Everyday Parenting

We are coming down to the last few weeks of our semester of class with ECFE (Early Childhood Family Education).  We participate in the "Everyday Parenting" class on Tuesday mornings.  Finley and I took a babies class when she was young, but then tried a number of other classes (music, dance, gymnastics, storytime), but this winter was the first time I felt like Fiona was old enough and napping consistently enough for us to make it to class and not have to rearrange the rest of our day.  

It has been so much fun and probably the most influential thing I've done as a parent for my parenting skills.  The class meets for nearly 2 hours with the first 30 mins for free play in the room, followed by circle time, and lastly separating from the kids for parent education/discussion.  

The classroom changes every few weeks with new units and toys with areas for infants up to pre-schoolers.  There is always an experiment and an art project.  Finley has done finger painting, marble painting, texture painting, played with shaving cream, goop, water to see what sinks/floats, and sensory tables.  The best part of all of this is that it is all set up for us, so while I'd love to introduce her to these things at home, I just don't have the time/patience to set-up and clean-up each of these activities for one child.  

There is also a snack time (without parents) for social interaction.  They've learned how to share, pour cups of water and dish out snacks for each other.  Well, Fiona just stuffs food in her face :)

The parenting topics have ranged from how to deal with siblings, tantrums, development, raising honest kids, using Love and Logic, and communication.  I've gained so much knowledge from the educators, but also from the other moms.  

The other bonus is that both girls play so hard while we're there, that when we get home at 1pm, they both nap for 2+ hours.  

We are so sad this semester is coming to an end.  We plan to be back next fall, since Finley won't be in pre-school on Tuesdays.  I really feel like it's quality, intentional parenting time I spend with each girl and making myself a better mom.  

Fiona in the infant area - chewing on everything!

Pom-poms at the sensory table that week.

Mama Finley playing house in the kitchen - I think she's calling papa.