Parent Engagement and Education
We believe that parents are the first and foremost teachers of their children. Our unique programs were designed to support and strengthen parents so they can lead their families well.
Early Education Programs
with Head of School, Michelle Lee Thompson
“Since the opening day of Hand In Hand in 1999, I have enjoyed being on the ‘ground floor’ of this work – with young children and their parents learning and growing, singing and dancing. With my own mom at the piano, and my own children in my lap, Hand In Hand has been rooted in Family Education and Music-Making as a multi-generational experience. This tradition continues until this day…”
– Michelle Lee Thompson
Bright Beginnings
Parents and Caregivers with their Infants & Toddlers
Wayzata, MN
Mondays 10:00-10:30
Bright Beginnings is a weekly class for newborns to 18-month-olds and their parents/caregivers to learn and enjoy music together. It uses the Family Music Time curriculum from Musikgarten, uniquely designed for the development of the brain by enhancing language development, listening skills, musical thought and movement acquisition as well as strengthening of bond between babies and those who love and care for them.
Family Preschool
For Parents with their Two and Three-year-olds
Roseville, MN
Wednesdays 9:00-11:30
Family Preschool has three parts to the morning: a Red Thread biblical story and art project shared with parent and child, followed by independent Montessori-appetizer for the child and parenting session with adults, concluding with a Musikgarten session of God’s Children Sing emphasizing worship and musical enjoyment together as we sing, listen, play instruments and dance.
Questions? Reach out to Jean Schmidt, Director of CMFE, at j.schmidt@hihcm.org
“The most important thing to remember is that it is the PARENT who is the child’s first teacher, role model, security symbol, and source of unconditional love and nurturing.”
-Elizabeth Hainstock
Parent Support
Coffee Connect
Both Campuses
This educational support group is for parents who want to learn more about constructivist teaching methods and receive encouragement and wisdom from seasoned moms and educational leaders. Come for great connections, conversations and coffee. Childcare provided – donations welcomed. The Roseville group focuses on homeschooling support.
Moms’ Circle Connect
Roseville Campus
This monthly meeting gives moms the opportunity to build community, grow as Christian women, and unite in prayer for the school. Come enjoy a special speaker presentation, small group discussion, “teacher feature” highlighting a Montessori tool, and time for prayer. Childcare is available.
One-on-One Moms Mentorship
Both Campuses
Director of CMFE, Jean Schmidt, mentors moms individually in the areas of spiritual growth, strengthening marriage, parenting, soul care, and personal development. Contact Jean directly to schedule an appointment at j.schmidt@hihcm.org.
Special Parent Events
Both Campuses
Watch your campus SNAP for special events for parents such as Soul Care for Women, Men’s Dinner and Panel, Wild at Heart sessions, and events with special parenting experts.
Prayer Cares
Virtual
Our Prayer Care Team is here to pray with and encourage families through every season of their lives. Join us virtually every Wednesday at 1 pm as we pray for our students, staff, leadership and community. All prayer requests can be sent to prayer@hihcm.org
Dads of Destiny
Both Campuses
Connect with other dads over coffee and receive encouragement from wise mentors. Sessions focus on building strong, biblical family foundations.
And More!
Stay tuned for more special events designed to support families & build community. Some past events have included: Parent Education Evening, Homeschool Panel, Dads of Destiny: Dessert & Homeschool Discussion, Popcorn in the Park, and Park Playdates.
What Moms Have to Say…
Just getting started?
We love coming alongside families whether they are just starting on their homeschooling journey, or transitioning from traditional education to Montessori by providing…
Parent Education Legacy Lives On
Honor to Mrs. Marlene Testa Lee
From 1999 to 2020, the CMFE and Music programs were led and directed by Mrs. Marlene Testa Lee, mother of founder Michelle Thompson. With a Titus 2 Mandate and passion for the family, Mrs. Lee poured herself out to support and encourage families for more than two decades at Hand in Hand. She has left a beautiful legacy that will continue for generations to come and will never be forgotten.
Jean Schmidt
Director of Christian Montessori Family Education (CMFE)
I’m Jean Schmidt and I love Jesus, families, education, missions, and fine coffee :). Twenty years of homeschooling five children in partnership with my husband, David and Hand in Hand, has forged a deep compassion within me to see dedicated Christian families succeed in their educational and life journey. With a Titus 2 mandate on my life, I am called to support, encourage, train, and equip the next generation of parents to raise Kingdom-focused children who love, learn, and lead a Christ-centered life. Our unique family-focused programs, educational offerings, support groups, and special events builds a firm foundation by addressing the wholistic needs of families; educationally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Questions about CMFE?
Reach out to Jean at: j.schmidt@hihcm.org
Check Your Email Inbox for More Events
Teacher/Parent written interaction occurs primarily through our classroom newsletter called the HANDLE. All-school communication is done through the SNAP/NOTES FROM THE OFFICE email newsletter. Please watch these publications for a host of events and offerings that happen throughout the school year.