ECFE Ages and Stages Classes are designed to foster strong parent-child relationships through interactive activities and educator-led discussions at each developmental stage of your child's life. Join our engaging weekly classes, where mutual support, shared growth, and collaboration embody the spirit of "it takes a village to raise a child." Class Structure: Parent-Child Interaction (First Half): Follow your child's lead during this interactive time. Relax and enjoy learning more about your child's interests through play and exploration. Circle Time: Led by a licensed Early Childhood Educator, this session includes songs, stories, and movement activities. Parent Discussion (Second Half): A licensed Parent Educator facilitates discussions where parents can share the joys and challenges of parenting, problem-solve, and exchange insights and resources. Topics may include child development, emotional regulation, temperament, sleep, toilet learning, and more. Gradual Separation Benefits: Strong adult-child relationships provide young children with a sense of comfort, safety, confidence, and encouragement as they grow more independent. The gradual separation progression in our ECFE classes is an intentional, developmentally appropriate practice that supports the attachment relationship. Class Separating Types: Non-Separating Classes: Parents remain in the parent-child room for the entire session. Gradually Separating Classes: Parents transition from being in the parent-child room to a separate discussion room over time. Separating Classes: Parents move to a different room for discussion after the parent-child activity time, while children enjoy a light snack and further classroom exploration with guidance from a licensed Early Childhood teacher and support staff. Classes Offered | Ages are by September 1, 2026 | Title Age Description Class Types On the Move 6-12 mos. As your newborn transitions into babyhood, you encounter a world of new experiences and milestones together. Gradually Separating Just Toddling 12-18 mos. Toddlers are inquisitive and always on the move. Explore parenting your adventurous child during this rapid growth phase. Gradually Separating Curious Climbers 18-24 mos. Your curious toddler is into everything and expanding their vocabulary daily. Discover how to support their development through play. Gradually Separating Big Little Kids 24-36 mos. Learn how to parent a toddler who is talking, becoming independent, and challenging rules with newfound confidence. Separating

Dive deeper into the world of parenting with our Empowered Parenting: Topic-Focused Learning. These classes are designed for parents who are eager to explore specific parenting topics in greater detail. Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned veteran, you'll find valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance your parenting journey. Each session focuses on a different aspect of parenting, providing you with the tools and knowledge to navigate the challenges and joys of raising children. Engage in meaningful discussions, share experiences with fellow parents, and gain expert advice tailored to your needs. Join us for an enriching experience that will empower you to be the best parent you can be. Let's grow and learn together in a supportive and nurturing environment. The section for parents of toddlers is a separating course. Parents move to a different room for discussion after the parent-child activity time, while children enjoy a light snack and further classroom exploration with guidance from a licensed Early Childhood Teacher and staff. The section for parents of preschoolers is for parents only and includes registration in Lunch Bunch for your preschooler. Childcare for siblings is available in both sections. Classes Offered: Toddlers Ages 18 - 36 months | Separating | Thursdays 9:00 -10:30 am Preschoolers Ages 3-4 years | Parent only and includes registration in Lunch Bunch for your preschooler | Wednesdays 11:30 - 12:30 Ages are by September 1, 2026 Title Description Empowered Parenting: Emotions Gain practical tools and insights to create a harmonious and supportive environment for both you and your child. Empowered Parenting: Discipline and Limits Learn techniques to set clear limits, foster positive behavior to create a respectful and nurturing relationship with your child. Empowered Parenting: Family Resilience Gain strategies to help you and your child build resilience, manage stress, solve problems, and create a supportive family culture that turns setbacks into growth.

Caregivers and children learn together in this fun, hands-on class all about the power of play. Perfect for nannies, grandparents, and new parents, this class shows how simple, everyday moments can spark learning and connection. Led by a Licensed Early Childhood Educator, we demystify the idea that play needs to be planned or elaborate. You will explore easy ways to notice, join, and support children’s natural play while you play alongside them. "Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood." ~ Fred Rogers Come ready to connect, learn, and discover how much learning is happening in the everyday.

Tonka Pride for our littlest learners! Shirts run a bit small.

Children ages birth-12 months | non-separating Meet other families with newborns and enjoy time with your new baby. Spend the entire class together, engaged in sensory and movement activities and a licensed educator-led discussion. Learn about your baby’s growth and development, how to develop healthy eating and sleeping habits and what research tells us about your baby’s important first experiences. Sign up for the whole school year or 10 weeks at a time.

Engaging, topic-focused 10 week classes for parents, led by a licensed parent educator with expert guidance from a licensed therapist, offering practical tools and insights to support confident, connected parenting. Thank you for your interest in our Parent Education+ program. In order to ensure this program is a good fit for you and to offer the best experience, eligibility for course enrollment will be determined after an initial intake call with Dr. Sarah Cherwien Hoel. Title Description Class Information Better Together Discovering your child has additional needs comes with a host of emotions and questions. This group is centered around creating connection and support. This 10 week experience is designed to provide a safe space for parents to process the many joys and challenges that arise in the journey of parenting a child with special needs. Each group meeting will involve a combination of education on specified parenting topics and a therapeutic group space to process. Enrollment in the class includes enrollment into Social Butterflies where students will work with a licensed Early Childhood Special Educator to further their social and emotional learning and goals. Mondays 4:30 - 5:30 pm 3 10 week sessions Perfectly Imperfect Parenting Are you feeling the pressures and expectations of parenting? Connect with other parents to share your experiences and learn from those who understand the journey, gain valuable insights and techniques to navigate the challenges, and embrace the unique joys and triumphs in a safe and welcoming space. This 10 week group offers a sanctuary where you can discuss, laugh, and grow together. Embrace your perfectly imperfect parenting and celebrate the love, resilience, and happiness that make being a parent truly special. *Childcare available for children birth - 5 years old. Wednesdays 10:45- 12:15 pm 3 10 week sessions Dad Lab: Connect, Learn, Grow Join this welcoming and empowering space designed specifically for fathers and father figures who want to deepen their parenting journey. In a culture where parenting roles are often shaped by outdated stereotypes, Dad Lab encourages participants to challenge those norms and embrace an engaged, nurturing approach to fatherhood. Through guided discussions and hands-on activities, dads will explore topics like emotional intelligence, communication, discipline, and co-parenting, all through a lens that honors their unique role in the family. Saturdays 9:00 - 10:30 am 01/15/27 - 03/20/2027

Children ages 1-4 years (by January 1, 2026) | separating Experience a winter Saturday morning learning adventure. Enjoy quality time playing and learning together through activities designed for you and your child. Enhance your parenting skills through engaging discussions while your children interact with their peers and teachers. During separation, your child will enjoy a snack and playtime in the gym. Register for Rise & Shine on its own, or add Stay & Play to extend the fun with an additional 30 minutes in the MCEC gym after class.