In cases concerning child custody, it has become customary for judges to order both parties to attend parenting classes either in person or online.  The reaction from the parents on both sides is generally the same: “I know how to parent my children, I don’t need someone to tell me how to take care of my children”.   Though it is true that parents are the ones that know their children best, parenting changes after divorce, separation, or an alteration to visitation scheduling.  There is a change in the children’s lives or the lives of the children.

The court’s role is to do whatever is in the best interests of the children in all custody proceedings.  The result is the court encouraging parents to get along with each other, to overcome their differences and disagreements, and to focus on the children and doing whatever they can to encourage a good relationship between the children and both parents.  Doing what is best for children can be difficult following a divorce, even for the best parents, especially when one party is not cooperative.  The parenting classes are typically ordered by the court.

The classes insure that parents are educated as to the difficulties they will face parenting in a new environment. It also gives parents the tools they need to get through the inevitable struggles that come with children living in two different households.

The classes emphasize issues such as the importance of communication, consistency, and maintaining a civil relationship with the other parent.  The classes also emphasize things you can do to help with the transition such as slowly introducing new significant others into your children’s lives and being mindful of the children’s love and devotion to the other parent.  These things often get overlooked when feelings are hurt and emotions are the controlling factor.

The classes can also help you understand and implement a parenting plan. A parenting plan is a document developed and agreed to by the parents of the children and approved by the court. If the parents cannot agree, the plan will be established by the court. Missouri statute requires the submission of a parenting plan in cases involving the custody of children.

Like all family law matters, these issues can be complex and clients often have many questions and concerns.  If you have a child custody issue and you need legal assistance, contact one of our family law attorneys to discuss your options.

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