For parents of young children in Illinois, one of the toughest parts of getting a divorce is figuring out how to co-parent following the divorce. This can be particularly challenging if the two parties struggle to get along with each other in their interactions. However, a couple of tips may help divorced parents to navigate the co-parenting process successfully.
Be positive in your speech
It is critical that divorcing parents avoid allowing their children hear them speak about each other in a negative manner. Children naturally experience deep connections to both Mom and Dad, so if the parents make disparaging remarks about each other, the children may question whether their parents truly love them. In addition, the children may naturally feel as though they have to defend their parents against each other.
Be consistent
Divorcing parents would also be wise to enforce the same rules for the children in both of their homes. For instance, if children get in trouble with Mom and she issues a punishment for them, then Dad should enforce the punishment at his home as well. This will require effective and frequent communication, but it is essential for helping the parents to maintain a united front in front of the children.
Seek the help of an attorney
If two parents decide to get divorced, one of the best moves they can make is to create a mutually satisfactory parenting agreement outside of court during the divorce proceeding. This will help both parties to feel empowered as they embark on their co-parenting journey, and it will help reduce the stress that comes with going through divorce litigation. An attorney in Illinois can provide the guidance needed to pursue a fair agreement that reflects both the client’s wishes and the children’s best interests long term.
