Discover the wide array of free online courses offered by MSU Extension for parents, caregivers, and early childhood professionals. Enhance your skills and knowledge this January with these valuable resources.
For more details, contact your local Extension office or find a Child and Family Development team member near you.
Stay updated by following their Facebook page at MI Stronger Family – MSU Extension.
Extension Extra’s Parenting Hour
Join these free evening workshops providing valuable insights for parents navigating the complexities of child-rearing. You can join as many workshops as you wish on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 to 9:00 PM ET:
- February 3: What Children Need to Know to Start School
- February 10: Back to the Basics: Skills in Infant and Toddler Care
- February 17: ABC’s of Early Literacy
- February 24: Thriving Together: Parenting and Family Relationships When a Family Member has a Disability
Class Times: 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Parenting Series
Guiding Principles for Highly Successful Parenting
Gain cooperation from your children and tackle discipline issues in this five-week series. Ideal for parents with children of all ages, it covers routines, emotional control, and more. Certificates of attendance and MIRegistry Credit available.
Building Strong Adolescents
Navigate the teen years with this series for those caring for children aged 9-16. Learn to set limits while fostering independence and strong relationships. Certificates of attendance available.
Early Childhood Professional Development Classes
Earn professional development hours with these free online workshops for early childhood professionals. Eligible for MIRegistry Credit.
Introduction to Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences
Inquiring Minds Want to Know: Science for Young Children
Contact Courtney Aldrich for more information at aldric82@msu.edu.
In-Person Workshop: Including All of Us
This six-hour free program addresses diversity, equity, and inclusion in early childhood, allowing professionals to enhance their skills and environments. Approved for MiRegistry credit. Schedule a session by contacting Courtney Aldrich at aldric82@msu.edu.
Online Self-Paced Classes
Complete these free courses at your own pace.
Positive Discipline
Learn how to foster self-control in young children through thoughtful environments and experiences. Available in both “parent and caregiver” and “professional” tracks, with certificates and professional development hours offered.
Infant Safety
In partnership with the Livingston County Child Abuse Prevention Council, this course covers infant safe sleep, handling crying, and safe transport. Completion certificates and MIRegistry credit available.
MI Parenting Resource
This program supports caregivers in building stronger parent-child relationships and encourages positive behaviors.
Additional Resources
MSU Extension collaborates with other state Cooperative Extensions to offer more resources. Explore “Fit and Healthy Kids” at https://fitandhealthykids.unl.edu/.
Lights and Shadows
Engage in this hands-on session exploring light and shadow play in early education. Part of a multi-state initiative with MIRegistry Credit available. Attend live or watch later.
Date and Time: February 2, 2026, 7:00-8:00 PM CT (8-9 PM ET);
Registration: Register here. Registration closes on Sunday at noon before the webinar!
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