Things You'll Need:
- compromise
- a shared belief in what's good for the child
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Step 1
What are you disagreeing about? Take a look at what is behind it. If you are a self-described neat freak and you don't want your child playing in the dirt maybe you need to lighten up. If it is a matter of one parent allowing the child to be in a dangerous situation, that is something to fight over. Sometimes compromise is needed, sometimes it's not. Try to bend when possible.
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Step 2
If you are in a joint custody situation, things are going to go on at your ex's home. Bedtimes might be ignored and too much snacking might be allowed. Overall, these are small things. Having different rules in different homes can be confusing to kids but this often is how it is when two people divorce. Ask yourself do you and your ex both have your child's best interest in mind? Sometimes you have to look for the silver lining.
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Step 3
If one parent is constantly overruling the other in front of the child, this is reason to suggest counseling. Sometimes having that objective party mediating can be helpful in turning things around.
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Step 4
Women and men are different. Even two people who agree on how to raise their children are going to react differently in situations. Women are usually more emotional and the bond they have with their child is different than a man's bond with his child. Remembering that will be helpful.
Comments
cwengre said
on 3/25/2009 Great topic! Co-parenting is so important. Take each others strong parenting skills and build on them together. Always think of the kids and your purpose as a parent. Great article. 5*
kaytay said
on 3/20/2009 my husband and I are starting foster care and this article and tips on coparenting will help
joni04 said
on 3/19/2009 The children's well-being is the key focus, especially in a divorce, thanks for pointing this out.