You and your ex remain your children’s parents after divorce. Even as you get on with your respective lives, you must ensure that your children receive the financial, moral, and emotional support they need. For this, communication between you and your former partner is crucial.
Communication and co-parenting
Cooperating and collaborating with your former spouse is critical to successful co-parenting. Communication allows the two of you to stay updated on your children’s milestones and be on the same page when it comes to fulfilling their needs. It also helps to make coordinated decisions about essential aspects of their lives, such as their education and health.
Co-parenting communication tips
Communicating with your co-parent is not always easy, but the following tips can help.
- Settle conflicts in private. Being in a high-conflict family situation can be harmful to your children. Settling disagreements between you and your ex in private may be more helpful to your children than fighting in front of them.
- Keep it concise and professional. You may be able to communicate with your co-parent better if you do it as you would with a co-worker. Go straight to the point, avoid unnecessary information, and be clear and polite.
- Listen. Communication is a give-and-take process, so it helps to listen when your ex has something to say. Listening may prevent misunderstandings and encourage your co-parent to reciprocate when it is your time to speak.
- Communicate directly. It is best to communicate directly with your partner if you have anything to say to them. Having a third-party act as a messenger may result in misinterpretations and disagreement.
- Be consistent. Communicating regularly may demonstrate your commitment to co-parenting. If you find it difficult to speak to your ex, you may use non-voice communication channels, like email or text messages.
Co-parenting can be challenging, but it is often necessary for your children’s well-being. Communicating allows you and your ex to work together despite your divorce and prioritize your children’s needs.