Early Childhood Programming
Early Childhood Family Education is a MN State funded educational program for families with children from birth to 5 (not yet in kindergarten). ECFE helps parents support their child's growth and development. Classes are taught by licensed early childhood teachers and licensed parent educators.
Winter/Spring ECFE Registration
Winter/Spring classes take place Feb. 3-June 3, 2025. Lottery enrollment for Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) classes is now open and ends December 6. Random computer-generated class placement will begin Monday, December 9. After this date, classes will be filled on a first come, first served basis until classes fill. Register at sowashco.ce.eleyo.com.
Class Registration Limitations: Due to waitlists in the ECFE program and our desire to provide programming for as many in our community as possible, we will only be able to allow registration for one class per child.
View Catalog Early Learning Winter Spring 2025 Catalog PDF
Drop-In Play Sessions
Drop-In Play sessions provide the opportunity for you and your child(ren) to pop in for some parent/child ECFE fun. Most sessions are weekly and run from September through May based on the ECFE program calendar. Registration is not required and sessions are free. Space is limited to 14 children per session. For ages birth-5 years old unless indicated. These sessions are non-separating. Limited to 1 session per family/day.
LIBERTY RIDGE SITE 2 - 11283 EAGLE VIEW BLVD., WOODBURY, MN
- Mondays, 11:30-12:45 p.m. or 3:30-4:45 p.m.
- Tuesdays, 10:30-11:45 a.m.
- Fridays, 11 :00 a.m.-12:15 p.m., or 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
- NEW THIS YEAR! Fridays, 8:45-10 a.m. (Birth to 36 months)
DISTRICT PROGRAM CENTER - 8400 E. PT. DOUGLAS RD. S., COTTAGE GROVE, MN
- Wednesdays, 9:30-10:45 a.m. or 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Thursdays, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
DROP-IN PLAY WILL NOT OCCUR ON THE FOLLOWING DATES: Sept. 30, Oct. 16-18, Nov. 5, 27-29, Dec. 2, 23-31, Jan. 1-3, 20.
Parent/Baby Connection Drop-In
In this free, drop-in style class, you will be able to connect with other new parents, ask questions and share ideas related to adjusting to a new baby, feeding, sleeping and more. For more information, please call the Early Learning office at 651-425-7181.
LIBERTY RIDGE SITE 2 - 11283 EAGLE VIEW BLVD., WOODBURY, MN
- Mondays, 10:30-11:45 a.m. - ages birth - 6 months
DISTRICT PROGRAM CENTER - 8400 E. POINT DOUGLAS ROAD S., COTTAGE GROVE, MN
- Wednesdays, 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - ages birth - 6 months
PARENT CONSULTATIONS
ECFE Home Visits and Parent Consultations connect parents of children aged 3-8 with ECFE Licensed Parent Educators who can answer questions and work side-by-side with parents to develop strategies to support their child’s growth and development. Consultations are provided in-person or virtually. Connect with us today for help with:
- Supporting children's emotional well-being
- Answering developmental questions
- Connecting with community resources…and much more!
FAMILIES:
COMMUNITY PROVIDERS:
Refer a family for a consultation
If you have questions, please contact the ECFE Outreach Coordinator at 651-425-7163.
Contact
Enrollment Questions:
Katie Van Overmeiren
Office Coordinator
651-425-7181
Beth Quist
Site Coordinator
Liberty Ridge Site 2
651-425-7163
Ann Mockenhaupt
Site Coordinator
District Program Center
651-425-6636
Joyce Beaird
Early Learning Family
Services Supervisor
651-425-7169
Office Hours:
7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
ECFE Classes and Activities
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Liberty Ridge - Site 2
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Program Center
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Liberty Ridge - Site 2
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Program Center
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Program Center
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Liberty Ridge - Site 2
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Program Center
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Program Center
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Liberty Ridge - Site 2
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Program Center
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Liberty Ridge - Site 2
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Program Center
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Program Center
Early Learning Blog
Along with the joy of becoming a parent comes a lot of questions about raising a child. It can be hard to find answers and information. Our Early Learning blog can provide the information you seek. Written by one of our own ECFE Licensed Parent Educators, each blog offers insight into child development, parenting strategies, and other important topics that can support parents during their parenting journey. View our extensive blog library of topics as well as our most recent post below:
When you're buying outdoor clothing for your children, get a set for yourself too! As parents, we’re often the first to want to head inside—whether it's due to weather, household chores, or something else. The book 15 Minutes Outside: 365 Ways to Get Out of the House and Connect With Your Kids provides inspiration for how and why to make time in nature a priority.
Starting is easy. Try simple activities, like watching your breath on a cool evening or having a backyard picnic. Start the habit now in October rather than January, especially in Minnesota!
The "wonder years" of childhood are filled with amazing moments, from first words to endless questions. During this time, your child grows rapidly—emotionally, physically, and mentally—discovering the world around them. It's a chance for you to slow down, share in their excitement, and build a strong bond. These early years offer plenty of opportunities for love, learning, and growth—not just for your child, but for you as well. Cherish the journey!
Recently, a mom shared a touching gift that brought my eyes to water and my thoughts to linger, a card from her graduating daughter that contained a simple yet profound statement, "When I grow up, I want to be like you." In addition to the gratitude and acknowledgement of all her parent’s love and support, it’s this sentiment that resonates deep within every mom and dad—a reflection of deep, profound love for their child, hope in goodness, the countless unseen sacrifices and unwavering connection that define parenthood. Sometimes the phrase, “cut the umbilical cord” is used in jest. The physical umbilical cord is easy to cut but that deep attachment cannot naturally be severed.
The essence of early childhood lies in building and strengthening the parent-child relationship. Research confirms that the foundation of this attachment is formed during infancy, a stage where the dance of love, responsiveness, and trust begins. The attachment relationship is not just a fleeting phase; it is a cornerstone that shapes a child’s future emotional and social well-being. By promptly responding to their needs, we convey a fundamental message—they are seen, heard, and valued. Through shared gazes and gentle touches, we build a foundation for a strong, emotionally intelligent adult.
Parent Resources
- Site Locations
- Helpful Links
- Early Childhood Home Visits, Consultations, and Family Support
- ECFE Partnership Opportunities for Community-Based Early Learning Programs
- Courageous Parents - Resilient Kids Program Series
- Minnesota Help Me Grow
- Help Me Connect
