Many people living in Indiana find it difficult to co-parent with a former partner once their romantic relationships end. Yet, if you share a child with your former spouse or partner and you both plan to be a part of that child’s life, learning how to co-parent with one another is essential.
Per Medical News Today, learning to co-parent well with your former partner helps your child in many different ways. He or she becomes less likely to develop anxiety or depression when you and his or other parent learn to get along with one another. The odds of your child developing a range of negative psychological, physical or behavioral symptoms also decrease when you and the other parent effectively co-parent. Many co-parenting conflicts arise from similar situations and circumstances, so while navigating your co-parenting relationship, make a point to avoid these common co-parenting errors.
Failing to exercise flexibility
At some point, you and your ex are going to need the other parent to step in due to illness, professional obligations or something similar. When your ex asks you for flexibility, try to remember that you, too, may need him or her to return the favor in the future, and agree to be flexible if possible.
Speaking ill of the other parent
You also want to try to avoid trash-talking your child’s other parent in your child’s presence. Even if you feel as if your co-parent is a poor excuse for a human, tell a close friend or therapist, rather than your son or daughter. Otherwise, you place your child in an uncomfortable situation where he or she may feel a need to choose sides.
When animosity exists between you and your co-parent, your child feels this. Keep this in mind while navigating your co-parenting relationship and remember to put your child’s needs first.
