Both you and your former spouse tried hard to get your marriage back on track, but it just wasn’t meant to be. The divorce process has now been concluded as amicably as possible.
However, you have children together, so it’s not as simple as just going your separate ways. You both have a responsibility to play an active role in the upbringing of your kids. Will you be able to get along as co-parents?
It’s all about communication
There is no need for you and your ex to dwell on your past relationship, but you do need to talk openly about the children. It may be tempting to ignore your co-parent’s texts, emails or phone calls, but if it’s about the children, this can lead to frustration. Communication in co-parenting is a two-way street, and if you’re open to assisting your ex with regard to the children, this could be reciprocated in the future.
You may no longer consider yourselves a team in terms of a romantic relationship, but this doesn’t mean you can’t combine in the best interests of the children. Divorce can be stressful for children, yet it can be a great relief for them to see that their parents are still operating together in their parental duties.
Don’t neglect self-care
To be an effective co-parent, you need to be on top of your emotions. It’s fine to feel down sometimes. Just make sure that you have a support network to help you. Your friends may have been through similar scenarios, and there is no shame in leaning on them in your hour of need.
Children are perfectly able to thrive after divorce, with the help of sound co-parenting arrangements. If you’re finding the divorce transition difficult, make sure you are fully aware of your legal options.