New class offers parenting techniques Published Jan. 19, 2011 By Heidi Hunt 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Since children do not come with an owner's manuals, the 509th Medical Operations Squadron at this Air Force Global Strike Command base offers a new course for mothers and fathers -- Becoming a Love and Logic Parent. The first class is scheduled to begin Feb. 1 from 1-3 p.m. This seven-week course, held on Tuesdays, is dedicated to making parenting and teaching fun and rewarding, instead of stressful and chaotic according to Senior Airman Jennifer Halko, mental health technician and co-independent facilitator of the course. The course is open to parents, expecting parents and potential parents. "We teach a wide range of techniques and the curriculum offers information for all stages of children and teenagers," Airman Halko said. "One of the main parenting skills parents learn is the "cool" parenting formula. C - Control that's shared between the parent and child O - Ownership of the problem O - Opportunity for thinking and decision making L - Let empathy and consequences do the teaching "This formula teaches the child to problem solve on their own and the parent shows them empathy when they fail and then the parent allows the natural consequences of the mistake do the teaching instead of punishment," Airman Halko said. "This helps children to be more responsible and helps the parent let go of some of the control when a problem arises." By using humor, hope and empathy, the course works to build up the adult-child relationship and emphasizes respect and dignity for both parent and child, according to Airman Halko. A trial run of this course was taught from November to December 2010, and Senior Airman Justin Dunford, 509th Operations Squadron air crew flight equipment technician said the class has been a great mentor in parenting and it has reshaped and defined his parenting style. "We understand that sometimes parenting can become overwhelming," Airman Halko said. Jeannine Johnson, 509th MDOS family advocacy outreach manager, said this course was brought to Whiteman because the FAP staff understands there is no 'one way' of parenting that is perfect and feels that many approaches should be offered. The course has been taught at other bases in addition to schools and churches according to Airman Halko. Ms. Johnson added that this course is a great opportunity to obtain excellent skills that will increase family satisfaction. "Love and Logic" is free and offered quarterly in seven weekly sessions each Tuesday. "Those with busy schedules are not required to attend all seven sessions, but are encouraged," Airman Halko said. For more information on location and to make a reservation, contact (660) 687-4341. For online information, log on to www.loveandlogic.com.