves health, and children of all ages love it. And we know that the more time a child spends in nature, the more likely they are to grow up to be good stewards of our planet⁠-an environmental win!

Nature is all around us.

We don't necessarily need to travel far to enjoy nature. Your family can connect with nature in a school playground, backyard, table-top garden, or even virtually (though not with all of the benefits). There are also many ways to find out what parks are nearby based on zip code, including some that you can get to by walking or taking public transportation. Many public green spaces have features and programs for all ages and abilities.

Read on for ways that you and your children can get a physical and emotional boost from playing outside and spending time in nature.

Playing outside & exploring nature is for all ages!

Bring your baby outside

The earlier you share nature with your baby, the more likely they are to develop a life-long love of the outdoors. Even infants and toddlers can play and learn in nature. Take a walk through the trees using a carrier or stroller. Throw down a blanket on the grass or soft earth. Let your baby enjoy the fresh breezes, bird songs, forest smells and plant textures. Give them some outside tummy time, blowing bubbles for them to reach for and watch glisten in the sun.

Explore with preschoolers & grade-school age kids

Young children are developing and learning from every experience.

Build nature sculptures with twigs, leaves, cones, rocks and more by sticking the collected items into a play dough base. Ask your child what kind of patterns they see with the different items. Or, let your child play in mud with old pots, pans, utensils and household tools to develop senses and motor skills.

Bike or walk with the family in your neighborhood or find a new park to explore. If you have a bicycle trailer or your child is able to bike, get some exercise while enjoying the outdoors. Describe what you see along the way and talk about the weather. Use a lot of details to help them learn new words and engage all their senses.

Take story time outside. Grab a blanket, some books and find a shady spot to read with your child outdoors. Pick books that talk about nature and help your child make connections.

Outdoor playdates. Meet up with friends outdoors to build social connections for both children and adults.

Challenge older children & teens

Hold a nature scavenger hunt or start a nature collection. Look for local plants, trees, animals and birds. Collect rocks, acorns, leaves or pinecones. See how many items children can find on a list, or gather objects to add to a collection.

Leave a trail. Organize with parents of your children's friends to send kids on "secret spy missions." One family goes on a walk with sidewalk chalk, drawing arrows and letters along the way to spell out a secret message. The other family must then follow the arrows along the way to record the letters in the message.

Have a ball. Kicking a soccer ball, throwing a frisbee, jumping rope or playing any sports you all enjoy can keep the outdoors fun as children get older.

Pack a picnic or plan a barbeque outside with friends and family. Share a meal, take a walk or play a game together while you enjoy the outdoors.

Stay engaged with the outdoors as a family. Take advantage of this time to bond over games and activities you all enjoy or challenge yourselves with something new.

Healthy benefits of outdoor play

Getting outside provides more than a fun break for children and teenagers. It is also good for their physical and mental health and development.

Physically healthier. Childrenplay harder outdoors than indoors and they need daily opportunities to do so. More outdoor time is linked with improved motor development and lower obesity rates andmyopia (nearsightedness) risk.Safely getting some sun also helps us make vitamin D that our bodies need to stay healthy and strong.

More engaged in learning. Playing outside promotes curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Studies have found that children who spent more time in nature exploration had improved learning outcomes.

More positive in behavior. Research shows that when children spent time in natural settings they had lessanger and aggression. Impulse control also improves. This might be especially important when normal routines change for children.

Mentally healthier. Stress and depression are lower for all people who spend time in nature. Children show increased focus and reduced symptoms ofAttention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Children and teens who spend time playing outside and enjoying nature can be:

Take advantage of the healing power of play in nature-near your home or neighborhood, or wherever you feel comfortable. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather. It's also a good idea to wash hands or use hand sanitizer during and after your adventure.

Finally, ask community leaders to ensure all kids have safe places to play outside. Getting outdoors, being in nature, and moving our bodies is good for everyone!

More information

About Dr. Glassy

Danette Glassy, MD, FAAP, is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Councils on Community Pediatrics and Early Childhood, as well as the Washington Chapter of the AAP. She practices in Mercer Island, Washington

About Dr. Tandon

Pooja Tandon, MD, FAAP, is a general pediatrician and researcher at the University of Washington and Seattle Children's Hospital. Her research interests include studying and promoting equitable access to physical activity and outdoor time for all children.

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outside play~ playing outside~ outdoor play~ nature~ benefits of nature~ getting outside and social distancing~ kids and nature~ keeping kids active~ benefits of outdoor play on children's health~ benefits of nature preschool~ nature deficity disorder

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Playing Outside: Why It's Important for Kids

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​No matter what the weather brings, playing outside is good for kids. There is scientific evidence that playing outside improves health, and children of all ages love it. Even as the COVID-19 pandemic continues, outdoor time and nature exploration are safe for most kids.

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Cape and Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition

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Cape and Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition

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Providing information and raising awareness for suicide prevention.

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Cape and Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition | Call or Text 988

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Service Directory provided by Barnstable County Human Services.

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Search your area’s comprehensive directory to find services in your area, and more.