Useful Tips

A common challenge to developing a healthy co-parenting relationship are fears from the primary care giver that the other parent does not 'know enough' about parenting.  It is true that intact families often choose to divide responsibilities, with one parent being responsible for child related duties and the other parent taking care of the finances and household maintenance.  In those cases it is not surprising that there are worries about whether a parent has enough skill to play a shared parenting role after separation. 

A parent's responsibilities to the child survives the end of an adult relationship.  Each parent's responsibilities to the child actually increases after the adult relationship is over.  Parents who are able to put a child's needs ahead of their own emotions will be able to do what it takes to make good parenting continue. 

No one said parenting would be easy, particularly after separation. Communication problems between parents are normal.  Emotions are still running high and all of the changes create added stress.  It is easy to take it out on your ex - especially when he or she might 'deserve it'.  Research tells us that even families considered to be 'high conflict' will calm down and find a better groove within the first year or two after separation.  Until that happens, there are ways you can reduce the conflict and make your life a bit less stressful. 

Don't miss our free public seminar: "Finding the Best Legal Options for Me: from do-it-yourself divorce kits to going to court" presented by Leisa MacIntosh, family lawyer & mediator.  Leisa will explain the different legal options available to separating couples and provide tips on how to choose the right service for you.  Topics covered will include online divorce-kits, family mediation, collaborative divorce and family court.  Leisa will also talk about how and when to include children's voices into the divorce process.  Psychologist Susan Hartley will also be present to provide information to parents about co-parenting and how to protect children from adult conflict and loyalty binds.  Come out and learn about what services and resources are available to Pictou County families going through the separation process.

Guide to developing a parenting plan and sample parenting schedules have been added to our Resources[sitetree_link id=87] page, check them out!