As the weather turns cold and families spend more time indoors, winter becomes the perfect season to slow down, reconnect with your little learners. Moorhead Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) offers families a welcoming place to do just that through play, learning and togetherness.
Inside many ECFE classrooms, some of our youngest learners engage in hands-on activities that spark curiosity. While children play and learn, parents gather with licensed educators to share experiences, ask questions and discover new ways to support their child’s development. These parent sessions often become an unexpected place to laugh, reflect and find comfort in community during these long, cold winter months.
Winter can be a season of stillness; within ECFE, however, it’s alive with warmth and discovery. Families leave each class not only with creative ideas to bring home, but with renewed energy and connection. As snow blankets the world outside, ECFE offers something even more enduring: the reminder that when families learn and grow together, every season becomes a time for joy and wonder.
Joelle Hofer Director of Early Learning
Register For Class
• Register online at www.moorheadschools.org/CE.
• If you have questions, please call 218-284-3400.
• We will continue to take registrations if there are available openings in the class, and the cost will be prorated.
Age Requirements
Your child must be the required age for the class by the first day of the class. State funding requires that only children ages birth through kindergarten entry may participate in our program.
Class Fees
Class fees are indicated with each description and are payable upon registration. All families are welcome. Families that live in the Moorhead School District receive a discounted rate, indicated by ($)*. Fee is per family except where noted. If you need financial assistance and live in the Moorhead Area Public School District, please call (218)284-3400 for scholarship information.
Cancellations
Weather-Related Cancellations
Check online at www.moorheadschools.org or listen to the radio or television to receive the latest update on any storm-related cancellations or late starting time for classes.
Cancellation Policy
Unless otherwise specified, if you have to cancel, we can give a full refund only if you notify the Community Education Office at least 48 hours prior to the first class meeting. Refunds after a class has begun will be given only in extreme circumstances. In the unlikely event your class is canceled, we will give a full refund.
Moorhead Early Childhood Family Education is designed to strengthen families through the education and support of all parents/caregivers to provide the best possible environment for the healthy growth and development of their children.
Community Education
Vista Center for Education 2777 34th St. S., Moorhead
218-284-3400
communityeducation@moorheadschools.org
Family Connections
EPC121A, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
1/12 - 5/18, 16 classes
Family Connections
EPC118A, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
9/8 - 5/18, 30 classes (class full)
Family Connections
EPC121B, pg. 4
9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
1/12 - 5/18, 16 classes
Family Connections
EPC121C, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
1/12 - 5/18, 16 classes
Family Connections
EPC121D, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
1/12 - 5/18, 16 classes
Grandparent and Grandchild Together
Time
Multiple Options, pg. 10
12:30 - 2:00 p.m.
Multiple Dates, 1 class
Fall/Winter Classes Calendar View
Family Connections
EPC118B, pg. 4
8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
9/9 - 5/19, 32 classes (class full)
Family Connections
EPC121E, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
1/13 - 5/19, 18 classes
Family Connections
EPC121F, pg. 4
9:15 - 11:15 a.m.
1/13 - 5/19, 18 classes
Family Connections
EPC118C, pg. 4
10:15 a.m.- 12:15 p.m.
9/9 - 5/19, 32 classes (class full)
Family Connections
EPC121G, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
1/13 - 5/19, 18 classes
Family Connections
Full STEAM Ahead
EPC136A, pg. 7
12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
1/13 - 5/19, 18 classes
Toddler Time 2.0
EPC71B, pg. 8
8:15 - 10:15 a.m.
1/14 - 5/20, 18 classes
Family Connections
EPC121H, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m. 1/14 - 5/20, 18 classes
Family Connections
EPC121J, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
1/14 - 5/20, 18 classes
Family Connections
EPC121K, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
1/14 - 5/20, 18 classes
Open Play
Multiple Options, pg. 10
12:30 - 1:45 p.m.
Multiple Dates, 1 class
Family Connections Afternoon Odyssey
EPC126B, pg. 7
3:00 - 4:30 p.m.
1/14 - 5/20, 18 classes
Family Connections
EPC118D, pg. 4
8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
9/11 - 5/21, 32 classes (class full)
Family Connections
EPC121M, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
1/15 - 5/21, 18 classes
Family Connections
EPC118E, pg. 4
9:15 - 11:15 a.m.
9/11 - 5/21, 32 classes (class full)
Family Connections
EPC121N, pg. 4
10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. 1/15 - 5/21, 18 classes
Family Connections
EPC121P, pg. 4
10:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. 1/15 - 5/21, 18 classes
Family Connections
EPC121Q, pg. 4
12:15 - 2:15 p.m.
1/15 - 5/21, 18 classes
Keys to Kindergarten
Multiple Options, pg. 8
5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
2/19, 4/23, 1 class
Family Connections
EPC121R, pg. 4
8:30 - 10:15 a.m.
1/16 - 5/22, 16 classes
Family Connections
EPC121S, pg. 4
9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
1/16 - 5/22, 16 classes
Family Connections
EPC121T, pg. 4
10:30 a.m - 12:30 p.m. 1/16 - 5/22, 16 classes
BIPOC Family Connections
Multiple Options, pg. 7
9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Multiple Dates, 1 class
Family Connections for MAPS
Employees
Multiple Options, pg. 4
9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Multiple Dates, 1 class
Family Connections Classes
(birth - kindergarten entry)
Family Connections is a class designed for parents and their young ones to bond, play and learn together. Engage in interactive activities, circle time, music, and more, fostering early childhood development while creating lasting memories. In the second hour, parents will separate (if desired) to discuss topics of interest with each other and a parent educator. Children enjoy a snack and play time with a licensed early childhood educator. You know your child best. If your child is not ready to separate, you can stay with your child the entire class.
For more information about this class, please email vwarling@moorheadschools.org
EPC118MAPS126 - 12/6, 9-11 a.m.
EPC118MAPS124 - 1/24, 9-11 a.m.
EPC118MAPS221 - 2/21, 9-11 a.m.
EPC118MAPS328 - 3/28, 9-11 a.m.
EPC118MAPS425 - 4/25, 9-11 a.m.
EPC118MAPS52 - 5/2, 9-11 a.m.
More family connections classes on pg. 7
MEET OUR STAFF
Early Childhood Screening
Early Childhood Screening is a FREE opportunity for children to participate in a health and developmental screening after their 3rd birthday. State law requires screening for all children prior to entering kindergarten. Screening may detect possible health or learning concerns that can result in help and support before kindergarten entry.
Does my child need to be screened? It's best to be screened by age 3, but state law requires all childreen to be screened before kindergarten entry.
How do I schedule a screening? Scan the code below or call 218-284-3800 to schedule your child's screening today!
Dates:
January 23
February 20
March 27
April 24
June 2, 3, 4
Vanessa Warling Parent Educator
Jen Krause Parent Educator
Nancy Fix-Shelton Early Childhood Teacher
Shanna Fischer Early Childhood Teacher
Rachel Stalberger Early Childhood Teacher
Randi Zimney Administrative Assistant
Jen Smith Paraprofessional
Dani Wright Parent Educator
What Does a Typical ECFE Class Include?
Parent and Child Interaction Time: A licensed early childhood teacher provides developmentally appropriate activities for parents and children to explore together. The teachers will provide a safe and secure learning environment that includes art, movement, stories, music, games, and activities.
Parent Education Time - Parents and caregivers participate in a discussion led by a licensed Parent Educator. This time provides support, builds connections, and shares information on a variety of parenting topics.
Children’s Activity Time - While the parents are in Parent Education Time, the children will enjoy time with a licensed early childhood teacher exploring and learning through play. They will work on gaining independence and practicing social skills while using their imagination and curiosity to discover and learn.
More Family Connections
Toddler Time 2.0
The perfect place for you and your little explorer to learn and play together. Designed for toddlers aged 1-3, our interactive sessions are filled with activities, music and play that will spark curiosity and foster development. Have older siblings? Bring them with you and they will go with their own teacher for more learning fun. Come join us for a fun-filled adventure where every moment is a cherished memory in the making.
EPC71B - 18 Wednesdays, 1/14 - 5/20, 8:15 - 10:15 a.m. No class 3/18
Vista Room 102, $252 ($216)*
Full STEAM Ahead
This class is tailored for families with preschoolers and has an emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics to help foster your child's critical thinking and creativity. Join us for a hands-on journey of discovery where young minds can explore the wonders of science in a fun and interactive way.
EPC136A - 18 Tuesdays, 1/13 - 5/19, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. No class 3/17
Vista Room 105, $252 ($216)*
Afternoon Odyssey (birth - age 8)
Embark on an Afternoon Odyssey as we dive into a world of imagination and adventure. We will explore through creative storytelling, interactive games and fun activities. Join us and unleash your child's imagination.
Designed for families with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) children, ages birth through 3rd grade, join us for this culturally-affirming early learning experience. Come together to play, explore and connect with other families in our community. In the second hour of class, parents will separate (if desired) to discuss topics of interest with each other and a parent educator, while their children continue to play and explore in the Early Learning classrooms.
With same-day care, flexible scheduling, and a team that truly cares,
here to support your family through every up, down, and in-between moment.
Keys to Kindergarten offers children important school readiness activities that improve academic, social and emotional skills. This class is for children living in the Moorhead School District who will be attending kindergarten in the Fall of 2026 and their parents. This will be a great opportunity for Kindergarten families to see their elementary school, meet staff and teachers and ask any questions or concerns you might have. Please choose the elementary building closest to your residence or if you know which building your child will attend, you may choose that one. Programs will be the same at all elementary buildings.
There will be an extra Keys to Kindergarten offered for families interested in Spanish Immersion. This will be held at Probstfield Elementary on February 19th.
KCCSpanish Immersion - 2/19, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Probstfield Elementary, Door 1 Entrance, $0
KCCDorothy Dodds - 4/23, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Dorothy Dodds Elementary, Gym North 109, $0
KCCEllen Hopkins - 4/23, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Ellen Hopkins Elementary, Auditorium 1, $0
KCCRobert Asp - 4/23, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Robert Asp Elementary, Gym 1, $0
KCCSG Reinertsen - 4/23, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
S.G. Reinertsen Elementary, Gym 1, $0
Help Me Grow
Help Me Grow provides resources to help families understand developmental milestones and identify potential concerns.This helps families take the lead in seeking additional support or referring their child for a comprehensive, confidential screening or evaluation at no cost. You can learn more about Help Me Grow at helpmegrowmn.org.
Ages: 3 months - 3 years
tntkidsfitness.org
Movement & Milestones
Every child develops at their own pace and we’re here to support each stage of the journey! Our classes are designed around key developmental milestones, helping your little one grow through movement, play, and connection.
Classes
• Rockin’ Rollers: 3 months - crawling
• Curious Crawlers: Crawling - Early Walking
• Mini Movers: Early Walking - Confident Walking
• Wiggly Walkers: Confident Walkers - 2.5 years
• Junior Jumpers: 2.5 years - 3 years
What to Expect:
Age appropriate activities that promote milestone achievements
Passive movement to strength lengthen, and introduce muscles patterns used for sitting, crawling, and walking
Engaging songs and sensory play to encourage communication and connection.
Active helper required for each child
Registration is ongoing
Additional Non-Separating Classes
Open Play
Grandparent & Grandchild Together Time
This is a unique non-separating family education class where grandparents and their grandchildren learn and interact together for the entire session. Unlike traditional classes that might separate adults and children for part of the time, this program is designed to maximize shared experience and intergenerational bonding.
Mondays, 12:30 - 2 p.m.
Vista Room 102, $12
EPC139A - 2/2
EPC139B - 3/2
EPC139C - 4/6
EPC139D - 5/4
Enjoy free play in the classroom and gym with your child, Come and check out ECFE if you haven’t been here before or if you are an ECFE family come and enjoy some extra play time with your child. $5 per session per child.
Kindergarten
Join your library’s reading program for kids ages 0-5. Sign up at Lake Agassiz Regional Library location near you or visit larl.org/1000books.
1,000 Books Before
Parent/Caregiver Coaching & Family Support
(Ages Birth-High School)
Children don't come with instructions, and parenting does not have a manual. Family Education is a statesupported program within school districts and you, as a parent/caregiver, can meet individually with a licensed Parent Educator to discuss and strategize ways to support your individual family.
Meet by phone, email or virtually using Google Meet, at your home, at school or at community locations. Whether it's the toddler or the teenage years, we can all use a little support!
Scan the QR code to complete the interest form. For questions and to schedule an appointment with a home visitor, call 218-284-3400.
Independent School District 152
Early Childhood Family Education
Community Education 2777 34th St. S. Moorhead, MN 56560
Parenting Press
Published two times a year by Early Childhood Family Education, a Community Education program of Moorhead Area Public Schools
Joelle Hofer Director of Early Learning
Brenda Richman Executive Director of Community Engagement & Public Relations
