Divorce has a significant impact on everyone involved, especially the children. However, it’s important to note that children can thrive post-divorce.
Generally, the best approach for the children is for both parents to be actively involved in their upbringing. The custody arrangement can be the basis of a co-parenting relationship, which means both parents continue to work together and share the duties of raising their children.
Unfortunately, co-parenting disputes can arise. What are some of the more common sources of co-parenting disputes?
Parental inconsistencies
Stability and consistent boundaries are very important for children. While both parents may have different parenting styles, the fundamentals need to be constant. For example, it can help if the children have consistent routines for doing their homework after school. It can also be beneficial for children to have the same bedtime routine with both parents.
If a child does not have to do their homework or go to bed at a certain time in one household, then they may fight against the routine in the other household. This can create frustration and tension between co-parents. Having clear expectations and boundaries written into the custody agreement can help reduce these types of disputes.
The weaponization of children
For a co-parenting relationship to be effective, both parents need to leave the disputes of the past behind them. It’s important for both parents to accept that the romantic side of their relationship is over, and it’s all about building for the future in the best interests of the children.
Sometimes, it can be hard for a co-parent to let go of the past, and they use their children as messengers in arguments. Using the children in this manner can have a negative impact on the child/parent relationship, which in turn creates tension between co-parents.
If you are having issues with your co-parent, it’s important to act quickly. Often, mediation helps to bring communication back up to higher levels and decrease animosity. Seeking more legal information will give you a better idea of your options.