New Hampshire's child impact seminar
In 1993 the New Hampshire legislature enacted a law requiring divorcing couples with minor children or parties in a parenting case to complete a Child Impact Seminar. This seminar, a four hour course, is called “Children First” and addresses the issues of divorce or separation and how they effect the children involved.
As explained on the NH Family Division website, Parents are required to complete the seminar and show the court a certificate of attendance from the program before a divorce decree is issued. The seminar is offered at multiple locations during weekend and evening hours. Parties who do not attend the seminar may be subject to sanctions by the court.
As found on the “Children First” website detailing the course, the seminar discusses several topics, including:
· Ways to promote self-esteem in your child during this difficult time
· What you can do to help your children adjust
· The impact of violence or chronic conflict upon children
· Behaviors to avoid
· Helpful communication styles
· Effective co-parenting skills
· How to be a role model
· Alternative dispute resolution
· Important points to remember
Blog Credit: Marisa Ulloa, Crusco Law Office Law Clerk
We have something like that here in Alberta. It's called the "Parenting After Separation course" and is similar in length and topics. It was a trial process at first but then was adopted completely. I think it's a great tool.
what if the parent being served left the state? can they take it in a different state?
And how about if they left the country and went oversees, do they still have to attend it? It is probably not available through the US. counselates oversees.
Often, the court will approve a motion to take a similar class either out of state or sometimes online, depending on the circumstances of the specific situation. Some research in the child impact seminar will help find similar courses elsewhere.