Parent education may cover a wide range of topics. It may be geared to improving skills in parent-child communication, anger management or family bonding. Other approaches focus on building family literacy and encouraging developmentally appropriate recreational activities. Parent education also may address more personal issues that can interfere with the ability to provide optimal parenting. Some parent education programs are specifically structured to address substance abuse and family violence, help family members handle stress and develop coping skills in the face of adversity.

Whatever the content, the most effective parent education is based on a family assessment that identifies the family's strengths and needs and takes place within that family's cultural context.

Group parent education can be an effective tool for reaching greater numbers of parents and conserving resources. Parents often feel less isolated when they see other families grappling with similar issues. In addition, parent education groups or classes can often become the basis for building new support systems for participants.

Click below for additional resources on parenting education strategies.

Parent Education Strategies

Family Management   DARE To Be You   Helping the Noncompliant Child General   Families and Schools Together   Strengthening Families   Families That Care - Guiding Good Choices

Schools / Education   The Incredible Years: Parents and Children's Training Special Populations   Strengthening Multi-Ethnic Families and Communities   Effective Black Parenting   AVANCE