Divorce can be hard and complicated. For divorcing parents, it can be much harder because you have the added wrinkle of co-parenting.
Non-parents can start their new lives alone after a divorce, but parents have to work with their soon-to-be ex-spouse for the rest of their child’s life, or at least until they reach adulthood.
For Florida co-parents who make a commitment to work together, it can be much easier in some ways.
Communication is key
The key to a successful co-parenting relationship is communication. If your marriage fell apart due to communication issues, you may need to go to family counseling to learn how to effectively communicate with each other.
Remember, you are doing this for the sake of the kids.
Communication between the parents only
Use all communication channels needed. However, the communication channel that should never be used is your children. Ban all phrases that begin with “tell your mom” or “tell your dad.”
Let your child be a child. Keep parental problems between the parents.
Documentation
While you should use all needed communication channels, document everything. As possible, communicate in writing. When you communicate verbally, be sure to follow up with an email or text confirming what was discussed. This will ensure that disagreements or miscommunications are reduced. And, if there is a dispute later, you have documentation to prove your case.
Consistency
Another key to successful co-parenting is consistency. This is essential to your child and your co-parent. Keep your schedules and only change them in emergencies. This reduces conflicts and makes the divorce less dramatic and chaotic for the children.
Keep calm, and carry on
If you are divorcing your co-parent, it is likely that they have a unique ability cause consternation. However, do not overreact. As the adage goes, keep calm, and carry on. Even when you are irritated, breathe, calm yourself and then, respond.
Of course, this is not exhaustive. There are additional tips and tricks, but we will explore them in future blog posts.