Raising Children * Working with Youth

These free online classes are for parents, grandparents and any adult who works with--or cares for --children.

Why take a parenting class

Family group hug

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. 

Upcoming July classes - TBD

Online Extension Extras for Parents: Essential Skills for Learning and Life

June 30, 2026, 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Online

Extension Extras For Parents is a collection of free online weekly parenting workshops that provide guidance for parents as they navigate the challenges, joys, and concerns of parenting.

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: Thursdays, July 9, 16, 23, 30, August 6

Classes meet from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Register at https://msu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bOUJg8zZGkm98AC

The Parent Talk System

Do you feel like the children in your care aren’t listening to you? Do you find yourself constantly repeating yourself trying to gain compliance? This 6-week series is for parents and caregivers of children of all ages and is designed to improve communication and provide practical verbal strategies for raising confident, caring, responsible children.  Topics include eliminating unwanted behavior, setting limits, teaching about consequences, giving effective feedback, promoting independence, and developing character. Certificates of attendance are available. This class is eligible for MIRegistry Credit!

Class dates: Mondays, June 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27, August 3

Classes meet from 7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Registration: https://msu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_1XLbxFQ7NqMF1GK

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:

  • July 7: Inquiring Minds Want to Know: Science for Children
  • July 14: Positive Discipline
  • July 21: How Children Develop 
  • July 28: Together We Can: Co-Parenting

Classes meet from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Registration: https://msu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fEW2PDu5THq5OmQ0-EB7LQ

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: Purpose of Play

Title: Mindfulness for Children