Throughout the 2024-25 school year, we will be hosting events, small and large, to celebrate our 50 years of serving the Rochester early childhood community! Most of these events are tailored to 0-5 year olds and their families. We look forward to seeing you!

Transportation Fair, Open House & Family Concert featuring Justin Roberts

May 10th, 2025 • 10 AM-2:30 PM • Goose Egg Park

Don't miss out on this family and community favorite made even more special this year with an Open House to tour Northrop's classrooms and a concert by five-time Grammy nominee Justin Roberts!

10:00 AM-12:30 PM: Vehicle Exploration - Come explore the vehicles that ignite your young child’s imagination! Children can sit behind the wheel of a dump truck, a snowplow, a police car, and more. They can turn wheels, honk horns, and learn about the vehicles from the people who drive them. Participating vehicles include Public Works and Community Services vehicles, the Rochester Public Library Bookmobile, big trucks, and recreational vehicles.

12:30-1:30 PM: Intermission - While we make room for the concert setup, families are encouraged to stick around! Food trucks will be available, and Northrop’s preschool classrooms will be open for tours.

1:30-2:30 PM: Justin Roberts Live in Concert - Get ready for a high-energy, family-friendly performance! His fun, lively music is perfect for children and their grown-ups. He will keep kids moving and engaged while adults appreciate his clever lyrics and insight into children. Merchandise will be available for purchase.

No registration is required for this free family event, sponsored by ECFE/PAiiR, School Readiness, and Rochester Public Works. The transportation fair will be held rain or shine. The concert will move to John Adams Middle School auditorium if it rains.

Food available will include The Wandering Scoop, Carroll's Corn, and Espadin Truck.

Visit this webpage or our social accounts (Facebook or Instagram) for the most up-to-date information on the happenings for this exciting year!

1st Annual Rochester ECFE 5K & Family Fun Run

September 28th, 2024 • 8:30 AM • Soldiers Memorial Field Park

Come out for the baby crawl, toddler and preschool heats, and even some big kid races! We will also have food options available for purchase and games in the green space of the park.

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo

October 12th, 2024 • 10 AM-12 PM • Oxbow Park

Join ECFE for this FREE family outing! We will do a nature craft, enjoy storytime, visit the Zollman Zoo animals, and play with friends in the nature play space. Catch the bus at Northrop or meet us there!

2025 Early Childhood Winter Catalog

Mails November 4th, 2024

Includes courses running from January through March.

Guest Speaker, Dianne Haulcy, President and CEO of The Family Partnership

February 17th, 2025 • 5:30-6:30 PM • Dakota Middle School

We are thrilled to have an opportunity for an interactive discussion with a well-known Minnesota advocate for children and families. Dianne will meet with community members, including childcare providers and programs for families as well as parents who attend Rochester ECFE.

Library Event

February 20th, 2025 • 5-6 PM • Rochester Public Library

Join ECFE at the Rochester Public Library for an engaging family event. Library staff will interact with children, read a book, and take families on a tour. This is a great time to get a library card, as well.

2025 Early Childhood Spring/Summer Catalog

Mails February 6th, 2025

Includes courses running from April through June.

Family Talent Show

March 15th, 2025 • 10 AM • Willow Creek Middle School Auditorium

This family-friendly event is packed with fun for all ages, featuring amazing student and adult performances. Enjoy a lively mix of music, juggling acts, and many more surprises! Bring your friends and family to cheer on these talented performers!