Drop-In Playgroup is an opportunity for children to learn, grow and develop through play. There is something to keep every child happy and busy, with a baby and toddler area, activities for preschoolers, a great outdoor space plus lots of art, craft and messy play. And what’s even better - we clean up the mess afterwards!

This weekly gathering time is for babies (up to 12 months old) and their caregivers. It offers time to connect, share questions and insights, and enjoy conversations with other parents of little ones. A parent educator will be present to visit with families and facilitate a circle time during the last part of the session. There is no cost for this drop-in class. *Parents can request sibling care for children 12 months through kindergarten 72 hours in advance by calling (507) 494-0913.

PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS FOR PARENTS AND CAREGIVERSECFE’s private consultations aim to empower parents. As your child’s first and most important teacher, we want to support YOU. The best part is that we can do this in the comfort and privacy of your chosen location. Whether you’re a new parent or have years of experience, this ECFE offering is designed to meet you where you are–emotionally and physically! Licensed parent educators provide these FREE consultations and create a supportive space for you to reflect on your parenting, troubleshoot with a professional, and connect with community resources. If you are an expecting parent or a parent with a child up to one year old, we will also bring a free ring sling and teach you how to use it during a special Welcome Baby visit.Sample discussion topics: Prenatal questions and concerns, postpartum difficulties, navigating life’s transitions, family changes, infant care, developmental concerns, emotional challenges with children, sleep concerns, separation, challenging behaviors, and more.Contact the ECFE office at 507-494-0913 to schedule an initial phone consultation.

The Itty Bitty Book Club delivers engaging early literacy and circle time experiences directly to the homes of our Licensed Child Care Providers that are located in the Winona Area Public Schools District.How it works: Sign up for a monthly home visit from our Licensed Early Childhood Staff. Each visit includes: *Fun, age-appropriate activities*Interactive circle time*A playful reading program*Resources on early literacy for parents & caregivers*Support to the providerVisits run September through May and are scheduled individually that take place once a month.Call 494-0920 for more information or to get started!

ECFE Around Town is an exciting extension of our Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) program, designed for families, caregivers and children from birth to age 5 across the district. Just like our traditional ECFE classes, this program offers:* Fun, age-appropriate activities* Opportunities to connect with other families* Discussion time focused on parenting & child development* Helpful resources and community informationThe home base for this class will be at Wesley Church, but often moves to various outdoor playgrounds - watch our “Winona ECFE” Facebook page for updates on location depending on the weather. We will also be doing fun “pop up” events throughout the year, please keep an eye on our Facebook page for advertising.

Each week you and your child will enjoy a favorite children’s book and then work together on an art project related to the story. We will focus on creativity, imagination, and building language and fine motor skills during this non-separating class.

Do you have children who need to run off some extra energy? Well, you are in luck! Early Childhood Family Education’s Family Gym Night’s at Goodview Elementary are back! Family Gym Night provides an indoor space for kids to scooter, jump, crawl, play with balls, use riding toys and more. This free family event is geared toward children ages birth-5 years old. Parent participation and supervision ARE REQUIRED.

Step into a world of wonder with our Mini Minds in Motion class! Together, you’ll mix, build and explore-turning every-day moments into magical discoveries of math and science. With a caring Early Childhood Teacher as your guide, you and your little one will learn, laugh, and adventure-indoors and under the open sky!

Let’s play, build and move together!This action-packed class gives children and their dads (or favorite grown up guy) a chance to run, jump, explore, and create side by side. From big gym adventures to playful building projects, every moment is designed for fun, connection and unforgettable memories!