Parenting classes for co-parents and shared caregiving
For parents raising children across two homes, and for stepparents and partners who share the day-to-day. Ten live classes on Zoom, in English or Spanish.
Taught by Roselia M. Ortega, LCSW
California License #136827
10+ years in social services
- Program
- 10 classes 90 minutes each, 15 contact hours
- Cost
- $75 per class Paid as you go
- Where
- Live on Zoom English on Wednesdays, Spanish on Thursdays
Who this is for
- Separated or divorced parents
- Parents who never lived together and share a child
- Stepparents and partners who help raise a child
- Grandparents and relatives who share care with a parent
You can join with a referral from family court, CPS, or probation, or with no referral at all.
What this program is
This is the same 10-class parent education program every parent takes. It isn’t a separate co-parenting course. Several classes focus on raising children across households and working with another caregiver, and every class applies to shared parenting.
These classes are parent education, not therapy.
The classes most focused on shared caregiving
The program runs in order over 10 weeks. These four classes focus most on raising children with another caregiver.
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Class 5 · Structure, routines, and clear limits Routines and follow-through, and keeping expectations consistent across caregivers.
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Class 8 · Shared caregiving: conflict, communication, and problem-solving How adult conflict affects children, keeping children out of the middle, business-style communication with the other parent, and structured problem-solving.
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Class 9 · Blended families, shared caregiving, and family meetings Adjusting to a new family shape, loyalty binds, the stepparent and partner role, and rules across households.
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Class 10 · Safety and your plan forward Safety at home and online, local resources, and a written plan for your own parenting. It’s a personal plan, not a custody or visitation schedule.
If the other parent is also taking the class
Each parent signs up on their own. Enrollment, attendance, payment, and any release form are kept separate for each parent. We don’t share one parent’s information with the other.
If you would rather not be in the same group as the other parent, call (209) 209-5470 before you sign up and we’ll talk through your options.
If there is a restraining order or domestic violence
Please call (209) 209-5470 before you sign up, so you are not placed in the same group as the other parent. Where domestic violence is present, Class 8 uses a parallel-parenting approach instead of shared communication.
If you are in danger right now, call 911.
Common questions
Will this count for my custody or family court case?
The court or agency involved decides that, and acceptance varies by court, county, and case type. Please confirm with your attorney, caseworker, or probation officer that this class and its certificate meet your specific requirement before enrolling.
Do both parents have to take it?
No. Each parent decides for themselves, unless a court or agency has told you otherwise.
Will the facilitator help us work out a schedule?
No. The class teaches skills. It doesn’t mediate between parents, write custody or visitation schedules, or make recommendations about your case.
Can a stepparent or partner join without the parent?
Yes. The classes are open to stepparents, partners, and other adults who help raise a child.
What does it cost?
$75 per class, paid as you go the day before each class. Nothing is charged when you sign up. Full terms are in the Participant Agreement.
Ready to sign up
Pick your group and save a card. Nothing is charged today.
To ask a question first, call (209) 209-5470. Lea esta página en español.