The Benefits of Co-Parenting Courses
Divorce is one of the most challenging things any person—adult or child—will ever go through. When a couple chooses to get a divorce, studies have shown the mental and emotional toll it takes on them and their children can be devastating.
One way parents and children are effectively improving post-divorce relationships is through co-parenting classes. In some jurisdictions, online or in-person co-parenting courses might even be court-ordered and a condition of completing divorce proceedings.
While it might seem like the last thing you would want is another class or commitment, co-parenting classes have actually proven quite effective at teaching divorced parents how to communicate, reduce tension in their relationship, and help their children feel loved and accepted.
There are of course many other benefits to taking a co-parenting course.
Co-Parenting Courses in California
In some cases, if you are seeking a divorce and have children, the judge may require you and your spouse to take a co-parenting course. Private companies offer these courses for a fee. Most courses are offered online, but in-person courses are available to those who prefer face-to-face learning.
Many courses, such as those offered by Online Parenting Programs, are research-based and designed to reduce conflict and help children adjust to life after a divorce. While you might be able to find free online courses, you will want to make sure the course you are considering will be accepted in your county.
Why You Should Consider Co-Parenting Courses
Because the courses are research-based, outcomes for those who have taken them have proven quite positive. While your first reaction might be to recoil at the idea given that you feel you know how to parent your child, it might be worth approaching court-mandated courses with a teachable spirit and the realization that such courses have helped millions of parents.
Some of the most obvious benefits of co-parenting classes include:
- Reducing conflict between divorced parents
- Reducing stress divorced parents and their children feel
- Increased involvement from both parents
- Reducing the chances that children will feel the need to choose between parents
- Cutting drug and alcohol consumption rates among children
- Creating a workable parenting plan for both parents to follow
Co-parenting courses also help parents see how being and staying involved is something that has lifelong value for both them and their children. Finally, it helps parents to see the importance of putting the needs of the child or children first.
In addition to co-parenting classes, the state of California has a number of other high-quality resources that will help divorced parents embrace their new role and carry it out in a way that is best for their children. Divorced parents who take the time to learn from as many solid resources as possible are much more likely to see their children through an otherwise difficult divorce.
Consult With an Attorney If You Need Help Navigating Your Divorce
If you and your spouse are considering a divorce and you have young children, it is important you strongly consider co-parenting classes. It is also crucial you hire a divorce attorney you can trust. A good divorce attorney will help you navigate one of the most difficult seasons of your life by walking you through the divorce process from start to finish.
A skilled divorce lawyer will know what to look for in your case and what steps to take as you consider matters such as custody, spousal support, and whether or not you want to pursue mediation or another means of dispute resolution. As emotionally charged as divorce can be it is vital you secure competent representation as soon as possible.