Workshops for Children of Divorce
Kids First offers workshops designed to help children of divorce.  The Kids First classes are free and are required for all kids ages 6-16 whose parents are divorcing in Linn County, Iowa. 

The workshops aim to help kids understand and cope with their parents’ separation and divorce. Children are grouped by grade, and there are separate curricula for grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-11.   The educational workshops are interactive and utilize artwork, games, discussions, videos, and role-plays.  Classes are 2.5 hours long. 

The goals of the workshops are to:

• Give kids a safe and confidential place to discuss their feelings about divorce;
• Let kids know they are not alone and the divorce is not their fault;
• Teach kids practical skills to handle their emotions and adjust to family changes;
• Help kids understand what to expect from the legal process in an age-appropriate way.

Who attends the Kids First Workshops?
The workshops are offered to children ages 6-16 who are experiencing divorce.  At least two adult facilitators lead each class.  Parents who file for divorce in Linn County and whose kids are between the ages of 6-16 are required to enroll their children in the class. 

How do I enroll my kids?
Parents must register their children for the class by calling Kids First at 319-365-5437.  Please allow approximately 10-15 minutes to complete the registration by phone.

Where are workshops held?
The workshops are temporarily being held at the Boys & Girls Club at 722 5th Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids.

 Directions:

• I-380 to Exit 20B (7th Street):
• From I-380 Northbound: Turn Right from the ramp onto 7th Street
• From I-380 Southbound: At the stop sign, continue straight on the bridge over the interstate; continue on 7th Street
• Turn left at 5th Avenue.
• 722 5th Ave. SE is the left side of the street. (Please note that the workshops are held in the Boys and Girls Club offices and not at Kids First.) You may park in the lot, despite the permit parking only signs, to drop off and pick up your child.   

How much does the class cost?
There is no fee for the workshops, although it costs Kids First more than $40 per child. Donations of any amount are welcome and may be sent to Kids First at PO Box 1541, Cedar Rapids, IA 52406.

How does the Court know my child attended the class?
Kids First records the case number at the time of registration. One week after all of the children in a family have attended, Kids First files a certificate of completion with the Court. To see if the certificate has been filed in your case, click here.