It is now common to co-parent after a divorce. Every child deserves two supportive parents. It can be difficult and frustrating for some of us to get along with our ex-spouses. This essay is a collection of my advice about co-parenting after divorce. These recommendations will make the transition to divorce and the rebuilding of your family easier for you and your kids.
You must first heal to be a good parent.
Dr. Juliana Morris, a marital- and family therapist says that both parents will bring the same hurt to the relationship of co-parenting. Either one or both of the parents has not tried to move on from the past and start a new chapter. Parents must maintain a positive attitude towards their children.
Be business partners with your parent
Your business is co-parenting your children. Business ties are built on mutual benefit. Business relationships don’t work if there are expectations and emotional ties. In a successful company, everyone is polite. Formal courtesies can be observed at professional gatherings and meetings. Professionals set an agenda that focuses on the topic at hand and then discuss it. All agreements are clear, concise, and written.
Be adaptable, even if it hurts
Stability and consistency are important in building a child’s sense of security during uncertain times. However, flexibility is also essential. Ellsworth says that parents should forgive each other and give each other the benefit of doubt when it is scheduling. They will offer their children safe and comforting places to go in difficult situations.
Take on
Make sure that your children are ready for the swap by having their belongings packed, cleaned, fed and ready to go. To avoid the transition nightmare, you can plan your time to share so that weekends start on Friday afternoon and end on Monday morning.
