Being a parent isn't always easy. It can be challenging and exhausting. Most parents don't think hitting children is right, yet in times of stress, anger or frustration find themselves lashing out.

Parenting classes provide solid parenting solution

The following techniques work with any child, regardless of temperament, background, culture or tradition. They build on a child's natural wish to please you, and will ensure a happier child and less stressed parents.

Parenting classes provide techniques for babies

Babies behave as they do to get their needs met. When they cry or don't sleep, they're not doing this to be 'naughty' or to wind you up.

• 'baby-proof' your home so your baby can enjoy challenges without battles
• use distraction with older babies.

By ensuring your house is a baby friend environment, you reduce your anxiety levels.  to distract them from irritating behavior you could point out something happening out of the window, when they head for the video, or swap your keys for a toy if they try to grab them.

Parenting classes provide techniques for toddlers

Most naughty behavior in toddlers is part of normal development. All toddlers test limits, try to be independent, get into everything, get mad and have tantrums.

• praise good behavior that you want to encourage
• if you ignore behavior you don't like, it is less likely to be repeated
• keep 'No's' to a minimum
• acknowledge your child's feelings - 'I know you're cross'
• remain calm and reasonable yourself.

Parenting classes provide techniques school-age children

Being 'cheeky' or disobedient may show a natural desire in your child to assert independence and show he has a mind of his own.

• listen to your child about their life; the worries may worsen behavior
• keep criticisms to a minimum - only criticize behavior, not your child
• try the 'broken record' - calmly repeating what you expect your child to do.

Parenting classes provide techniques for teenagers

It is normal for young people to challenge you more - their friends start to exert a greater influence and they just can't go along with everything parents want.

• don't take bad behavior personally
• keep communicating
• try not to use threats or orders
• talk and negotiate solutions when there is a disagreement.

Source: http://topics.nytimes.com