When a relationship has deteriorated beyond repair, the couple involved may decide to seek divorce. However, while the divorce might signal the end of the romantic relationship, it is important to understand that “it is never over” if there are children involved.
One of the parenting arrangements a couple may opt for after divorce is co-parenting. Basically, this is an arrangement where two parents who are no longer romantically involved with each other assume a joint responsibility for their children. Co-parenting offers several benefits to the parties involved. However, it is worth noting that it is never a walk in the park. That said, here are a couple of tips that can help you come up with an effective co-parenting plan.
Always put your kids first
Having to meet or spend hours on phone with a person you no longer love can be a daunting task, it is important to acknowledge that this might be necessary for the sake of your children. Remember, some things in life call for sacrifices, and co-parenting is one of them. Let every decision you make with your ex be in the best interest of the children.
Communicate, communicate, communicate
Poor communication is the number one reason why relationships fail in the first place. For the sake of your children, you might want to come up with a communication plan that will make your co-parenting succeed. Find out the communication channel that works for both of you and make the best use of it.
Be flexible
Taking a hard-line stand and demanding that everything happens your way will definitely ruin your co-parenting endeavor. Something will always come up that will necessitate a change of plan. Maybe one parent is out of town hence they cannot have the kids for the weekend. Or, someone has fallen ill, hence, the other parent has to attend to this. There is no point fighting over such things. Remember, the overall goal is to give your children the best parenting possible, even if and when there are hiccups along the way.
Co-parenting has its share of benefits and shortcomings. However, here are some of the tips that can help you make co-parenting work.
