ALBANY COUNTY — Cornell Cooperative Extension is offering free courses on parenting through videoconferencing.

 Advanced registration is required with Maria at , or by text at 518-598-9937. If the use of cellphone data is a concern, participants may also call into the program to participate.

 Three programs are offered, each based on a child’s age:

— The Magic Years for parents of children from infancy to age 4, on Thursdays, July 16, 23, 30, August 6, from 8:30 to 9:30 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. This program will also include resources and information relevant to the potential impact of COVID-19 on parenting and children;

— The Middle Years for parents of children ages 5 to 10, on Wednesdays, July 15, 22, 29, Aug. 5, 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 include managing parent and child stress, understanding parenting styles, raising responsible children, improving family communication and strengthening family relationships. This program will also include helpful family activities, and activities for parents/caregivers to share with their youth; and

— The Tween/Teen Years for parents of youth ages 11 to 18, on Saturdays, July 11, 18, 25, and Aug. 1 at 10 a.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. This program will also include helpful family activities, and activities for parents/caregivers to share with their youth.