Children First
Parenting Class
Helping Families Navigate Divorce with Care and Confidence
Upcoming Classes
Please register using the links in the dropdown boxes below.
🟢 In Person
💻 Virtual
Virtual Class Tip: For the best experience, we recommend joining the virtual class using a computer, tablet, or other device instead of a cellphone whenever possible. Incoming phone calls or other interruptions on a mobile phone may cause you to be disconnected from the class.
🤝 Special Needs Focused
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9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Calendar View
FAQs
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Children First is a parent education and family stabilization course designed to help families navigate the challenges of separation or divorce. It focuses on improving communication, reducing conflict, and supporting children’s well-being during this transition. Hope Haven is a Department of Children and Families (DCF)-approved provider for Florida’s Fourth Judicial District.
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If you are going through a separation or divorce and have minor children, the court may require you to complete a DCF-approved parenting class. Children First meets this requirement and also offers valuable tools for co-parenting successfully.
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You’ll learn:
How to communicate more effectively with your co-parent
Strategies to reduce conflict and avoid unnecessary litigation
Ways to support your child’s emotional well-being
Tools to help create a healthy, child-focused parenting plan
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Yes! We offer a special needs–focused class specifically designed for parents navigating additional challenges related to diagnoses, medical needs, and structured routines. This course is also fully approved by DCF.
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We offer in-person classes at Hope Haven as our primary format. We also provide a limited number of virtual seats via Zoom with live instructors. If you choose virtual, you must have reliable internet, a device with video and audio, and stay on camera for the full session.
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Simply select the class date and format (in-person or virtual) from our registration list and complete the online form. Payment is required at the time of registration by credit card.
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Once you register, you’ll receive:
A confirmation email
Instructions on where to attend (for in-person) or how to join the session (for virtual)
A reminder of what to bring or prepare for class
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The parenting class costs $50.00. This one-time fee covers all materials and sessions. Financial assistance may be available for families who qualify—please contact us for more information.
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Yes! You will receive a certificate of completion via email approximately 3 business days after the class. If you provide us with your court case number, we will also electronically file your certificate with the court on your behalf.
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Please call us at (904) 346-5100 or visit hope-haven.org — we’re happy to help!
Our Programs & Services
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![Assessments & Evaluations www.hope-haven.org]()
Assessments & Evaluations
Comprehensive evaluations to identify autism, ADHD, learning differences, and developmental delays.
We are the only provider in Northeast Florida using EarliPoint™ diagnostic eye-tracking technology. -
![Academic Intervention (Tutoring) www.hope-haven.org]()
Academic Intervention (Tutoring)
One-on-one and small-group tutoring using research-based strategies tailored to how your child learns best.
Reading, math, executive function, and more. -
![Educational Advocacy www.hope-haven.org]()
Advocacy Services
Guidance for Families Navigating Special Education
We help families understand services, navigate IEP or 504 Plans, and collaborate with schools to ensure students receive the accommodations and support they need to succeed.
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![Camp Hope www.hope-haven.org]()
Camp Hope
An inclusive summer day camp that combines art, literacy, STEAM, and movement through weekly color-themed experiences.
For children and young adults with disabilities, ages 3–21. -
![Camp - Reading Academic www.hope-haven.org]()
Camp - Reading Academic
“Unlocking the Code of Reading”—a summer literacy camp for struggling readers.
Hands-on, Orton-Gillingham-based instruction. -
![Career Camps (Spring, Summer, Winter) www.hope-haven.org]()
Career Camps (Spring, Summer, Winter)
Seasonal camps for teens and young adults with disabilities focused on job readiness, life skills, and independence.
Each season features hands-on experiences and social connection. -
![Hope Haven's Children First Co-Parenting Class]()
Children First Co-Parenting Class
Effective co-parenting classes designed for parents engaged in paternity actions or divorce. Customized classes are available for parents of children with special needs.
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![Discovery School www.hope-haven.org]()
Discovery School
A year-round, inclusive early learning program for children (ages 3–5) with intellectual or developmental differences.
Small classrooms. On-site therapy. 236 days/year. -
![Employment & Transition Services www.hope-haven.org]()
Employment & Transition Services
Support for young adults transitioning to life after school.
Job skills training, supported employment, and personalized career exploration. -
![Hope After School www.hope-haven.org]()
Hope After School
Inclusive after-school care for ages 3–22 with disabilities.
Academic support, life skills, social development, and fun in a structured, safe environment. -
![Mental Health Counseling www.hope-haven.org]()
Mental Health Counseling
Compassionate counseling for individuals and families, in person or virtually.
Our licensed therapists support mental wellness through all of life’s transitions. -
![Social Skills Groups www.hope-haven.org]()
Social Skills Group
Helping Kids and Teens Build Real World Confidence
Our age-specific Social Skills Groups create a supportive space for children and teens to practice communication, emotional regulation, and peer interaction skills.
