Sharing parental rights and responsibilities requires patience and compromise. There is often a significant adjustment period as parents in Virginia transition from spending every day with their children to sharing parenting time with each other.
Inevitably, co-parents find themselves disagreeing about elements of raising their children. Their disputes can prove damaging for their children in some cases. It is there for typically beneficial to find ways to limit the conflict that arises between the adults and also how much of that conflict the children witness. There are several ways for parents to minimize disputes with each other as they acclimate to shared custody arrangements.
Consistently using a parenting app
There are numerous parenting apps that help facilitate shared custody arrangements. These apps provide a central location for all communications about the children. They provide a cohesive record of prior discussions and clarity about current parenting schedules. Particularly in the early stages of co-parenting when emotions may run high, sticking to written communication that creates a permanent record can help prevent small issues from developing into major battles between the parents.
Letting go of relationship frustrations
One of the hardest aspects of co-parenting is the need to regularly interact with someone after becoming angry or disappointed with them because of the kind of partner they turned out to be. In cases involving infidelity and other kinds of misconduct, it is normal for people to have intense feelings that last long after the end of a relationship. As difficult as it can be, those co-parenting need to find a way to let go of those negative feelings. Trying to view the other parent as a source of positive support for the children rather than as a failed romantic partner can be a good starting place.
Being willing to compromise
As a general rule, it is usually advisable to stick to the established custody schedule as much as possible. Doing so limits opportunities for conflict. Of course, life tends to be rather unpredictable. A child may get sick in daycare or may get invited to a birthday party camping trip that lasts an entire weekend. Co-parents have to recognize that some degree of compromise and flexibility is necessary. Allowing the other parent to reschedule their parenting time when something else interferes can foster not just a healthy bond with the children but a better dynamic between the parents.
The more parents sharing custody seek to cooperate with one another in a positive manner instead of fighting against each other, the easier it may be for them to limit the conflict their children witness. Being proactive about limiting disputes can make co-parenting less stressful for everyone in a family.
