When you get divorced, you may worry about how you will cope, how your life will change and what your life will look like after divorce finalization. However, one of your biggest concerns is likely how your children will react to this major change.
In 2018, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 782,038 divorces and annulments occurred, so divorce is a common experience for many couples and their children. To make the transition into coparenting easier, these guidelines for communicating effectively can help.
Keep it professional
You and your ex are likely very familiar with one another, so your relationship may feel more personal than businesslike. As you begin sharing custody of your children, aim for a professional relationship with your coparent.
Use a civil tone when communicating and wait to speak to your ex if you are angry or upset. You should also make requests of your coparent instead of demands as you talk about arrangements, needs for your children, scheduling changes, etc.
Set clear terms
Decide how you will communicate with your ex and how often. For example, you may want to set an appointment with your coparent once a week to talk on the phone or an in-person meeting every other week to talk about your children and their needs.
Stay on topic
Keep communicating between you and your ex brief and to the point. Avoid going into emotionally heated topics during your regular communication sessions and limit discussion points to your children and their needs.