The Importance of Coparenting
Developing an effective coparenting relationship is one of the most challenging and important issues facing divorcing couples. At a time when there is likely to be conflict, anger and hurt, it can be difficult to stay focused on the wellbeing of the children and to form a new relationship that centers around the “business” of parenting. Yet we know from research that children of divorce do better when conflict is minimized and when parents are able to cooperate early in the process in order to talk to their children and develop effective parenting plans.
MY SPECIALTY WITH DIVORCING FAMILIES
As a Child Specialist trained to work with parents who are separating or divorced, I can help guide this process in a healthy direction for you and your family. The work is flexible, based on the needs of the individual family, and may involve a single session or ongoing meetings. Some of the areas that can be addressed include:
- How to talk to kids about the decision to divorce in a developmentally appropriate way
- Developing a parenting plan, including how to share holidays and vacations, based on age-appropriate recommendations as well as each child’s unique needs
- Common coparenting scenarios such as differences in parenting styles and household rules that can lead to conflict
- Communication techniques that encourage cooperation and minimize conflicts
- How to introduce a new relationship to your children
Coparenting counseling can be beneficial to parents who are just starting the divorce process as well as those who are looking for help to navigate a post-divorce parenting issue or conflict. It can also be helpful for parents who are engaged in divorce mediation or a collaborative divorce and could benefit from a Child Specialist during the process.