1. CHOOSING PARENTHOOD

2. PARENTHOOD- State of being a parent. PARENTING- process of caring for children and helping them grow and learn.

3. Advantages of Remaining Childless Individuals/couples have more time for themselves More financial resources More spontaneity More fully pursue careers More time/energy for companionship Not having to worry about providing for physical & psychological needs of children Prepare for later years

4. ADVANTAGES TO HAVING CHILDREN  Children give as well as receive love  Children enhance love  Managing challenges of parenthood…  Discover new and untapped dimensions  Ongoing stimulation  Experience personal growth

5. MYTHS ABOUT PARENTING

6. PARENTING READINESS  Emotional Maturity  Desire for Parenthood  Goals and Expectations  Financial Readiness  Health Considerations  Age

7. STAGES OF PARENTING o Parents with Babies o Parents with Preschoolers  Permissiveness  Over permissiveness o Parents of School-Age Children o Parents of Adolescents

8. PARENTING STYLES  Authoritative (Democratic)  Authoritarian  Permissive  Rejecting  Uninvolved Style