As any divorced parent knows, co-parenting can be a unique and difficult proposition. It often involves balancing many facets of your life, including the relationships between your ex-spouse, a new partner and, of course, your children. Each state, including Colorado, has its own laws regarding sharing child custody, and you must be conscious of these issues. Thankfully, this process can be successfully managed.
How to successfully co-parent a child
Co-parenting can absolutely be done successfully if both parents are willing to work together for the best interest of their kids. Some tips to successful co-parenting include the following:
- Acknowledge that the experience will be difficult for your children. Be receptive and understanding of their emotions, even if they are painful for you both, like if your child says they would prefer to be at the other parent’s house.
- Be in constant touch with the other parent to make sure that you are reviewing child custody logistics, addressing schedule changes and managing the changing worlds of all parties involved.
- Prepare for loneliness, especially in the beginning. Not having your kids around will be a big challenge, and you should make sure you are ready to cope with it however works for you.
- Be ready to control your emotions, including your temper. Relations between your ex and you could get complicated very quickly. Ensuring that you properly manage your emotions is key to managing your relationship.
Working together with the other parent
Communication when it comes to co-parenting is absolutely key. If you can engage in an open, respectful and honest communication with the other parent, you’ll be in a much better position.