5 Good Reasons Divorcing Parents Should Make Co-parenting Work for Their Children
Divorce can be extremely difficult, but when a divorce includes arranging custody for children, matters can seem even more stressful so it is important to make co-parenting work for their children. Every court I practice in admonishes every parent that appears before them that they should share the responsibilities and custody of their children and how important to make co-parenting work for their children. This is known as co-parenting, and has proven to be an extremely effective way of ensuring that children do not suffer as a result of a marriage breakdown.
Because it is so important, I want you to know my 5 good reasons divorcing parents should make co-parenting work for their children.
My 5 Good Reasons Divorcing Parents Should Make Co-parenting Work for Their Children – #1 Children Feel Secure
If a child is confident that both of their parents are trying to work together for their wellbeing, the child tends to adapt better to the new living arrangements. This sense of security can help prevent disruption in their social life, education and at home.
My 5 Good Reasons Divorcing Parents Should Make Co-parenting Work for Their Children – #2 Children Enjoy Consistency
Parents that work together to provide a similar set of rules and structure between each home can help give the child a sense of consistency. Children respond well to structure that is made clear, so do not be shy to talk about any new arrangements with your child openly.
My 5 Good Reasons Divorcing Parents Should Make Co-parenting Work for Their Children – #3 Children See Diplomacy
Diplomacy is a skill that is difficult to explain to a child; however, the actions of you and your ex partner can help to demonstrate the need for diplomacy during difficult situations. Children see the benefits of working out a problem, and learn that peaceful resolutions are far more productive than long term grudges.
My 5 Good Reasons Divorcing Parents Should Make Co-parenting Work for Their Children – #4 Children Have an Example to Follow
Children often mimic the behaviorisms of parents, both the good and the bad. With both parents working together constructively, the child will be provided with two fine role models to follow. This is a far better example for children to see, than two parents living under the same roof and arguing on a regular basis.
These four reasons have looked solely at the benefits to the child so far; however, it is important to recognize that co-parenting is also beneficial for each of the parents involved.
My 5 Good Reasons Divorcing Parents Should Make Co-parenting Work for Their Children – #5 Parents Keep the Pleasure of Being a Parent
Co-parenting ensures that both parents keep the pleasure of being a parent. By sharing custody with your ex partner, and agreeing to guidelines relating to your child’s wellbeing, both parents have an opportunity to remain a proactive parent.
Life as a single parent will be very different from life as a married couple; and occasionally, you are going to need a break; whether it is to let your hair down, meet new people, or simply come to terms with the big changes in your life. By agreeing to co-parenting, both you and your partner can spend quality time with the children, while getting the space and time you need to adjust to your new circumstances.
