What is ECFE? Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a program for all Minnesota families with children between the ages of birth to kindergarten. ECFE celebrates 40 years of educating Minnesota’s families this October 2014.

Come for your child…stay for yourself!

All ECFE classes are taught by licensed early childhood teachers and parent educators to provide the quality education parents are looking for.

ECFE teachers use the Parent Education Core Curriculum Framework and Early Childhood Indicators of Progress: Minnesota’s Early Learning Standards provided through the Minnesota Department of Education to plan parent education and early childhood lessons.

Together, parents and children, newborn to kindergarten age, participate in activities and experiences that foster each child’s social-emotional, cognitive, physical, and language/communication skills.

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) recognizes that parents are their child’s first and most important teachers. ECFE offers parents hands- on learning experiences that will nourish a lifetime of teachable moments.

A typical ECFE class includes: Parent-Child Activity Time Parent Education Time Children’s Activity Time

Parent-Child Interaction Time where parent and child together enjoy a classroom filled with developmentally appropriate learning activities.

Parent Education Time for relevant, effective education and support that encourages a healthy environment for the growth and development of families.

Children’s Activity Time During parent education time, children explore, gain independence, and practice social skills while under the supervision of a licensed children’s teacher and a paraprofessional.

P A I N T

ECFE understands the importance of the early years as learning years.

2013 ECFE Parent Survey

Parents reported significant and positive changes in all five areas of their child’s development after attending ECFE.

“ECFE has been an indispensable part of my children’s early learning experience. I depend on the information and support I get from the parent educators.” ~ ECFE Parent

ECFE is available statewide… Play and learn together!

“I have learned to be a more patient and understanding parent and have a solid awareness of my child’s developmental stages.” ~ECFE Parent

To find an ECFE program near you: Visit