LEWISTON – Advocates for Children will offer the following parenting classes during January and February:

“1,2,3,4 Parents!” will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Jan. 6, 13 and 20. The class is an interactive learning experience for parents of young children, ages 1 through 4.

It will feature video presentations, discussion, workbook activities and group activities. The class is $15 and includes a handbook. Registration is required.

Participants will learn the following fundamental skills: the importance of the parent’s 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.

“Parenting 101, Good Discipline, Good Kids” will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 29. Respectful communication between parents and children is the key to good discipline.

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. The fee is $5. 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. Thursday, Feb. 5. 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. The fee is $5. The class is recommended for parents with children age 4 to 12.

“Boot Camp for New Dads” is a community education program for first-time fathers. Taught by fathers, boot camp enables new dads to step up to the challenge of being a dad and feel confident bringing the new baby home.

The class is for men who are expecting a child and want to better prepare themselves for their new parenting role. Boot camp participants benefit from networking and mutual support at the workshop.

New dads are encouraged to attend with their child. The date is Thursday, Feb. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. Registration is free.

All four classes are held at Advocates for Children at the B Street Community Center, 57 Birch St. Suite 204.

To register or for more information, call 783-3990 or e-mail [email protected].