Raising a little one isn’t always easy, but it’s more manageable – and way more fun – with the right support. That’s why we’ve got co-parenting tips straight from our amazing staff, plus a video with expert tips! No matter your situation, figure out how to make co-parenting work for you.
- Know your parenting style and how it can complement or conflict with the other parent.
- Check in with your partner on a regular basis, take on shared responsibility of caring for the children and household tasks or offer assistance regularly.
- Remember that you are on the same team as your co-parent. Raising your child/children to become better than you should be the shared goal.
- If children are living in two separate households, establish some mutual rules that will apply at both houses. For example, a standard bedtime or agreement on how much internet use is allowed per day.
- Teach your child to respect the other parent.
- Present a united front. If one parent says “Yes” or “No” to something, do not undermine the other parent in front of the child. If you have concerns, a disagreement, or there is an issue of safety; discuss it with the other parent privately.
- When communicating with your co-parent, try to maintain an open dialogue. In times of angst or frustration, before sending a text or making that call, ground yourself.
- Never say to a child, “You are just like your father or mother” to criticize or demean the child as that may damage the child’s self-esteem and diminish respect for both you and the other parent over time.
- Let your child know that they are loved unconditionally and will be cared for by each parent. Do not try to buy your child’s love with gifts or compete with the other parent. This can cause your child to have unrealistic expectations and can lead to anger and resentment.
- Build a network of support, connect with other parents (in person or online) to discuss parenting woes/hardships. Avoid having these conversations with/in front of your child; they may interpret it to mean that they are a burden, unloved, or unwanted.
- Show your child what healthy parenting and healthy relationships look like, you are their first teacher and often the blueprint for how they will interact with