I have some spaces available in my class, from now through early June. We are a first year toddler program for children born between September 2011 and August 2012. We meet just north of downtown Bellevue on Thursdays from 9:30 – 11:30. There are also spaces available in some other classes in the program: To sign up, go to: www.bellevuecollege.edu/parented/2013-2014-class-schedule/

We are also now registering for the 2014 – 2015 school year. (We have lots of open houses next week if you’d like a chance to check things out.) All of our programs share key components:

• play-based learning for the kids based on brain research that shows children learn best through hands-on play in environments where they are relaxed and happy and encouraged to explore
• circle times led by our fabulous children’s teachers, filled with developmentally appropriate songs, rhymes, stories, and active games
• parent involvement – at every level from infant classes to cooperative preschools to enrichment programs for 5 – 7 year olds, parents are involved, active participants in the classroom
• parent education – our college faculty present lectures and facilitate discussion on topics from emotional development to discipline to early learning and nutrition – all the topics parents care most about

In other news from our program: this weekend is our Healthy Kids, Healthy Family Fair, with exhibitors, free consultations with parent educators, mini seminars, and lots of great hands-on activities for your children! It is open to anyone. Learn more here: http://bcparents.org/Healthy_Kids_Event.html

Learn more about the parent education programs and cooperative preschools at Bellevue College and other community colleges by clicking here.