Separated and divorced parents looking for a better way to raise their children together will have an opportunity to build those skills this fall in Philomath.
Strengthening Rural Families will host a free Cooperative Co-Parenting Class on Tuesday evenings from Oct. 13 through Dec. 1 at Clemens Primary School. Sessions run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., with a free dinner served beforehand at 5:15 p.m.
The class is geared toward separating or divorced parents and guardians with children of any age who are willing to put personal differences aside in favor of better communication and support for their kids. Nina Petrovich, a facilitator with Linn-Benton Community College, will lead the sessions.
Participants will work on emotional regulation, negotiation, decision-making and problem-solving. A central theme of the course is treating co-parenting much like a business relationship — one built around what the child needs rather than the history between the adults.
Parents will also practice keeping old grievances separate from their current parenting responsibilities with the goal of reducing conflict and easing stress on their children.
Organizers note that the class asks participants to reflect on their parenting styles and past experiences, which could stir up difficult emotions.
Childcare for children ages 10 and under is available by request.
Preregistration is required. To sign up, contact Anna Goodlove at the Strengthening Rural Families office at 541-929-2535 or anna.srf@ruralfamilies.org.
The class is offered in partnership with the Parenting Success Network of Linn, Benton and Lincoln counties and Linn-Benton Community College.