Frequently Asked Questions About Parenting Classes

Following are some question frequently asked about parenting classes along with answers. Though the answers may not apply to all parenting classes around the globe it does cover the basics of what parenting classes usually have and do:

Q. Who attends parent-infant and parent-toddler classes?
A. No particular group or "kind" of parent attends. One of the nicest aspects of the classes is that people from varied backgrounds come together to share ideas and exchange information under the supervision of a well qualified instructor.

Q. I am pregnant and would like to learn more about infants before the baby is born. Can expectant parents attend the infant classes?
A. Expectant parents are welcome and encouraged to attend the infant classes. Many expectant parents today have had little opportunity to get first hand experience with babies because of today's smaller families. They really enjoy and benefit from contact with infants and other parents before their own baby is born

Q. Do only first-time parents attend these classes?
A. Parents who have older children frequently attend classes. There is always something new to learn about parenthood. Some of the parents attending the classes have three or four children, although many are indeed first-time parents.

Q. I have an 18-month-old daughter. What would we do in the one-to two-year-old class?
A. All the classes have a somewhat similar format. The first hour the class focuses more directly on the child. Activities are set up for children and parents to do together. The activities are ones that can easily be repeated and carried on at home.

The activities in a particular toddler class might include songs, dances, exercise, block building and very simple art activities like scribbles with felt markers. The children are encouraged to participate in their own way. The classes are informal and pressure to have the children "perform" is avoided. Even children who choose not to participate directly may enjoy watching or doing the activity later at home.

The second hour the aide watches the children in the same room while the mothers have a discussion on topics of interest to that particular group. The classes discuss such topics as child growth and development, first aid, nutrition, communication and positive discipline. Speakers of special interest frequently talk to the classes.

The classes are exciting and stimulating for both children and parents. The participants spend their time together learning, sharing, doing and caring.

Q. I can understand how a one-and-a-half-year-old or 2-year-old child might get something out of a class, but what about a three-old infant learn?
A. From birth on, the human infant is learning. In the infant classes, there are activities that stimulate mental and physical growth. The first year is an important foundation for the rest of life. In those first twelve months an infant goes from a very helpless being to a person who understands a good deal of language, is intensely curious, and is walking or beginning to walk. A year-old child can even solve simple problems like how to get around an obstacle on the floor or uncover something covered by a cloth. By one year of age, children are divinely curious and creative tiny people, curiosity and creativity are two important functions of learning.

In addition, the infant classes help parents feel comfortable and confident in their role as parents. Like the toddler classes, the infant classes have a discussion period for parents. However, in the infant class the infants stay right with their parents during the discussion. The infants sleep, enjoy toys, or explore people close by while the parents talk together.

Q. I know my child better than anyone else. How can the Instructors tell me what is best for my child?
A. The parent-infant and parent-toddler classes are built on the concept that the parent is the child's first and most important teacher. The instructors provide resources and information to assist parents in their journey through parenthood. Other class members suggest new ideas and new alternatives. But basically, parents are encouraged to use their own resources, their own family values, and their own style in raising their own very special child.

Q. I'm new in town and I would like to meet other people who have young children. Would this be a good opportunity to meet people?
A. The parent-infant and parent-toddler classes are great places to meet other parents with young children. People who have been in classes together are encouraged to set up additional activities of their own. Playgroups and babysitting co-ops have been formed by people who first met in a parenting class. The support, help and resources that class members give each other are very important to the success of the class.