Understanding the Parenting Class for Divorce in Florida

What Is the Florida Parenting Class for Divorce?

If you’re going through a divorce in Florida and have minor children (under 18 years of age), your instructions from the court will state that you are required to take the mandatory Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course, commonly referred to as the Florida Parenting Class for Divorce (Florida Statutes Chapter 61, Section 21).

This course is designed to help parents understand and navigate the challenges of co-parenting, make you aware of issues you may encounter, and focus on the well-being of your children. Parents will understand the emotional impact of divorce on children, improve communication, and develop effective co-parenting strategies.

This class provides valuable tools and resources to help parents create a stable, supportive environment for their kids, even after separation. By taking the course, parents learn to minimize conflict and focus on their children's needs, reducing stress for everyone involved.

Why Is the Parenting Class For Divorce Required in Florida?

Florida courts require divorcing parents to take this course because children often struggle emotionally and psychologically when their parents separate. The goal of the class is to reduce the negative effects of divorce on children by helping parents:

• Recognize how divorce impacts their child’s emotions, behavior, and development
• Improve communication with their co-parent to reduce conflict
• Learn strategies to create a stable home life for their child
• Understand the legal aspects of shared parenting and time-sharing

By making this course mandatory, the state aims to promote healthier co-parenting relationships and ensure that children receive the emotional and financial support they need.

Do I have to Attend a Specific Parenting Class?

• Yes, the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course provider must be approved by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) in order to meet the court requirements.
• This course is DCF Approved for the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course

Who needs to take the Parenting Course?

• In the State of Florida, parents going through divorce with minor children are required to complete the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course per Florida Statutes Chapter 61, Section 21. All parents are required to take the course.
• While the course primarily focuses on divorce cases, this course may also be required for cases involving: adoption, custody, paternity, or a parenting plan modification involving minor children in the State of Florida.

What Will I learn from the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course?

The Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course covers a wide range of topics to help parents adjust to their new family dynamics while keeping their children’s best interests in mind.

• Effects of Divorce on Children – How divorce impacts children emotionally, psychologically, and socially, and what you can do to support them.
• Co-Parenting Strategies – Techniques for reducing conflict and improving cooperation with your ex-partner.
• Communication Skills – How to communicate effectively with your co-parent and child.
• Stress Management – Tools to help parents and children cope with the changes brought by divorce.
• Legal Aspects of Parenting Plans – Understanding Florida’s laws regarding time-sharing, parental responsibilities, and decision-making.
• Financial Responsibilities – An overview of financial obligations related to raising a child after divorce.

The course is designed to be informative and practical, providing real-life strategies that can make co-parenting easier for everyone.

Can BOTH Parents take the class together?

• Each parent must register and complete the course individually.
• Both parents CAN attend the SAME class; however, they will each register and complete the course separately.
• By completing the same course, co-parents will benefit from receiving the same information and being on the same page regarding how to handle situations as they arise.
• Each parent will receive a separate certificate upon completion.
• Ready to register? Click Here

What happens if I fail the course?

• The Parenting Class for Divorce is a multiple choice, NO-FAIL course.
• Once you have answered all of the questions and submit your answers, any questions that you did not get correct will have a link to the section in the course that covers the topic related to each question. You simply correct your incorrect answers and resubmit them.
• You are required to answer 70% of the questions correctly in order to proceed. There is no limit to the number of times that you submit your answers. The purpose of the course is to educate you. There is no penalty for answering the questions incorrectly.

How long do I have to complete the Parenting Course?

• In the State of Florida, the petitioner has just 45 days from the date of filing to complete the Florida Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course.
• The Respondent must complete the class within 45 days from the date they are served.
• Completing the course is a requirement for finalizing your divorce, it’s a good idea to take the class as soon as possible to avoid delays in your case.

How will the Court know that I Completed the Parenting Class?

• Upon completion of the course, you will be issued a Course Completion Certificate with your name and a QR Code that the courts can use to validate the authenticity of your certificate. Kids Matter is the only course provider offering this unique security feature.
• Once you download and print your certificate, you will either forward a copy to your attorney or submit it directly to the Clerk of the Court.
• Kids Matter DOES NOT submit your course completion certificate to the court for you.

What happens if I don't complete the Parenting Class?

• Failing to complete the course on time will likely reflect poorly upon you in the eyes of the court. The judge will determine the actions that the court will take for violating a court order. Your inaction may signal to the judge that you do not take the matter or your responsibilities to your children seriously.
• This is a 4 hour online class available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, including nights, weekends and holidays.
• If you begin now, you can have your course completion certificate in as little as 4 hours. Click here to Register now.

I'm not a bad parent why am I required to take this course?

• Completing the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course is a requirement for ALL parents going through a divorce with minor children. This is a State of Florida requirement, not a punishment. It does not mean that you are a bad parent.

Summary

If you’re a divorcing parent in Florida, the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course is a crucial step in ensuring your child’s well-being during and after the divorce process. The course equips you with valuable parenting tools, reduces conflict, and helps you create a stable, loving environment for your child.

By taking the class early, you can avoid delays in your case and gain important insights that will benefit both you and your child for years to come.