According to Gaydos and Johnson, anyone thinking about setting up parenting programs for divorcing parents should consider several issues at the outset. In their experiences, a good working relationship with the local judge was essential. In Johnson's case, the judge laid the groundwork with attorneys for implementation of the program, and in all three program startups, the judges were supportive. The content of the programs include how children respond to divorce at different ages, parenting strategies that help and hurt children's adjustment, strategies for coparenting and stepparenting, understanding the grief process, and availability of community services for families. The programs are cofacilitated with counselors from local mental health and drug and alcohol facilities.
Teachers primarily lecture, though videotapes are sometimes used.
Both Gaydos and Johnson urge careful consideration of participation issues. Many parents have strong emotional feelings about parenting and their children, and brief programs may not lend themselves to personal exploration of these issues. Materials developed by Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and the Aring Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio, have been important resources for these programs. Program Delivery Decisions concerning program delivery are also critical. The programs in Darke, Noble, and Monroe counties are cofacilitated by counseling and educational professionals.