Being a parent can be overwhelming. Whether you
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just brought your newborn home from the hospital or you’re experiencing being a parent of a teenager for the first time, you may feel like you need some help or support. You are not alone. There are plenty of support groups and programs aimed to help parents. You just need to find the one that addresses the help you need.
Ask your pediatrician. Your pediatrician is a great resource and will be understanding of any problems or issues you’re having as a parent. Be sure to talk with him and ask questions. Tell your pediatrician what help you need and ask his opinion. Also, ask if he has information on any organizations or support groups that would be helpful.
Call your local hospital. Hospitals offer a variety of services beyond physical healthcare. Many hospitals sponsor or host support groups and educational seminars that address specific problems or topics. Be sure to call and find out whether your local hospital offers something that would be beneficial to you. If you live near a children’s hospital, there will certainly be a wide range of programs that may suit your needs.
Visit the public library. At the library you’ll be able to find a variety of books and magazines on parenting and children that may be useful to you.
Check with your school districts: Many school districts offer early childhood parenting programs such as Parents as Teachers and parenting courses such as Love and Logic.
Check with your local church: Church-sponsored preschools are very popular as are church-sponsored parenting groups. Usually, you do not have to belong to the church to make use of these outreach programs. You may be able to find a support group and preschool program all at the same time.
Do some research online: If you are looking for a group that addresses specific needs, be sure to do some research online. Perhaps you want to find a group that supports parents who adopted children from a specific country. There are support groups that people have formed on their own to address the specific problems they were having with parenting. These groups may be helpful to you but will be harder to find.
Ask other parents and teachers: Friends and associates are a great network because they have either had the same experience or know someone else who has. Don’t be afraid to ask around.
Parenting is the hardest job you will ever have. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Phyllis Edson is a freelance writer who offers a variety of services including copy writing, web writing, blogs and more. Visit her website at www.phyllisedson.com.
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