Co-Parenting Advice

Co-parenting is a good idea in most divorce scenarios and is often the best option for your kids.  You didn’t stop being a parent just because your relationship with your former spouse didn’t work out. Psychologists strongly recommend co-parenting as it allows kids to maintain a strong relationship with both parents. Some parents are afraid they will not be able to keep a good relationship with their children after a divorce. This is why the co-parenting approach is implemented. As long as all decisions about your child’s future are based on mutual understanding and respect, co-parenting will succeed.

Understand your children and former spouse better

This means practicing empathy or putting yourself in their shoes. It is the best approach to parenting after divorce. Just remember your ex-spouse might be different from you but he or she loves your children too and that love will be expressed in unique ways you may never be able to comprehend. After all, a parenting style is as unique as the parent.

Be flexible with your schedule

It is common for divorced couples to have a heated argument about their visitation schedule in front of the kids. If you can’t agree, talk to a Miami child custody attorney to help you with your child’s visitation schedule. Remember your kids suffer when you argue about these things with your ex. If your former spouse wants to take them to a game on one of your days, think about the kids first. Will they enjoy this time with mom or dad? If the answer is yes, then let them go.

Pick your battles wisely

You don’t want your kids to witness any negative feelings therefore try your best to stay calm. If your kids say something negative about your ex, call them first and address the issue.  Sometimes kids lie because they want to get away with the wrong behavior.

Maintain a good co-parenting relationship

Your former spouse is your ex but also a parent like you therefore you should make your post-divorce parenting work for the kids. Divorcees need space and time to rebuild their lives however they see fit. You can always attend counseling sessions and improve communication between you.  Nobody has it all together. There is always room for improving your communication skills.

Respect the schedule

Don’t call so often while your kids are having a great time with your former spouse. It can be disturbing, especially past their bedtime or when they are having dinner. Avoid these odd hours and trust your ex’s parenting abilities.

Share the good times

You can always take photos of a special moment with your children and text it or e-mail it to your ex-spouse. Explain what’s happening so that your ex feels he or she part of it. You can ask your former spouse to do the same, but don’t be upset if he or she forgets.

Co-parenting might be hard work, but it’s totally worth it. Enjoy your time with your kids.  They will son grow into adults and seek other horizons.