Atkinson & Kelsey Law Firm Blog

Tips for co-parenting after divorce

While raising a child can be a rewarding experience, it also has its challenges. Moreover, for divorced parents in New Mexico, maintaining their parental views after a divorce can be difficult while they learn to share their parenting time with their ex-spouse. Nevertheless, parents should consider the benefits of co-parenting and how they could use this situation to benefit the child, focusing on the needs and best interests of the child.

Although co-parenting is considered a positive way to manage a joint custody situation, it could present some problems. This is why divorced parents in a co-parenting arrangement should consider these five tips.

First, there should be a back-up plan. This means that both parents should establish a rule that if either parent disciplines the child, the other parent needs to back them up. This should happen even if they do not entirely agree with it.

Second, parenting decisions should only be discussed when both parents are calm. It is also a good idea to have discussion regarding the child or children when they are not around. This might mean getting a babysitter or going to another room.

Third, parents should empathize with their child without throwing their ex-spouse under the bus. Parents should never insult of talk ill of their ex-spouse in front of their child no matter their age. Doing so could cause future damages to the child.

Fourth, know when to take a time-out. Getting into a heated dispute about who is right and who is wrong with not solve any parenting or custody problems. If things start to get heated, it is important to take a time-out and come back to the issue when both parents are calm.

Lastly, it is crucial to understand when professional help is needed. It can be challenging to understand what is going on with everyone involved. If co-parenting is not working or other issues cannot be resolved, it might be good to seek help.

These tips could help promote a better and more effective co-parenting situation, but they are only suggestive. Those dealing with co-parenting or other child custody issues should understand that they have options. Seeking legal guidance could help parents better understand their rights and protect the interests of those involved.

Source: Pix11.com, “The MOMS’ tips for co-parenting,” April 13, 2015