Tips on Effective Coparenting
The court will appreciate a parent who understands that children have a right to a sense of safety, stability, and love from both parents. Both parents are responsible for learning to coparent effectively. Children can thrive even when tensions run high amid divorce proceedings and custody battles. Effective co-parenting involves both parents working together to raise their children, making decisions that are in the best interest of their children, and fostering a positive relationship with the other parent. Here are a few tips to effectively coparent.
Stick to the parenting plan: If you have an existing custody and visitation order, it is important that both parents maintain it to ensure your child spends quality time with each parent without overstepping boundaries. If there is no court-ordered visitation, parents should establish a plan for the child’s best interest.
Communicate with the other parent: Learning how to communicate effectively with the other parent is essential in having a successful coparent relationship. This can include sharing important information about your child’s health, education, and activities, or keeping each other informed about schedule changes. Effective communication may also include communicating respectfully or limiting communication only to what is necessary for the care of your child. Apps such as TalkingParents or OurFamilyWizard are designed to keep communication between coparents organized, documented, and cordial.
Don’t involve your children in conflict: Children have a right to a sense of security, stability, and love. Putting children in the middle of conflicts or using them as messengers for the other parent puts unnecessary stress and emotional strain on them, regardless of their age. This can put the children in an uncomfortable position and lead to misunderstandings. Children should be free to just be kids and not be put in the middle of adult conflicts.
Respect the other parent: Coparenting along with divorce or custody proceedings can lead to a lot of tension. It is normal to feel frustration, anger, or sadness, but it is important to remember that your children take stock of how parents interact with each other. Speaking negatively about the other parent in front of your child can undermine their authority and harm the child’s relationship with both parents and create loyalty conflicts. Respecting each other’s opinions, decisions, and parenting style, while keeping your children’s best interests in mind is a key to successful coparenting.
Lastly, remember your children come first: Regardless of any disputes or conflicts that occur between parents, it is important to remember that your children should come first. Parenting can be a challenge, so try putting any hard feelings aside to work together to provide your children with stability and support. Despite any disagreements that may arise, keep in mind that at the end of the day, parents are on the same side and share the goal of giving their children a loving and safe environment.
Each family has a unique set of facts and experiences that craft a parenting plan. Livingstone Law, APC, has over 28 years of experience advocating for parents and children. Our team is committed to helping you achieve the best outcome for your family.