Minnetonka Community Education

Birth-12 months/Non-separating Meet other parents either in-person or online 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. To meet COVID expectations, registration and attendance is restricted to one adult per child. If you are on maternity/paternity leave for a limited time and only able to attend a few classes, let us know and we will prorate your fee. Expecting a new baby after Sept. 1, 2022? We will start a midyear class based upon your child’s age as of Jan.1, 2023. Prorated fees apply.

Birth-Prekindergarten Welcome to this free, monthly opportunity to connect with other parents of young children and play in a space specifically designed for little ones. Choose the day that works best for your families schedule, Mondays or Wednesdays. You do not have to be enrolled in a class to participate, however advanced registration is required. To meet COVID expectations, registration and attendance is restricted to one adult per child.

Birth-Prekindergarten Welcome to this free, monthly opportunity to connect with other parents of young children and play in a space specifically designed for little ones. Choose the day that works best for your families schedule, Mondays or Wednesdays. You do not have to be enrolled in a class to participate, however advanced registration is required.

Ages 12-35 Months Early Childhood is a time of exploration and discovery. Co-taught with general education and special education staff, this class provides a wonderful opportunity for families to participate in engaging activities filled with motor, social, and sensory play that parents and children can experience together. A licensed parent educator will provide resources and parent discussions on a variety of parenting topics chosen by the group including parenting children with unique needs. During child separation time, the children will be supported by both a licensed general education early childhood teacher as well as an early childhood special education teacher.

33 Months-5 Years At ECFE, we know the importance of children (and adults!) spending time outside. 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 activities in our outdoor learning center and go on nature walks to Lake Minnetonka! We will meet rain or shine, dress appropriately. In case of inclement weather, we will follow our Minnetonka Preschool & Early Childhood Family Education Parent Handbook guidelines and meet indoors.

1-4 years | separating Meet other parents of multiples and share joys and challenges, while finding the information and support that you need. Gain ideas for managing sleep, discipline, toileting, eating and more through parent discussion. Please register each child individually.

1-5 years/Separating Night Owls is a great way to reconnect with your child(ren) after a long day. Join other families for fun activities, followed by an educator-led discussion. Conversation topics range from behavior strategies to eating and sleeping routines. There will be no class on November 8, 2022 (General Election Night)

18 months-Prekindergarten Turn your winter Wednesdays and Saturdays into family fun time. Our open gym time allows for you to play with your child, while they burn energy. Spend time running, climbing, throwing and riding. Wear comfortable shoes. Wednesdays 4-5 p.m. and Saturdays 9:30-10:30 a.m. $5 per child/$10 per family. Space is limited to 35 children. Registration is required. No refunds will be issued for cancellations or non-attendance. Fees are non-transferable and cannot be applied to another Open Gym day.

The preschool years are a time of wonder and learning as well as new challenges for parents. Experience fun activities with your child and then join with other parents to discuss topics relevant to this age range. This is a separating class.

Parent Workshop: Preparing for the Transition to Kindergarten-August 9, 2022 6:00-7:00 PM Going to kindergarten is a milestone event for every child and family. You and your child may have a variety of emotions, including excitement, anticipation, and worry about the unknown. The good news is parents and caregivers can help prepare their child for the transition to kindergarten. In this workshop, we will discuss strategies for strengthening your child’s skills, developing routines and strategies for a successful start to school. Parent Workshop: My Child is Going to Preschool for the First Time-August 10, 2022 6:00-7:00 PM Starting preschool marks the beginning of a new chapter in your child’s development. Your child will be making friends, learning new skills and gaining confidence and independence. You may be wondering how best to prepare your child for this transition. In this workshop, we will explore ways to prepare, support and encourage your child’s new adventure. Parent Workshop: Play and Learn Handling School Breaks and Changes in Routine-Saturday November 5, 2022 10:00-11:00 AM As we look ahead to the holiday season and school breaks, these disruptions to routine can be difficult for many children. This time of year can be filled with special events, traditions and activities. In this workshop, we will introduce tips and strategies for handling school breaks and changes in routine. Ultimately, we want to find ways to make the breaks and seasonal activities enjoyable for you and your child.

1-5 years | separating A Saturday morning learning adventure! Enjoy time playing and learning together through activities designed for you and your child. Boost your parenting skills through parent discussion while children interact with their peers and teachers.