10 Results
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ECFE for EveryoneSpecialized ECFE CoursesChildren ages 1- 4 | separating Join other families with young children for fun, hands-on activities followed by discussion with a licensed parent educator. Conversation topics may range from behavior strategies to sleeping routines to sibling relationships. This class can be a great fit for families with multiple children between the ages of one to four. Please register each child separately.2025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE -
Early Childhood and Family Education - Ages and StagesCore ECFE ClassesECFE 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, 2025 | Title Age Description Class Types On the Move 6-12 mos. As your new born 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. Separating2025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE -
Elevate Your Parenting: Proven Strategies for SuccessParent WorkshopsOur parent-only workshops are designed to provide you with the tools, knowledge, and support you need to navigate the complexities of parenting. Each workshop focuses on utilizing evidence-based resources to provide you with valuable insights and applicable strategies. Engage in meaningful discussions with fellow parents, learn from a licensed parent educator, and gain the confidence to implement effective parenting techniques. Join us for an enriching experience that will empower you to create a positive and nurturing environment for your family. Enrollment in this course includes lunch bunch for your preschooler. Title Description Dates Positive Solutions for Families Based on the research-based practices utilized in the social and emotional learning framework, the Pyramid Model, families will learn how to support your child's social and emotional skills and development, understand the why behind challenging behaviors and discover positive parenting approaches to help children learn appropriate behavior. Sept. 17 - Nov. 19 The Way of Play The Way of Play helps parents to nurture calm listeners, cooperative problems solvers, and respectful communicators. "Kids often want parents to play with them, but many parents don't know how to play or see it only as an (often boring) way to kill time." Learn how to lean into playfulness to create moments of connection in the everyday activities of raising a family. Jan. 7 - March 11 Good Inside This class, inspired by Dr. Becky Kennedy's acclaimed book "Good Inside," offers a transformative approach to parenting. Dr. Kennedy shifts the focus from merely shaping children's behavior to cultivating the essential skills needed to raise kind, resilient, and well-rounded individuals. April 8 - June 102025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE -
Empowered Parenting: Topic-Focused LearningSpecialized ECFE CoursesDive deeper into the world of parenting with our Empowered Parenting: Topic-Focused Learning. These classes is 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. This course 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. Classes Offered | Ages 18 - 36 months | Separating Ages are by September 1, 2025 Title Description Dates Empowered Parenting: Emotions Gain practical tools and insights to create a harmonious and supportive environment for both you and your child. Sept. 18 - Dec. 18 Empowered Parenting: Discipline and Limits Learn techniques to set clear limits, foster positive behavior to create a respectful and nurturing relationship with your child. Jan. 8 - March 12 Empowered Parenting: Parental Stressors Discover effective methods to manage parental stress, gaining valuable insights and strategies to confidently and resiliently handle the demands of parenting. April 9 - June 42025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE -
NewFree Fridays!Specialized ECFE CoursesChildren birth to 36 months | non-separating Friday Friends: Let's play! This class is designed to give your child the opportunity to connect with others through play. This class takes place in an environment specifically designed for little ones and provides them the opportunity to practice their budding social and emotional skills. Facilitated by a licensed parent educator, parents will learn how to support the skills necessary for children to thrive in social situations. Once Upon a Storytime: Let's read! Minnetonka ECFE and Helping Us Grow (HUG) invite you and your family to join us for story time. Your family will have a chance to visit with other parents with small children and enjoy stories and songs. Older siblings are welcome. Each family will go home with a free book! Children 12 to 48 months | non-separating Science Fridays: Let's experiment! Through guided activities we will begin the process of inquiry and exploration. Each activity can be easily replicated at home to provide hours of fun for you and your little one.2025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE -
Oh BabySpecialized ECFE CoursesChildren 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.2025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE -
Parent Education+Parent WorkshopsEngaging, 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 1:00 - 2:30 pm 10/08/2025 - 12/17/2025 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 01/10/26 - 03/21/20262025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE -
Parenting in the Great OutdoorsSpecialized ECFE CoursesChildren ages 3-4 Years | non-separating At ECFE, we know the importance of cultivating in children (and adults) a love of nature. We have a lovely outdoor space adjacent to our building and are offering a parent-child class that connects young learners with nature, creativity and scientific inquiry. This is a non-separating class where children and parents explore the natural world. We spend as much time outdoors as possible; when weather prevents outdoor activity we bring nature in. We will meet rain or shine, dress appropriately.2025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE -
Ready-Set PreschoolSpecialized ECFE CoursesChildren ages 30- 35 months | separating (on parent child day) We recognize that children develop along a continuum and this class is perfect for children who are working towards the independence skills needed for preschool. This unique blend of parent-child time and peer group interaction offers an introductory preschool experience. The child-only day gives your child a chance to interact independently with peers and is led by a licensed early childhood teacher. The parent-child day is playtime together, followed by a separate discussion led by a licensed parent educator. *Monday's class ends at 10:45 am and Wednesday's class ends at 10:15 am.2025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE -
WaitlistRhythm and Rhyme - Music ClassSpecialized ECFE CoursesChildren birth - 36 mos. | non separating Join us for a delightful music class designed for children birth to three. In this engaging and interactive class, your little one will explore the world of music through singing, dancing, and playing instruments. Each session is filled with fun activities that promote rhythm, coordination, and social skills. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate, making it a wonderful bonding experience. Come and discover the joy of music with your child in a supportive and nurturing environment.2025-2026 ECFE/Parent Workshops ECFE