Co-Parenting Effectively

Divorce is generally pretty challenging, but one thing you’re unwavering about is co-parent in a way that exhibits that your children are cherished and prized by each parent, despite the divorce. For some families that sounds like a staggering goal, but in fact, it can be done with some relatively modest modifications to behaviors and mindsets.

First Comes Safety Considerations

Crucially, the welfare of you and your children is the number one priority. Co-parenting is not an option for parents if domestic violence has been a problem in the past and is a concern now. The court needs to know about those events and work to protect you and your children from further unsupervised visits with an historically violent parent.

Co-Parenting at a Glance 

For divorcees who work at it, co-parenting is a great way to team up as parents, despite the marriage ending. Your efforts recognize that children are vulnerable throughout and following the divorce and they help kids deal with changes that they did not necessarily plan or want, but that are certainly affecting them. Co-parenting may not feel natural at first, but with training, practice, and determination it can be a crucial part of raising emotionally healthy kids while developing satisfying relationships all around.

Communication is Number One 

The first, and most important characteristic of co-parenting is positive, effective communication. Parents will need to share information related to children’s school progress, health, schedules, and such. Doing so efficiently keeps both parents in the loop related to their children. Respectful communication shows your children that it’s not only okay—it’s actually important to value both parents and allow them to contribute to their children’s well-being.

The way you communicate with your children, too, is critical. They will have emotions and questions that may be challenging to address, but it is important for them to have those issues acknowledged honestly at an age-appropriate level. It’s up to you to demonstrate– in word and deed–that the divorce was about the grown up relationships, and does not affect the love and responsibility parents have for their children. That means protecting children from negative opinions and judgments about one’s former spouse.

Picking Your Battles 

Don’t expect that you and your ex didn’t agree on everything when you’re divorced, as that was clearly not the case when you were married. Although you won’t see eye-to-eye about everything, remember that you must be a team working on behalf of the kids. Even when things don’t go according to your plan, it’s crucial to give your ex a little wiggle room to navigate the new reality of co-parenting. You’re simply not going to achieve your parenting goals if you nit-pick over every little thing. Save your efforts for things that impact the kids’ safety or well-being.

Advocating for You 

The experienced Boca Raton divorce attorneys at WiseLieberman are in your corner. For all of your divorce needs, schedule a confidential consultation in our Boca Raton office today.