P.A.C.T.
P.A.C.T. (Parents and Children Together) is a four hour educational program designed for families to help their children cope with the difficulties of separation, divorce and family conflict. P.A.C.T. helps parents understand the effects of conflict, parental relationships and separation/divorce on children and provides information and strategies for effective parenting during periods of family change. P.A.CT. offers parents a roadmap to separation/divorce that empowers parents and children to emerge strong and independent as they reorganize the family.
Parents will learn:
- The emotional process for children and parents
- Children's reactions to separation and divorce
- Developmental stages of children and parenting-time schedules
- Effects of conflict on children
- Special circumstances (domestic violence, addiction) and the need for safety
- How to develop a parenting plan
- How to communicate and develop a business-like coparenting relationship
Registration and Class Information:
Who Has to Take The Class?
In an action for divorce, legal separation, paternity and in some post decree actions involving a minor child common to both parties, parents are required to attend a parent education course. The course is mandated by Illinois Supreme Court Rule 924 to help educate parents about the impact separation, divorce, family reorganization, conflict and family litigation can have on children and parents.
Unless otherwise ordered by the Judge, parties must attend the class within 60 days of filing or being served by a petition.
How Do I Register?
In order to attend the parent education class pre-registration is required. There is no walk-in registration. Early registration is recommended as classes may fill up early. The earlier you register the more choices you may have in regard to class times and location.
Participants must register before attending class by calling our office (815-877-7228) or register online
When & Where is P.A.C.T. Held?
Participants attend one 4-hour class. Classes are held an evening during the week from 5 to 9 p.m. or a morning during the week (including Saturday) from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Classes are held at Family Matters-PACT, 3600 East State Street, Ste 304, Rockford, IL 61108.
Who Teaches the P.A.C.T. Class?
The program facilitators are mental health and education professionals with a graduate degree. All facilitators have extensive experience in dealing with divorce and its effects on children.
Is the Program Offered in Spanish?
Yes, the program is offered in Spanish in February, April, June, August, October and December on a Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Is the Program Offered Online?
Yes, "Parenting from Two Homes", an online educational program is available. The course consists of an Introduction followed by five (5) content modules. The full course takes about 4 hours to complete, but you don't have to do it all at once. You have a thirty (30) day enrollment period that allows you "24/7" access to the course. We recommend that you check that your judge/attorney will accept the online version of the course (before registering).
To register, please call: 815-877-7228
What is the Cost of the Class?
There is a sliding scale fee for PACT based on income. Each participant is responsible for payment of the class fee by cash, check, or credit/debit card before being scheduled in a class. Please call the office for more information.
Other Important Information:
- A certificate of completion is given to each participant at the end of the class. Additionally, a certificate of completion is mailed to the Clerk of the Court and filed in your court file.
- Classes start on time. Once class starts, late arrivals will be asked to reschedule.
- Children are not allowed in the class.
- Only those who have registered for class may attend.
- You must attend the entire class in order to receive a certificate of completion.
Special Needs:
If, due to a disability, you need special accommodations for your attendance at this program, please call 815-877-7228 to register and indicate your special needs when you register.