The month of January symbolizes a time of reflection for many people. Promises to make this year better than the last, and the hope of implementing healthy habits into your life. One area that may be beneficial to focus on is your co-parenting habits. According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, one out of every two marriages in divorce. 

As tricky as this relationship can be it is something that often affects every member of the family, not just you and your ex-partner. If your relationship with your ex-partner is currently at a point where civil conversations can not occur, it may be best to take it one day at a time. If needed, call a family law attorney that can help mediate the terms of how best to handle this new year. However, it is never a bad idea to keep these resolutions in mind moving forward.

Clear Communication

Take time to work on communicating your expectations and needs very clearly with your co-parent. It may be beneficial to write down boundaries, so that they are clearly defined and you both have something to report back to. One routine to stray from is having your child be the messenger as it can cause an emotional toll on them. However, keeping your child in the loop rather than keeping secrets from them will help them cope. Strive to have open communication with everyone in the family.

Be Proactive

Plan ahead. Make sure you are aware of any big dates that occur in 2023.  If your relationship is stable, plan times to hang out as a family besides the holiday. Try to pick a neutral ground so that both parents can feel comfortable. Also, discuss potential situations that could arise in the future and decide how you want to handle it as a co-parenting team.  

Prioritize Your Family’s Mental Health

Don’t let your children or your own mental health fall through the cracks. Initiate open conversations so that everyone feels they can be vulnerable. Do not stray from seeking professional help. Therapy can help your child open up to an unbiased opinion and can further help them to open up to you. To read more of the benefits of child therapy, click here. 

Leave The Gossip In 2022

Ensure that you do not talk poorly about your co-parent to your child. If the other parent is still involved in their life, hearing negative things about them can affect their relationship greatly. As your child matures they will better understand the dynamic of your relationship and will be able to make their own opinions. Taking the high road, even though it can be hard, will pay off in the long run.

Conclusion

The determination to better your co-parenting skills is not easy,  but it is admirable. Every family dynamic is different, and only you and your co-parent know how to best handle your relationship. Resolutions will vary, but it is always important to keep in mind both your children and your own mental health. Remember that there is no such thing as a perfect family.