Facilitators: Tom Bartley
Program: This video-based program gives divorcing or separating parents the power to make positive changes that shield their children from parental conflict and guides them into establishing a long-term relationship with the child’s other parents. Divorce itself is tough on children, but constant, often bitter conflict that persists after the divorce makes it even more difficult. Divorced or divorcing parents will find the workbook and video vignettes openly address likely areas of conflict and offer possible solutions that keep parents centered on what they can both agree on: the happiness and well-being of their child.
This 8-week program is part video and part group discussion. Each session is designed to last 2 hours. The curriculum is designed to: educate parents on the impact their conflict has on their children; explain children’s issues in divorce; and teach parents the practical skills they need to manage anger, increase impulse control, resolve conflict and talk to each other without arguing.
Program Funding: The program currently receives funding from United Way of Northwest Georgia. This is the only FSC program for which a fee is charged.
Community Collaboration: The Whitfield County Superior Court Judges and local attorneys are the primary referral sources for Cooperative Parenting. The number of classes offered each year depends on the number of referrals received.