Children 1st!
Separation and divorce are tough on couples, and if children are involved, the difficulty increases exponentially. The Mental Health Association of Onondaga County is here to help make the process less painful with an informative program that addresses the many issues facing separating parents.
Children 1st! is a six-hour class for parents in divorce, separation, or custody disputes. Certified, trained professionals cover topics including adult emotion/psychology, child emotion/psychology, and the legal process/alternatives. The program is certified by the New York State Parent Education and Awareness Program.
About Children 1st!
Since forming in 1995, the main goal of Children 1st! has been to make it easier for children as their parents go through separation and the court system. All concerned adults are welcome to attend the class.
Legal and mental health professionals with extensive experience in family matters team up to teach each class, with the belief that children are best helped when both parents understand how to guide and care for their children through the separation and divorce.
The six-hour class takes place in Syracuse, at a location accessible by bus. Free parking is also available. There will be a lunch break and parents may bring a bag lunch or purchase lunch in the area. More information, including class dates, times and site directions, are provided to the parents after registration is processed and payment is received. If you miss your assigned class, you may take another class, but the program is unable to give refunds. Policy requires that parents attend separate classes.
Topics Covered by Children 1st!
- How divorce affects your children, and what children need at the time of separation to lower their stress and fears.
- How to talk to your children about the changes happening in their family.
- Parenting plans that help and protect children.
- How your own anger and pain may affect you as a parent.
- How parents, working separately or together, can work for the good of their children.
- Different parenting options for divorced or separated parents, from co-parenting to parallel parenting.
- New family shapes, healthy stepfamilies, relating to biological parents and new partners.
- How the law and courts work in custody, visitation and support cases.
- Alternatives to court proceedings.
- Violations of court orders, domestic violence, and child abuse.
- Places you can get more help for you and your children.
Registration
Registration for Children 1st! must be done by phone. For more information, including payment options and eligibility guidelines, call the MHA at 315-445-5606.