COURT ORDERED PARENTING CLASSES IN MICHIGAN

COURT CERTIFICATION WORKSHOP

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Court Ordered Parenting Classes in Michigan

Oakland County. Private and one-on-one classes available. Call today to schedule your class or to ask questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have You Been Asked To Take Court-Ordered Classes?

The request often comes from the court, CPS, an attorney, social worker, mediator, even a co-parent. Sometimes the class is required, other times it’s “highly” recommended or encouraged. Court-ordered parenting classes may be required for a variety of reasons including custody or visitation proceedings, divorce or separation cases, alleged or actual domestic abuse or neglect. Regardless of why you’ve been asked to take a parenting class, the request often adds to the overload of requirements you’re already experiencing.

The good news is that these classes can help you gain significant insight into your child(ren)’s world. The right class can help you modify your parenting techniques, honing in on your best skills while eliminating ineffective ones.  Parenting classes can help you bring structure back into your home, address co-parenting concerns and behavior issues.

How long will the classes take?

By far the first question I’m asked when it comes to court-ordered parenting classes is regarding time. How long does the class take? How many hours is each session? How many weeks does the class run? When does the first session start? How soon will I receive my certificate? Can I complete this class before my next court date? It’s not that parents don’t care about anything but getting the class over with, it’s simply a matter of practicality. How in the world am I going to fit in this class and manage all the other overwhelming requirements? The answer varies greatly, depending on why you’re taking these parenting courses, whether or not you must meet a court deadline and what parenting program you choose. The majority of acceptable programs require several weeks of classes (6 to 8 weeks) with sessions running one to two hours each. Obviously, quite a commitment. Some classes can be completed in fewer weeks, but may include several 4 hour or half-day sessions. Sometimes, requirements can be satisfied with a single 2-hour workshop.

Wondering if this program is right for you? Call me with any question, and we can determine together if this course fits your needs.

What are my choices?

Well, in general, you can choose from online courses, ongoing group workshops and one-on-one classes. The guidelines aren’t always clear as to what classes the court system will accept, so be sure to clarify approval of the class with the judge, arbitrator, attorney or mediator. You will also need to know if the class provides a completion certificate and/or update letters. A reputable program will require that you attend every class on time and that you are an active participant before releasing any certificate.


View Essential Parenting Plus’ Curriculum to learn more about Susan’s program.


What are the differences between the courses?

Online workshops are often on-going, affordable and move at the participant’s pace. However, not all online workshops will satisfy the court requirement. Furthermore, you often get what you pay for. Most online court-ordered parenting courses are systematic and do not provide personal guidance or local support.

Group workshops are the most common option. They’re often quite affordable (you pay a set fee for the entire class or per session, plus a workbook fee.) These courses typically run on a consistent, on-going schedule. The course has group lectures and discussions, and often requires homework. These workshops are very popular and the court typically provides a list of locally approved courses. So why do I get so much business, despite the large number of these group classes? Because of timing. These classes are often full with waiting lists up to six weeks out. Furthermore, they run on a set schedule. If you work during the scheduled classes, you might not be able to fit in the class without taking time off. Worse, if you have a schedule change or emergency that keeps you from attending a single session, you might not receive your certification.

One-on-one private classes. Local private parenting workshops may be difficult to find. Expect a private class to be more expensive–but a good class should be worth the added value of time flexibility, privacy and customized support. Private classes can often be scheduled sooner than a group workshop, meaning you start, and thus complete, your requirements faster. Although I maintain a busy schedule with Achieve Life Balance, I try to start the class within one to three days of the first phone call. It’s also much easier to choose a time that fits into your schedule, not the other way around. What if you have only two weeks to complete your six to eight-week course? (Yes, this happens a lot!) Sometimes it’s possible for a private instructor to compress the sessions into fewer weeks by increasing the length of each weekly session or completing multiple sessions each week. Achieve Life Balance classes are personalized, but intense. That means you may be able to progress at a faster pace than you would in any group setting.

Another advantage to private courses, is–well, privacy! Many of my clients find significant relief in the one-on-one sessions. While clients are often apprehensive, they soon recognize the value of personalized interaction. Not only can clients openly discuss frustrations and concerns, they receive one-on-one support covering very specific issues. Every situation is personal, every household runs differently, every parent has their own style and every child is unique.

What will I learn in a court-ordered parenting class?

Again, the answer varies significantly, depending on the requirements and selected program. Most programs cover parenting techniques and address behavior and discipline, as well as communication. Some classes cover child development (ages and stages) as well as co-parenting. If you’re a new parent, you may be asked to take infant care classes. This is the best time to ask for clarification on what your requirements are,

Achieve Life Balance parenting courses usually begin with a session on stress management. This is not typically found in most parenting courses. However, research shows parental stress not only impacts how you parent, but adds to your child’s own stress. If you’re feeling stressed now, your child is feeling it too!  Stress management is such a significant part of my program. I can’t tell you how many times this simple but effective session has improved a client’s comfort level. What else does Achieve Life Balance classes cover? Co-parenting tips, the different parenting styles and how they impact a child’s behavior. You’ll learn the most effective parenting methods and how to create an atmosphere that teaches your child how to make good decisions and problem-solve. You’ll learn how to choose effective consequences and discipline more consistently! Your house will run smoother because everyone will know what to expect and when to expect it. That means less stress for you and your children!  Even more exciting, is that I teach methods that allow you, the parent, to be more readily prepared. This program is not a one-size fits all, however. I teach my parents simple ways to adjust their disciplinary methods to match each unique child and situation.

What won’t I get from Achieve Life Balance courses?

Although we touch on the subject, I do not cover child development in-depth (ages and stages). This is not a class on infant care. (Check your local hospital or social services programs for these classes). I only provide classes to adults (parents and guardians) and do not work directly with children.

Is Achieve Life Balance right for me?

If you’re seeking a free or low cost online or group workshop, the answer is no, although Achieve Life Balance does offer community workshops throughout the year. The best way to determine if I’m the best fit is with a simple phone call. I’m happy to talk directly with you to see if I can meet your personal needs. It will also help you determine how comfortable you’d feel working with me. As noted above, regardless of what class you choose, you’ll want to check with your attorney, judge, mediator or social worker. Sometimes, I’m able to get the answer from your attorney or caseworker for you.

Obtain Your Certification In 5-Weeks


Questions about Court Ordered Parenting Classes in Michigan?

Call Susan today to schedule your class or to ask questions.

Flyer: Essential Parenting Plus - The Effective Way to Parent with a picture of an angry little girl

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Essential Parenting Plus Curriculum

Lesson 1: Control, Emotions & Behavior

Help your children learn how to manage emotions in a healthy manner. Encourage positive communication, connections and outcomes. Gain insight and tools to help your children improve their actions and behavior. Bonus: learn techniques to help you stay in control of your obligations, relationships, children and household.

Lesson 2: Stress Management & Reduction

Gain instant tools to tackle stressors head-on; Reduce parental stress and thus your child’s stress levels; Teach your child calming techniques that can help reduce long-term anxiety and depression.

Lesson 3: Parenting Styles Plus

Exclusive! A Common 5th Parenting Style (and why it’s guaranteed to sabotage your parenting efforts). Understand why you and your co-parent each have your own way of parenting. Break negative techniques and implement what researchers agree is the best parenting style today.

Lesson 4: How Children Learn to Behave — Influences & Self-Esteem

Tools for understanding your child’s behavior; tips for remaining the major influence in your child’s life. Build inner-confidence in your children; build resilience to peer pressure, increase self-esteem and inner-strength.

Lesson 5: Positive Communication and Interaction, and Well-Being

It’s not just what you say that builds a foundation for life; it’s how you say it. Create an environment that makes your child WANT to cooperate!

Additional Bonuses:

Eliminate arguments with your child;

Increase communication and trust so your child feels safe coming to you, even in the precarious teen years.

Lesson 6: Discipline and Punishment

Exclusive! This single lesson will change how you view parenting forever. 

Exclusive: Discipline is much more than time outs and “punishments”. A variety of effective alternatives abound.

Lesson 7: Setting Immediate, Effective and Appropriate Consequences

A Multitude of Discipline Methods At Your Disposal

Consequences only work when they meet certain criteria. Choosing the wrong consequence (especially if you’re angry or under pressure) often results in frustration, guilt and added stress. Take the guesswork out of discipline. Understand how to choose and implement consequences that work!

Lesson 8: Why Children Misbehave

Don’t skip this essential component. Children rarely misbehave without a reason. Learning why your child is misbehaving is often half the battle. 

Lesson 9: Achieve Life Balance’s Ultimate Lesson in Positive Parenting—The BIG Three!

Exclusive! These three questions, ONLY available in Essential Parenting Plus enables you to INDIVIDUALIZE every disciplinary action to match each child’s situation and unique personality.

Lesson 10: 6-C Positive Parenting Essentials

Exclusive: Follow these six components to ensure you’re always implementing positive parenting techniques

BONUS LESSON 11: Establish Your Household Plan

Exclusive: Create a personalized, low-stress and cohesive household. Set family rules with pre-determined consequences, establish age-appropriate lessons/chores and instill your core values.

TESTIMONIALS

Loved and Trusted By My Clients

“Blown away by her attention to detail and breakdown analysis on how parenting differs but yet all have the common goals. 5-Stars!”

Jason M.

TESTIMONIALS

Loved and Trusted By My Clients

“I learned a lot from Susan and her course material. She made it personal and let me set the pace for my learning and application. Great investment!”

Ryan F.

TESTIMONIALS

Loved and Trusted By My Clients

“Susan was so caring and understanding. She helped me through every question and all the lessons without judgment or bias. She truly works with a passion to help parents succeed at their fullest potential! 10/5″​

Alex S. 

Logo for CFLE in bold black letters and the wording underneath of: Certified Family Life Educator

Susan Graham, CFLE

Certified Family Life Educator 

Parenting Coach

Parent & Family Workshop Developer

What Is A Family Life Educator?

Family Life Education is the professional practice of equipping and empowering family members to develop knowledge and skills that enhance well-being and strengthen relationships through an educational, preventive, and strength-based approach. 

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3660 Aaron Ct, White Lake, MI 48383

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