04-09-2020, 04:19 PM
What are some pitfalls to look out for when co-parenting?
• Do not insist on primary responsibility for childrearing as if no other parent exists or be an unbalanced parent who does not enforce rules and agreed upon restrictions. Remember that children develop best with a united front. Co-parenting with a healthy dose of fun, structure and predictability is a win-win for everyone.
• Do not undermine or refuse to comply with the other parent’s time with the child or care giving plans.
• Do not forget or refuse to inform the other parent of significant events in your child’s life, as sharing important life events with both parents is extremely vital for your child's healthy development.
• Do not give up on finding a way to support the other parent’s ability to work with you regarding your child’s developmental needs or extra support that he/she may require.
• Do not change schedules at the last minute so that the other parent cannot maintain plans to see the child, or refuse requests for change that allow the other parent to see the children at another time when work or other events interfere with regular parenting schedules. Don't burden your child. Emotionally charged issues about the other parent should never be part of your parenting. Research shows that putting children in the middle of your adult issues promotes feelings of helplessness and insecurity, causing children to question their own strengths and abilities.
• Don't accuse. Discuss. Never remain quiet if something about the other parent’s co-parenting is troubling.
• Do not insist on primary responsibility for childrearing as if no other parent exists or be an unbalanced parent who does not enforce rules and agreed upon restrictions. Remember that children develop best with a united front. Co-parenting with a healthy dose of fun, structure and predictability is a win-win for everyone.
• Do not undermine or refuse to comply with the other parent’s time with the child or care giving plans.
• Do not forget or refuse to inform the other parent of significant events in your child’s life, as sharing important life events with both parents is extremely vital for your child's healthy development.
• Do not give up on finding a way to support the other parent’s ability to work with you regarding your child’s developmental needs or extra support that he/she may require.
• Do not change schedules at the last minute so that the other parent cannot maintain plans to see the child, or refuse requests for change that allow the other parent to see the children at another time when work or other events interfere with regular parenting schedules. Don't burden your child. Emotionally charged issues about the other parent should never be part of your parenting. Research shows that putting children in the middle of your adult issues promotes feelings of helplessness and insecurity, causing children to question their own strengths and abilities.
• Don't accuse. Discuss. Never remain quiet if something about the other parent’s co-parenting is troubling.