This fall we are getting an au pair, and I am worried that our two year old will have enough time to socialize with other kids. We're signing up for a few ECFE classes and a library book reading, but I'm wondering if I am missing anything. We would love a music class, play group, or other similar type of activity or class. I'm trying to find inexpensive options, since we're already paying for childcare, but I'd consider paying for something if it's really great. We live in Edina.
My daughter takes French class in Hopkins that you might want to consider, especially if you are thinking about putting her in Normandale Elementary French Immersion when she gets to Kindergarten age. If you are interested you can contact Rose Mingo at Mes Amis French School ###-###-####. The website is www.mesamisfrenchschool.com. The cost of the classes are extremely reasonable.
I don't know about any classes, per say, in the Edina area, but one option could also be to get memberships to places so you can go whenever you want. There is the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley, The Children's Museum in St. Paul and The Science Museum in St. Paul (although I would wait a few years for that.)
There is also Edinborough Park which I think you can go for free as a resident, Toddler Tuesdays at Mall of America. Check out the Three Rivers Park District--is it Richardson that if in Bloomington? They have classes, and you can just stop in to check it out. Get a Minnesota Parent magazine every month at the library. There is also stuff going on in there.
I know these are not classes, but childhood is about experiences. Some will be awesome, and some may not work at all, but there is a lot out there.
Sounds like you already have a good amount of stuff planned, but if you want to look for other options I'd recommend looking at the Mpls Parks and Rec classes -- there are usually some great programs that would be close to you if you're in East Edina - like at Linden Hills or Lynnhurst - and are inexpensive. For a two year old, I'd recommend Movin n Groovin. My nanny took our 3-4 year old (she turned 4 in March), along with our baby (born last August) over this past winter . My oldest was pretty self-sufficient so it worked well, though it may be tougher to go with a baby and 2 year old as it requires adult involvement. They also have indoor play groups once/week at various rec centers. Fall signup hasn't started yet but you can look at the options here:
http://www.minneapolisparks.org/default.asp?PageID=15
MacPhail is also great for music classes, but it's a bit expensive and it's hard to do with 2 kids -- though they may have "family" option classes.
Try Mom's Club. I've been part of it since our child was less than a year old and it has kept me in the "loop" of things ever since. They have lots of activities and playgroups . You can decide hwo involved and less involved you want the kids to be.
