LDS offers parenting seminar

In many professions, people often must obtain a license, take tests and attend classes in order to continue working in their field.

These same prerequisites, however, aren’t required for one of the most common “jobs” with the highest degree of responsibility: Raising kids.

That’s why members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has organized a free, all-day seminar this weekend designed to help adults become better parents.

“The goal is to better our communities by strengthening families,” said Peter Martin, one of the seminar’s coordinators. “As parents, we’re always trying to improve our skills, but unlike most jobs, there are no requirements or continuing education for us.”

Sponsored by the North Stake of the LDS church in Spokane, the event on Saturday features speakers who are considered experts in their fields. Workshop topics include: behavioral health, money management, discipline, media influences, the father-daughter relationship and the single-parent family.

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.

Workshop facilitators won’t provide specific do’s and don’t’s for raising kids, but they will emphasize principles that are grounded in the Christian faith.

“This parenting seminar is for everyone with no strings attached,” Martin said. “We hope that it can be helpful to all parents and families regardless of their faith or absence of faith.”

The seminar will take place on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 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