Early Childhood Family Education
All ECFE classes are taught by licensed Early Childhood Educators and licensed Parenting Educators to provide the quality education parents are looking for.
Together, parents and young children participate in activities and experiences that foster children’s social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and language skills.
Parents and caregivers also have the opportunity to spend time with the licensed Parenting Educator and discuss parenting issues as a group. The day-to-day experiences of parenting are enjoyable, complex, and at times stressful. The Parenting Educator will facilitate discussions on everyday parenting issues, parenting concerns, and current topics in parenting.
ECFE educators use the Parent Education Core Curriculum Framework and Early Childhood Indicators of Progress: Minnesota’s Early Learning Standards provided through the Minnesota Department of Education.
Registration for Winter classes begins on November 4, 2024
Registration for Summer classes begins on February 3, 2025
Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a comprehensive and community-based program designed to support families with young children during the crucial early years of their child's development. ECFE programs aim to provide a nurturing and educational environment for both children and parents.
Overall, Early Childhood Family Education programs aim to create a positive and enriching early learning experience for both children and parents. By investing in the well-being and growth of families, ECFE plays a crucial role in building a strong foundation for children's future academic, social, and emotional success.
The key objectives of an Early Childhood Family Education program are as follows:
Parent Education
ECFE focuses on providing parents with essential knowledge and tools to better understand child development, parenting techniques, and effective ways to foster a positive and enriching home environment. Parents are encouraged to share their experiences, concerns, and challenges with other parents and facilitators in a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere.
Child Development
The program emphasizes age-appropriate learning experiences and activities for children. These activities are designed to promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, laying a strong foundation for future learning and success.
Parent-Child Interaction
ECFE programs encourage positive parent-child interactions through play, exploration, and bonding activities. These interactions foster strong attachments and secure relationships between parents and their children, contributing to the child's overall well-being.
Socialization
ECFE provides an opportunity for children to interact with their peers in a structured and supervised setting. Socialization at an early age helps develop social skills, empathy, and communication abilities, preparing children for later educational experiences.
Support Network
ECFE creates a supportive network of families within the community. Parents often build lasting friendships and connections with other parents facing similar challenges and joys of raising young children.
Inclusivity
ECFE welcomes families from diverse backgrounds and cultures. This inclusivity fosters an environment of mutual respect and appreciation for differences.
Parental Involvement in Education
ECFE encourages parental involvement in their child's education right from the start. As parents actively engage in their child's learning process, they become more informed advocates for their children's educational journey in the future.
Professional Guidance
ECFE classes are led by licensed early childhood and parent educators who provide research and evidence-based guidance and resources to parents, ensuring they receive accurate and reliable information.
Transition Support
For families with children about to enter preschool or kindergarten, ECFE can help ease the transition by offering information and strategies to ensure a smooth adjustment to the new educational environment.