Tips for Successful Co-Parenting

A strong co-parenting relationship isn’t only beneficial for the individual parents, but the children as well. Especially around Christmas, it’s important for co-parents to cooperate and ensure things run as smoothly as possible.

Here are some tips for successful co-parenting that are beneficial all year round.

How to Build a Strong Co-Parenting Relationship

Clear & Consistent Communication is Key

Communication is more than just talking and listening. Each parent should always communicate how they feel in a clear, non-confrontational way and this should be received with open ears and an appropriate response. Even if there is a disagreement, it’s vital to stay calm and see things from each other’s perspective as well as the children’s.

By keeping the children at the forefront during every conversation, using neutral language and knowing when to walk away or cool off, effective communication can be achieved. Of course, there are other methods to communicate, such as text, email or contact book, but face-to-face conversations will ensure messages are always conveyed clearly.

Continue to Look to the Future Rather Than the Past

Although the relationship between co-parents may not be the same as it once was, it is still important to leave the baggage behind and be respectful to each other. Even if there is still hurt, anger or upset from previous incidents, this should be put away and moved on from in order to focus on the children and the current situation.

By treating each other with respect, an example will be set for the children on how to act maturely and amicably in difficult circumstances. The tension between co-parents is likely to diminish over time if it is consistently given to one another and the family relationship will get stronger and stronger.

Agree on the Best Approach for the Entire Family Unit

Consistency across house rules and parenting styles is vital for co-parenting. If there are 2 completely different sets of rules and styles across the households, this can be confusing for the children. Although it may not be possible to have exactly the same stance on every issue, a united front should be established on the bigger concerns, e.g. introduction of new partners.

However, as important as consistency and stability is for the entire family unit, it is also important to have flexibility and adaptability. There’s no need to be absolutely strict on every little thing; be considerate of life’s unpredictability and don’t always say no if one parent has to change the schedule. With this bit of freedom and understanding, a comfortable atmosphere and space for the children can be created.

Make Sure Each Co-Parent Has Support

It’s hard enough separating in the first place, but to do this without any support and to create a successful co-parenting relationship moving forward is even more difficult. The hurt and pain caused by the separation should not be brought into the co-parenting relationship and having great support can help ensure this doesn’t happen.

Family and friends may be available to help with childcare and emotional support, but it’s also a good idea to consider professional support too. Therapy, counselling or family lawyers are all good avenues to get the support needed through this difficult time and help navigate through any issues when it comes to co-parenting.

Co-Parenting & Family Solicitors at Caversham Solicitors

At Caversham Solicitors, we understand the sensitivity of co-parenting and the issues concerning children. Our Family Solicitors can offer professional and constructive advice to help you through this difficult time and with any issues that may arise throughout.

We especially know Christmas and the New Year can be even tougher to get through, so we are here to support you in whatever way we can.

Please get in touch with us today to contact our Family Solicitors directly and to discuss your needs.