After a divorce, it’s hard to get along with your ex-spouse. A lot of things have happened that didn’t help you get along any better. You know that you have to raise your child together, but neither of you wants to let the other be in control.
It’s important to talk to one another about your child and to have open communication about how you expect your child to be raised. Failing to do this can lead to conflicts and end up harming your child in the long run. What should you do to make sure you can work together? Here are a few tips.
1. Consider mediation
If you and your ex-spouse have a hard time communicating, consider going to mediation. Mediation helps resolve conflicts by having a third party there to listen and discuss issues with you. Mediation helps teach you techniques for handling disputes, which is helpful now and as your child grows.
2. Be straightforward
Another thing that could help is if you state outright what your expectations are. Your ex-spouse isn’t a mind reader. If you expect him or her to make sure your child is home by 10 p.m. on week days, say so.
3. Have a single set of rules
Discuss the different rules you have in each home and focus on combining them into one set of rules overall. It’s easier for a child to do the right thing when he or she has to follow the same rules at all times. It can be confusing to have parents who have different rules or regulations in their homes, since the children have to adjust each time they go to see their parents individually.
These are just a few things to consider and do if you are concerned about or dealing with conflict after divorce. Put your child first, and the rest will work out.