Image of toddler running.Image of baby drinking bottle.
ECFE Mission: The purpose of Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is to strengthen families through the education and support of all parents in providing the best possible environment for the healthy growth and development of their children.    


What happens when we come to a Stay & Play class?

The ECFE staff will greet you and the room will be set up with activities. Usually, there are three parts to the sessions:

  • Time together for parents and children
  • Circle time which typically includes a story, song, or simple group activity
  • Parent discussion time while the children enjoy activity/exploration time
     

ECFE Builds Connections & Reduces Isolation

One of the incredible benefits of ECFE is the community and connections that are created.  We help connect families who otherwise would never have had the chance to connect.  Whether they come from different neighborhoods or different cultures all together, raising children is universally a transformative experience!  Which, in turn, connects and create a stronger school district and community!

ECFE Increases Parents' Understanding of Development

Every parent enter parenting from a different background and in a different stage of their own adult development.  When we better understand development, we have more empathy, understanding, and willingness to work hard at the things we know make a difference in child rearing (like boundaries).  What we know from a scientific perspective about development is always changing and evolving as a our brain imaging gets fancier and our research methods get refined.  There is always more about child development to learn.  ECFE is a great place to learn it.  
 

Supports Coping Skills & Importance of Parents
ECFE helps parents understand that they are not alone! They are not the only parent whose child has wiped poop on the wall. They are not the only family who lets their kids watch Bluey…what might be a few too many times. They are not the only parent who struggles with anger and not understanding why their child won’t do what they are asking them to do. ECFE comes alongside parents and supports them in their role. We want you to know that you are doing *something* right amidst all the stress you might feel.

More information
For more information, or to have specific questions answered, contact us!


Contact: Community Education