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Single Moms Corner

Co-Parenting and the Single Mom

By Dawn Simmons Downtown-West Atlanta Macaroni Kid Publisher February 1, 2017

Co-Parenting and The single Mom


Co-parenting well with your ex can provide stability and close relationships with both parents. Depending on your relationship prior to divorce or separation this is not always an easy task but undoubtedly is a necessary one. It is the best way to ensure your children’s needs are met and they are able to retain close relationships with both parents.

The first step in this task is to remember that putting your child’s needs ahead of yours is the main objective. Think of your relationship with your ex as new… it is solely for the wellbeing of your children.

When divorced parents have an amicable and cooperative relationship kids seem to Feel Secure as they are confident of the love from both parents and adjust better to divorce.

Create consistency-- Maintain similar rules, discipline and rewards so kids know exactly what to expect and what is expected of them.

The key to co-parenting is to focus on the the children and the children only. It is not about you or your feelings, but rather about the happiness of your children, their stability and future well-being.

Separating your feelings from your behavior is crucial. Don’t let your feelings for your ex dictate your behavior. Get your feelings out somewhere else. Find a friend or family member that you can vent to when necessary, work your feelings out in exercise or even, my favorite, get a punching bag and build up that upper body strength.

Never put your children in the middle. Try not to vent or show bitterness or resentment for your ex in front of your children. The closet is a much better place to talk yourself down when necessary.

Consistent and peaceful communication is an essential key to co-parenting. The main purpose for everything is your children’s well being.

Remember…… It all begins with your mindset!!!