Can Co-Parenting Really Work?

 Co-parenting already brings with it a multitude of challenges and considerations, which have been blown up with all the restrictions of the Covid 19 pandemic. Co-parenting goes beyond just a parental agreement, it requires conscious effort from both parents, a lot of patience and clear lines of communication. Especially in a pandemic, a proper parenting plan is important to avoid anxiety and frustration. So, how do you build a functioning, co-parenting relationship? Here’s some insight from the experts on family mediation in Melbourne.

 

 

 

The worldwide pandemic has thrown a mass of challenges at everyone. It has created an over-arching fear, anxiety, financial issues and mental health issues. However, as a parent who is trying to manage their parenting plan with an ex-partner, it can bring a whole different heap of other problems. So, how do you manage your parental agreement to make sure that it works?

 

Why You Want to Consider Co-Parenting?

 

At the end of the day, no matter what conflict has occurred in your marriage, you’ll want to prioritize the well-being of your children and make sure they aren’t involved in your day to day issues.  

 

Co-operative relationships are beneficial because:

 

·      Children benefit from consistency.

·      It will help them to give a better understanding of problem-solving.

·      It offers a healthy example to follow.

·      It provides a safer environment, ultimately benefiting their emotional and mental well-being.

 

So, How Do You Make it Work?

 

The biggest challenge of co-parenting is having to put all of your feelings and pain aside and prioritizing the happiness, stability and future well-being of your child/children.

 

While it might not be easy, there are a few things you can do to try to make the process better.

 

#1 – Improve Your Communication

 

Keeping your emotions out of communications will be one of the most complex parts. The current pandemic has also heightened emotions, so your ex-partner may become a little irrational from time to time.

 

Always keep your communications clear, informative and friendly. Conduct yourself with dignity, and don’t allow yourself to get dragged into petty issues. Listen, show restraint and keep your communications child-focused.

 

#2 – Try to Work as a Team

 

Decision-making and rule-setting is challenging to navigate for both parties and can quickly lead to bickering or blow-ups. While it will take some flexibility, it’s best to pre-define rules, outline disciplining and make sure you keep it consistent as much as possible.

 

Keep your communication lines open on all matters, including medical needs, education and financial issues. It’s essential to include each other in significant decisions.

 

#3 – Keep Visitation Low-Key

 

Changing their home environment can be difficult for kids to manage, so proper planning will prevent frustration or anxiety. Be sure to pack a few days in advance and keep reminding your child when they’ll be going.

 

It’s also essential to allow your child space when visiting. Avoid jam-packing your time together with many activities and let them develop a special routine for when they are with you.

 

Setting Up Your Parental Agreement

 

The most important thing throughout the co-parenting process is to remind yourself that everything you’re doing is for your child/children’s benefit. If you are still in the process of getting a divorce, you’ll want to get your parenting plan ironed out as soon as possible.

 

As leading lawyers providing Family mediation in Melbourne, Umbrella Family Law specializes in helping families navigate divorce and establish successful parenting plans.

 

If you’re looking for someone to assist with family mediation in Melbourne who not only understand the legal processes but are ready to assist with your day-to-day issues, contact Umbrella Family Law today. We can help you finalize your parental agreement and settle on a parenting plan that protects your child's interest.