Every child deserves to grow up in a healthy and stable home. Life isn’t always picture-perfect, however, so sometimes hiccups occur that you may not have seen coming. If your relationship or marriage broke down at some point, it’s possible that you’re now co-parenting. This isn’t always the easiest thing to do, especially if you aren’t on good terms with the other parent. However, it is possible to reach a level of understanding and peace if you’re both willing to be open-minded and platonic. Here are a few co-parenting tips that you could benefit from as a parent.
Agree on a Schedule
When you’re co-parenting, it’s important that you learn to work with a schedule. Not only should this help make your lives as parents easier, but it can also create a level of stability for the kids. You can sit down together and work a schedule out based on your schedules as well as the schedules of the kids. Some things to think about include:
- School breaks
- Major holidays
- Public holidays
- Birthdays
Once you’ve been able to come to an agreement, try your best to stick to it. If for any reason you can’t, ensure you communicate with the other party.
Get it in Writing
The reality is that sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to get along. This could be because of unresolvable issues or built-up tension. In such an instance, it may be best to get any agreements you have in writing.
In the case that you’re separated and co-parenting, finalizing your divorce and agreeing on terms may help to give you the closure you both need to move forward amicably. Consider contacting Crisp & Co Divorce Solicitors if you’re a high net worth individual and need advice.
Learn to Communicate
Some co-parents don’t have a problem when it comes to communicating while others may struggle. If you fall into the latter, see if you can work on identifying where the communication challenges are coming from and then looking for practical solutions.
This could mean examining your communication style and seeing if there’s anything that you could do better. To improve your communication skills, pay attention to your non-verbal communication and make sure your body language, as well as tone, isn’t negative. Also, try listening more and talking less as at times that is where the issue lays. Remember that the better you communicate, the healthier you make the environment for your little ones.
Take Time to Heal
A broken relationship can be difficult on all parties involved. Sometimes the best anecdote is to take time out to heal. This might require that you try going to counseling or seeing a therapist to help you make sense of how you feel. Alternatively, write down your emotions and make a conscious effort to let the negative ones go. Remember that looking after your mental health as a parent is one of the best things you can do for your kids.
Parenting isn’t an easy job, so when you have someone to help you figure it out with, it often goes a long way. Although life isn’t black and white, there are ways to make the most of your situation. The above tips should especially be helpful in helping you co-parent moving forward.
Nickida
Nickida is a first-generation Trinidadian American wife and mother of four. She enjoys sharing recipes from her childhood growing up in Trinidad with her readers. Nickida has a son with Autism and shares posts around traveling with a child with special needs to help other families like her own. She loves television, movies and is a true 80's baby.
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