Guidance on Successfully Co-Parenting

Going through a divorce with minor children from the marriage can be extremely difficult, especially when certain child custody issues are in dispute. Similar to child custody cases decided as part of a divorce in Illinois, the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA) also allows courts to determine child custody when unmarried parents end their relationship. In either type of situation, the court will allocate parental responsibilities, which include significant decision-making responsibilities and parenting time. While it can be difficult to work with your ex and to collaborate on issues concerning your child, most parents in Illinois will share parental responsibilities. Even if the parental responsibilities are not split directly, parents will need to work together in various ways to comply with their allocation judgment or parenting plan. The following is some guidance on successfully co-parenting from our Illinois child custody lawyers.

Focus on Your Child’s Best Interests

It can be difficult to focus on what is in your child’s best interests when your ex is asking for flexibility with parenting time or refusing to communicate in an effective manner with you about issues concerning your child. Yet when you focus on what your child needs, it can be easier to approach your ex with any issues and to communicate with your ex about your child.

Find the Communication Method That Works for You

According to an article in Medical News Today, communication is key to effective co-parenting. As such, it is essential to find a communication method that works for you and your ex. For some parents, the best way to communicate is by talking in person or on the phone. For others, electronic communication works best, such as email or text. There is also a wide range of apps that are designed specifically for assisting exes with co-parenting that you can consider.

Agree on Essential Issues During Parenting Time

When you share parenting time with your ex, it is critical to reach an agreement about certain issues or experiences your child will have with each parent. This way, the child does not have to navigate two disparate sets of bedtimes, discipline, chores, or related issues. It is important to agree on these types of strategies, the article in Medical News Today emphasizes. 

Be Flexible and Seek Help if You Need it

It can be difficult to plan in advance to be flexible, but aiming for flexibility can make it easier to adjust when something unexpected happens during parenting time or there is a need for a schedule change. And if the other parent is not complying with the parenting plan or allocation judgment or is asking too much of you, it is important to know that you can seek help from a lawyer. 

Contact an Experienced Child Custody Lawyer in Illinois

After a child custody case, it is important to have the information you need for successful co-parenting. If you have questions about the allocation of parental responsibilities in Illinois, or if you have any concerns or questions about your rights as a parent, you should seek advice from a lawyer who can help. One of our experienced Illinois child custody attorneys can speak with you today. Contact Demetrios N. Dalmares & Associates, Ltd. to learn more about how we can assist you.