Classes seek to build relationships, reduce stress Published March 28, 2012 By Steve Pivnick 81st Medical Group Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Keesler's Family Advocacy Program is offering classes targeting a diverse range of relationship skills that family advocacy outreach manager Paula Spooner says "are arguably our greatest protective factor against excessive stress." "1-2-3 Magic!" will be conducted April 3, 10, 14 and 21. Spooner said, "This is a simple, truly effective parenting strategy that any parent can implement literally overnight. Recommended by pediatricians, parents, teachers and child development specialists, '1-2-3 Magic' is a four-week class that will enhance the relationship you have with your children while stopping whining, pouting, manipulation and other types of obnoxious behavior." She said it's best for parents of children ages 2-12. The single parents information network is 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 2. Spooner explained, "Single parents know firsthand how difficult it can be to juggle all the responsibilities of parenting while working, staying fit and trying to have a personal life. Transferring to a new base makes it even harder. SPIN's current vision is to create a network of information, support, skill exchange and community. It is just getting started, so if you are a single parent (divorced, separated, never married, widowed or geographically-separated from your partner) you are urged to join us. Don't miss this first meeting." PREP for strong bonds is 3-4:30 p.m. May 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. "This five-week class is for couples who want to make their relationship the best it can be," Spooner said. "It will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before and help you to see yourself, your partner and your relationship in a whole new light. PREP is one of the most respected relationship-strengthening programs in the world. Go ahead and confirm this fact for yourself, then call and reserve a space for you and your partner." Dads 101 is set for 8-11 a.m. June 1. Spooner observed, "Babies don't arrive with a maintenance manual, though most of us wish they did. This class will prepare the expecting or brand new dad for everything he has to look forward to -- from mood swings to basic baby care, from bonding to stress management. Humor-filled and discussion-based, it's relaxed, fun and taught by a fellow dad who has been through it and 'lived to tell about it.'" Finally, active parenting of teens and 'tweens' is slated for 8-10 a.m. June 13, 20 and 27 June. Spooner commented, "It seems like one day they look up to you and the next you have the influence of a stranger. What has happened to this kid? Join this three-session, interactive, video-based learning experience that will provide insight on teen brain development, tools for becoming an authoritative parent and new ideas on discipline, communication, problem solving, family enrichment and prevention of those societal risks all parents worry about. Family advocacy classes are conducted in the Arnold Annex classroom. They are open to all Keesler personnel and their family members. For more information or to register for classes call 228-376-3459 or 228-376-3457.