Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE)

Welcome to ECFE: where learning begins and families thrive.

ECFE supports parents and children (from birth to age eight) on a journey of growth and discovery.

View Fall Guidebook       

What is ECFE?

Support for parents. Play-based learning for kids. Community for both.

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a unique program for families with children from birth to age 8. It’s a space where you and your child grow - together.

Each class includes:
✔️ Time to play and explore with your child
✔️ Parent discussion led by a licensed educator
✔️ Real-life tools for parenting challenges
✔️ A chance to build friendships and community

Why ECFE?

You’ll gain confidence. Your child will thrive. And you’ll connect with others who get it. Watch a short video to learn more about ECFE.

Ready to join?
Click a class category below to find your fit.

Do you have a new baby? 

• Register for ECFE parent and infant classes
  Join Osseo Area Schools’ early childhood teachers, parent educators, staff and other parents/caregivers with infants to connect, learn and navigate parenthood.

• Schedule a Free New Baby Welcome Visit
  Get personalized parenting support and community resources from a parent educator—in your home or out in the community. Request a visit using our online form. 

• Get answers to your parenting questions
  Submit a question through our online form and a parent educator will connect with you.
  
• ECFE Visits
  Get free, personalized parenting support and community resource connections - right in your home or out in the community. Visits include New Baby Welcome Visits and are a great way to connect with a caring early childhood professional. 
  
  Have a quick question? 
  Ask anytime - no appointment needed. A parent educator will connect with you. Submit a question through our online form. 
  
  ECFE Drop In Playtime [No registration required]
  Safe and fun playtime opportunities for you and your child! Enjoy a safe, fun playtime with rotating activity stations including art, blocks, dramatic play, and sensory exploration. Parents and children explore together, then gather for group time with songs, movement and stories. Guidelines: No registration required. The 2026-27 school year playtime rate is $5 per child, with a $10 family maximum. No family will be turned away due to inability to pay. Cash or credit accepted. Play times are popular and space is limited.
  
  Baby Playtime–Birth up to 24 month
  Day/Dates: Wednesday Sept. 16–Jan. 13. No playtime Dec. 23 and Dec. 30. 
  Time: 11:15 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
  Location: Arbor View Early Childhood Center
  
  Family Playtime - Birth up to 5 years
  Day/Dates: Wednesday Sept. 16–Jan. 13. No playtime Dec. 23 and Dec. 30. 
  Time: 1:45–3:15 p.m.
  Location: Arbor View Early Childhood Center
  
  Early Childhood Screening
  Schedule a free screening to check your child’s milestones between ages 3-5. This short developmental check can help identify any areas where support may be needed, so your child is ready to thrive in school.
  
  

Learn more: 

• ECFE Program Website Get details about our learning approach and class options.

• Preschool/PreK
  Discover Early Childhood & Family Education's  2026-27 school year preschool and prekindergarten programs designed to support your child as a confident, successful learner. Children grow through hands-on exploration, social connections, and engaging experiences in a caring, play-based environment.