Strengthening Your Parent Tool Kit: The Power of Parenting Education Classes 

Strengthening Your Parent Tool Kit: The Power of parenting education Classes 

By Michelle Moreland

Parenthood is a journey laden with challenges and triumphs, where each day brings new opportunities for growth and learning. Although parenthood has been around since the beginning of time, children don’t come with instruction manuals–and even if they did, there would be as many manuals as there are children. Each child is unique. 

While the love we have for our children is unwavering, the tools and techniques required to navigate the complexities of parenthood are often learned through experience-or the wisdom of those who have gone before us–and often learned ‘the hard way’.   In the midst of our hectic family life, there exists an often overlooked resource: parenting education classes or workshops. 

Parenting education classes may serve as a wealth of knowledge and support, offering invaluable insights and strategies to enhance one’s parenting toolkit. These classes cover a wide array of topics, ranging from effective communication and discipline techniques to understanding child development and fostering emotional intelligence.  The ultimate goal of parenting educators is to help make the lives of parents and families in our communities just a little easier and less stressful. Parents have shared that even small adjustments in parenting one’s children can provide huge benefits.  

One of the most significant benefits of parenting education classes is the opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. By delving into topics such as positive discipline and active listening, parents gain a deeper understanding of their own parenting style and its impact on their children.  Another benefit of taking a parenting class is the support of other parents.  Bonds are formed through shared experience and sometimes even life long friendships.

Parenting education classes provide a supportive community where parents can connect with others facing similar challenges. The sense of shared experiences fosters empathy and understanding and is a safe space to learn and share. This sense of community can be especially valuable for new parents who may feel isolated or overwhelmed by the responsibilities of parenthood. Parenting education classes offer evidence-based practices and current research in child development.  Parents can discover their own parenting style and make informed decisions that align with their values and goals as caregivers. 

Topics may range from learning about the importance of play, or the effects of screen time parenting education classes empower parents to make choices that support the well-being of their children.  Many classes are offered with little or no cost (funded by grants), and may include free child care (or child care vouchers), and oftentimes even provide a free family meal.  

In conclusion, parenting education classes are a powerful resource for parents seeking to enhance their parenting skills and deepen their connection with their children. By offering a blend of practical strategies, emotional support, and evidence-based knowledge, these classes provide parents with the tools they need to navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood with confidence and resilience. 

Curious to learn more about available class offerings?  Linn Benton Community College Parenting Education offers a variety of classes each term.  Some classes are taken with your child (Live & Learn) and some classes are just for adult caregivers.  View our Schedule of Classes or check out the Parenting Success Network’s Event Calendar.