5 actions that can disrupt co-parenting

Parents who go through a divorce need to ensure they do what’s best for their children. One option that many parents are trying to work is co-parenting. The parents work as a team in this arrangement to raise the children.

A successful co-parenting relationship takes work. Making sure you’re doing things that help the situation is important. Be sure you avoid these five actions that can disrupt the co-parenting relationship.

#1: Failing to communicate effectively

Communication is the foundation of a successful co-parenting relationship. Speak to your ex with respect and keep things focused on the children. Treating communication as a businesslike matter may be beneficial, especially when there are contentious issues to address.

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#2: Belittling the other parent

Never disparage your co-parent, especially to the children. Even if you have something that’s bothering you, it’s best to not say it unless you’re speaking to another trusted adult who won’t repeat what’s said.

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#3: Refusing to compromise

Compromise is important for co-parents. This can mean making changes to the parenting time schedule as necessary. Some co-parents share rules across both homes, so being willing to work together to come up with those is important.

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#4: Living in the past

Your sole focus when co-parenting should be doing what’s best for the children. Never let the issues that ended the marriage remain a factor in the co-parenting situation. There will come a time when significant others are involved in caring for the children, so don’t let your emotions rule you when that occurs.

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#5: Being unreliable

The co-parenting relationship relies on both adults being reliable. You should ensure you have your children where they’re supposed to be at the right time. You also must show up for transition days and other events on time. Always do what you say you’re going to do, and avoid making promises you aren’t sure you’ll be able to keep.

One of the best things you can do for your co-parenting situation is to get the parenting plan set as quickly as possible. This gives you something to refer to when there are questions about what needs to happen. Working with someone who understands your situation and can help you to discover creative solutions to issues is important.