Divorce can be stressful for all members of a family as it means significant changes. Oftentimes, change can be viewed in a negative light, but in reality, change isn’t always a bad thing.
The romantic relationship between you and your former spouse may have broken down, but this doesn’t mean you cannot succeed as co-parents.
Outlined below are a few things that could help you to get the most out of your co-parenting relationship.
Finding common ground
The marriage is being dissolved and there is really no point in going over old ground. Instead, it can help if you and your co-parent focus on what unites you, and this is most likely the needs of your children. Some divorcees find that they are able to get along very well with their former spouses when co-parenting together, as the focus of their relationship goals shift away from themselves and center on their children.
Set your priorities
Every parent has different beliefs and styles. With that being said, it is important that co-parents are consistent with the key factors in the child’s development. For example, do both parents want the child to have a religious upbringing? What sort of approach should be taken in terms of discipline? Co-parents really need to be on the same page when it comes to these issues, whenever possible, in order to give kids a consistent frame of reference.
Conflict resolution
Conflicts are bound to arise occasionally even in successful co-parenting relationships. What’s important is that both parties find strategies to resolve conflicts effectively. As long as co-parents don’t lash out, badmouth each other or involve the children, conflicts can usually be resolved effectively.
Successful co-parenting relationships require a legal foundation. For example, parenting plans and custody schedules should be adhered to. If you have questions about your parental rights or how to construct legal documentation to facilitate a healthy co-parenting relationship, it may benefit you to seek legal guidance.
