If you're a nervous new mom, or if you're struggling with a testy toddler or teenager, parenting classes may be able to help you gain self-confidence and give you the skills that you need to become a better parent. From learning how to bathe a baby to learning how to ease up and let go of your soon-to-be adult child, attending parenting classes can benefit both you and your kids.

Parenting classes equip parents with the information and skills that they need to become effective parents. From learning new techniques to studying early childhood development, parenting classes teach parents principles and strategies for raising healthy children. Many parenting classes provide an opportunity for students to ask questions and share concerns about specific problems that they are having and the instructors will then provide insight and suggestions for how to best deal with the situation. Parenting classes also provide an opportunity for parents who are struggling to get help and assistance.

Parenting classes come in many varieties. Some classes are held for large groups and others for individual sets of parents. Parenting classes can be geared towards a specific topic, like disciplining your two year old, to a more general topic like the importance of early education. There are parenting classes specifically designed for certain types of parents including teenage parents, single parents, Christian parents, and parents of multiples. While most parenting classes are optional, some, like classes for parents who are getting divorced, are court-mandated (See Resources). Parenting classes can be live, self study, presented by teleconference or internet based.

Parenting classes can run for one session or run over the course of several months depending on the course material and the instructor. Some parenting classes will meet on Monday nights for 8 weeks for example, while others will meet all day one Saturday. Parenting classes that are offered on-line can be taken at your convenience (See Resources).

If your child has special needs, you may find a parenting class especially helpful. Many specialized parenting classes will also serve as a support group to parents, so chances are if you enroll, you'll get to meet other parents who are sharing your struggles. Parenting classes can also be helpful for parents who are dealing a child that has embraced a lifestyle that is unfamiliar to the parents. Parents who learn that they have a teen addicted to drugs, for example, may find it very beneficial to enroll in a parenting class that will educate them on teen drug use, the signs of enabling and treatment options.

A huge benefit of enrolling in parenting classes is that you'll often gain insight into what to expect during each stage of childhood development. Not only will this help you gauge if your child is developing on track, you'll also be equipped and able to identify little problems and head them off before they turn into big ones.