If you are preparing for divorce and have children, understanding parenting plans, custody, and child support is an important first step. Planning to take Alberta’s Parenting After Separation course early in the separation process will empower you to make informed decisions and avoid common mistakes. The more prepared and educated you are, the better the outcome will be for your children and for yourself.
Start with the Parenting After Separation Course
One of the most helpful things you can do at the start of a separation or divorce that involves children is to take Alberta’s Parenting After Separation course. It’s free, online, and mandatory if you are filing for divorce or making a court application that involves your children.
This course is more than just a formality. It offers practical guidance on:
- How separation affects children
- How to reduce conflict
- Best practices for co-parenting
- How child support is calculated
The earlier you take the course, the more it will benefit you. It provides a solid foundation, so when you meet with your lawyer, you already understand the basics. It can save time and money and help you avoid decisions you might regret later.
It’s About the Best Interests of the Children
In Canada, custody decisions (now often referred to as “parenting time ” and “decision-making responsibility”) are based on what is best for the children, not what is most convenient or fair for the parents.
Often both parents genuinely believe they know what is best and that is where conflict arises. In Collaborative Divorce, we frequently work with Family Specialists who are neutral professionals who bring child-focused expertise to the table. Their goal is not to pick sides, but to help you and the other parent design a parenting plan that supports the emotional and physical well-being of the children.
What Happens After Divorce?
While the Parenting After Separation course is mostly about the separation and divorce process, it also helps set the tone for life after divorce. You will learn strategies for reducing conflict and co-parenting respectfully.
For example:
- Don’t use your child as a messenger between homes
- Don’t speak negatively about the other parent in front of your kids
- Stick to routines and consistent boundaries
You can also return to the course later as a refresher if things get difficult again. It is a valuable resource for maintaining stability for your children as your family’s structure evolves.
The Goal: Happier, Healthier Kids
Divorce is never easy, but with the right tools, support, and mindset, you can protect your children from being caught in the middle. When you stay focused on cooperation and long-term well-being, your children are more likely to grow up feeling safe, secure, and emotionally strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Where can I find the Parenting After Separation course?
You can access it here on our website under ‘Parenting After Separation Courses and Parenting Guidelines” or online through the Government of Alberta’s website.
Q2: Do I need to take the course if we agree on everything?
Yes. If you are filing court documents involving children, the course is required whether you agree or not. It is designed to help parents prepare responsibly.
Q3: What if my co-parent won’t cooperate on a parenting plan?
If cooperative approaches break down, a Family Specialist, parenting specialist, mediator, or the Collaborative process can help. The court is a last resort, but it is an option if needed.
About Marla Miller
Marla S. Miller is a senior family lawyer at Miller Boileau Family Law Group in Edmonton, Alberta. Known for her thoughtful and compassionate approach, Marla helps clients create child-focused parenting plans through Collaborative Divorce and respectful negotiation.
Need help creating a parenting plan or understanding your rights? Call Marla Miller today at 780‑482‑2888.
Early in her legal practice, influenced by her late uncle who was a Justice of the Court of Queen’s Bench, Marla Miller, K.C. became a Family Law Mediator. She has been helping families through mediation for over 30 years. In 2001 she, along with Pierre Boileau, K.C. and others, was one of the founding members of the Association of Collaborative Professionals (Edmonton). She has been an active volunteer with that Association ever since.
One of the first Family and Divorce Lawyers in Edmonton to make a commitment to give up litigation as an option, Marla remains passionate about helping her clients settle outside of court by finding agreements that meet their needs and interests. As both a Registered Collaborative Family Lawyer and a Registered Family Mediator, Marla is one of the most experienced family Mediators in Edmonton.