Divorce is a challenging process for families to endure and the aftermath often presents many of its own unique obstacles, especially when it comes to co-parenting. You and your former spouse must adjust to these drastically different circumstances while still ensuring your children feel safe, secure, and happy. However, cooperating with one another may seem like a difficult task, which is why we compiled a list of tips to help set you on the right path as you move forward.
Working as a Team
Although you are no longer married, you should try to continue to think of yourselves as a co-parenting team. You both want what is best for your children and will have to set aside any wounded feelings and unresolved anger you may have toward one another. Otherwise, you might find yourselves arguing about the very same issues that plagued your marriage. If necessary, find an outlet for these emotions, whether it be a new hobby, talking to a friend, or hiring a therapist. The important thing is to avoid having any outbursts in front of your children.
It is also crucial to communicate directly with your former spouse. It might seem easier to pass messages along through your children, but it can land them in the middle of a nasty argument, which will only harm them.
Here are some additional co-parenting tips for you to consider:
- Do not speak negatively about your former spouse in front of your children. Regardless of how you feel about your ex, he or she is still a parent to your children and you should both do your best to respect that.
- Try to keep your promises and avoid making any plans you know you cannot follow through on. Not only will breaking promises further erode at the trust between you and your ex, but it will also hurt and disappoint your children during an already difficult time.
- Learn to listen to each other. Hearing someone is not the same as understanding what is being communicated to you. Even if you disagree with your ex, understanding will make it easier to reach a compromise on certain issues.
- As hard as it may seem, you should both be willing to apologize to each other.
Raising children is always a challenge, regardless of marital status, but with these tips in mind, you can tackle the obstacles you may face with greater ease.
Reach Out to Our Compassionate Family Law Attorney Today!
If you cannot resolve the parenting issues you are facing in the aftermath of a divorce, you should consider consulting with a knowledgeable child custody attorney. At the Law Office of Tzvi Y. Hagler, P.C., we are committed to providing strong legal support and guidance.
Call us today at (516) 514-3868 to set up a consultation.
