Co-parenting is the experience of raising a child or children as a single parent when separation or divorce occurs. For co-parenting to be successful, empathy, patience, and open communication are required. Co-parenting isn't always easy, but placing the focus solely on the children is a great way to promote a positive experience.
There are two ways of problem-solving when co-parenting: strategic problem solving and social-psychological problem-solving. Strategic problem-solving looks at the issue at hand, while social-psychological problem solving is a more emotional way of resolving issues.
Do's:
- commit to making co-parenting an open dialogue with your ex
- rules should be consistent and agreed upon in both households
- commit to positive talk around the house
- agree on boundaries and behavioral guidelines
- create an extended family plan
- recognize that co-parenting will challenge you
- be aware of slippery slopes
- be boring
- update often
- go for the high notes
Don'ts:
- don't burden your child/children
- don't jump to conclusions or condemn your ex
- don't be an unbalanced parent
- don't give in to guilt
- don't punish your ex by allowing your children to wiggle out of responsibility
- don't accuse, discuss
For more information on problem-solving and the do's and don'ts of co-parenting, visit https://www.psychologytoday.co...
Psychology Today is a reliable resource for reading more on co-parenting. They have many different articles about all aspects of co-parenting, from co-parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic to co-parenting myths.