For those invested in the upbringing and education of children, Michigan State University Extension offers a comprehensive array of free online classes aimed at parents, caregivers, and early childhood professionals. Dive into the offerings available this July and discover how these resources can assist in your parenting journey.
To connect with a local expert or to access more resources, please visit the Child and Family Development team.
Stay updated and find additional resources by following the MI Stronger Family – MSU Extension Facebook page.
Extension Extra’s Parenting Hour
Join these complimentary online workshops to navigate the complexities of parenting with expert guidance. Sessions are held on Tuesday evenings from 8:00 to 9:30 PM ET. Register for any or all of the following sessions:
- 7/1/2025: Making Food Fun for the Picky Eater
- 7/8/2025: Parenting and Family Relationships When a Family Member has a Disability
- 7/15/2025: Inquiring Minds Want to Know: Science for Young Children
- 7/22/2025: Learning to Talk: Development of Speech-Language Skills
- 7/29/2025: Positive Discipline
Register here: Registration Link
Kinship Caregiver Classes
Specifically designed for relatives caring for children, these classes offer valuable insights and strategies.
Evening Workshop:
7/9/2025: Setting the Stage: Promoting Social-Emotional Health in Young Children
Building Strong Adolescents
Explore how to support adolescents in developing independence while fostering positive relationships. This five-week series targets caregivers of children aged 9-16 and offers attendance certificates.
Parenting Series
Improve communication and learn practical strategies in this six-week series aimed at parents and caregivers. Topics cover behavior management, independence, and character development. Participants earn MIRegistry Credit and attendance certificates.
Guiding Principles for Highly Successful Parenting
Enhance cooperation and manage routines with this five-week series designed for parents of children of all ages. Participants explore emotional control and assertive parenting while earning MIRegistry Credits and attendance certificates.
Early Childhood Professional Development Classes
Free online classes offering professional development hours for early childhood professionals, eligible for MIRegistry Credit.
Title: The Importance of Outdoor Play
Title: Young at Art
In-Person Workshop: Including All of Us
This intensive training addresses diversity, equity, and inclusion in early childhood education. Offered in a six-hour or two three-hour sessions, the program is MiRegistry approved, and completion certificates are provided. Contact Vivian Washington at washi138@msu.edu to schedule.
Online Self-Paced Classes
These flexible classes allow participants to learn at their own pace.
Positive Discipline: Learn to guide young children in self-control and citizenship through tailored workshops. Available tracks for caregivers and professionals, with MiRegistry Credit and attendance certificates provided.
Infant Safety
In collaboration with the Livingston County Child Abuse Prevention Council, this self-directed course covers safe sleep, handling crying, and safe transport for infants. Completion and MIRegistry credit certificates are available.
MI Parenting Resource
This online program supports caregivers in building stronger bonds with their children and enhancing child behaviors positively.
Additional Resources
In collaboration with other state Cooperative Extensions, MSU Extension offers further resources and classes. Explore Fit and Healthy Kids at Fit and Healthy Kids.
Read More Here
