Cooperative Parenting should be the first step for most parents as they enter the divorce or custody action process. The earlier parents participate in this unique and proven program, the more likely it is that conflict can be minimized or avoided. Participation in Cooperative Parenting is recommended prior to the first meeting with Family Court Services, before attending Kids’ Turn or New Ways and before advancing family court litigation.
In those cases where conflict and litigation is already underway or entrenched, this class can still be beneficial and is recommended. Cooperative Parenting provides information and teaches skills that help parents prevent or reverse a high conflict situation.
Cooperative Parenting helps separated, divorced or never-married parents develop a cooperative and cordial relationship; one that places the child(ren)’s welfare as their highest priority.
Session One:
- Introductions: Parents brief history of members and goals
- Review of Cooperative Parenting core beliefs and values
- The limits and benefits of accepting personal responsibility
- Changing our perspectives: A new view of our co-parent and ourselves
- Pragmatic approaches that promote detachment and improved sharing of information
- Brief video and discussion: Our children’s world when parents are at war
- Homework Assignment
Session Two:
- Homework review and check in
- Smart Substitutions – using strategies that work
- Communication Lecture Part One: 1. Assertiveness Training 2. Using “I “ Messages 3. Active and Reflective Listening 4. Solution-focused communication 5. Understanding the mechanics of communication
- Role Plays: Practicing good communication skills & group critique
Session Three:
- Homework review and check in
- Communication Lecture Part Two: More skills training using vignettes
- Anger Management Tactics
- Acknowledging our mistakes: Group Discussion
- Imagining our children’s lives when parents communicate and cooperate
- Building on Co-parenting Ground Rules: Some additional tips that work
- Review of course
