After a divorce, you may find yourself in constant contact with your former spouse. You’re not doing this because it’s fun, but instead because you have at least one child with the person.
There are many things you can do to make the most of co-parenting, including the following:
— Don’t discuss your feelings for the other parent with your child. There is never a good time to bad mouth a child’s father or mother, so keep your feelings to yourself.
— Keep an open line of communication. It’s important that you feel comfortable communicating with the other person when necessary. If you cut off all communication, it will make a bad situation more difficult in the future.
— Be ready for constant change. In the world of co-parenting, change is the only constant. Just when you think you have everything figured out, another challenge will move to the forefront. As long as you are prepared for this, it’s much easier to deal with anything that comes your way.
— Encourage your child to speak up. If your child has a question or concern, he or she should feel comfortable speaking up and seeking guidance from one or both parents.
When you follow these tips, you’ll find it much easier to settle on a co-parenting schedule that works for you, your child and the other parent.
If you run into any issues along the way, such as a former spouse who is trying to keep you from visiting with your child, you need to learn more about your legal rights.
Source: U.S. News, “5 Tips for Successful Co-Parenting,” accessed June 28, 2017