Co-parenting can be hard. There is really no way to sugar coat it, but with a little effort, you can successfully raise your children with as little conflict as possible. The following tips can help to make co-parenting easier for you, as well as your children.

Start with a Good Parenting Agreement

It is quite common to start the co-parenting process with the best intentions and think that you can just deal with any issues as they come along. While being flexible and being adaptable to conflict is important, starting out with a written parenting agreement can help to avoid many problems. Even if you aren't legally required to have an agreement in place, most people will find them to be extremely helpful. Contact us to get the help you need to ensure your parenting agreement includes everything necessary, and is legally enforceable in North Carolina.

Open Communication

Having open communication with the other parent may not be easy, but it is much better than letting concerns build up until a major fight is unavoidable. Talking openly about things like behavior issues, changes of plans, school concerns, and anything else related to raising your children will help make both of you better parents.

When Possible – Change Plans Well in Advance

No matter how good a parenting plan agreement is, there will always be some situations that require a change in plan. Sometimes it is an emergency and has to be done last minute, but in most cases, it can be done in advance. Especially around the holidays and the new year, when changes may be required, you should be able to give at least a few weeks of advance notice. This is a courtesy that will allow the other parent (and your children) to make the necessary adjustments to minimize any issues.

Keep the Kids Out of Conflicts

When conflicts between you and the other parent arise, remember that you should not drag your children into them. Kids have a natural right to a positive relationship with both of their parents, and saying things that can harm that relationship will hurt the child much more than the other parent. Even if you don't get your way in a disagreement, it is best to accept it and do what you can to ensure your child is happy.

Practice Forgiveness

When co-parenting, you will miss out on certain things. Since children can't be in two places at once, there will be many occasions where one or the other parent will feel slighted or hurt due to the arrangement. It can be tempting to blame the other parent, and hold a grudge, but that is not healthy. Both you and your children will be much happier if you are able to accept the sometimes difficult situations, and forgive the other parent for any hurts they have caused.

Contact Us

For any issues or questions you have about family law in North Carolina, please contact us for compassionate, experienced legal service.