Why take a parenting class
Parents and caregivers are the first to have influence on a child’s development and future academic success. To ensure the success of families across Michigan and to support children’s school readiness, MSU Extension has invested in research- and evidence-based programming for the parents, caregivers and early childhood educators who have the first opportunity to enhance children’s skills and become their best resources and advocates.
This programming supports families while helping parents and caregivers increase early childhood science, math and preliteracy skills, as well as enhancing the social and emotional wellness of children and youth. By increasing parents’ and caregivers’ knowledge of child and youth development, MSU Extension is able to help caring adults build a positive foundation for learning and lifelong success.
Our classes are designed for busy people. As such, MSU Extension offers a wide variety of programs to fit your schedule and interests—from quick 30-minute lunchtime info sessions to in-depth, multi-day series that explore key topics more deeply.
- New classes added every month! Click here to see what's coming next!
- Don't see the class you want? Send us an email and we'll let you know when it will be open for registration.
- Want more information about child and family development? Click here.
Guiding Principles for Highly Successful Parenting
Are you wondering how to gain greater cooperation from your children? Struggling with chores or routines? Not sure how to handle discipline issues? Join us for this five-week parenting education series for parents with children of all ages will explore developing routines, emotional control, rules, and relationships, and being a calm, assertive parent. Certificates of attendance are available. This class is eligible for MIRegistry Credit!
Class Dates: Wednesdays, August 12, 19, 26, September 2, 9
Classes meet from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Register at https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/guiding-principles-for-highly-successful-parenting-webinar-series-aug-sept-2026
Extension Extras for Parents
These free online parenting workshops will provide guidance for parents of children as they navigate the challenges, concerns, and joys of parenting. Participants may register for as few or as many workshops as they wish. The workshops are on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. as follows:
Class dates:
- August 4 - What Children Need to Know to Start School
- August 11 - Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder and Neurodiversity
- August 18 - Mealtime Minefields: From Picky Eating to Food Aversions
- August 25 - Young at Art: Art Experiences for Young Children
Classes meet from 7:30 - 9 p.m.
Extension Extras for Professionals: Early Childhood Professional Development Classes
These free online workshops provide professional development training hours for early childhood professionals. These classes are eligible for MIRegistry Credit! (See more offerings for professionals at the end of the note)
Title: The ABCs of Early Literacy
- Class Date: August 20, 2026
- Class Time: 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Register at https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/online-early-childhood-professional-abc-early-literacy-8-20-26
Title: Young at Art--Art Experience for Young Children
- Class Date: Friday, July 24, 2026
- Class Time: 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
- Register at https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/online-early-childhood-professional-young-at-art-8-28-26