Co-parenting can be very tough, but it is so worth it for the sake of your children. It’s not always easy for the children either, though it is less traumatic than raising them alone. Successful co-parenting requires good communication skills with your ex, which is not always the easiest thing. The Huffington Post ran an article on five questions you should ask yourself to keep your co-parenting healthy for your children when a conflict arises.
• Will this matter in 10 days, 10 months, or 10 years from now?
• What are all the possible options in the situation, even the ones I don’t like?
• Given those options, what are the long-term consequences.
• Am I fighting with my ex because I don’t want them to “win”?
• In 20 years when my child is grown, how will they remember this situation?
Successful co-parenting requires thinking far into the future, and it’s easier said than done. Co-parents have to get over any lingering pain they have over their old relationship and keep old wounds from opening up. Counseling can help tremendously, especially in the early stages. You may need to set up a strict set of rules or use a co-parenting app as well to keep emotions in check.
Do you have questions about co-parenting? We can help. Call Elise Buie Family Law Group, PLLC to schedule a consultation.
