Tips for Effective Co-Parenting After Divorce
– From an Experienced Divorce Lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana
Many parents heave a huge sigh of relief once the holidays are over. For some, it isn’t necessarily because kids go back to school or the never-ending presents being unwrapped. Instead, they’re thankful to get through another season of dealing with ‘The Ex.’ Each year can bring a lot of frustration and possibly a few tears when trying to work with an ex-spouse over who gets the kids for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, or other holidays. Why not make the New Year a time for a change in your co-parenting dynamics?
Give your children the best family ties by striving to effectively and positively co-parent with your former spouse. The court prefers for parents to work out their plans in the best interest of the kids. When your disputes can’t be resolved, count on the services of a divorce lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana, like David L. White. He has the experience and knowledge to aid you in the decisions you need to make and help you get a favorable settlement quickly and amicably.
3 Suggestions to Make Co-Parenting Work for You and Your Ex
You can find many different suggestions on how to co-parent. It boils down to three main areas that spearhead the rest:
- Focus on Communication: Talking things out may not have been a successful part of your marriage, but for your kids’ sake, both of you must learn to communicate. You may need to decide that texting or email is the best option to help keep tensions down, especially if you harbor anger and resentment toward your ex-spouse. Consider setting up boundaries; for example, determine an expected timeframe for a return call or text, and no name-calling. You may want to establish a monthly family meeting where you, your ex-spouse, and your children talk about what is going on in the kids’ lives and what is coming up.
- Choose Respect: One way to do this, particularly when you don’t know where to start, is to treat your ex as a business partner or a co-worker and use a business-like tone with them, speaking cordially, respectfully, and neutrally. Your ‘business’ is raising well-adjusted kids that didn’t ask for their family to be broken. You can start by showing up on time during transitions or calling to update if you or they will be late. Respond promptly to texts and phone calls, and avoid speaking negatively about your former spouse in front of your kids.
- Aim for Consistency but Remain Flexible: You will have different parenting styles so each household’s rules will be different. Accept that now and work toward honoring it while keeping some consistency for the sake of the kids. You may need to discuss curfews, any off-limit activities, and disciplinary actions. Another item to consider is aiming for a similar schedule for meals, homework, and bedtimes to give your children consistency in their tossed-up world. Even though you will parent differently. Stay flexible, and things will fall into place.
Choose David L. White to Ensure Your Parental Rights Are Preserved
The goal is practical co-parenting that gives your kids the best opportunity to grow. If finding common ground is not working, seek out the services of an experienced divorce lawyer in Shreveport. David L. White is well-versed in Louisiana’s family law and can handle a successful settlement or mediation that keeps your rights and those of your children in the forefront. Call us today for the support you deserve!
Contact your divorce lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana, to discuss your case and discover your options. Give us a call at 318-747-7023.
