Top Tips for Co Parenting over the holidays

TOP TIPS FOR CO-PARENTING OVER THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS

* It is helpful to try and plan ahead.  This can be hard if you are dealing with a toxic ex. But make plans, try to discuss (via email or text if speaking is hard).  Keep your plans clear, calm and concise.  Always remain polite and honest.  Creating a What’sApp group with the family and a trusted friend can help keep things civil.  Family Wizard is a good app too.

*  When making plans, try to understand your ex’s too.  Try doing this with your children in mind too – understanding what they would really like will help when making plans.  Keeping plans flexible will help.

*  Get your chores out of the way on the days you don’t have children.  When you are with them you can then spend proper quality time with them.

*  Keep your focus on what you CAN do rather than getting fixated with what you can’t.  Try to embrace new and different opportunities – you never know when a new opportunities might appear…

*  When the children aren’t with you be the office hero – take the extra days that no one else wants or can.

*  Memories – making plans with the children, involving them in the process will make them feel really special for them too.  Bucket list ideas, places to see, fun activities.  It does not have to be expensive.  Keep it real but make it fun.

*  Don’t forget to take photos! When the children are away with your ex you can make photo books so you and the children can look back over them together in the future.

*  Look after yourself. When not with the children, do things that bring you joy.  Have a group of trusted friends and professional support.  Practice being kind to yourself.

*  However tricky your ex may be, always lead by example.  Your children will look up to you, show them that co-parenting can be done.  Stay positive (you can moan to your divorce coach later!), embrace whatever is thrown your way and keep a sense of humour.