Dos and Don'ts for Successful Co-Parenting After Divorce

Co-parenting can be challenging, but it's important to make it work for the sake of your children. After a divorce, it's essential to establish a healthy co-parenting relationship to ensure the well-being of your children. Here are some dos and don'ts of co-parenting that can help you navigate this journey.

1. Do Communicate Effectively

Communication is key in any relationship, and co-parenting is no exception. Communicating effectively with your co-parent is essential to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. Set boundaries and expectations for each other and ensure you're both on the same page regarding parenting decisions.

2. Don't Involve Your Children in Adult Issues

Your children should not be involved in adult issues, such as conflicts between you and your co-parent. Avoid speaking negatively about your co-parent in front of your children, and don't use your children as messengers between you and your co-parent. Keep adult issues between adults and focus on providing your children a stable and loving environment.

3. Do Create a Co-Parenting Plan

A co-parenting plan can help you and your co-parent establish clear guidelines for parenting after divorce. This plan can include details such as custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and communication methods. A co-parenting plan can help avoid conflicts and ensure that both parents are on the same page.

4. Don't Make Decisions Without Consulting Your Co-Parent

Major decisions regarding your children should be made jointly with your co-parent. This includes decisions about healthcare, education, and extracurricular activities. Avoid making decisions without consulting your co-parent, leading to conflicts and misunderstandings.

5. Do Prioritize Your Children's Needs

When co-parenting, it's important to prioritize your children's needs above your own. This means putting aside personal issues with your co-parent and focusing on what's best for your children. Make decisions that benefit your children's well-being, even if it means compromising your preferences.

6. Do Contact a Family Law Attorney

Co-parenting can be challenging, but it's possible to make it work. If you're struggling with co-parenting, consider seeking the help of a family law attorney who specializes in co-parenting. At Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC, we offer co-parenting services to help you navigate this journey. Contact us today at (615) 933-2366 to learn more.