Help for People With Bad Parenting Skills

by Erica Loop

People with bad parenting skills can improve. Help is available that can correct poor parenting and help moms and dads understand the best practices when it comes to raising children.


Parenting education classes can strengthen families and even help stop abusive circumstances, according to the U.S. Administration for Children and Families. Counseling centers, parenting organizations and other institutions often offer classes for people who have bad parenting skills. These classes include workshops that teach parents positive discipline techniques, child development, relationship building and proper communication. For example, the Parenting and Relationship Counseling Foundation provides parents with classes that cover general parenting topics, relationship skills, bully prevention, sibling rivalry and what being a new mom or dad involves.


Teachers don't just educate children. Although it seems as though algebra or biology are the main subjects that your child's teacher focuses on, educators can also help parents find help when it comes to skill-building. Teachers might recognize a problem with the family through what a child says or during meeting times. Additionally, parents can go to the teacher and ask for help to find resources or guidance in terms of correcting or learning new strategies for dealing with their kids.

Parenting Programs

An array of parenting programs are based on research into child and family practices. The U.S. Administration for Children and Families recommends several evidence-based programs. These include national programs that are available in communities, and possibly online and through videos including Guiding Good Choices, The Incredible Years, Nurturing Parenting Programs, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy and Staying Connected With Your Teen. While these are just a few of the programs available, parents should ensure that their choice is well-known and based on current research to make the most out of this experience. Parenting programs typically differ from the more basic classes in involvement and duration. For example, the Nurturing Parenting Program lasts for 12 to 48 weeks.

Medical Experts

Knowing where to start when trying to correct bad parenting behaviors isn't easy. If you are looking for help finding resources or have specific questions, start by asking a trusted medical professional such as your child's pediatrician. While the pediatrician is most likely not qualified to counsel you and your family, he can point you in the right direction to find the help you need. Additionally, the pediatrician can provide you with basic information on child development or behavior, and suggestions that are specific to your child.

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