Many Maryland parents would cringe if they learned they were required by law to take co-parenting classes with their former spouses. This, however, is exactly what happens for parents of minor children in another state. The law (and subsequent parenting-class program) is meant to lessen the negative impact divorce tends to have on young children. It’s true that many post-divorce problems have to do with parenting plans; so, perhaps taking a class or two together might indeed be of benefit for some.

Some of the most common negative effects reported for children whose parents divorce include behavior regression, depression and problems in school. In fact, the woman who leads a co-parenting class in another state says it often takes young children as long as five years to recover from their parents’ divorce. She and other state officials hope to help parents learn to communicate more effectively after divorce, which, in turn, may help children better adapt to their situations.

The Oklahoma co-parenting program is designed to provide information that teaches parents the skills needed to cooperate and compromise after divorce. Such skills are meant to keep the children’s best interests at heart. Most parents want what’s best for their kids, and some simply need help negotiating such issues.

A Maryland family law attorney is often a highly skilled negotiator. When problems arise regarding proposed parenting plans after divorce, acting alongside experienced representation is often a means of diffusing arguments. An attorney can help a concerned parent obtain a fair and agreeable outcome that helps the family move forward toward a successful, happy future.

Source: enidnews.com, ” Extension course teaches parents to cooperate in divorce“, James Neal, May 3, 2017