Divorce is a significant life transition that affects everyone involved. If you have children together, one of the most important critical discussions you will need has to do with the custody and parenting arrangement. One of the most effective parenting plans a couple can consider after divorce is co-parenting.
Co-parenting, as the name suggests, allows both parents to be actively involved in their children’s lives. Done right, co-parenting gives children a sense of stability, security and closeness to the parents that they need for their emotional development. However, co-parenting is never easy, and there is never a one-size-fits-all approach to it. That said, here are a few strategies that can help you come up with an effective co-parenting plan that serves the best interest of your children.
Openly talk to your kids about your divorce
Children may not have a say in your decision to end your marriage. However, this should not mean that you keep them in the dark. After all, your divorce will impact their lives too. Keeping your children in the dark on the subject of your divorce can make them feel the divorce was their fault.
It is okay to let feelings be involved. In fact, it is healthy to let your children openly express how they feel so you can know what they are going through. However, while talking to them about the divorce, be careful not to give the impression that the other parent was to blame or portray the other parent in a bad light. This can hurt your kids’ relationship with the other parent and even hurt your custody case should the matter end up in court.
Keep the kids out of your struggles
While it is important to talk to them about the divorce, it is important that you protect your children from any struggles that you and your ex might be having. Never lose your composure and vent to the children just because you are unable to solve certain problems with your ex. Remember, it is one thing to open up about a family situation and a totally different ballgame overburdening your kids with stuff they cannot handle.
The importance of co-parenting after divorce cannot be overstated. With these tips, you can come up with a co-parenting plan that will work in the best interest of everyone, especially the children.
