Having to raise a child with your ex can be a difficult experience for anyone. Many parents are choosing to follow the co-parenting model that provides the most support for the children. This model is rather complex for the parents because they work so closely together.
There are many things that you have to think about. Even when things are great between you and your ex, you have to think about how you will handle things when you don’t get along. Planning ahead can make some of this a bit easier.
Remain calm and consistent
You and your ex may get along well, but that doesn’t mean that tempers won’t ever flare. When you have a difference of opinion with your ex, remember that you need to remain calm. Some parents find that treating the situation like a business affair makes it much easier to deal with contentious matters.
Focus on the future, not the past
One thing that can quickly turn a co-parenting situation sour is failing to keep the past out of the present. You can’t worry about the things that broke up your relationship. You can’t look at who your ex is dating now. These factors are none of your concern unless they directly impact the health or safety of the children.
Thinking carefully about what’s best for your children may help to make these decisions a bit easier. Your parenting plan is one of the cornerstones that you need to make these choices. Set the terms of the agreement based on what the kids need now because you can always modify it in the future.