FAQs |
What is NPEN?
National Parenting Education Network (NPEN) is a professional organization for educators who provide parenting education as a primary part of their work. Our members include parenting education professionals, researchers, program administrators, and others striving to build the field of parenting education.
NPEN is a national organization with local, state, and national resources and support networks.
What is NPEN's Mission?
NPEN seeks to represent the interests and needs of the many professionals, paraprofessionals and volunteers who serve as parenting educators. Through the organization, we seek to increase recognition and catalyze growth in the field of parenting education.
- Information Sharing: (1) To facilitate and encourage the sharing of and discussion about ideas, resources, practices and any other information relevant to parenting educators and (2) To consolidate and/or make accessible research-based information and resources on parenting education.
- Professional Development: To help parenting education practitioners build their skills and the profession by addressing issues that transcend disciplinary and regional boundaries such as professional identity, ethics, standards and certification, training and accessibility.
- Networking: To facilitate contacts among practitioners and organizations involved in parenting education in order to increase their effectiveness in supporting parents and families.
- Leadership: To provide national leadership in the field of parenting education among professionals, policy makers, media and the public.
What are NPEN's Core Beliefs?
NPEN believes one goals of parenting education should be to provide access to parenting education resources for all parents. We recognize that parenting educators are embedded in a variety of organizations and fields, all of which are important to supporting parents. We embrace the principles of embeddedness and inclusivity.
Why does NPEN use the term 'parenting education' instead of 'parent education'?
Because the term 'parenting' is inclusive. In American culture, the term 'parent' typically refers to the child's biological parent. However, not all adults who care for a child are the child's biological parent. A relative or caregiver, acting as a parent, is in a 'parenting' role. Therefore, using the term 'parenting education' includes anyone acting in a parenting role such as an aunt or uncle, grandparent or older sibling. NPEN is committed to this inclusivity by putting it in our name - National Parenting Education Network.
Who Can Join NPEN?
NPEN membership is open to anyone who supports the principles of NPEN. Visit our Membership page for more information.
How Can I Get Involved?
NPEN is working on many issues and projects that could use your help, expertise, and organizational affiliation. NPEN encourages your active involvement in NPEN Committee work that aligns best with your goals and interests.
How Do Individuals and Organizations Benefit from NPEN Membership?
Opportunities to:- Connect with other parent educators
- Learn about other parenting education initiatives around the country
- Participate in promoting and building the field of parenting education by becoming a member, joining one of NPEN’s committees, and working on projects of interest
- Access the website to help you stay connected with others in the field
- Learn about ways to get more involved at the local, state, national and/or international level
Does NPEN Offer Professional Development Opportunities?
Yes, there are opportunities to connect with other members and to share resources and training activities.
- NPEN offers webinars specifically for parenting education professionals, focusing on topics related to the work of supporting families.
- NPEN also hosts an annual conference offering a variety of topics for both the educator and the administrator.
What is the Membership Fee?
Membership fees vary, depending on your choice, since NPEN offers multiple membership options. Visit our Membership page for more information.