Like all good parents going through a divorce in Arkansas, your main goal is to do what’s best for your kids. Creating a joint custody parenting plan isn’t always easy, especially when you’re trying to be agreeable with someone you couldn’t stay married to. However, there are a few ways you can make shared custody work for you, your ex and your kids.
Never speak negatively about your ex
One of the most important rules of making joint custody work is to never speak critically of your ex. Instead, always show respect to your co-parent so that your kids won’t feel conflicted.
Keep your kids’ best interests first
Remember that helping your kids adjust to this major change in their lives is what matters most. You can put your kids first by:
- Doing homework with them
- Staying in touch when they’re with their other parent
- Asking how they’re doing in school
- Supporting their extra-curricular activities
Keep the lines of communication open
Even if you aren’t on good terms with your ex, keep your co-parent in the loop about what’s going on with the kids. Make a detailed schedule together so that you always know what to expect. Try to be clear about visitation schedules, pick-up and drop-off locations and other matters about joint custody. The more specific you are, the less likely you’ll end up in court about a family law dispute.
Sharing custody of the kids is rarely easy, but fortunately, there are ways you can make the arrangement work for everyone’s benefit. Follow the above tips to take some of the stress out of co-parenting with your ex.