Co-parenting is not for the faint of heart, especially if your ex does not willingly comply with court orders. However, your commitment to following the rules and putting your children’s best interests first can help make the co-parenting experience as positive as possible.
Even if your children are not yet old enough to fully understand the purpose of a custody arrangement, they will watch your example. You can teach them valuable lessons about resilience, flexibility, respect and integrity when you do your part.
Highlight commonalities
Going through a divorce may seem to do nothing more than clarify the stark differences between you and your ex. For example, differences in opinions, beliefs, preferences and even parenting styles. However, both of you do still have one thing in common: the children you share. According to The Mayo Clinic, putting your children first is an excellent way to help them cope with the uncertainties of a changing family dynamic.
Being able to see past the differences you may have with your ex will enable you to see the value your children can have from maintaining a relationship with both parents. You can encourage your children to maintain and strengthen their relationship with your ex. When your children have the support of both of their parents, their ability to cope with divorce may improve significantly.
Act with civility and professionalism
Sometimes people think that a functional co-parenting arrangement means they have to maintain a relationship with their ex. While this is true to a degree, you certainly do not have to stay best friends. However, choosing to treat your ex with civility and professionalism can help you maintain integrity.
Working with your ex as co-parents may take some getting used to. Agreeing to protect the best interests of your children can make a substantial difference in the experience for everyone involved in the custody agreement.
