University of Maine Cooperative Extension and the UMaine Psychological Services Center will present a new 12-week "Incredible Years" parenting class Monday evenings starting February 9, 2009. The weekly classes, scheduled for the third floor of UMaine's Corbett Hall from 5:30-7:30 p.m., conclude on Monday April 27.

This award-winning program for parents with children under the age of nine uses a supportive group setting, video examples, and conversation to examine parenting rewards and challenges. Being a parent is an ongoing learning experience and the class will cover many topics including play, maintaining or developing a positive parent/child relationship, responding to a child when frustrated, helping children learn to calm down, setting limits, and when to use "time-out."

The fee ranges from $35 to $65, on a sliding scale. Free on-site childcare is included during the sessions, and food and drinks will be provided to parents and children. Registration deadline is Tuesday, February 2.

For more information, contact Noelle Keyser at nkeyser@umext.maine.edu or 581-3131. UMaine Extension programs are open and accessible to all in accordance with program goals.