Divorce is a very difficult time for everyone involved, but it is essential that you make your decisions according to how your children are feeling so that you can co parent in a way that actively suits both yourselves and your children. They will have all sorts of emotions, from confusion to fear to guilt. Keeping the children in the best physical and emotional health should be the parents’ paramount responsibility. But it can be hard.
Your marriage may be over, but your family is not; acting in your kids’ best interest is your most important priority. That is why we have developed a quick guide on how to ease the co-parenting process.
Don’t hinder your child’s relationship with your ex-partner
Try not to negatively discuss the divorce to your children and do not communicate negatively to your ex-partner through your child. This will affect the relationship that both you and your ex-partner have with your child. Although this may seem difficult, remember that you should always have the happiness of your children at the forefront of your mind.
Improve communication with your co-parent
Peaceful, consistent, and purposeful communication with your ex is essential to the success of co-parenting, even though it may seem impossible. Before having contact with your ex, ask yourself how your actions will affect your child, and resolve to conduct yourself with dignity. Make your child the focal point of every discussion you have with your ex-partner.
Make transitions and visitation easier
The actual move from one household to another, whether it happens every few days or just certain weekends, can be a very hard time for children. While transitions are unavoidable, there are many things you can do to help make them easier on your children.
Help children anticipate change – Remind kids they’ll be leaving for the other parent’s house a day or two before the visit.
Pack in advance – Depending on their age, help children pack their bags well before they leave so that they don’t forget anything they’ll miss. Encourage packing familiar reminders like a special stuffed toy or photograph.
Seek out the relevant support
If you continue to struggle throughout the co-parenting process, then you may need to seek out the relevant professional support for you, your ex-partner, and your children, such as counsellors, family therapy, educational and child psychologists.
If you are currently experiencing family issues or need some legal advice, then please contact us to arrange an appointment on 01753 486 777