- Sit down and have a conversation with your co-parent about future arrangements involving the child(ren) and have a set plan.
- DO NOT use the child as a defense mechanism against your co-parent.
- Do not force your child to choose sides if a disagreement with your co-parent arises.
- Be understanding if a previous arrangement may have to be changed due to the schedule of your co-parent.
- Do not allow your child to talk badly about your co-parent even though it may not sound so bad. Co-parenting should consist of respect on both ends.
- Do not talk badly about your co-parent in front of your children.
- Don’t burden your child with the problems between you and your co-parent, it is not their fault and they should not be forced to be on anyone’s side.
- Be able to communicate directly to your co-parent, don’t use your children as messengers.
- Be boring. Children need to be able to do normal things with one parent just as they do with the other not just fun things all the time.
- Be present with your kids. When it is your turn to spend time with them be sure YOU are doing the time spending, not other family members etc.