Forest Lake Area Schools Community Education

ECFE Home Education Program is a voluntary parent education program offered to families who are expecting a child or have children under the age of kindergarten entry. ECFE Home Education Program helps to establish positive partnerships between home, school and the community. It plays a vital role in supporting families and children from early learning and understanding of important developmental milestones. Periodic screening increase parent's understanding of their children's development progress, as well as informing them of any possible delays. Early intervention for identified concerns helps improve school readiness for young children. This evidence-based early childhood program is designed to offer regularly scheduled family personal visits, annual developmental screening, monthly group connections and access to a network and resources. These components are integral in supporting and preparing children, families, schools and communities toward school readiness. The ECFE Home Education Program provides opportunities to assist families with a smooth transition into preschool and kindergarten. We offer three main topics to start with; health and safety, parents as teachers and parent/child bonding. Each area will cover information related to the topic along with an activity to go along with the topic. Once your registration has been received, an early childhood teacher will contact you to schedule a session that fits your schedule. If you have any questions about ECFE Home Education Program, please call (651) 982-8318.

The Behavior Assistance Technical Support (BATS) team is a voluntary program offered to childcare and early learning centers who are looking for behavioral support for students that are struggling. A trained parent educator will visit your location to promote early learning, knowledge and understanding of important developmental milestones. Early intervention for identified concerns helps improve the school experience for young children. Call (651) 982-8318 to schedule a BATS visit.

Step into a glowing evening of stories, learning and fun for children ages 2–8 and their families! Sponsored by the FLAS Early Childhood Program, this event features engaging read-alouds, hands-on literacy games and glowing stations rooted in the science of reading. Families will explore key skills like phonemic awareness and comprehension, while parents gain practical tools to support reading at home. Come spark a love for reading through light, laughter and learning!

Step into a world of playful exploration with your child! Enjoy the freedom to move, explore and connect in our specialized gym, along with lively circle time filled with songs, fingerplays and laughter. To keep the experience special for everyone, we limit the class to 25 participants. If we’re at capacity, you’ll find a sign outside Door 17. Maximum of three children per adult.

Step into a world of playful exploration with your child! Enjoy the freedom to move, explore and connect in our specialized gym, along with lively circle time filled with songs, fingerplays and laughter. To keep the experience special for everyone, we limit the class to 25 participants. If we’re at capacity, you’ll find a sign outside Door 17. Maximum of three children per adult.

Early Childhood Screening is a free and simple check of how your child is growing, developing and learning. It is a review of your child's height, weight, hearing, vision, speech, language, motor and cognitive development. Screening at 3 is preferred, but a child may be screened between the ages of 3 and the start of kindergarten as required by law. Screening is not an examination to determine readiness for school, but to screen for potential problems that may interfere with a child's ability to be successful. Early screening and intervention promotes early success.

Is your child eager to dive into the world of preschool but not quite three years old? Our ECFE Friends class offers the ideal introduction! Start the year with a warm parent-child experience filled with exploration, growth and fun. In January, your child will take the next step into independent preschool learning, building new skills and confidence along the way. This transition will be child-only, allowing your little one to embrace their growing independence while still feeling supported in their learning journey. Children must be three years old by Jan 1, 2026. Sibling Care is available on Tuesdays.

Be a playful parent in Silly Sprouts! This mixed-age class blends fun, learning and connection. Children will explore, play and grow with caregivers, other kids and early childhood staff. After shared playtime, caregivers move to a separate space to discuss the highs and lows of parenting, while the children continue their learning adventure with our expert early childhood professionals.

Watch your child light up with excitement as they explore a vibrant, hands-on classroom, making their first friends and discovering the joy of learning through play. Connect with a community of fellow parents, sharing laughter, support and insightful discussions on essential topics like nutrition, child development and the incredible impact of play on young minds. It's more than just a class—it’s a journey of growth, connection and unforgettable moments!

This dynamic class offers a fun, hands-on opportunity for children to engage with peers in a classroom setting, while parents enjoy dedicated Parent Education time. Little ones will dive into sensory-rich activities, get their hands messy and develop problem-solving skills. They'll spark creativity, build confidence and nurture their growing independence, all in a warm and supportive environment. Let the adventure begin!

Be a playful parent with us! Silly Sprouts is a mixed age class with separation. Children will play with caregivers, children and early childhood staff. Caregivers will then go to a separate space to share with each other the fabulous and frightening parts of parenting. Children will continue to learn with early childhood professionals in the classroom.

Bundle up your baby and enjoy some uninterrupted, quality time with your little explorer in a safe, fun and supportive environment. Connect with other parents as you share the joys and challenges of your child’s first year. Your baby will stay by your side throughout the class, so bring your diaper bag, relax and take a break from the everyday routine. The fall session is for infants from birth to 12 months and winter and spring sessions are for babies birth to 18 months. Drop-ins are always welcome.

The Forest Lake Area Schools Early Childhood Programs transformed an RV into a mobile classroom! Parents and their children are invited to engage in an enriching experience using songs, fingerplays and exploration with our knowledgeable early childhood staff! No registration required. Maximum of three children per adult. For answers to frequently asked questions, visit https://earlychildhood.flaschools.org/ecfe/little-ranger-roadster

Get ready to use your 5 senses as we go on an indoor nature scavenger hunt to discover the beauty of fall. You and your child will participate in hands-on art and science activities using leaves, apples and pumpkins. This interactive experience will spark creativity while celebrating the sights, sounds and smells of fall.

Looking for some non-spooky fun? Come to the UnScary Halloween Party for games and family activities designed to delight your little ones. Wear a friendly costume and join us for children's music, pumpkins, prizes and some Halloween surprises. Walk-ins are welcome!

Join us for a fun evening with friends where music becomes the bridge for building memories with your little one! This event is designed for parents and children to explore the magic of music together in a playful and nurturing environment. Through interactive songs, rhythm games, and creative activities, you'll connect with your child, strengthen your bond, and discover how music can enhance early development.

Show your gratitude for your grandparents or a special older friend with a delightful time of holiday sharing! Bring your special person and join us to create a Thanksgiving decoration to take home, along with other fun activities to celebrate the people and things we are grateful for in our lives.

Woodworking is a great practical life activity for preschool children. Use paintbrushes, glue, hammers, nails and more to create wooden crafts. There will also be a variety of materials for children to create, stack or build on their own.

Bring the whole family along for a walk down memory lane. We'll string popcorn for the birds, use an ice-cream cone to make a snack, read a special story and share in the joy of the simple play. Prepare and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate with your little ones before heading home.

Time to get moving with your little one! Your child can enjoy a variety of large muscle equipment, including soccer, bowling, roller skates and parachute activities. Join other families as we move to children's music and burn off some energy in the gym!

Bring a flashlight for a starlit journey! Inspired by the nursery rhyme Star Light Star Bright. We’ll explore the wonders of starlight through fun and interactive activities about the night sky. Kids will enjoy building with flashlight blocks, creating their own lantern tea lights and creating a starry night sensory bag using sparkling treasures. A wonderful way for little ones to explore the beauty of the night sky.