Iowa State University’s Science of Parenting Team Hosts Online Workshops to Address Parents’ Need for Support and Information

Research carried out by Zero to Three in 2016 highlighted that parents are in search of information and support during their parenting journey. The study showed that 80% of parents were actively trying to improve their parenting skills, with 69% expressing a desire to learn more about different parenting strategies. However, nearly half of the parents felt they did not have adequate support during stressful times.

To address this need, the Science of Parenting team at Iowa State University has organized a series of online workshops for parents. These workshops will provide research-based information that can be adapted to fit each family’s unique circumstances. The upcoming workshops in May will cover topics such as understanding research and reality, temperament, children’s ages and parenting stages, and positive discipline.

The first workshop, titled “Understanding Research and Reality,” will take place on Tuesday, May 7, at either 12-1 p.m. or 8-9 p.m. This session will focus on applying research findings to everyday parenting situations and is approved for foster parent credit hours.

The second workshop, “Understanding Temperament,” is scheduled for Tuesday, May 14, at the same time slots as the first workshop. This workshop will explore the concept of temperament and how to navigate the unique traits of each individual child.

“Children’s Ages and Parenting Stages” is the third workshop set for Tuesday, May 21, which offers insights into child development for parents and caregivers alike. This session is also approved for foster parent credit hours.

Finally, “Positive Discipline” is the fourth workshop scheduled for Tuesday, May 28