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

Highcroft | Wayzata, MN

Tuesdays 9:30-10:00

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

Central | Roseville, MN

Wednesdays 9:30-11:30

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.

Musical Mondays

For Preschool and Kindergarten Children 

Lab School | Bloomington, MN

Mondays 2:30-3:00

Musical Mondays features special time set apart for sharing a biblical story from our Red Thread curriculum, singing simple songs around the piano, playing rhythm instruments, dancing and moving to a variety of styles. We use a combination of the Cycle of Season and God’s Children Sing Musikgarten curricula.

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

All Campuses

This educational support group is for homeschooling parents who want to learn more about constructivist teaching methods and receive encouragement and wisdom from seasoned homeschool moms and educational leaders. Come for great connections, conversations and coffee. Childcare provided – donations welcomed.

Moms’ Circle Connect

Central 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.

Walking Connect

Central Campus

Have fun and build relationships with other HIH parents while exercising! Walk and talk together 2 Fridays per month. Meet at the sidewalk across from the school right after the morning student drop off.

Soul Care Event

Central Campus

This annual event includes a beautiful breakfast bar, community-building activity, soul care teaching from a local expert in the field, hands-on practical activation exercises, and prayer time.

One-on-One Mentorship

All 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.

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 Monday as we pray for our students, staff, leadership and community. All prayer requests can be sent to prayer@hihcm.org

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…

Thank you for speaking God’s truth and grace over us!

The speaking moments were so significant! My tears flowed freely every week and I experienced healing, hope, and empowerment. I was empowered to find and start my dream job as a Christian therapist! Thank you for speaking God’s truth and grace over us! THANK YOU!!!

God has given such as sense of belonging through connecting with other moms.

The most significant moments of MCC were the times of prayer for each other. God has given such as sense of belonging through connecting with other moms. And the community has encouraged me to “keep going” when things are challenging.

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…

  • Curriculum Recommendations
  • Guest Speaker Presentations
  • Homeschooling/Parenting Workshops

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.