Co-parenting in the aftermath of a divorce can be exceptionally challenging.
You and your former spouse probably have several unresolved issues and
you may no longer trust each other. Although no one expects you to become
best friends with your ex, you should attempt to rebuild trust and respect,
so you can have a more successful co-parenting relationship that will
ultimately benefit your children.
Learning How to Get Along with Your Ex-Spouse
Children have keen senses and, although you might have successfully shielded
them from the details of your divorce, they can sense the resentment and
hostility in your relationship. In some cases, children may even feel
torn between both parents, causing them distress and confusion. You and
your co-parent must do what you can to ease their concerns and fears,
so they can feel secure and confident in their relationships with both parents.
You and your ex-spouse might have strong feelings about one another, but
you must keep in mind that, regardless of your differences, you both want
what is best for your children. A healthier, more cooperative relationship
will benefit your children, so do not lose sight of that important goal.
Here are some tips to help you rebuild trust with your co-parent:
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Keep your promises: When you make a promise, whether it be to your co-parent or your children,
make it with the intention of keeping it. Breaking promises will only
further your former spouse’s belief that you are not trustworthy
and hurt your children. Of course, understandably, obstacles sometimes
arise, so be honest with your former spouse about why you are backing
out of a promise. More importantly, do not let it become a pattern.
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Show consideration toward your ex and your children: Both you and your co-parent should do your best to stick to the schedule,
but you should also recognize that sometimes you will need to be flexible
to accommodate certain unforeseeable circumstances. Work together to overcome
these obstacles and make any necessary sacrifices to put your children’s
needs first.
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Try to listen to each other: Being a good listener might have been hard during your marriage and it
might be even harder now that you are divorced. However, being a good
listener is important for co-parents. You do not have to agree with each
other to hear each other, but if you wish to have more productive and
meaningful conversations about your children, you need to work on your
listening skills.
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Ask for each other’s opinions: When you show that you value each other’s opinions, you will trust
each other’s intentions more and feel secure in your relationship
as co-parents. You both want what is best for your kids, so take this
important step in rebuilding trust and ask for your co-parent’s opinion.
Contact a Knowledgeable Family Law Attorney Today!
If you are experiencing some difficulties with your co-parent that cannot
be resolved without legal intervention, contact the team at The King Law
Firm for the assistance you need. Our compassionate team has the knowledge
and experience necessary to guide you through the most challenging
child custody matters.
Contact us today at (347) 343-5467 to schedule a free consultation.