Guide On Co Parenting Orange County CA

By James Edwards


Co-parenting after a split is hardly easy on those involved and more so if the there is a contentious relationship with the ex-partner. One may be concerned about the ability of the ex to parent well, they might be stressed about child support or they might just be feeling worn down by conflict. When co-parenting is done amicably, they children get to obtain stability, security and even a close relationship with the parents. When considering co parenting Orange County CA residents can benefit from some tips.

Having empathy is a key component. This will involve both parents putting themselves in the position or shoes of their children. Whenever kids are missing the other parent, they need to be allowed to voice their feelings. This is important because there are parents who never allow kids to express themselves regarding the other parent. This is causes more harm than good in the long run.

Parents should be very flexible and open as regards schedules. Kids will be adversely affected when parents start arguing before them concerning visitation schedules. It is true that in some cases there may be visitation schedules that are ordered by court but this does not mean that one must follow it without any bit of flexibility. Understanding between both parents comes very much in handy. This when coupled with flexibility ensures there will be no squabble regarding visitation.

Communication is an integral part of co-parenting. It needs to be purposeful, peaceful and consistent. Parents will need to communicate even when it is apparent that there are obstacles. Proper communication is aided by the fact that it is about the children. Before communicating, a parent should stop to think of how it will affect the children. This way, all communication will be made in the best interest of children and disagreements will be limited. The good thing with proper communication is that it will not be mandatory to meet in person at any given time.

Co-parenting should be done as a team. It is something that is full of decisions that have to be made together whether you like each other or not. Cooperating without blow-ups makes decision making very simple on both parties. Children will need to be exposed to various perspectives and learn the art of flexibility. At the same time, they should be made to live under the same basic set of expectations at either home. This ensures they are not confused.

As regards discipline, there needs to be same consequences for broken rules to ensure uniformity. This should be the case regardless of whether the infraction happened in your house or at your ex. For instance, if they have TV privileges at one house, the same should apply to the other. This is also what should be applied when rewarding good behaviour.

Resolution of disagreements should be done in the best way possible. Disagreements are bound to be there and the way they are solved will determine the ensuing relationship. Respect goes a long way. Being respectful and considerate will include letting the ex know about various important events like those at school. Most importantly, the parents should take each others opinions seriously.

Compromise is a crucial component of co-parenting. Each parent should be ready to make sacrifice and compromise without feeling demeaned. It is done in the interest of children.




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