A new UI Web site uses video clip interviews to let parents of infants, toddlers and preschoolers see and hear how other parents cope with the challenges of raising young children. In addition to the video clips, the Parent-to-Parent Web site features a message board, links to recommended resources, and advice from experts.
The site was developed by UI Extension specialist Aaron Ebata and a team of graduate and undergraduate students. "Although parents seek out expert advice, most of us also value the experiences and advice of other parents, especially those who are like us," Ebata said. Research on parenting and child development has provided important information that parents can use, but sometimes there is no single "right way" to handle common challenges.
The Parent-to-Parent Web site allows users to get both research-based information and support from fellow parents in one place. "One of the challenges of the Internet is the glut of information," Ebata said. "On the P2P site, we have selected the best of what’s out there in terms of useful, credible, information so parents don’t have to wade through lots of junk."