Free parenting classes to be held in Bonita Springs

April 22, 2010 - PRLog -- If you’re among the many parents who have ever wished kids came with an instruction manual, help is on the way. The Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida Child Advocacy Program is partnering with YMCA of the Palms to host a series of free parenting classes in Bonita Springs. Classes will meet every Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for eight weeks beginning April 29.

The classes teach ideas and techniques on handling nurturing routines, effective communication skills and managing children’s behavior without spanking or yelling. Free dinner and child care will be provided for attendees. The class will be taught in both English and Spanish.

“We’re excited to bring these parenting classes to families in Southern Lee County,” says Michele King, director of The Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida’s Child Advocacy Program. “They’ve proven popular in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, and we’re thankful that the YMCA agreed to partner with us to host classes in Bonita Springs, so even more parents in our area can benefit from their teachings.”

The parenting classes, funded by the Prendergast Family Endowment Fund, are just one service The Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida and Lee Memorial Health System offer to care for children in the community. It also supports programs to prevent injuries, child abuse and provide general health education to parents, adolescents of baby-sitting age, and young children.

All classes will be held at YMCA of the Palms at 27200 Kent Road in Bonita Springs. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 239-992-9622.

About Lee Memorial Health System
Open since 1916, Lee Memorial Health System is the fifth largest public health system in the United States and the largest community-owned system in Southwest Florida.  With more than 9,300 employees, the System is made up of four acute care hospitals and two specialty hospitals, as well as outpatient centers, walk-in medical centers and primary care physical offices.  An award-winning health care system, it provides regional programs, such as our Trauma Center and Children’s Hospital, which serve our community members from Tampa to Miami.  Visit www.LeeMemorial.org for more information.