Divorce, custody and visitation changes can effect everyone in a family. Children have special needs during these disruptive times and co-parenting education can teach parents how to best reassure and nurture their children in order to create as smooth a transition as possible. It can also help adults develop the child.  They need to continue parenting together effectively, even when they no longer reside in the same household. This program includes instruction on the following topics: the emotional impact of divorce on children and parents; developmental stages of children and the effects of divorce on children at different stages; changes in the parent-child relationship; discipline; transitions between households; skill-building in parental communication with children and with each other, explaining divorce to children, problem-solving and decision-making techniques, conflict resolution, coping strategies, helping children adjust to family change, avoiding inappropriate interactions with the children; and resources available in case of domestic violence, child abuse, and neglect.

Most Maryland counties have co-parenting classes available. Some circuit courts require all parties in contested family cases to attend these programs. All separating parents are encouraged to attend, even if the case is not contested. If you have not been ordered to attend but would like to, contact your Family Support Services Coordinator for a referral. After completion of the co-parenting education program, the participant is provided with a certificate of completion. Refer to individual counties for times and locations of parenting programs.