Co-parenting is an arrangement that requires parents to work closely as a team so they can raise their children together even though they aren’t romantically involved any longer. While this is usually beneficial for the children, it’s sometimes challenging for the adults.
It’s best to have a solid parenting plan in place so both adults know what’s expected. Ideally, you’ll get this done after the split as soon as possible. This enables the children to have stability. Consider these tips to make co-parenting as easy as possible.
1. Focus on the children
One of the best things you can do is to keep your focus solely on the children. Your ex’s actions shouldn’t matter to you as long as they don’t affect the kids’ health or safety. Each decision you make should consider what the children need.
2. Communicate respectfully
The way you and your ex communicate can directly impact the children. Make sure you keep all communication respectful and focused on the children. If you have tense topics to discuss, do this away from the children so they don’t hear what’s being said.
3. Encourage your children
Some children who have divorced parents don’t feel as though their parents will be happy if they have fun with the other side of their family. One way you can avoid this is to encourage your children to enjoy both sides of their family.
Ultimately, you and your ex must determine how you can support the children despite your divorce. Setting the standards for the co-parenting relationship from the start can help to lay the foundation you need to raise the children with minimal drama.