Child Development & Family Studies 217 – The Study of Parenting

Apply online at Cuesta College

Fall semester 2026 – August 17th to December 11th

Spring semester 2027 – January 19th to May 14th

This virtual 16-week course explores what parent–child relationships look like in today’s changing world. We’ll talk about common challenges parents face, how culture shapes the way we raise kids, and what really works in everyday parenting. The course focuses on helping you develop your own parenting philosophy and practical, effective strategies you can put into practice.

About the instructor: Michele Gordon Johnson is a seasoned instructor and certified Parenting Educator with 30 years of experience in Child Development and Family Studies at the college level. Passionate about supporting children and families, her diverse background includes teaching at Stanford’s prestigious Bing Nursery School, leading parenting groups, and providing one-on-one parenting consultations. She is the author of Are We There Yet? Conversations to Help Navigate Parenting. This practical guide, inspired by her cross-country road trip with her adult son, is the textbook for CDFS 217, The Study of Parenting, at Cuesta College.