Top Ten Reasons to take a Parenting Class….
Who?
Me? Take a parenting class? Why
Not?
We take golf lessons in order to play golf, or
driver training to learn how to drive.
We sign up for internet navigation, basement renovation or scrapbooking
classes. Any endeavor that’s worth
doing is worth taking the time to gain
more knowledge in order to do a better job.
Consider how your children pass through various stages: babyhood,
toddlers, school age, tweens, teenager, young adult. Wouldn’t you like to be better equipped with information about
their emotional, physical and cognitive development so you know how to build
and enhance a better parent-child relationship? Here are ten great reasons to take a parenting class:
1. It’s fun, interactive, respectful and informal.
2. It’s great to learn from other parents that have children the same age
and are experiencing the same stages as your family. Those parents may have great ideas that might work for your
family, and you can share your gems with them.
Besides, it’s sometimes a relief to hear that little Johnny is not the
only one in “that stage”.
3. It’s proactive. Many parents
want a range of tools in their parenting toolbox so they can prevent
relationship problems in the future.
4. It’s current information. Often,
doctors and nurses don’t have the time to dispense parenting information. And although it’s nice to get well-meaning
advice from friends and relatives, unfortunately the information is often based
on heresay, beliefs, opinions and values, which may have little scientific
basis. The information from a parenting
class is based on the most recent research available. Current studies show that parenting skills and knowledge can
greatly affect children’s outcomes. Information about child development has exploded
in the past twenty years with new research focused on brain development that
helps us understand how children feel, think and behave. Classes will help you put the latest
information to use.
5. No one will judge you. Every
parent is at a different point on the continuum of knowledge and that’s
okay. Each day is a new beginning to
practice new skills.
6. You are supported as the expert on your children. Equipped with current information, you will
be best able to make decisions regarding your child’s upbringing.
7. What works for your first child may not work for your second child. Lots of ideas equals lots of choices.
8. Love alone is not enough.
Parents mean well, but in times of stress, they often repeat unhealthy
generational parenting practices.
Effective parenting skills are learned skills that take time and
practice.
9. The investment of time is worth it.
Think of all the wasted time you spend disciplining bad behaviour. The time it takes to learn effective
parenting techniques saves time in the long run.
10.Did I mention that they are fun?!
Parenting is a difficult, joyous and rewarding
endeavor and nobody can do it perfectly. Regardless of income, education, or
marital status, everyone can benefit from a class. There are many choices on length, topic and location. Consider parent education as professional
development. Your children are worth
it!
Judy Arnall
Parent Educator