Let’s be real for a second. Parenthood is tough. Of course, it’s incredibly rewarding, but there are moments that nearly break you. It’s hard when you’re in the newborn stage trying to handle another night without sleep, and it’s hard when your 3-year-old realizes they actually don’t have to listen to you. The elementary age is hard, and the teenage years are hard. It’s all so difficult, and it can feel impossible to know how to handle it all. The best thing you can do is feel prepared for the moments when those challenges do arise. As a Missoula birth and family photographer, I spend a lot of time connecting with families and helping them find the best resources in the area. Here are two parenting classes in Missoula I always recommend!
455 E Main Street, Missoula, Montana 59802
Families First is a fantastic center that strives to make sure you have the keys you need through every stage of life. I love this organization because they’re not just here to teach you different coping mechanisms, but they’re also here to help you find your community. Through their parenting classes, you are going to be connected with other Missoula parents who understand your experience!
Their classes are split into different topics, so you can find the one that matches you. Their primary goal will be to use research-based techniques to improve your parenting. You can sign up for classes like Circle of Security, where you will learn how to build healthy parent/child relationships that meet your child’s emotional needs. Men are going to love their Dads & Dialogues course, where they can learn how to communicate with their kids. In addition, this center offers Family Mediation classes, Family Education workshops, and classes on dealing with troubled teens.
1644 S 8th St W, Missoula, Montana 59801
Since 1981, The Parenting Place has been doing some serious good around Missoula. This community-based, non-profit group is dedicated to fostering healthy relationships around you and your child. They give you several options for their Missoula parenting classes. If you are on the lookout for ways you can connect with your child, you are going to love the Nurturing Parent Program. With these sessions, you are going to be in a non-judgmental environment where you will learn how you can support your little one. If your family is working through hard times, you can sign up for their half-day Trauma 101 session, where you will learn how to avoid retraumatization. They also have connect groups where you can get support and advice from other parents in similar situations.
If you have been considering signing up for parenting classes in Missoula, you might just love these centers! Check out their schedule soon so you can find the right one.
Are you looking for more ways to make these years a little more memorable? Then let’s chat! I am a Missoula family photographer, and I adore working with families to press pause on these magnificent years. If you have been considering booking your session, I would love to have a conversation so you can decide if my style matches yours. Send me a message today to find out more!