Early Childhood Matters

Early Childhood Matters Early Childhood Matters focuses on the early years (birth through five), when the most crucial brain development occurs.

Offering workshops for parents and teachers of young children, with the goal of supporting them on the journey to nourish the minds and spirits of tomorrow's world! Our programs support parents and caregivers on the road to more connected and effective parenting, and nurture the development of compassion, creativity, and self-confidence in young children. Through our parenting workshops and facili

tated playgroups, we:

• Share knowledge on early childhood development, the root of challenging toddler/preschooler behaviors, and developmentally appropriate expectations for children

• Model evidence-based, tried-and-true strategies that empower parents to effectively respond to challenging child behaviors, while deepening their connection to their children

• Cultivate opportunities for young children and their caregivers to play together, laying the foundation for emerging social skills, emotional intelligence, and self-regulation in a safe, consistent, and supportive environment

• Build community among families, fostering an environment where parents can support one another on their shared journey through the dynamic and challenging years of raising young children

For Parents: Parenting is one of the most challenging, important, and rewarding things you will ever do. The sky’s the limit when it comes to understanding this monumental task - but life as a parent does not always allow for a lot of research! Our parenting workshops draw from the latest research in the field, as well as our own experience as parents and educators, providing opportunities for you to genuinely engage with this information in a supportive environment. For Teachers: Early childhood educators are the most important people on the planet. Entrusted with the job of growing the minds of tomorrow, our workshops are designed to help teachers better understand and implement this important task.

If you are expecting your second (or third) baby, we're here to support you. Second Time Moms groups set up for Summer, ...
04/13/2026

If you are expecting your second (or third) baby, we're here to support you.

Second Time Moms groups set up for Summer, Fall, and Winter 2026.

A Third Time Moms group starts at the end of April.

See how we can help:

Full info for 2nd time: https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/second-time-moms-eight-week-series

Full info for 3rd time: https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/new-page-32

And, if you'd like to hear some strategies for welcoming a new sibling, check out our Parenting Matters podcast Episode 9: Navigating the Transition to a New Sibling - https://parentingmatters.castos.com/episodes/episode-9-baby-makes-4-navigating-the-transition-to-a-new-sibling?_gl=1*1fsyg9d*_gcl_au*MTIyMDI2MTMxNS4xNzYwMDE4Mjg4

Please pass this along to friends who might need our groups!

Check out our upcoming classes and groups! Second Time Moms in GGP - https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/second-time-m...
03/30/2026

Check out our upcoming classes and groups!

Second Time Moms in GGP - https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/second-time-moms-eight-week-series

Third Time Moms - https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/new-page-32

Potty Training Outer Village on April 29, 6-7:30pm - https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/potty-training-101

Summer Nature Explorers (15mo-3yo) - weekly class with caregiver + child - https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/summer-nature-explorers-15mo3yo-caregiver-and-child-group

We hope to see you soon!

01/29/2026

In this episode, we tackle three of the most common—and exhausting—challenges parents of preschoolers face: not listening, power struggles over everyday routines, and full-blown tantrums when the answer is “no.” Drawing from decades of professional experience and many personal parenting stories, we explore why these behaviors are not signs of “bad parenting,” but normal developmental phases—especially for strong-willed, spirited children.

Through real-life examples like refusing to put on shoes, throwing snack wrappers on the floor, and melting down over yogurt before dinner, we break down practical, compassionate strategies that actually work. We discuss why repeating yourself undermines authority, how to set clear limits without punishment, and how calmly following through builds trust, self-esteem, and emotional resilience in young children.

Listen to episode 13 or read the transcript here:
https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/podcast

01/29/2026

Listen to the latest Parenting Matters' podcast episode (13): "Not listening, not getting dressed and tantrums, oh my!"

If you’ve ever felt worn down by daily power struggles or unsure how to respond when your child tests limits, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and concrete tools to help you parent with confidence and calm.

Link to podcast episodes and transcripts here: https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/podcast

01/29/2026

We want you to enjoy your parenting journey!

Listen to the latest podcast (or read the transcript) for Parenting Matters' Episode 13: "Not listening, not getting dressed and tantrums, oh my! - Our most common parenting questions answered"

This conversation reframes “choosing your battles,” explains why giving in during tantrums backfires, and shows parents how to stay steady in the face of big feelings—without yelling, bribing, or threatening. Most importantly, it reminds parents that enjoying parenting is not only possible, but essential, even when raising a challenging child.

https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/podcast

01/29/2026

In our latest episode of Parenting Matters' podcast, Rebecca and Belann cover not listening, not getting dressed and tantrums. Episode 13 answers our most common parenting questions.

If your preschooler ignores you, refuses shoes, or collapses into a puddle the moment you say “no,” this episode is for you. They unpack why these behaviors happen, why they happen even more with a strong-willed child, and share practical strategies to help you get back your confidence and your joy in parenting.

Links to the full episode (and transcript) here: https://www.earlychildhoodmatters.org/podcast

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San Francisco, CA
94110

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