Parenting support meetings continue in Havre

The public is invited to monthly parent-directed discussions about parenting at the Northern Montana Child Development Center.

Darlene Sellers and Curtis Smeby, professors of education at Montana State University-Northern, are hosting the meetings.

Smeby said he and Sellers began hosting the meetings about a year ago to give parents and caregivers a forum to discuss the joys and some solutions to the challenges of parenthood, based on personal experience and research.

“I think it’s probably harder to raise children than ever in today’s society,” said Smeby, citing the myriad of competing demands parents face.

He said the more resources those caring for children have at their disposal, the better it is for them.

Topics discussed have included: jealousy, getting children to go to bed at a set time and the role of the parent in providing encouragement and attention.

There will be refreshments and those in attendance will be eligible to enter a drawing for an unspecified door prize.

Childcare will be provided.

The next meeting will be held in the parent center at the Northern Montana Child Development Center at 1360 Lincoln Ave. on Thursday, Dec.10, at 6:30 p.m. Subsequent meetings will held on the second Thursday of each month thereafter.