Should Parenting Classes Be Mandatory?
Every parent has the best intentions for their children. Parenting is a serious responsibility that may feel intimidating for expecting families. In certain situations, parenting classes may be recommended or even required by a licensed family therapist or a court document, particularly when a family dynamic has changed in a divorce or custody case. When considering the best parenting practices for their children, some parents choose to educate themselves further to improve child behavior, health and discipline.
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Preparing for a Child
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Parents may not know what to expect when a baby arrives, and a parenting class can help answer any questions that might arise. Childbirth classes, available through a local hospitals, community health offices or even DVDs, teach prenatal nutrition, pain management during labor and how to make the labor more comfortable, according to the website Kids Health. Parents have many choices in childbirth classes, including the Lamaze and Bradley methods, which encourage natural labor and childbirth. Childbirth classes can give parents an idea of what to expect, and peace of mind as they await the arrival of their little one.
Teen Parents
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An unexpected pregnancy can upend a teenager's life, interfering with potential college plans and causing overwhelming changes to a young person's life and body. A baby is a responsibility that many young people are unprepared for, which is why a parenting class may be a good time investment for expecting teens. Some classes include information on prenatal health and nutrition, child nurturing and care, as well as car seat safety, according to the Turlock Journal. Public high schools may offer parenting classes to teenage students, as well as free child care for their little ones.
Department of Human Services
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The Department of Human Services in each state offers free parenting classes focusing on building positive relationships between parents and children, according to the website Phila.gov. Other services include family counseling, encouraging family and school communication, home visits and highlighting the special needs of fathers. The Department of Human Services seeks to prevent child abuse, neglect and violence by boosting the self-esteem of participants and encouraging positive social interactions.
Divorce
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Divorce can cause feelings of anger and resentment in parents and their children. A family therapist or a lawyer might recommend taking parenting classes, so that former spouses can learn to co-parent their children. Creating a healthy home for a child after divorce may include parenting classes required by the legal system. While a divorce may not be fair or mutually desired, it is important for parents to learn to control their strong emotions, according to the AJ Novak Group website OnlineParentClass.com. Children need their parents to set a positive example during this difficult time, and showing good emotional self-control helps children recognize and express their own emotions.
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