Welcome!

Our Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) is a program offered through Mahnomen Community Education for area families with young children. “ECFE is based around the idea that a child’s family provides a child’s first and most significant learning environment and that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers.” Our ECFE staff partner with parents to offer learning experiences for their children from ages birth to Kindergarten entry. The purpose of ECFE is to strengthen families and support parents in providing the best possible environment for the healthy growth and development of their children.

ECFE works to strengthen families and support parents in providing the experiences that promote healthy growth and development of all children--providing the "Building Block for Family School Success". A variety of classes are offered that provide information, encouragement and support for you and your children.  

Early Childhood Family Education Information:

• Families from Mahnomen and the surrounding areas are welcome to attend.

• There is no cost to our ECFE program

• All ECFE classes are led by licensed, experienced teachers.

• Classes are for families with children from birth to kindergarten entry.

Early Childhood Family Education Goals:

• To enhance parenting skills and support parents in their child raising efforts

• To share a special ONE on ONE interactive time with your child

• To be aware of child development and its stages as your child grows and develops

• To make new friends in a safe school classroom environment

• To give children an opportunity to discover and learn

• To foster effective communication between parents and their children

We are so excited to begin a new session of ECFE in the Spring of 2025!

In Minnesota, all children are required to complete an Early Learning Screening to find out how they are growing and developing before they enter kindergarten. Children should be registered for their free screening between their third and fourth birthdays.

At the screening, early childhood specialists observe the child's vision, hearing, speech and development. Early screening will help identify any conditions that might impact a child's learning and assist parents in taking steps to help the child.

During the screening, you will stay with your child while his or her hearing, vision, height, weight, speech and development are assessed. Early childhood specialists will review your child's immunization record and Ages and Stages Social/Emotional indicator and visit with you about their observations.

Early Childhood Screening Goals:

• Find out how your child is growing and developing.

• Connect you and your child with early learning programs and other community services that may be helpful.

• Answer any parenting questions/concerns you may have.

• Identify any possible health or learning concerns so that they may be addressed before a child enters school.

How does my child get screened at Mahnomen?

Early Childhood Screening dates are set for April 2025. Please contact the elementary office to schedule your appointment.

Check out some of our area partners!

White Earth Tribal & Community College

Customized Education Program

Contact: Bridget Guiza at 218-935-0417 ext. 8327 or Bridget.guiza@wetcc.edu