The Playspace program is made possible by the 700 dedicated PALs across Massachusetts who bring kindness, play experiences, and moments of joy to children living in shelter every week! Horizons staff is committed to the success of the volunteers, the program, and the families we serve. Ensuring volunteers feel prepared and confident is important to us and your feedback is welcome. Email us at palsupport@horizonschildren.org if you have suggestions or feedback.
The following resources and tip sheets are designed to empower you with the tools and knowledge needed to support the children served in Playspace. For more in depth information, attend one of our ongoing training sessions!
For guidance on building healthy relationships, please see:
For activity ideas, please see:
For language support, please see:
For strategies on managing behaviors, please see:
For outdoor Playspace protocols and practices, please see:
Volunteer Learning Sessions are a great opportunity to connect with fellow PALs and Horizons staff, talk through successes and challenges, and ask questions. Each meeting includes a short presentation followed by open discussion. Please register to attend on Zoom.
This training is for PALs who completed their PAL training more than 18 months ago.
August 13, 2026 at 12:00 – 1:00 PM
September 10, 2026 at 12:00 – 1:00 PM
October 14, 2026 at 12:00 – 1:00 PM
October 19, 2026 at 6:00 – 7:00 PM
These sessions are open to PALs and focus on a different topic each month.
August – Navigating Boundaries with Confidence and Care
August 24, 2026 at 12:00 – 1:00 PM
August 27, 2026 at 6:00 – 7:00 PM
September – Supporting Early Literacy Skills
September 21, 2026 at 6:00 – 7:00 PM
September 22, 2026 at 12:00 – 1:00 PM
October – Fostering Communication Skills through Connection
October 20, 2026 at 6:00 – 7:00 PM
October 21, 2026 at 12:00 – 1:00 PM
If you missed any previous sessions, we invite you to review the presentation slides and accompanying tip sheet below:
Stay up to date on all things Playspace! PAL Post Newsletters are distributed every other month. Catch up below in case you missed any!
Looking to share more info about volunteering with the Playspace Program? Share a flyer or social media post to help spread the word!
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Have a question? Looking for support? Please reach out:
Monday, February 16 — Presidents’ Day | Playspace and Classroom shifts canceled
Friday, March 20 — Horizons Teacher Professional Development Day | Classroom shifts canceled; Playspace shifts open
Friday, May 15 — Spring Gala | Click here to learn more
Monday, September 28 — Golf Tournament | Click here to learn more
Tuesday, October 27 — Horizons Breakfast | Click here to learn more
