How To Become A More Effective Co-Parent After A Divorce

Raising children is a major feat for any parent, but it is even more of a challenge for divorced parents, especially if the split was hostile or particularly contentious. Creating a consistent and stable environment across two households often seems impossible for parents who have differing views on what is best for their children. However, it is in their best interests that you ultimately find a way to compromise and cooperate to make their lives easier.

Working Together For The Best Interests Of Your Children

If you still have some wounded feelings and resentment you need to work through, this is natural and expected. That said, you should not let it interfere with your ability to work as a team with your co-parent. Find a healthy outlet for your feelings, so you can avoid emotional outbursts or unnecessary fights. You may find that some of the source of your anger is something from the past rather than anything occurring in the present.

Taking care of your emotional needs in a healthy way might not sound like a co-parenting tip, but it is actually one of the most important steps you can take in this process. It can ease the tension in your co-parenting relationship and make it easier for you to work toward your common goal – nurturing the wellbeing and happiness of your children.

Here are some additional co-parenting tips:

• Do Not Use Your Children As Messengers: No matter how small the message is, you must deliver it directly to your former spouse. From texting and emails to phone calls and video chats, you have many options available to you and should not rely on your children to communicate on your behalf.
• Listen To Each Other: Listening is not the same as agreeing. You do not have to agree with your co-parent, but you should make an effort to listen and understand what your former spouse is trying to say and vice versa. The better you understand one another, the better you can work together.
• Work On A Set Of Household Rules: Creating consistent household rules for your children is critical for their wellbeing, so you and your former spouse should work on these together. They do not have to be identical, but they should be fundamentally similar.
• Never Argue In Front Of Your Children: Everyone gets into arguments and you will likely still have some disagreements with your ex. Make an effort to do this in private rather than in front of or within earshot of your children. Moreover, if you ever feel you are wrong, do not be afraid to apologize. A genuine apology is a powerful thing.

Reach Out to Our Knowledgeable Family Law Team Today!

Co-parenting after a divorce can be incredibly difficult and not every issue can be resolved out of court. If you need legal guidance, contact the family law team at Hembree Bell Law Firm. Our family law attorneys are dedicated to providing personalized solutions that address the needs of every client we serve.

Call us today at (737) 265-7656 to set up an initial consultation!