Avoid divorce stress: How to create a peaceful co-parenting plan

 Posted on May 15, 2020 in Uncategorized

When you decided that you would rather move on in life without your spouse rather than stay in an unhappy relationship, you may have worried about how your decision would affect your children's lives. Divorce isn't easy, and the process of resolving child custody issues, financial issues and other important matters can cause a lot of stress. Like all good Texas parents, you want what's best for your kids.

You've probably heard horror stories about long, contentious court battles that have greatly disrupted children's lives and caused them a tremendous amount of stress. It doesn't necessarily have to be that way, however, especially if you and your spouse are willing to compromise and cooperate for your kids' sakes.

Divorce mediation might be a viable option

When you think of divorce, do you desire to resolve important issues, leave the past behind and move on to a new lifestyle in as painless a manner as possible? If you and your spouse get along well enough to engage in peaceful discussion, you might be able to mediate your divorce.

When you choose mediation as a means of settling a divorce, you and your spouse must agree to a few things ahead of time. You must agree to avoid confrontation and to try to resolve your differences without going to court.

Mediation helps children avoid stress

Your kids have no doubt had exposure to disagreements between you and your spouse during marriage. Most married couples have spats now and then. However, studies show that, when children have constant exposure to parental conflict in divorce, it causes them a lot of emotional stress.

On the other hand, if your children see you and your co-parent working as a team to resolve child custody, child support or property division issues, they may be less likely to have anxiety about the changes divorce brings to their lives.

Things you can incorporate into your co-parenting plan

When you mediate a divorce, you can customize your parenting plan to fit your children's needs and to help you and your ex avoid post-divorce conflict. For instance, you can write out terms regarding special events and holidays or even agreements you have about parties, sleepovers and other social issues.

Some parents include details about adult use of alcohol, smoking or drugs, as well as agreements about introducing kids to a parent's new romantic partner, if he or she starts dating again.

Accomplish your goals

Resolving child custody issues can be challenging, but if you and your co-parent agree to focus on your children's best interests, you can attend as many mediation sessions as needed to help you accomplish your goals.