Florida law requires that parties to a dissolution of marriage (divorce) with minor children or to a paternity action that involves parental responsibility be required to complete a court approved Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course. It is important to understand that the curriculum must be approved by the Florida Department of Children and Families and the local circuit court in order to meet your legal obligation.
In most situations, the course is 4 hours total and completed online. Depending upon whom you take the course from, you can usually complete individual sections and finish later if you need to set it aside (you don’t have to do all 4 hours at one time).
Additional Information and Background on Requirements
- Florida Department of Children and Families. This organization is who approves the courses and curriculum for the required parent course. Here is a direct link to their list of approved providers for the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course.
- Florida Statute 61.21. This Florida Statute outlines the state’s requirement for the required parenting class for a dissolution of marriage (divorce) and paternity actions which involve parental responsibility.
- Some counties will add extra requirements via Administrative Orders. Please discuss with your attorney or Clerk of Court.
Taking The Course Live
It is nice to take a course if you can but they are often difficult to find. The interaction can provide extra benefit and information to the parent. You’ll be able to ask questions and receive guidance on things that you may have questions about.
Statewide List of Parenting Course Providers
- Complete list of approved Parenting Course providers by Florida Department of Children and Families.
- Be aware that some of the vendors charge extra to receive your needed certificate of compliance by email. If you are in a hurry, make sure that you understand the extra costs or choose a provider that includes an emailed certificate.
Orlando Area Parenting Class Providers
Below is a list of specific Orlando parenting course classes we are aware of. Please make sure to verify that whoever you select is on the approved list (above) and the course meets the requirements of the county where your case is filed (discuss with your attorney and/or the course provider if you have any questions or concerns).
Online Courses
Of course, if you are taking a class online, it doesn’t matter where the company is located. Here are a few that were on the statewide list.
- American Safety Council PARENTEDucation . Low cost, but they charge a fee if you want certificate emailed (otherwise it will be sent by postal mail)
- ParentingChoice.com
- CourseForParents.com
Live Courses in Orlando Area
It is becoming harder to find live courses in central Florida. You can view the complete course list (link above). Here are ones we have heard good things about:
- DrJohnGrbac.com . Classes often on Saturday in downtown Orlando. Must call office to register.