Why take a parenting class?

One mom wrote asking why taking a parenting class is better than just learning from family, friends and neighbors. This is a fair question.

What makes a parenting class potentially more valuable than these other sources?

• The information in parenting classes ideally comes from what researchers and experts have learned works best with kids.
• Classes pull together the best information from a variety of sources and provide lots of ideas so you can choose what works best with your children.
• The instructors have often looked at outcomes from different parenting practices and know what really are “best practices" in parenting.
• You can learn about the normal developmental stages children go through along with common problems parents face at different stages in their children’s lives.
• You can gain ideas for doing things differently than your parents did.
• You can discuss what’s going on with your children with someone who is impartial.

Parenting is like continually taking on a new job! The initial training from the childbirth center typically involves taking care of the baby’s needs – baths, diapering, feeding, burping, calming techniques. However, as children grow their needs change. Parenting classes are a great way of getting the information you need when you need it.