When North Carolina couples divorce and children are involved, there are several ways that custody can go. Most parents find some type of agreement that allows them to both spend time with their children, and this leads to a situation known as co-parenting. If a divorce is difficult and full of contention, it can be hard to find a way to move forward and co-parent successfully.
Today’s Parent suggests that rather than winging it, parents should create a parenting plan before they start co-parenting. The more tense the divorce, the more the agreement should be detailed. Details included may range from where and when to pick up kids on transition days to how many pictures parents can post of their kids on social media.
While it is difficult to hold the tongue when an ex has been hurtful, it is harmful to the kids if parents consistently insult the other parent in front of them. It is important that parents avoid airing insults or complaints when the children can hear. This may make them feel as if they must choose one parent over the other.
HelpGuide.org suggests that all major decisions should be made by both parents. This could include decisions about education, medical needs and important financial issues that kids face. Both parents should be honest, open and straightforward about issues that are crucial to the well-being of the kids.
Co-parenting can be successful in many situations, but there are times when one parent is not capable of taking care of the children. When this is the case, it is important that the stable parent set up terms in the divorce decree that allows them to control decisions about the children, which may require the help of an experienced family law attorney.
