Laurentian ECFE

Classes and Activities for You and Your Child

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a community education program of the Rock Ridge Public Schools. We understand that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers.  We partner with parents and families to offer the very best in early childhood and family education.

We provide classes, programs, and services for families with children from birth to kindergarten age.  ECFE classes include time for parents and children to learn together, parent discussions facilitated by a parent educator and interaction among children to engage, learn and grow together within an early childhood classroom.

We are eager to welcome your family and young children as an important part of our school community.

Every class includes:

  • Activities where parents and children learn together
  • Time for children to learn and interact with one another
  • Parent education time with a licensed parent educator

Tuition is based on a sliding fee scale with payment plans and fee assistance available upon request.

2024-2025 Schedule

The fall Kick-Off event is “RED, WHITE, and BLUE”. The Kick-Off event is a great time to meet the teacher, tour the classroom and learn more about our early childhood programs.

LAURENTIAN ECFE KICK-OFF EVENT IS TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 5:00-6:30PM

ECFE classes begin the week of September 30

DAY TIME CLASS AGES
Monday 8:00-10:00 Stepping Stones 4 – 5 years
Tuesday 8:30 -10:00 Toddler Time (Mixed Age) Birth – 5 years
Tuesday 10:30 – 12:00 Bright Beginnings (Mixed Age) Birth – 5 years
Friday
(Location: Parkview)
10:30 – 12:00 4-Week Specialty Class
(see schedule below)
18 months – 5 years
Friday
(Location: Parkview)
10:30 – 12:00 Baby Class
(see schedule below)
Birth – Not yet walking

 

2024-2025 ECFE Registration Form

Fall 2024 ECFE Newsletter 

ECFE Class Descriptions & Opportunities

  • Stepping Stones

    Stepping Stones is a class is for 4-year old children entering kindergarten in the 25-26 school year. We will provide your child with two hours of social and emotional opportunities in a group setting learning class routines, meeting new friends, and exploring new and exciting activities in a safe and nurturing environment.

  • Bright Beginnings

    This mixed age class is a great opportunity for families with more than one child to be able to experience ECFE. Classes start with parent-child activity time. Parents and children play and learn together in a safe and educational environment.During the Parent Education time, children stay with the early childhood teacher and staff. This is an opportunity for children to play with peers and enjoy activities in all areas of development. Parents attend a discussion group led by a Parent Educator. The parent group includes information on developmental, age-related concerns and allows time to get to know other parents.

  • Toddler Time (Gradual Separation)

    Your toddler’s road to independence has begun. Enjoy time playing with your toddler in a safe and educational environment. Children will have time to play with peers and enjoy activities in all areas of development, while parents engage in a discussion led by a licensed Parent Educator. The parent group includes information on develop- mental and age-related concerns and allows time to get to know other parents. We realize separation from toddlers can be difficult. One-year-old classes will begin a gradual separation when each group is ready.

  • Play and Learn

    This mixed age class is a great opportunity for families with more than one child to be able to experience ECFE. Jump, crawl, and build in a variety of learning areas in the small gym returning to the classroom setting for a hands-on learning experience. Parents will engage in discussions led by a licensed Parent Educator. The parent group includes information on developmental, age-related concerns and allows time to get to know other parents.

  • Baby Class

    Location: Parkview Elementary

    Fridays
    10:30-12:00pm
    10/11, 10/25, 12/6, 12/13, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 2/28, 3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 4/4

    FREE class designed for babies. Infants learn best by interacting with the people and objects in their environment. Learn about the importance of the early years and what you can do to promote healthy development. This class includes parent and child activity time, parent discussion, and time to connect with other parents. Sibling care will be available to older children.

  • Four-Week ECFE Specials

    Cost: $50/special

    Creative Kids Fall Special
    Parkview Elementary Friday 10:30-12:00pm
    11/1, 11/8, 11/15, 11/22

    Winter Literacy Special of Author Leo Lionni
    Parkview Elementary Friday 10:30-12:00pm
    1/31, 2/7, 2/14, 2/21

    Math in Your Environment Spring Special
    Parkview Elementary Friday 10:30-12:00pm
    4/11, 4/25, 5/2, 5/9

  • Home Visits

    For families who need additional support from a parent educator visiting them to address individual child, parent or family needs. If you have questions about home visiting, please contact our office. Visits can also be done by phone or virtually.

  • Child Care Provider Mentorship

    For licensed childcare providers who would like a visit from a early childhood educator once a month. The educator will provide an hour long lesson to children and materials for the child care provider. If you would like to be part of this program, please contact our office.

  • Family, Friend and Neighbor

    For care providers (grandparents, friend of the family, neighbors in the community, aunts or uncles, older sisters or brothers) in the quad city area. Meet other care providers, help children learn and build skills through play, and learn helpful tips for caring for them. FREE books, project supplies and resources. Sessions are designed for care providers to bring children with them.

  • Early Childhood Screening

    Free early childhood screenings will be held at Laurentian and Parkview Elementary. Email [email protected] for an appointment.

    Children 3 1/2 years of age and older are eligible for screening. Early childhood screening is an enrollment requirement for kindergarten and PreK.

Rock Ridge Public Schools Since 2020

Rock Ridge Public Schools combines the communities of Eveleth, Gilbert, and Virginia into a progressive school district embracing an academy style high school to provide students with a real world learning environment.

District Office

1405 Progress Parkway
Virginia, MN 55792

(218) 735-3500
Fax: 218-744-4381
[email protected]