Divorces can be traumatic for parents and children. How parents handle the divorce and their parenting responsibilities afterward can significantly affect how well children cope with it.
These tips can help you successfully co-parent after a divorce.
1. Be there for your children
You are probably dealing with your own emotional trauma, financial stress and other issues after a divorce. However, it is important to physically and emotionally be there for your children. Your children need both your time and your interest and engagement.
2. Let your kids be kids
Try not to involve your kids in adult problems or disputes with your ex-spouse. Focus on maintaining their pre-divorce routines as much as possible and shelter them from your post-divorce struggles.
3. Support your ex-spouse
If you are still angry at your ex-spouse or have other issues, it can be difficult to want to support your spouse’s role as a parent. However, your children will be better off if you can put aside your differences to facilitate a productive parent-child relationship between your children and your ex.
4. Communicate with your ex
Regular communication is critical for successful co-parenting. If you have difficulty communicating with your spouse regularly, consider scheduling co-parenting meetings where you can discuss any parenting issues you have and work on solutions.
5. Consider a co-parenting class
Parenting is a tough job and many parents are not equipped with the skills to successfully co-parent. Consider a community co-parenting class to help you acquire the skills you need.
Learning to co-parent after a divorce is a challenging process. These tips can help.
