Classes for parents of children ranging from 6 weeks to 5 years old.  For children, it is an opportunity to spend one-on-one time with a parent, while exploring a rich and varied environment with other children. For parents, there are discussions on pertinent parenting issues led by a staff of experienced, caring teachers specially trained in child development, family counseling, and education. Experienced teacher assistants facilitate confidence and comfort as well as maintaining a stimulating and safe environment. Register your child only for any of the following classes. (Child is registrant- parents do not need to register also for the class)

Babies: for parents with children born between  2/1/20 to 8/7/20

Wednesdays, 11:30-1 pm
*Class meets IN-PERSON*

Parents and children participate in circle time and playtime. Parents glean relevant parenting information through discussion and hand-outs while also gaining peer support and special friendships. Some of the topics that will be discussed include:  sleep issues, nutrition, baby proofing, car seat safety, separation issues, discipline, building self esteem, family traditions and co-parenting. The children remain in the same room as their parents at all times.

 

Spring Infants: for parents and children born between 8/8/20 and 12/31/20 (2nd Semester)

Thursdays, 11:30-1 pm

For parents, a caring teacher with child development training leads discussions on parenting issues as well as provides informative hand-outs. It is a place to ask questions, share experiences, and build friendships. Some topics covered are sleep issues, nutrition, baby proofing, car seat safety, separation issues, family traditions and co-parenting. Children remain with parents at all times.

 

Non-Separating Toddlers: for parents and their children born between 12/2/18 to 11/15/19

Wednesdays , 9-10:30 am
*Class meets VIRTUALLY*

A caring teacher, who is specially trained in child development, leads discussions on parenting issues as well as provides informative hand-outs. It is a place to ask questions, share experiences, and build friendships. Some of the topics that will be discussed are: toddler development, toddlers and sleep, nurturing your parenting relationships, reading to toddlers, the hurried child, balancing discipline and the toddler’s independence/autonomy. For children, this is a time each week for undivided attention from mom or dad as well as an opportunity to explore a rich and varied environment with other children their own age. The Teacher Assistant works closely with the children in a caring and creative manner, facilitating confidence and comfort during class and discussion times. Children also enjoy free play, seasonal crafts, and outdoor playtime. The children remain in the same room as their parents.

 

Parents of Preschoolers: for parents and children between 2 and 5 years old

Wednesdays , 9:30-11 am
*Class meets VIRTUALLY*

Led by instructors Vicki Rekedal and Katy Riddell, this class will cover developmental milestones of preschoolers including physical, cognitive, social-emotional, communication as well as family strengthening, individual growth and self care, spiritual development and family fun. Class discussions will include topics like discipline, family stressors & self-care especially during covid, developing daily rhythms, burnout, and holiday celebrations during covid.

 

Two's: for parents and their children born from 12/1/17 to 12/1/18

Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9:30-11 am

For parents, it is an excellent chance to observe their children in a group setting. A caring teacher, who is specially trained in child development, leads discussions on parenting issues as well as  provides informative hand-outs. It is a place to ask questions, share experiences, and build friendships. Some of the topics that will be discussed are autonomy, communicating with twos, parenting styles, two’s and food, the five love languages, and preschool selection. For children, this is a time each week for undivided attention from mom or dad as well as an opportunity to explore a rich and varied environment with other children their own age. A wonderful Teacher Assistant, works closely with the children in a caring and creative manner, facilitating confidence and comfort during class and discussion times. Children also enjoy free play, seasonal crafts, and outdoor playtime.

 

3-4's: for parents and children born between 6/1/16 and 12/1/17

Thursdays, 9-10:30 am

Children will enjoy creative craft projects, song and story time, opportunities for indoor and outdoor imaginative play, and creating new friendships. An experienced teacher leads discussions about raising your preschooler using a variety of practical, mindful, and effective parenting strategies. Topics include preparing your child for Kindergarten, raising an emotionally intelligent child, mindful parenting and raising happy children who thrive. Teacher Assistants works closely with the children in a caring and creative manner to facilitate confidence and comfort during class and discussion times. Parents separate for discussion time

 

Family: for parents and their children born between 12/1/15 to 8/8/20

Fridays, 9:30-11 am

This energetic, fun-filled class provides experiential art activities, creative sensory play, and outdoor play for children 0-5 years old. Created with the whole family in mind and combining the latest research, discussion topics focus on themes such as sibling rivalry and bonding, parenting relationships, creating peaceful, faith-filled homes, and embracing our imperfections. All children attending class must be registered. Sibling discount applied at checkout.  Non-ambulating babies are welcome in discussion room and must be worn. (no strollers) 

For those parents who cannot attend the full class with their child, we offer a discussion only option. You can attend for one hour, without your child, to participate in the vibrant discussion time of the class alongside other parents.

Discussion only is available for Non-Separating Toddlers, Parenting Two’s, Parenting 3-4’s and Family Class.

Classes for parents of school aged children, K-12th. For parents, this is an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the developmental stage of your child and how best to guide them through while staying connected as a family. You will participate in rich discussions and receive informational resources.

Parents of Elementary Kids: for parents of children in kindergarten to 4th grade

Thursdays, 9-10:30 am and 11:15-12:45 pm
*9 am meets IN-PERSON. 11:15 am meets VIRTUALLY.*

This weekly class will cover the latest in brain research and how it practically relates to our children’s development, learning, behavior, and relationships. In a spiritually rich environment, participants will learn specific parenting strategies in managing behavior, building emotional intelligence, dealing with peer relationships and sibling rivalry from a Whole Brained, Whole Hearted parenting approach. We will also cover early literacy and learning, homework, balancing extracurricular activities and hectic schedules and discuss the growing use of technology in our children’s lives today. Parents will gain ideas for creating a strong family culture and identity-while also exploring the adventures and joys of raising children in the 21st century.

 

Parents of Tweens: for parents of children in 5th-8th grade

Wednesdays, 9-10:30 am and 11:15-12:45 pm
*9 am meets IN-PERSON outside Fellowship Hall. 11:15 am meets VIRTUALLY.*

This class will provide a weekly forum for support and information for families navigating the joys and challenges of raising a tween in today's world. The class will explore various topics, including the developmental task of middle schoolers, such as puberty, the pruning brain, technology, managing peer relationships and growing in independence. Join each week for this research-based, educational, and encouraging class!

 

Parents of High Schoolers: for parents of children in 9th-12th grade

Thursdays, 9-10:30 am and 11:30-1 pm
*9 am meets IN-PERSON outside Fellowship Hall. 11:30 am meets VIRTUALLY.*

This lively class creates an opportunity for support and sharing concerns while addressing issues facing teens – mind, body and soul. Topics will include: understanding the teen brain, mental health (stress, anxiety, self control, anger), peer influences, communication, the influence of technology and media, college prep, spiritual growth, homework hassles and driving. Special attention will be on the topics of letting go and raising independent teens who thrive and are resilient; as well as the importance of real presence in parenting teens.

 

GRAND-Parenting: for grandparents of all ages

Wednesdays, 9:30-11 am
*Class meets IN-PERSON outside under the Oak Tree*

The Grand-Parenting class will provide a source of information and support for all grandparents with any age grandchild, with grandchildren near or far. Offering updates on current cultural issues and technology use that affect children, the class will also include creative crafts and holiday celebrations to use with grandchildren. It’s never too late to learn effective ways to love and nurture children, and in the process leave a GRAND legacy for grandchildren.

Parenting your Exceptional Child
Instructor: Vicki Rekedal
Tuesdays, 6pm - 7:30pm; Feb. 2 - 23 via Zoom

For parents of children K-12 with different learning profiles, dyslexia, ADHD, ASD, 2E, sensory integration issues or difficulty learning from home via zoom. Come join this supportive community. Gain resources and tools to help foster peace and enjoyment in your family.