What is the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course?

Are you a parent contemplating a divorce or separation and have a special needs child? 

If so, this is something you need to know.  As of 2025, Florida Family Law Section 61.21 now requires parents in divorce or paternity proceedings who share minor children to complete a Department of Children and Families (DCF)–approved Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course before a final decision can be entered.  This is especially important when children have identified disabilities or emotional concerns. 

Specialized Courses for Families of Children with Disabilities

Parents must take a specialized version tailored to those needs.  Divorce and/or separation can take an emotional toll on both adults and children.  Unique challenges are oftentimes discovered of parents with special needs children.  Don’t worry, however.  There are available resources and support services in the community.  Some include the Agility Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course for Families of Children with Disabilities. 

Another is a Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course for Families of Children with Disabilities, and another is called Children First Parenting Class for Families Co-Parenting a Child with Special Needs.  By completing a specialized DCF‑approved course, parents not only comply with legal requirements but also gain crucial insights into supporting their children through transitions with empathy, stability, and understanding. 

At KWG Family Legal and Mediation Services, we help parents understand and meet these requirements.  We’ll guide you to the right course of action, help you ensure timely compliance, and make sure your child’s needs are prioritized throughout the legal process.  

We can even discuss alternative options to traditional litigation to help support you and your unique family needs, which include a private alternative outside of court, thus maintaining confidentiality, commitment to empowering parents to maintain control over their lives and the lives of their children with special needs in a professional, positive, and resolution-focused way. 

Do not delay.  Contact your Knowledgeable, Warm, and Gracious Attorneys who help parents separate with civility, creating a legacy for themselves and those they love most.”