How to Make Co-Parenting Work For You

After a divorce, many children struggle with feelings of- Discuss parenting issues when the child is not
guilt, abandonment, anger and insecurity. Some childrenpresent.
describe the experience as having the ground crumble- Be flexible and understanding when things don't go as
out from under them, leaving them frightened andplanned. Show your child, by your attitude, how to "go
distrustful. This loss of trust takes love, time andwith the flow" when necessary.
consistency to rebuild.- Avoid criticizing or complaining about your ex-partner
To survive the effects of divorce, a child needs ain the child's presence, as this will often cause the child
continued loving relationship with both parents, ifto take sides, or be "two-faced" around each parent.
possible. Through cooperative parenting, or- Deliver your own messages; don't expect your child
"co-parenting," parents put aside personal grievances,to do it.
to successfully parent their child.- Realize that a problems will arise and be prepared to
Evidence shows that when divorced parents workdeal with them calmly.
together at parenting, children are more likely to make- Always ask yourself, "What is best for my child?".
healthy adjustments. Here are some tips for makingEven though a marriage may end, the responsibility of
co-parenting work for you:parenting does not. Peaceful co-parenting can make a
- With the help of a counselor, pastor or mediator,lifetime of difference for your child, by showing that
create a parenting plan that details a consistent andyou love him enough to keep both parents involved in
agreeable arrangement for co-parenting with yourhis life.
ex-spouse.Do you want to learn exactly how to eliminate your
- Instead of trying to force the other parent to do itchild's out-of-control and defiant behavior without using
your way, help your children understand that therePunishments, Time-Outs, Behavioral Plans, or
may be more than one way of doing things.Rewards?