Growing Together, gentle beginnings and Waldorf Family Class for Toddlers and their Caregivers.
Growing Together welcomes children ages 1 to 3 and their caregiver into a non-separating environment. In our spaces, all are welcome from grandparents to godparents, mothers, fathers, parents, and nannies. You will be invited into our beautiful classroom where you will experience nurturing rhythms, purposeful movement and song. A nourishing snack will be provided shared by a supportive community where you feel guided as you grow as a parent/caregiver while remaining connected to the present moment.
Growing Together 2025-2026 Information and Investment.
Payment and the Parent/Child Information Form is due at the time of Registration.
Cancellations made thirty days prior to the start of each session will qualify for a refund minus a $25 administrative fee. Cancellations made less than thirty days prior to the start date of session may be available for a refund minus a $50 administrative fee, provided the space can be filled from a wait list prior to the first day of session. No refunds will be issued once the session has started.
Please check back for seasonal offerings and sessions.
Questions? Email amccarty@mnwaldorf.org.
Growing Together Lead Teacher: Emily Barstad
Emily graduated from UW- Eau Claire with an undergraduate degree in English Technical Writing, and she went on to the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities to complete her Master’s in Family Education with a license to teach Parent Education. Emily worked in the public school setting as an ECFE Parent Educator. Then, in 2020, she decided to step aside from her teaching position to homeschool her oldest daughter and pursue her art business. After some time painting and “road-schooling,” exploring 9 national parks with her family, she found her way to the Minnesota Waldorf School where she now facilitates the Growing Together program. She is also in the process of completing her Extra Lesson training through Waldorf Learning Support.
In addition to her schooling, Emily has held several positions supporting young children including summer camps, nannying, proctoring, and literacy support work. Emily is also a mother to three young children who all attend the Minnesota Waldorf School. In her free time, Emily enjoys spending time outside with her family, especially gardening, hiking, and basking in sunlight. Emily is an avid reader, enjoys traveling and painting, and she loves to connect with other humans.
Questions about Growing Together?
Please contact ebarstad@mnwaldorf.org.
A typical morning will include indoor and outdoor free play, circle time with seasonal songs and poems, a nourishing snack, and supportive conversation and connection with other caregivers. We’ll offer simple handwork projects for adults, along with thoughtful insights on child development and Waldorf philosophy to support you on your parenting journey.
* A note about siblings – It is a true gift to spend this special one-on-one time with your enrolled child. However, infants in arms are welcome to attend at no additional cost. Siblings who are not yet crawling by the 1st day of class may attend as lap babies.