One challenge that many couples who are going through a divorce in Minnesota encounter is co-parenting. Now that they are no longer together, they need to learn new ways to work together to raise their kids. Doing so can help to strengthen the familial relationship.
Provide structure
According to Psychology Today, both parents should work towards maintaining some type of structure in their children’s lives. They need to resist trying to pass off hard decisions and responsibilities on each other in an effort to look like the cool and fun parent. Also, ex-spouses should strive to be predictable to prevent their kids from becoming unsettled and reluctant about the situation.
Communicate effectively
Communication is very important between parents, regardless if they are married or not. When the lines of communication breakdown so far that neither person is able to discuss their co-parenting situation without becoming angry or disrespectful, they need to take a few moments to themselves so they can breathe and cool down. If either party is unable to communicate verbally without things going south, they should resort to the use of electronic communication, such as text messages and emails, states Today’s Parent.
It helps if both parties sit down together to create a parenting plan. Careful consideration should be given to each other’s lifestyle, preferences and schedule. The needs and interests of their kids must also be taken into consideration as well. Depending on the situation, it may be necessary to include a professional mediator in this discussion to prevent conflict.
Respect each other
It is perfectly normal for parents to feel negative towards each other at times. However, they should avoid acting on those feelings so they always appear courteous and treat the other parent with respect in front of their children. It is good practice for former spouses to remain amicable toward each other even when their children are not around.
There are many ways parents can work together to improve their success at co-parenting their kids. Both parties should evaluate their situation carefully to create a customized parenting plan that works in the best interests of their children.