Co-parenting arrangements have to be handled on a case-by-case basis with the approval of both parents. When either parent isn’t willing to negotiate and work with the other one, the situation can become more stressful than helpful. What starts out as a positive relationship may devolve into negativity. How you address these conflicts can determine how things go from there.
It is usually best to try to keep things positive when you are co-parenting. While you will have to work at this, you will eventually see that your efforts aren’t in vain.
Determine a parenting time schedule
Coming up with the parenting time schedule is often difficult, especially if one parent doesn’t have a set work schedule. In your parenting plan, set standards. For example, if a parent gets their work schedule on Friday for the upcoming week, they might be required to let the other one know by that evening so that plans for the next week can be made by Saturday.
Discuss major decisions
Major decisions for the child will need the input from both parents. Instead of trying to hash these out at the last minute, make sure that you bring matters up to your ex as soon as you know about them. The other parent should do the same. Always remember that the more you work together, the better the chance that you can come to an agreement that is best for the children.
Keep your words productive
Your words can have a significant impact on how situations are handled. Whether you are speaking to your ex or about specific challenges, make sure that you aren’t deprecating anyone or anything. Remaining respectful and professional isn’t always easy, but it can benefit every discussion including disagreements and negotiations. The demand for respect should carry over to other adults who spend time with the children. No child should ever have to hear people speaking negatively of their parents.
Let the past go
One of the biggest challenges when you are co-parenting is letting go of the past. You have to focus on the children instead of on what happened between you and your ex. Once you forgive them, you can move forward with setting up a new life for you and your children in New Albany.
Make sure that you put everything you and your ex agree to in writing. Your parenting plan is the backbone of the arrangement, so ensure that it is comprehensive and that it provides the information you need to handle various situations that unexpectedly come up.