Setting Boundaries When Co-Parenting After Divorce

Being a parent is hard. Co-parenting after a divorce is even harder. You’re having to be civil to someone who probably drives you nuts. It may be hard to even be around your ex-spouse.

However, your focus should be on your children. You and your ex should be mature enough to work together on an agreement. This will help minimize the effects of the divorce on your children.

By setting boundaries, you and your children can reap the benefits. Enjoy better communication, less conflict, decreased stress, less anger, and more control. Here are co-parenting boundaries you can try.

Be Consistent

Consistency is essential, as children thrive on routine and predictability. Both parents should be consistent in scheduling visits, setting bedtimes, and establishing discipline. Being on the same parent as the other parent will help your children feel safe and secure after a divorce.

Keep the Same Routines

If possible, allow your child to keep attending the same school and extracurricular activities.

Prioritizing a child’s social connections and activities can provide stability to your child during this difficult time. They should not be forced to change their lives drastically because you and other parent cannot get along. Try to keep their needs and wellbeing in mind.

Communicate Effectively

While difficult, you should make sure to only talk to your ex with respect. Avoid arguing in front of your child. Stay calm and collected for your children’s sake/

Your ex may try to push your buttons. Instead, take the higher road and be mature. Take a deep breath before reacting.

Also, find the best way to communicate, whether it be in person, through phone calls, or via email or text. Don’t be afraid to set limits to communication, especially if the other parent tends to go overboard and distracts you with constant texts or phone calls.

Be Careful What You Share

Speaking of communicating, sometimes there can be communication of too much information. When talking to your ex, only discuss things pertaining to your children. Don’t overwhelm them with your drama or personal life. Your ex does not need to know where you’re at all the time nor do they need to know who you’re dating. Keep your personal life to yourself.

Don’t Use Your Children as Pawns

Children should be encouraged to have a good relationship with both parents. Don’t talk negatively about the other parent or force your child to choose sides. Try not to give your children too many choices, as this can make them feel overwhelmed.

Seek Legal Help 

If you divorce with children, you will need to effectively co-parent with your ex-spouse. This can be a challenging situation, so you’ll need to set boundaries.

Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can assist you with your child custody case and help you move on after a divorce. To schedule a consultation, call 954-764-4330 or fill out the online form.

Source:

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