Transitioning between parenting plans can be a challenging time for families. While some families navigate these changes smoothly, others require additional support to ensure a positive and conflict-free experience, especially for the children involved. The DuPage County Transitional Exchange Program offers a structured and supportive environment to aid families in these crucial transitions.
This program serves as a valuable community care service, providing professional assistance to families as they adjust to new parenting arrangements or move away from court-mandated involvement. The core purpose is to offer support to the family while also providing insights to the court when necessary, facilitating a smoother transition for everyone.
The Transitional Exchange Program mirrors the Neutral Exchange process in its logistics. Children are exchanged between parents at a safe Family Center, facilitated by trained staff. Critically, parents do not interact with each other during these exchanges, minimizing potential conflict. However, the Transitional program goes further by incorporating additional time and dedicated staff engagement. Family Center staff members actively work with both children and parents individually. This allows for open communication, the identification of any emerging issues, and proactive conflict resolution strategies to be implemented.
When mandated by the court, the Family Center provides formal written reports detailing observations and any issues that arise during the transitional period. This communication ensures that the court and legal teams remain informed about the family’s progress and any challenges encountered.
The Transitional Exchange Program is intentionally designed as a short-term intervention. Families typically participate for approximately three months. Following this period, families may graduate from the program and manage exchanges independently, or they may transition to the Neutral Exchange Program for continued support with the physical exchange process.
