Divorcing and separating couples in the Escondido area may have many questions about the future. Parents may have unrealistic expectations, and they may focus so much on their own rights and emotions that they fail to consider what their children need.
Successful co-parenting requires centering the children throughout the custody negotiation process and while adjusting to a co-parenting scenario. The three tips below can make it easier for co-parents to work cooperatively in a manner that ultimately benefits their children.
Consider schools carefully
Finding fairly-priced and comfortable accommodations that can meet the needs of one parent and the children can be a challenge. Recently-separated parents may struggle to find rental housing that truly fits their needs. They may end up moving nearby to a different school district. The parents may need to consider how moving might affect school enrollment for the children when deciding whose address serves as the children’s address and how to divide other parental rights and responsibilities. Keeping the children in the same schools whenever possible is often beneficial.
Have a plan for extracurricular activities
Children derive a lot of support and comfort from their social networks and peers when there are changes to their daily lives. When their parents divorce or separate, they may rely on their closest friends, including those involved in the same extracurricular activities. Parents often need to plan carefully to address extracurricular activities when they intend to co-parent. They need to discuss what activities the children can participate in, what standards they must meet to do so and how the parents can share the cost of those activities. They may also need to have a plan in place for how to address scheduling challenges related to extracurricular activities and whether both parents can attend important events for the children.
Connect with community support networks
Maybe the family has historically attended a specific church. Keeping the children actively involved at that church could help them connect with peers and trusted adults who can provide them with support. Parents may also want to look into support groups for children of divorced or separated parents. There are many opportunities to access community support in a way that can be beneficial for the children. Even professional support from counselors or therapists can help them overcome the challenges that come from parental separation or divorce. Parents may need to include provisions in their parenting plans that allow the children to attend counseling, join support groups and continue to tap into community support networks.
When parents make the comfort and well-being of their children their focal point, it can be easier for them to gracefully work together. Centering the children when negotiating a parenting plan can help adults better meet their children’s needs and find ways to cooperate with one another despite the change in their relationship status.