Parents who have gone through a divorce will still have to work together for the good of the children. Co-parenting involves working closely to ensure the kids have what they need and provide them with the support they need.
Just because co-parenting is best for the children doesn’t mean that it’s the easiest for the parents. Some parents will be natural at co-parenting, but others may struggle. There are several things to remember that might help to make the situation a bit less stressful.
Set boundaries but remain a team
You need to have boundaries for co-parenting, but you also need to ensure those don’t get in the way of being a parenting team. Co-parenting means sharing information about the children and making decisions together in a civil manner, and you can only control your end of that bargain. Some of the limits you set should be internal, such as how you’ll react to antics from your ex. You also need to determine how you can control your emotions.
Support your co-parent’s success
Your co-parent being successful can mean a better life for the children. Instead of wishing harm on your ex, remember that their happiness can have a direct impact on the children. Both parents should do what they can to encourage success for the children.
Having a solid parenting plan can help to make the situation much more stable. This is what you’ll turn to if you ever need to determine how to handle certain situations. You and your ex need to work together to establish this plan. You should set the terms based on what’s needed right now, because you can go through a modification process later if the child’s needs change.