Family Lawyer

A divorce is difficult enough as it is. If you throw kids into the mix, it can make things even more stressful. Even after the court proceedings are over and done with, you still have to co-parent your children with your ex. While it may be tough at first, it’s possible to successfully co-parent. 

Here are some tips to consider.

Be Civil with the Other Parent

After a divorce, it is normal to have some hard feelings toward your ex. However, if you want to successfully co-parent and keep your children happy, a family lawyer, like one from Winfrey Law Firm, PLLC, would advise you to be civil with the other parent. If your kids frequently hear you badmouthing their other parent or complaining about him or her, they may feel bad. That is the last thing you want. Set your hard feelings aside and work with your ex to provide your children a good life.

Be Willing to Compromise

When you co-parent your kids with your ex, you may have to make compromises at times. While they sometimes may be inconvenient, they may be necessary. For example, if your ex has to unexpectedly travel for work when he or she is supposed to have the children, be willing to switch to different dates. If you’re willing to be flexible, there’s a higher chance that your ex will do the same for you.

Choose Your Battles Wisely

There will be times when the other parent may do things that you don’t agree with and vice-versa. However, it’s generally not a good idea. If you pick up a fight over every little thing, it will just create more hostility. For example, if your ex is usually on time, but shows up a few minutes late to pick up your kids one day, don’t make it a big deal.

Encourage Your Children to Communicate with the Other Parent

Even if you don’t get along with your ex anymore, you still should want him or her to have a good relationship with your children. That’s why you should encourage them to call and email the other parent while they are staying with you. Even if your spouse is in another country or region, it is important to ensure your children are connected.

Communicate Directly with Your Ex

If you and your ex aren’t on the greatest terms, the idea of communicating with him or her may seem daunting. However, you don’t want your children to be messengers. Things can get mixed up that way. It is important to always communicate directly with your ex, whether that’s in person or over the phone.

Be Consistent in Both Households

While you and your ex probably won’t agree on every little thing, you should try to maintain some consistency in both households. For example, if your children go to bed at 9 p.m. at your house, they should go to bed at a similar time at your ex’s home. Being consistent can help your children get through the transition easier.

If you need help with your child custody case, contact a family lawyer.