How do we learn to be parents? Unlike most professions, which often require tests, training and years of study, parenting is the kind of job that most of us learn by doing. There are no internships or opportunities for "student parenting." Although we might get advice from friends and relatives, we don't have a 24-hour hotline to call for troubleshooting. Most of us also rarely get the opportunity to take a class on how to become better parents.

To help moms and dads meet the challenges of raising a family, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is offering a free parenting seminar next month.

"So many issues face families in our time," Dr. Ron Hardy, a Spokane obstetrician and one of the event organizers, said in a press release. "This seminar will present practical tools to help parents build positive connections with their children."

The seminar will feature local therapists, physicians and a local Chartered Life underwriter and financial consultant. These experts will focus on six topics: principles of discipline; nurturing children; talking to your teen; family finances; behavioral health; and blended families.

Although faith-based, the church’s parenting seminar is open to everyone, regardless of belief or background, organizers said. The event is designed to offer parents practical advice on how to nurture children so they can grow up to become responsible adults.

 

The seminar will take place on Saturday, April 17, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Spokane North Stake Center, 401 W. Regina Ave. For more information, check out www.parentingseminar.org

Parents: Whom do you turn to for parenting advice?