While divorce is never easy, it can be less painful for children when both parents are invested in maintaining a positive relationship. Co-Parenting After Divorce: Building a Successful Relationship for the Sake of the Children offers insight into how to make this work well. Using simple, but effective methods, you can establish an effective co-parenting relationship that benefits the children in many ways.
It’s normal for kids to feel confused about the new family structure after a divorce. It’s even more important for them to feel a sense of consistency and a sense of security as they adjust to this new way of life. Parents who can effectively co-parent will be able to set this standard and give their children a model of what a healthy relationship looks like.
For example, parents who are able to stay calm and focus on discussing the child’s needs will be better able to manage discussions with their ex-spouse. It is also important to maintain good communication, and never talk negatively about the other parent in front of the child. Siding with a parent against the other is not healthy for any child, and it can be particularly damaging for children who have been through the divorce themselves.
It is also important to establish a routine that the entire family can follow, and commit to keeping it consistent. This can be as simple as setting a calendar so everyone knows what day it is, and scheduling regular check-ins for each parent to discuss the child’s needs in private. It’s also a good idea to set up a system for communicating about important dates and events, such as birthdays or school presentations.
Lastly, both parents should work to keep their expenses low, and cooperate with each other in a spirit of cooperation and geniality. There will be times when the expense of maintaining two households can become challenging, but parents who can focus on what is best for the child and avoid rehashing old personal issues in front of the child will be able to find a solution.
The benefits for the children are clear, and they are the reason that many parents are able to come together in the face of difficult circumstances. Using mutual compassion, grace, and respect in this endeavor will help your children to navigate their own lives with tools they can use for the rest of their life, no matter what challenges may arise.
Finally, it is essential to understand that even opening a custody case can be stressful and expensive. As such, it is best to work with a qualified and experienced attorney from the very beginning of the process. This can prevent the need to file an emergency motion for custody, and can ensure that all required paperwork is completed properly. Moreover, it can save both parents time and money in the long run. Contact an experienced Miami divorce and family law attorney today to get started on your custody matter. Taking these steps early in the process can make all the difference in the outcome of your child custody case.