Resources for Families in Essex, MA

The seaside town of Essex, Massachusetts, may be known for its charm and coastal beauty—but it’s also a nurturing place for families raising young children. Whether you’re navigating new parenthood or simply looking for ways to stay connected and supported, Essex and nearby communities like Manchester-by-the-Sea, Gloucester, Ipswich, and Hamilton offer a strong network of family-friendly resources.

👶 Parenting & Family Support

1. Northeast Arc Family Resource Center

Located nearby in Danvers, this regional center offers family support, developmental services, playgroups, and special needs resources.
📍6 Southside Rd, Danvers, MA
🔗 Family Resource Center

2. Cape Ann Families / Pathways for Children

Serving Essex and surrounding communities, this program offers free parenting workshops, playgroups, and family support services.
📍Gloucester, MA
🔗 Cape Ann Families

3. WIC – Gloucester and Beverly Sites

Provides nutritional support, breastfeeding assistance, and health guidance to qualifying families.
📍Gloucester, MA & Beverly, MA
🔗 WIC Program Info

📚 Libraries & Literacy

1. Essex Public Library

The library hosts weekly toddler storytimes, sing-alongs, craft activities, and seasonal programs for young children and caregivers.
📍30 Martin St, Essex, MA
🔗 Essex Library

2. Manchester-by-the-Sea Public Library

Offers a robust children’s program with sensory-friendly activities and early literacy programming.
📍15 Union St, Manchester, MA
🔗 Manchester Library

🧒 Childcare & Early Learning

Magical Beginnings – Essex Campus

Our Essex location offers a calm, nurturing environment for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. We serve families from Essex, Manchester, Gloucester, and surrounding towns, providing a play-based curriculum rooted in early childhood development and emotional safety.
🔗 Explore Our Essex Location

🎨 Enrichment & Activities

1. Maritime Gloucester – Maritime Science for Kids

Interactive tide pool touch tanks and toddler-friendly marine education programs introduce young children to the magic of the ocean.
📍23 Harbor Loop, Gloucester, MA
🔗 Maritime Gloucester

2. Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary – Mass Audubon

Located just a short drive from Essex, this sanctuary offers gentle trails and hands-on nature programming for families.
📍Topsfield Rd, Ipswich, MA
🔗 Mass Audubon Ipswich River

🛝 Outdoor Play & Parks

1. Centennial Grove Playground

A quiet, shaded area with a safe playground and a beach on Chebacco Lake—perfect for picnics, sand play, and nature watching.
📍Centennial Grove Rd, Essex, MA

2. Stage Fort Park (Gloucester)

An expansive waterfront park with a toddler-friendly playground, large green space, and seasonal snack bar.
📍Hough Ave, Gloucester, MA

❤️ Support for Every Stage of Parenthood

Raising children in a small coastal town doesn’t mean going it alone. Essex and the surrounding North Shore communities offer the connection, support, and enrichment families need to grow with confidence—and a little salty air joy.

Looking for a preschool or infant program with a nurturing, personal touch? Contact us to learn more about Magical Beginnings in Essex.