Co-Parenting with Integrity

All Pro Dad’s Play of the Day was an excellent article on co-parenting that I thought I would share. I  have included a section that could be really helpful for those dealing with more difficult co-parenting situations.

Co-parenting with Integrity

• Keep your side of the street clean. You cannot change nor control the other parent, but you do have complete control of how you react. Kids can pick up on tension quite easily, so do your best to help them transition peacefully—even if it means making sacrifices along the way.
• Stay on topic. Set boundaries ahead of time so if or when you are caught off guard, you will be able to handle it in a civil and peaceful way. Stick to the game plan of co-parenting the parental portion, and protect yourself and your children by walking away from an argument before it begins.
• Fight well. If there is a court order in place, use it when necessary. Don’t bring up the past (i.e. “sling mud”), and meet at a neutral location and/or bring a third party with you. This isn’t meant to one up the other parent but is good wisdom to ensure the relationship with your children stays intact in a healthy manner

Remember – you can’t change nor control the other parent, but you have complete control over how you react!