Child custody and strategies to co-parent in an effective way
Georgia couples who have ended their relationship but have children together will need to address certain issues. Child custody and parenting time will inevitably come to the forefront of a family law case. A challenge that frequently arises for separated parents is effective co-parenting. This directly impacts everyone involved, especially the child.
Ways to co-parent and avoid contentious disputes
There are viable strategies to co-parent. From the outset, it is wise to implement them to reduce the chance of problematic disagreements.
For example, the child might not want to go back and forth from one parent to the other. The parents should discuss this with the child and try to ease their concerns. The other parent’s perspective should also be considered. Generally, there will be a parenting time agreement. Parents might want more time with the child than the agreement stipulates. It is useful to realize that quality supersedes quantity, meaning that having the child for less time but being more involved can be positive.
While it can be difficult to coordinate with the other parent, cooperation can prevent acrimony and stress to help parents get on the same page. This can open the door to flexibility, negotiations about potential changes, and even a better relationship between the parents.
After a child custody case is settled, it is natural for parents to feel lonely and a little jealous when the child is with the other parent. This could be an opportunity for the parent to find things to do that he or she enjoys.
Being conciliatory could improve personal and emotional recovery
It is easy to be angry about how the relationship ended and feel bitterness regarding co-parenting and other parts of a custody case. Still, forging a workable agreement, being reasonable, and perhaps going so far as to be friendly to the new love in the former spouse’s life can lead to a fruitful outcome. It can also help the child adjust and make sure their rights are protected.