Why You Should Take Parenting Classes

Parenting classes can help parents learn valuable information about every stage in their child’s development. 

• 2 min read
• child development
• education

Parenting classes have a lot to offer at every stage of a child’s development. When the first baby is on the way, most people don’t even think twice about enrolling in some basic prenatal classes. But after these initial teachings, many tend to give up on classroom learning, opting for a trial-by-fire experience instead.  

Why don’t all parents take parenting classes? 

There are many reasons why moms and dads forego parenting classes. Some of the most common include:

• The misperception that parenting classes are only for clueless or inexperienced parents. 
• The misperception that parenting classes are only for parents who have done something “wrong” or “failed.” 
• The parent just simply didn’t know that parenting classes exist.

Why you should take a parenting class 

Parenting classes tackle nearly every stage of child development and topic imaginable, from potty training and discipline to online safety and special health challenges. Parenting classes aren’t just for biological parents either. They are for stepparents, adoptive parents, older parents, first-time parents, grandparents, and many more. 

Parenting classes are just as beneficial for people in co-parenting relationships or other shared parenting situations. No matter what custody circumstance you are dealing with, a parenting class can help you nurture your child appropriately for their age and deal with specific situations or issues that might arise throughout their lifetime.  

What parenting classes typically entail 

As previously mentioned, parenting classes help give parents an idea of what to expect at each stage of their child’s development. You’ll get an understanding of the role you need to play in various situations, learn new strategies for dealing with setbacks and challenges, gain valuable resources, and most importantly, learn from other parents like you. 

Parenting classes give you the opportunity to learn about the latest research. New information about child development, health and wellness, education, discipline, and more is coming out every day. Parenting classes can help you make sense of the most important topics that will impact your children and assist you in making informed decisions for your family.  

Parenting classes also allow you to bond with other like-minded parents who are facing the same challenges as you. You can discuss ideas and approaches that have worked, or not worked, and gain a valuable new perspective on your parenting style and your relationship with your children. 

Find a free parenting class 

Parenting classes are offered at physical locations and online. Free parenting classes are provided by all kinds of organizations, from hospitals and doctor’s offices to social service agencies and non-profit organizations, like The Center for Parenting Education or your local United Way agency.