When parents in North Carolina decide to divorce, the transition to co-parenting can be challenging yet also rewarding. Divorced parents may clash over parenting styles and issues that come with step-parents and blended families. Some parents may find it difficult to communicate after the split while others prepare for regular family meetings. However co-parenting works best for a specific family, there are some guidelines that people can keep in mind to improve their relationship for the benefit of their children.
While the parents have decided to separate, neither has signed up to divorce their children. Both parents have a responsibility to think first of the kids rather than of their problems with one another. This means that each parent has a responsibility to avoid gossiping or complaining about the other parent in front of the children. People should feel free to consult their friends or a therapist, but the children should not feel as if they need to choose between their parents. Arguing harshly with an ex is never a good idea.
It can be important for parents to work together to establish a routine that kids can share at both parents’ homes. Both parents should be responsible for rules and education rather than one home being a space for order and the other being a space for fun. This means that parents can set up boundaries with one another and the kids for a positive, productive relationship.
There are a number of different structures for child custody and visitation that divorced couples could choose for their families. A family law attorney can work with a divorcing parent to protect their parent-child relationship and negotiate a plan for parenting time, child support and other key issues.