ALBANY COUNTY — In September, Cornell Cooperative Extension will offer, via Zoom, three sets of free training sessions for parents, based on the age of their children.

Advanced registration is required with Maria DeLucia-Evans, resource educator, at , or by text at 518-598-9937.

The programs will include resources and information relevant to the potential impact of COVID-19 on parenting and children and, where relevant, strategies to better manage challenges in the new school year.   

The programs are research-based:

— The Magic Years for parents or caregivers of children up to age 4 will meet on Wednesdays, Sept. 2, 9, 16, and 23, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Topics include strategies on how to manage parent and child stress, understand the stages of child development, and best support these stages. We will discuss how to set up or better manage routines surrounding bedtime, bathing, family meals, and toilet training.

We will also better understand parenting styles, and learn strategies for positive discipline tools that really work. Join us to discuss parenting strategies that are positive, supportive, and provide you with valuable information on best practices for you and your children;

— The Middle Years for parents or caregivers of children between the ages of 5 and 10 will meet on Wednesdays, Sept. 2, 9, 16, and 23, from noon to 1 p.m.

 This program will assist participants, who are experts on their families, in developing a deeper understanding of how their personal and parenting knowledge and behavior affects their children. Topics include managing parent and child stress, understanding parenting styles, raising responsible children, improving family communication and strengthening family relationships;

— The Tween/Teen Years for parents and caregivers of youth between the ages of 11 and 18 will meet on Thursdays, Sept. 3,10, 17, and 24, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

This program will assist participants, who are experts on their families, in developing a deeper understanding of how their personal and parenting knowledge and behavior affects their children. Topics will include, understanding parenting styles and tween and teen development, how to improve family communication, and create a better understanding of tween and teen challenges. We will also discuss discipline strategies, and managing parent and child stress. 

Upon registration, participants receive the Zoom meeting information. If the use of cellphone data is a concern, participants may also call into the program to participate.