Participating in a co parenting class has become commonplace in today's society. It is designed to shift a parents focus from the personal aspects of a marriage break up to the needs of their child or children.

Described as a psycho educational experience, a co parenting class provides a strong focus towards nurturing a non-threatening environment for the child as well as improving the ability of all concerned to function amicably within, what can only be described as a difficult set of circumstances. There is no doubt that some see a co parenting class as a step in the right direction, but with it now becoming policy in some western societies, it's also been viewed by others as a violation of their freedom rights.

Instances of Court Ordered Attendance

There are numerous instances where the court will make it mandatory for an individual or individuals to attend a co parenting class. These instances include: 1.) After a divorce or annulment of marriage; 2.) A separation; 3.) A custody dispute; 4.) The establishment of visitation rights; and/or 5.) An appeal of custody or visitation

While the precursors that compel someone to attend a co parenting class is detailed, the question remains why do the courts make this compellation? What is the motivation behind the compellation?

What Co Parenting Classes Provide

Like any type of course, a co parenting class is designed to empower the individual taking the class with a series of skills that will increase their performance. To put it more clearly, a co parenting class is designed to provide the foundation for a person to become a better parent.

How Do They Provide It?

A co parenting class provides a curriculum that aids in the development of the areas that make a parent a better parent. Empathy, anger control, behavior therapy, role model development are all components that are worked on in these types of classes.

Does The Court Truly Have the Right?

Does the court have the legal right to compel (nee force) an individual to attend a co parenting class? The short answer to that question is yes. It is well within the legal rights of the court to lay down such a mandate.

Does the court have the moral right to compel an individual to attend a co parenting class? That is a question that hinges on an individuals definition of what is moral. In any regard, it is a moot point because the compellation of attending a co parenting class is designed with the best interests of the children in mind. As such, popular support is behind the courts in this regard.

While on the surface, the word mandate sounds harsh. But when one considers the positive results that result from such mandates, it becomes hard to maintain an opposing stance.

Remember, it is the children who get caught up in the middle of a divorce and most times, an amicable situation is never reached. Through a co parenting class, at least parents get the opportunity to understand the implication of continued strained relations, particularly on the child. It's not just an adjustment for the adults in a divorce situation but also for the child and this is a point that needs to be hit home. A co parenting class can be the difference between parents putting the child first or leaving long a lasting detrimental stain which will be with him or her for the rest of their lives.