6 jun
Talking to your former partner/spouse is one thing, but planning, communicating and being agreeable with your former partner/spouse is another thing completely. You’re not just a former couple, you are both parents too. That means some extra effort goes into keeping summer the break your family and kids deserve. Great times and great memories don’t just happen, you’ve got to do your part to keep communication clear and stress at a minimum to create happy summer memories! Here are some things to keep in mind:
Remember Your Goals
- It’s all about your child(ren). No matter what the situation, make sure they benefit in the end.
- Peace. The stress of co-parenting through all your summer happenings is inevitable, so it’s all about how you handle it. Be strong and be the example of peace and stability for your children.
Mindful Tips
- Speak Kindly – This isn’t as simple as it sounds, we know. But the difference between a nice tone and a negative tone can save you a lot of misunderstandings and negative interactions.
- Communicate and Confirm – Be as clear as possible about your plans and expectations, once everything is worked out, confirm one last time before you end your conversations. A quick text to wrap up the stated plan to reference later on never hurts.
- Find a Mediator – If smiling through a polite conversation with your former partner/spouse just isn’t possible, don’t hesitate to recommend a trusted friend or family member to serve as a mediator to keep important information flowing without all the emotion.
- Be flexible – Disappointment, frustration and impatience are sure to make an appearance. They always do whether or not it is about summer, but if you make the decision to not sweat the small stuff, it’ll be easier to get back to your summer break happiness.
- Enjoy Your Summer – Obstacles and all, you’re making this whole thing work one way or another for the sake of the people you love most—your children.
It’s Your family, Your Life and Your Story to Write.
Everyone here at Rachel Frazier Johnson Law wishes you and your family a smile-filled summer break and hope that we have helped you in a small way to ease the stress of co-parenting.
