A study conducted in 2017 in Canada revealed that of around 5.3 million people who filed for divorce and separation, 53% shared custody of their children. It shows that the majority of divorced or separated couples in Canada opt for co-parenting rather than sole custody of children.
Co-parenting allows parents to find a more collaborative approach to raising children after their divorce or separation.
Here’s all you need to know about positive co-parenting and how it can benefit your children.
What is Co-parenting?
Co-parenting is a parenting arrangement between separated or divorced parents who agree to raise their children together. It entails both parents sharing parenting responsibilities, decision-making, and other parenting tasks through open communication and cooperation. It can take several forms, depending on the situation of the parents and the needs of their children.
If you’re divorced or separated, you can get joint custody of your children and create a co-parenting plan outlining parenting obligations, schedules, and communication techniques.
What Does a Co-parenting Plan Include?
A co-parenting plan is a document that outlines the details and agreements reached by separated or divorced parents about how they will share parenting responsibilities and make decisions about their children. It is a formal agreement drafted by family lawyers that assists both parents in being organized and focusing on the well-being of their children.
This document contains a parenting schedule indicating the amount of time children will spend with each parent, communication guidelines, decision-making procedures, financial arrangements, and rules and expectations for the children. It also assists separated or divorced parents in sharing parenting responsibilities and making decisions about their children’s upbringing to decrease conflict and arguments.
Benefits of Positive Co-parenting
If you’re planning to co-parent with your ex-partner or ex-spouse, here’s how it will benefit your child.
Improved Well-being
Research shows positive co-parenting can improve a child’s emotional and mental health. Children who feel loved and supported by both parents are more likely to feel comfortable and happy.
Reduced Risk of Parental Conflict
Conflict between separated or divorced parents can have a negative influence on both the parents and the children. Parents can communicate and collaborate to make decisions to reduce disputes and make their children feel secure.
Effective Parenting
Setting clear standards and expectations for their children and providing emotional support can improve children’s behaviour and emotional well-being. It can lead to higher academic achievement, enhanced social skills, and decreased mental health issues like anxiety or depression.
Increased Parental Involvement
Positive co-parenting can ensure that both parents are actively involved in the lives of their children. Children need to have a bond with both parents. When parents collaborate, they can develop a plan that allows for equal time with their children and guarantees they have a say in their children’s upbringing.
Strategies for Positive Co-Parenting
Positive co-parenting requires effort and commitment. Here are some strategies to co-parent effectively.
Keeping Children’s Best Interests in Mind
Remember that co-parenting is all about putting your child’s needs first. When making decisions about your children’s upbringing, prioritize what is best for them over what is best for you.
Communicating Effectively
Communication is the key to avoiding misunderstandings. Make an effort to communicate with your ex-spouse or ex-partner frequently, avoid using confrontational words and make decisions together.
Being Flexible and Willing to Compromise
Co-parenting requires both parents to be adaptable and willing to compromise. During unforeseen circumstances, be prepared to adjust your parenting strategy according to the scenario. Remember that the parenting plan is not fixed and can be changed as needed.
Creating a Routine
Because children thrive on routine and structure, it is necessary to establish a constant routine for them. Work with your co-parent to create a routine that works for everyone and gives your children a sense of security.
Respecting Boundaries
While co-parenting necessitates cooperation and communication, you must respect each other’s boundaries. Avoid making remarks about your co-parent in front of your children or crossing boundaries.
Using a Mediator
If co-parenting becomes difficult or issues cannot be addressed, consider hiring a mediator to help foster productive discussion and arrive at a solution. It is better to hire a mediator than go through lengthy court cases.
Reasons to Hire a Family Lawyer
Hiring a family lawyer to develop a co-parenting plan can benefit your family due to their competence, neutrality, conflict resolution abilities, and other qualities. Since they have worked with families in similar situations, they can build a tailored plan that works for your family.
They can help ensure the co-parenting plan is legally binding and enforceable. They can also help resolve issues and ensure the plan is adapted to the family’s needs. A family lawyer can also offer objective advice, which is useful when dealing with challenging co-parenting situations. They can also help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a co-parent and can recommend ways to reach your objectives.
Finding a Family Lawyer in Canada
Are you looking for a divorce lawyer or family lawyer in Canada? Do you need an efficient co-parenting plan or a mediator to avoid court custody battles?
At Nanda & Associate Lawyers, our experienced family lawyers help create co-parenting plans. We specialize in family law and have a thorough understanding of the legal system, allowing us to give you the advice you require. Our family lawyers have handled multiple family law cases over the years and can manage yours too.
Contact us to book a consultation, and let us assist you in developing a co-parenting strategy that works for your children
