LEWISTON – Advocates for Children is offering three parenting classes in January and February.

“Parenting 101, Good Discipline, Good Kids” will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 15.

Respectful communication between parents and children is the key to good discipline. Parents will learn why bribes, threats and grounding don’t always work. Parents who take the class will learn how to engage cooperation, effectively set rules and expectations, how to problem solve, alternatives to punishment, accept and respect children’s feelings and manage anger.

Registration is required. There is a $5 fee and childcare is provided. The class is recommended for parents with children age 4 to 12.

“Parenting 201, Keeping Peace at Home” will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 22. The class will help parents understand why conflict occurs, how to prevent it and how to reach a peaceful resolution. It will help parents acquire a more peaceful, harmonious life at home.

Registration is required and there is a $5 fee. Childcare is provided. The class is recommended for parents with children ages 4 to 12.

Advocates for Children will offer a “1,2,3,4 Parents!” workshop from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and 12.

The class is a three-week interactive learning experience for parents of young children, ages 1 through 4. It will feature video presentations, discussion, workbook activities and group activities.

Participants will learn the following fundamental skills: the importance of parents’ self-esteem; the value of the child and the job of parenting; the basic developmental stages from ages 1 to 4; parental self-care; methods of bonding; non-violent discipline skills; encouragement skills and prevention techniques (such as childproofing a home).

The registration fee and handbook are free due to a grant from the L/A Children’s Foundation. Childcare will be provided.

To register for any of the classes, call AFC at 783-3990.