We invite you to join our District 196 ECFE family as we share and learn together this Fall. In addition to our classes, we offer one-time weekly events for parents and children to enjoy together. Supporting early childhood development and parenting is our passion. We believe everyone deserves guidance through their parenting journey.
Babies: Birth Through 11 Months
Parents with Babies Only
Non-Separating
Babies sure bring change to every family! Join other parents of infants and learn how to make the adjustment to 'being a family'. This will be a relaxing and informative class. You can ask your questions, and we will share ideas with you about building a solid base for your family. We will also have time to sing songs and play some games.
Tue | Sep 8-Dec 15 | 3:30-5:00 p.m. | FREE* | 103-216A
Tue | Sep 8-Dec 15 | 5:30-7:00 p.m. | FREE* | 103-216B
Fri | Sep 11-Dec 18 | 8:45-10:15 a.m. | skip Sep 25; Oct 16; Nov 1, 27 | FREE* | 103-216C
*Baby classes are free to School District 196 families. Out-of-district families pay Fee B.
Ones and Twos: Learning, Knowing, Growing
Parents with Children Ages 12-35 Months
Non-Separating, Prekindergarten Siblings Welcome
Explore the rich journey of early development from the inside out. We will cover a variety of topics including how parents and children develop together, influencing one another along the way; understanding temperament such as introversion and extroversion; brain development; and play as learning. Join us as we discover what makes each child and parent unique and how growing together strengthens both. Please register all prekindergarten siblings who will be attending class.
Wed | Sep 2-Dec 16 | 8:45-10:15 a.m. | Fee B | Room 216 | 233-216A
Wed | Sep 2-Dec 16 | 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. | Fee B | Room 216 | 233-216B
Setting Limits with Confidence
Separating
Do you struggle with setting limits while staying calm and connected with your child? This class will provide strategies to help you establish clear, consistent and effective boundaries while
fostering a strong parent-child relationship. Join us and gain the tools to set firm but loving limits while building respect, cooperation and connection with your child. Children will practice skills
with our early childhood staff in our environment designed just for them. Please register all prekindergarten siblings who will be attending class.
Parents with Children Ages 3-Prekindergarten
Wed | Sep 2-Dec 16 | 1:15-3:30 p.m. | Fee A | Room 215 | skip Nov 25 | 452-215B
Parents with Children Ages Birth-6 Years
Tue | Sep 8-Dec 15 | 5:45-7:45 p.m. | Fee A | Room 215 | 452-215A
Growing Together
Separating
Come together in a supportive environment that celebrates the unique joys and challenges of parenting multiple ages. This class offers playful learning for children and meaningful connection for adults. While children explore sensory play and early social experiences, parents and caregivers participate in group discussions guided by a licensed parent educator. Each session is shaped by the interests and needs of the group. Whether you’re parenting a baby, toddler or preschooler, this class creates space for real conversations, shared wisdom and family growth.
Ages Birth-Prekindergarten
Wed | Sep 2-Dec 16 | 9:30-11:45 a.m. | Fee A | Room 204 | skip Nov 25 | 705-204
Ages Birth-6 Years
Wed | Sep 2-Dec 16 | 5:45-7:45 p.m. | Fee A | Room 215 | skip Nov 4, 25 | 705-215
Dynamics of Sibling Relationships
Parents with Children Ages Birth-Prekindergarten
Separating
When there are two or more children in a family, relationships can be complex. In this class you will discuss how children relate to one another as siblings in your ever-changing family systems. By understanding your children’s different temperaments, you will be able to help them live together and get their needs met in a win-win style.
Thu | Sep 3-Dec 17 | 9:15-11:30 a.m. | Fee A | Room 215 | 606-215
Backyard Bash
Thursday, September 24, 2026
5:00-7:00 p.m.
Dakota Valley Learning Center
4679 144th Street West, Apple Valley
Free to attend. Donations will be accepted at the door.
You are invited to a special Open House where families can experience the joy of early learning—outside! This event is designed for children and their parents to explore our outdoor learning spaces, engage in hands-on activities and connect with other families. Whether it’s digging in the dirt, painting in the sunshine or building with natural materials, children will be free to play, discover and imagine. Dress for the weather and come ready for fun. Maleku Coffee food truck will have a variety of items available for purchase. A portion of the sales will be donated to Early Childhood Family Services.
All families with young children are welcome. No registration needed.
Check our website, ce.district196.org/ecfe, for details.
Register Today: ce.district196.org/ecfe
Lottery deadline for District 196 residents is August 4, 2026.
Classes begin September 2, 2026.
Class fees are based on your family annual income and are determined by a sliding fee scale.
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