"Basic Training For Couples" at a Glance
When are the classes held? Groups meet each Tuesday or Thursday from 6–9pm.
How long are the classes? We meet for 3 hours. A free dinner for you, your spouse and children is provided in the first hour. Then, you and your spouse attend class from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. Children are overseen by certified childcare providers in a clean, safe environment that encourages young people at all levels to cooperate, grow, play and learn.
How many people are in the group? Our group (class) size is limited to 24, or 12 couples. This small number stimulates effective discussion and ensures enough individual attention to personalize the experience. The group is large enough that a broad range of opinions and perspectives can be heard and added to the learning curve.
Who teaches the class? We have one male and one female co–facilitator which together make up the teaching team. We have found that this format is best, because it adds a healthy and respectful insight into the thinking and perspectives of each gender.
Where is the class held? We are proud to be right in the heart of our community! In schools, community centers, churches and organizational facilities, LifeSTARTS Youth & Family Services makes an effort to incorporate our programs into the daily life of our families.
What will we talk about? We talk about the things that can give marriage and relationships the strongest chance of thriving, and give couples and families the greatest benefit. Subjects like effective communication, conflict management and blended families keep the conversations lively and useful in everyday life.
When do I register? What!? You haven’t registered already?! Okay, here’s how you do it, because you need to do it today. Call LifeSTARTS Youth & Family Services at 202.610.9903 and ask for the Marriage Education Department. We’ll get you started in the quick and easy sign–up process. You and your spouse can be enrolled in the next available class!
How much does it cost? There is no cost. LifeSTARTS Youth & Family Services provides "Basic Training for Couples" FREE to the communities we serve.
Who can attend? Eligible couples include a man and a woman who are married, engaged, seriously dating or "in love and in trouble". And, YES! You have to take the same class as your partner. That’s what it’s all about, right?
Are classes confidential? Your privacy is protected at all times, both by law and in practice. Legally, we cannot release information about you without your express, written consent. In practice, you are among your friends, so like Las Vegas, "what happens at Basic Training, stays at Basic Training!"
Do I have to bring anything? You'll need an open mind, a willing heart and the spirit to participate with a group of brothers and sisters who will become your friends. It would be helpful to bring a pen and pad, or other note–taking supplies, but it isn’t required.
Most importantly, WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME? There’s so much in it for you that it’s really hard to put it in this small space. Basic Training for Couples is the gateway to a lifetime of learning about marriage and its benefits. Those benefits range from better health to higher salaries, smarter children to better sex. Statistics even show that, on average, married people live longer lives and are happier while they do it!
We hope to see you and your mate at Basic Training for Couples. LifeSTARTS Youth & Family Services searched high and low for the best curriculum of study for our community, and this is the one!