Co-Parenting

This is also known as partnered parenting; an arrangement where people who have hadĀ children are not in a conventional relationship anymore but still find ways to raise their offspringĀ together to provide a harmonious and nurturing upbringing. However, it isn’t easy to ignore aĀ turbulent history with one’s ex-partner and any built up resentment. So it may be useful to thinkĀ of this partnership as a new one that is solely based on the children. A key component ofĀ co-parenting is consistency. By having the same rules, punishment and reward systems in bothĀ households, children will know what to expect. To be child-focused, both co-parents mustĀ contain their feelings and avoid venting their frustrations to their children, especially whenĀ regarding their ex. Furthermore, if children are used as messengers by uncooperative parents, they become the centre of conflict. Communication is vital for co-parenting; parents must keepĀ conversations direct, polite and child-focused. If disagreements arise, these shouldn’t be airedĀ in front of the children. Being patient and making compromises leave a positive effect on bothĀ the child and the coparenting relationship. So respect, communication and consistency are allĀ essential to functional co-parenting which will decrease conflict and make children closer toĀ both parents.

 

–Ā Louise Camilleri is a first year Bachelor of Psychology (Hons.) student at the University of Malta. She is particularly interested in sex therapy. Louise is an intern at Willingness.com.mt.

Similar Posts