People who share children have to determine how to make their parenting relationship work if they aren’t romantically involved any longer. Some people choose to co-parent, which requires them to have frequent contact with each other.
Even for individuals who get along with their exes, it’s critical to have boundaries set. These help to ensure the co-parenting relationship can continue with minimal issues.
Communication boundaries
While communication might be more open in co-parenting than in other parenting arrangements, there should still be boundaries. Setting times to check messages or time limits to return important messages can help with communication.
The tone of messages should be limited to respectful communication. Contentious matters should be handled calmly and with the chance to take a step back if either person needs to get their emotions under control.
Transition day boundaries
Transition days need firm boundaries, particularly about what should be discussed in front of the children. Nothing contentious should be talked about on transition days. Instead, the focus should be on remaining as calm as possible for the children. This can be a stressful day for them as they battle the harsh feeling of leaving one parent while being joyful about seeing their other parent.
The terms of the agreement should be covered in the parenting plan. Having everything set concisely lets both parents know what responsibilities they have. Working with someone who can assist with setting those terms is beneficial so both parties can ensure everything is covered in the plan.