4 Tips to Help You Successfully Co-Parent After a Divorce
Posted on: February 8, 2019
When a marriage doesn’t work out but there is a still a child to parent, the ideal scenario is one in which both parents can continue to co-parent together. However, this is often easier said than done. At Law Office of Michael L. Fell we have worked with many families going through the divorce process and we have seen parents who found success as co-parents and we have seen parents who have struggled. Today we will share four tips that can help you succeed.
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Remember That Your Child’s Needs Are More Important Than Your Feelings
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Focus on Being a Good Communicator
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Maintain a United Front
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Making it Easy for Your Child to Move Between Homes
Divorce is often painful. It can be hard for both parents to put their hurt feelings to the side but it is what is best for the child. Instead of focusing on negative or sad feelings you may have for their other parent, remember that your child is also going through a difficult time. When you make decisions regarding child custody, don’t just think about what you want – think about what is best for your child.
It is so often repeated that it may sound cliché but it is also true: Communication is key. Do not assume that your co-parent can read your mind. Do not assume what they want or do not want. Talk to them honestly about what you want and listen to what they need. This does not have to be done face to face. In fact, it may be easier to stick to the facts if you communicate primarily over text or email.
It can be easy to forget that you and your now-ex are still on the same team when it comes to parenting. If you are not able to maintain a united front, you run the risk of your child using you against each other. For example, if your child wants to go to a party that they know they would not normally be allowed to go to, they could make both parents believe that the other said it was okay. Work with your co-parent – not against them.
One of the hardest transitions for a child to make is the physical transition of moving between homes. Make this as easy on them as possible. Make sure that they know when they will be at each home. Try to keep everything they need at each home so that they do not have to deal with the hassle of packing a bag and carrying it back and forth. Whatever you can do to make this part easy will have a positive impact on everyone involved.
At Law Office of Michael L. Fell we are here to help our clients find the best way forward during and after their divorce. If you are ready for a free, confidential consultation then we invite you to call us at (949) 585-9055 right away.
