Once the divorce process is in the past, you’re ready to move on with your new life. Of course, if you have a child with your ex-spouse, you know that you’ll still have to communicate with him or her every now and again.
As you move through your divorce, it’s only natural to have some co-parenting concerns. Will you know what to do at all times? Will you make mistakes that lead to an argument? Will you always do what’s best for your child?
Although you’re sure to make some co-parenting mistakes, there are tips you can follow to keep yourself on the right track the majority of the time:
- Don’t do anything until you think about the impact it will have on your ex-spouse. You don’t have to ask permission, but you should be considerate to his or her feelings.
- Keep an open mind. Even with a parenting schedule in place, there are times when changes will be necessary. You need to be flexible with scheduling (unless it becomes an ongoing problem).
- Find the best means of communication. Some people find that they are still able to communicate in person and over the phone with their ex-spouse. Others, however, come to find that text messages and email make more sense.
- Focus on the well-being of your child. Yes, you need to communicate with your ex-spouse, but the most important thing is that you focus on what’s best for your child.
- Enjoy your time away. There is nothing wrong with regularly thinking about your child, but you should also enjoy your alone time.
If you follow these co-parenting tips, you’ll find yourself in better position to raise your child after your divorce is finalized.
In the event that you run into a major problem, such as the other parent being unwilling to follow the parenting agreement, you may need to take action. Review your parenting agreement, learn more about your legal rights and then decide what to do next.