Starting A Parent's Group
by Vicki Lansky
A parent's group can be informal or structured -- it can even be formed along the lines of a babysitting co-op. Your school system, adult education center, or local church may have a parent's group that you could contact for more information.
- Formal course structures are available from American Guidance Services in Circle Pines, MN (612) 786-4343. Ask for information on their STEP program for parents. This is pricey and is for someone wanting to start the program as an ongoing project.
- A book that is a good resource is "Parent Education: A Guide to Family Enrichment Classes" published by Discipleship Resources in Nashville, TN (615) 340-7068.
- "Parentmaking" is a handbook for teaching parent classes about babies and toddlers. Contact B. Rothenberg at Banster Press, P.O. Box 7326, Menlo Park, CA 94025.
You shouldn't have to reinvent the wheel when starting a new parenting group. The library can direct you to materials and groups. However, if your research time is limited, check around the community for information from a local childbirth education network such as ASPO-Lamaze, CEA, or your local hospital.
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Last modified: Oct 24, 1995