I haven't ever read this forum but I have a question.

My man has been down for 18 years. And I met him during my time inside as a volunteer for a christian ministry group. I have a five year old child and he wants another child when he gets out.

So, when we are on the phone he puts his input on how to raise my child. And some of his ideas are really strict.

I told him that I need him to take a parenting class before he gets out. That since he hasn't been around children I think it would be a good idea to get some training on how to handle a school-aged child.

Is this a reasonable request? Are there parenting classes inside???

:confused:

I don't think it sounds unreasonable. I would have him talk to his counselor to see if they have any classes like that.

I have heard some prisons have parenting classes- I think it would be a very good idea, if there was one in his prison, for him to take the classes.

Sounds like a parenting class is a VERY good idea. In the meantime, I'd raise my child the way I saw fit.

Sounds like a parenting class is a VERY good idea. In the meantime, I'd raise my child the way I saw fit.

Trust me I raise my child the way I see fit. But, I want to be united front when he gets home. And to teach my child to respect him and his decisions.

However, he said there are no parenting classes at his prison.. But, he said he would read any books that I could send. Any ideas???

I'd take myself on a date and head to the Barnes and Noble or someplace like that. They have a section on parenting. You could browse (and have a latte) until you found something you like.

Speaking as a person who had a step-father, your guy should focus on earning the trust, and respect of your child rather than on discipline.

I'd take myself on a date and head to the Barnes and Noble or someplace like that. They have a section on parenting. You could browse (and have a latte) until you found something you like.

Speaking as a person who had a step-father, your guy should focus on earning the trust, and respect of your child rather than on discipline.

I am planning on finding some books for him soon.

And yes I agree he needs to earn trust and respect first. I was thinking about a book on being a step parent.

I think it would be beneficial, since they are around nothing but men. They need to learn to have patience with children and learn how to deal with a child when they are at their worst behavior. My husband had to and he is doing a wonderful job, with my two daughters.