Parenting Classes in Colorado: Essential Information for Divorcing Parents

If you are navigating a divorce, legal separation, or seeking to allocate parental responsibilities in Colorado and have minor children, state law mandates that you attend a parenting class. This requirement underscores the court’s emphasis on minimizing the emotional impact of separation on children while equipping parents with tools to foster healthy co-parenting relationships.

Below, you’ll find an overview of what to expect from these mandatory parenting classes, along with a curated list of resources to help you comply with this requirement efficiently.

Why Are Parenting Classes Required?

Parenting classes aim to:

Highlight the negative impact prolonged parental conflict can have on children.
Provide strategies to support children through the divorce process.
Help parents understand their children’s emotional and behavioral responses to family changes.

These classes are mandatory regardless of whether parents agree on custody arrangements or the children are nearing adulthood. Most courses are four hours long and are designed to be practical and informative for all participants.

Key Requirements

Who Must Attend: Both parents are required to complete the course.
Duration: Typically, classes last four hours.
Format: Courses are available in person and online, depending on the county’s approval.
Certificate: Upon completion, participants receive a certificate, which must be submitted to the court to demonstrate compliance.

Approved Parenting Class Providers in Colorado

Here are some popular parenting class providers and their coverage in the Denver Metro area and beyond:

Statewide and County-Specific Options

Colorado State Judicial List of Parenting Classes
A comprehensive list of court-approved providers by county. Visit the Judicial Website.

Online Parenting Classes

The Center for Divorce Education
- Course: Children in Between Online
- Details: Available 24/7 and accepted in Douglas County.
- Learn More
A.C.T. – Family Conflict Resolution Online Classes
- Details: Check with your county; not approved in Douglas, Denver, or Elbert counties.
- Learn More
Online Parenting Programs
- Details: Approved by Jefferson and Gilpin Counties.
- Learn More

In-Person Parenting Classes

New Beginnings
- Details: Provides Level I and II co-parenting classes in Southeast Denver and Aurora.
- Learn More
Parenting After Divorce
- Details: Classes available throughout the Denver Metro Area.
- Learn More

FAQs

Are online classes accepted in all counties?
No. While online options are convenient, counties like Douglas, Denver, and Elbert may require in-person attendance. Confirm with your county court before enrolling.
What happens if I don’t complete the class?
Failure to attend and submit proof of completion may delay court proceedings or result in penalties.
Can both parents attend the same class?
In most cases, yes, but parents are not required to attend together unless stipulated by the court.
Are these classes free?
Costs vary by provider, but many classes offer sliding-scale fees based on income.

Next Steps for Divorcing Parents

Check Local Requirements: Verify your county’s approved parenting class providers.
Choose a Class: Decide whether an in-person or online option fits your schedule and complies with county rules.
Complete the Class Promptly: Avoid delays by registering early and submitting your certificate to the court.

For detailed information or additional guidance, contact your attorney or visit Griffiths Law PC Parenting Class Resources.