How often has it been said that children are not born with an instruction manual?  A large number of parents are unsure which behaviors are developmentally appropriate for which age and stage.  Many behaviors identified as “problem” are actually “normal” at different ages. Other behaviors, while still considered “normal” at that age may be exhibited to an extreme degree depending on the child’s personality or environment.  By equipping parents with the tools to recognize age appropriate behaviors, parental expectations and strategies will match the child’s developmental levels. 

Ages and Stages is a workshop designed to increase parental awareness of behaviors that are typical for infants, children and adolescents during various stages of development.  The methodology of this workshop is that parents that are more knowledgeable will be better prepared.  Increased parental knowledge will decrease the chances of unrealistic expectations that can lead to inappropriate disciplinary tactics and decreased self-esteem for parents and youth.  Poor parent – child relationships and even child abuse and neglect can result when parents expect too much or too little from their child.

Basic knowledge of child development is the foundation for positive proactive parenting and the development of a healthy relationship between parents and youth.  It also helps to decrease parental stress by helping parents recognize that certain behaviors, while they may pose a parental challenge are actually developmentally appropriate.  Conversely, it helps parents recognize that while certain behaviors are “normal” for a certain stage of development; this fact does not excuse bad behavior.  Instead, parents will know what behaviors may occur and why they occur which will help them to establish an appropriate disciplinary plan.