Better parenting is only six weeks away.

Community Coordinated Childcare (4-C) is offering a six-week parent education class beginning in October.

Esther Anderson, 4-C’s parent education director said a different topic is covered each session, including child development, stress management and communication.

“I find the subject that most parents are really surprised at is effective communication,” Anderson said. “Every class, people are amazed at how it helps clarify what they want from their child.”

Using what she describes as positive phrasing, parents are encouraged to tell their children what they want them to do rather than just saying what they do not want them to do.

She described the sessions as relaxed and open with activities for any type of learner.

“We do a lot of experiential activities, we have lectures,” Anderson said. “We have time for discussion. We feel it’s very important for parents to talk to other parents.”

She said the groups are often diverse. Members range from couples to single parents and even grandparents raising children a second time around. She sees herself as a facilitator, guiding groups of people as they learn from each other’s experiences.

“We don’t consider ourselves the experts,” she said. “We really think parents are the experts on their own children.”

Classes are offered at least two or three times a year with around 20 parents per group, Anderson said. While they target parents of children up to five years old, parents of children up to age 11 are welcome.

Maylan Dunn-Kenney, associate professor of early childhood education, said there is a demand for classes such as the ones offered by 4-C.

“Parents are facing so many challenges today and often don’t have extended family nearby or other sources of support,” wrote Dunn-Kenny. “They want the classes.”

Anderson struck a similar note when she said, “Parenting is the one thing in life people are least prepared for.”

She added of the class, “It’s a great way to encourage yourself as a parent.”

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