The Dos and Don’ts of Co-Parenting During a Separation

Co-parenting is a difficult task, even in the best of circumstances. When you are going through a separation or divorce, the situation becomes much more challenging. Whether you have been amicable up until this point or not, there are certain dos and don’ts when it comes to co-parenting during a separation that can make the process less stressful and more positive for everyone involved.

DOs

-Communicate effectively: Communication is key when co-parenting. It is important to be transparent and honest with your co-parent about schedules, activities, school-related responsibilities, doctor’s appointments, and any other important information. Make sure you are both on the same page when it comes to raising your children.

-Create a parenting plan: A parenting plan can provide structure and consistency for your children. It should outline schedules, parenting time, holidays, and any other relevant details. A parenting plan can also help to alleviate any confusion or misunderstandings between co-parents.

-Be flexible: Life can be unpredictable, and plans may need to change. Be open to having conversations with your co-parent about adjusting schedules or parenting time. Being flexible and understanding can help to promote a healthy co-parenting relationship.

-Be respectful: Even if you are not on good terms with your co-parent, it is important to remain respectful. Avoid talking badly about your co-parent in front of your children or using them as a messenger. Treat your co-parent with the same level of respect and courtesy that you would expect in return.

DON’Ts

-Use your children as pawns: Your children should never be put in the middle of your co-parenting conflicts. Avoid using them as messengers or leverage to get what you want. This can cause emotional harm to your children and can damage the co-parenting relationship.

-Disrupt your co-parent’s parenting time: If your co-parent has agreed to a specific parenting time schedule, do not disrupt it without a valid reason. Respecting each other’s parenting time is an important aspect of co-parenting, and any changes should be agreed upon in advance.

-Involve your children in adult conversations or conflicts: Your children should not be exposed to adult conversations or conflicts. Keep any disagreements or conflicts between co-parents out of their view and earshot.

-Forget to prioritize your children: Ultimately, co-parenting is about doing what is best for your children. Keep their needs and interests in mind when making any decisions about parenting time, activities, or schedules. Prioritizing your children can help to create a healthy and positive co-parenting relationship.

In conclusion, co-parenting can be a difficult task, especially during a separation. However, by following these dos and don’ts, parents can improve their co-parenting relationship, create a sense of consistency for their children, and ultimately ensure that their children are their top priority.