6. Be civilized
The power of civility goes unnoticed in many relationships, but when co-parenting, both parents should try to be civil. Interactions should be calm and respectful, especially when in front of children. If you find this difficult, it may be helpful to remember that you are setting a positive example and emulating what a healthy relationship looks like.
7. Treat each other with respect
When parents respect each other, appreciate each other’s efforts, and value each other’s opinions, it ultimately benefits children. Respect is a key part of having a healthy co-parenting relationship – it helps you work as a unified front.
8. Keep your child out of conflicts
Don’t let your children get caught in the middle of parental conflicts. Protect them from disputes and disagreements, and never use them as a messenger between parents. Your job as co-parents is to protect the emotional well-being of your children. Do whatever it takes to resolve differences privately so you can show a united front in your children’s lives.
9. Refrain from speaking ill of each other
Speaking badly about the other parent to or in front of the children is never okay. Research shows that parental alienation is deeply detrimental to a child’s future mental health. Refrain from these inappropriate co-parenting behaviors and address them immediately if your ex does it in front of your child. Focus on fostering a positive environment and adopt the old ideology: If you don’t have something good to say, don’t say anything.. Fostering a healthy relationship between children and parents promotes emotional well-being and helps maintain a happy home life.
10. Be honest
Honesty is essential to building and maintaining trust between co-parents. It helps both people feel secure in the relationship and ensures that they feel like they can trust each other.
Be candid and honest about issues related to children, such as:
- Schedules
- Changes in circumstances
- Social concerns
- School problems
- Financial problems
- Emotional and physical well-being.
11. After the custody order
If you have an official custody order in place, be sure to follow it as directed. This provides children and parents with legal and emotional stability. For younger children, it helps them understand their future regarding visitation and their living situation.
12. Set expectations about new partners
Just because you are co-parenting doesn’t mean you have to be alone forever. Over time, one or both of you will likely be ready to move on to a new relationship. Introducing new partners into the dynamic is easier if you are sensitive to all parties and have clear communication and healthy co-parenting boundaries already established. Setting expectations about how and when new partners should be introduced can help children (and an ex-partner) make a smoother transition.
Building a Strong Co-Parenting Partnership
Co-parenting may not always be easy, but effective boundaries can help. Boundaries allow you to create a harmonious and supportive partnership, so you can put the children first and ensure that both parents feel comfortable and at peace with the agreement. Respecting each other’s parenting approach, maintaining consistency across homes, sticking to the agreed-upon parenting plan, and establishing clear communication patterns will strengthen the co-parenting relationship.
