August Classes and Programs at Parents Place Marin

Parents Place in San Rafael has been a valuable resource for countless Marin County parents and families. This summer, they offer a wide variety of programs, from childbirth education to classes for parents and children. Here are a few of the programs they offer in August, including a webinar on managing aggressive behaviors in young children.

Positive and Effective Discipline: A Crash Course (3–5 years)

Starting with a basic understanding of developmental norms for 3- to 5-year-olds, we will break down the components of discipline—communication, listening, modeling, consequences, and more--to learn about improving limit-setting, encouraging responsibility, and fostering communication. With Bonnie Romanow, childhood development specialist. Monday, August 4, 6:30–8:30 pm. $40. Register here.

JAMaROO Music Time, plus bonus free play! (9 months–4 years)

JAMaROO Music Time is a fun-packed, 40-minute class that combines music, creative movement, and storytelling. Children will sing, play simple instruments, read stories, balance bean bags, and dance with streamers to a variety of music from around the world. Class themes are related to nature and the outside world.Tuesdays, August 5–19, 10–10:40 am. $39 per child; $22.50 for each additional sibling, for three-week series. Parental supervision is required. Register here.

Bye-Bye Diapers (1.5–4 years)

Like many lessons in life, learning to use the toilet is not one that we can really teach children. However, there are ways that we can help them teach themselves. This workshop includes information that helps you understand how to create an environment and an attitude that will guide and promote your child's progress. You will learn how consistency with a routine can help your child feel more in control and gain independence. With Susan Byrd, LCSW. Tuesday, August 5, 6:30–8:30 pm. $40. Register here.

Infant Gourmet 101: Making Fresh, Easy, and Tasty Food for Your Little One (0–12 months)

Moms and dads, looking for ways to avoid battles over meals as your little ones grow up? Here's a great way to introduce them to fresh, healthful-and, yes, tasty!-foods that will set them on a course for good nutrition for the rest of their lives. You will acquire some wonderful recipes and treats to take home as well. With Cristina Serafyn, expert blender and co-owner of Baby Bites. Monday, August 11, 10:30 am–noon. $40. Register here.

Infant Sleep Solutions (birth–12 months)

Learn some great techniques to help your little one—and you!—sleep. We will discuss baby sleep needs and the best ways to help young ones learn good sleep habits. We will cover the importance of a baby schedule, challenges to baby sleep habits (developmental milestones), new SIDS research and guidelines, pros and cons of various sleep methods (Ferber, CIO, low/no-cry methods), infant/child sleep products, and choices: family bed, crib, and room sharing. Pre-crawling babies welcome. With infant sleep expert Sarah Middelton, MA, CD, PCD. Friday, August 22, 10 am–noon. $40. Register here.

Infant and Child CPR  (for expectant parents, parents, grandparents, and caregivers of children up to onset of puberty)

Learn to recognize an infant or child in distress, rescue measures for choking, CPR techniques, and infant sleep safety. Includes hands-on practice with mannequins. One-year certification provided. Pre-crawling babies welcome. Please come 10 minutes early! With Shanda Manion, CPR instructor certified by the American Heart Association in basic life support. Thursday, August 28, 6:30–8:30 pm. $45. Register here.

Webinar: Managing Aggressive Behaviors in Young Children

Young children are impulsive by nature, which presents unique challenges for parents and caregivers. Learn how to prevent, manage, and respond to aggressive behaviors including biting, hitting, and grabbing toys, among others. We will focus on teaching children appropriate strategies for expressing strong emotion and moderating impulsive reactions. With Heidi Emberling, MA. Thursday, August 28, noon–1 pm. $10. Register here.