Raising children can be a challenge even under the most ideal circumstances, but it is even more difficult for recently divorced parents. You and your former spouse may have a lot of unresolved issues and hurt feelings that may make this seem like an insurmountable task. However, the key to co-parenting in the aftermath of a divorce is setting these feelings aside and focus on creating an environment that allows your children to continue to grow and thrive.
Co-Parenting Tips for the Recently Divorced
Of course, setting hurt feelings aside will be easier said than done, so you should consider finding a healthy outlet, such as therapy, for coping with any lingering pain you may feel regarding the divorce. The more outlets you have for discussing your feelings, the better you can avoid any harmful outbursts in front of your children.
Here are some additional tips that will help you co-parent with your former spouse:
- Keep the conversations with your former spouse focused on your children to avoid diving into any topics that may result in an unnecessary argument. Additionally, setting a business tone to your conversations may also help keep all discussions cordial and respectful.
- Do not ask your children to pass messages along to your former spouse. Doing so can potentially put your children in the middle of a nasty argument and increase their anxieties. You should do your best to make these changes easier for them and turning them into messengers will not help.
- Collaborate to create consistent rules and routines across both households. Consistency and stability will help your children feel safe and secure.
- If you make a mistake, be willing to admit it and apologize for it. A heartfelt apology will go a long way when it comes to co-parenting with your ex-spouse and build up some much-needed goodwill.
- Make visitation easier for your children by dropping them off for visits instead of having them picked up. When a parent picks up children for visitation it can feel like they are being taken away and it may interrupt treasured moments. Agree to drop off the children for visitation and you can make their lives easier.
It is undoubtedly difficult to raise children after a divorce, but if you are both open to cooperating and rebuilding trust, you can become more effective co-parents.
Discuss Your Case with a Knowledgeable Attorney Today!
If you recently got a divorce and share children with your former spouse, you may still encounter some obstacles in the aftermath. At Orshan, Spann & Fernandez-Mesa, Family Law Attorneys, our team can provide the compassionate legal support you need to navigate these sensitive legal matters.
Reach out to our law office today at (305) 853-9161 to set up a consultation with a member of our team.
