Productive communication between spouses can be challenging while going through the divorce process; however, co-parenting amicably can help build stability and a close relationship between the children and both parents. When spouses are able to put aside relationship issues as well as the financial strain of a divorce, it is possible to develop a cordial working relationship with the ex-spouse. The goal of co-parenting is to ensure that the children’s needs are the number one priority.
Making shared decisions, interacting with each other at drop offs, and basic every day communication that accompany joint custody arrangements can be difficult after a hostile separation. The objective in co-parenting is to keep the focus on the children and to put aside negative emotions such as anger, resentment, and hurt and make the best decisions possible. It can be helpful to think of the relationship with your ex-spouse as a new relationship wherein the entire focus is about the children and not about each other.
Conflict-Free Communication is Key
The key to successful co-parenting is to establish conflict-free communication. Moreover, it is essential that each verbal exchange with your ex-spouse is peaceful, consistent, and purposeful keeping the best interests of the children the central focus of every discussion. In addition, it is important to find the method of communication that works best for both spouses; whether it is speaking on the phone, texting, emailing, or talking in-person. When communicating it can be beneficial to set a professional-like tone and speak in a respectful neutral manner. Furthermore, in order to foster a strong co-parenting relationship, doing simple things such as saying thank you, asking the other’s opinion on parenting matters, apologizing, and showing flexibility with each other can reduce tensions and improve the relationship.
Benefits of Cooperative Co-Parenting
Divorced parents who have a cooperative relationship show their children that the love that have for them triumphs over the challenging and changing circumstances. Having a cooperative co-parenting relationship can have the following benefits to children.
- Children feel more secure when they know they have the love of both parents, which can increase self-esteem.
- Co-parenting helps establish similar expectations at each household and children will benefit from the consistency.
- Children will have a better understanding of problem solving skills observing their parents effectively resolving issues.
- Showing cooperation sets a healthy life pattern for children to follow in the future.
Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles LLC Help Clients through Difficult Co-Parenting Issues
Co-parenting during and after a divorce can be extremely difficult. Keeping the children’s best interest in mind can help reduce conflicts between you and your ex-spouse. The experienced Towson divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles LLC handle family law issues in Maryland with sensitivity and care and want you to sleep well at night. Our Towson divorce lawyers are located in Hunt Valley, Maryland and resolve child custody issues for clients throughout Maryland, including Baltimore County, Harford County, Carroll County and Howard County, as well as residents of Towson, Bel Air, Columbia, Westminster, Elliot City and Essex.
Call 443-589-0150 or contact us online for a free consultation with one of our Baltimore child custody lawyers.
