As voters across the country head to the polls today, they’re reminded of how challenging it can be to find common ground. But the search for common ground isn’t just limited to politics—it's also a critical part of co-parenting. Whether you're married, separated, or somewhere in between, raising children with another person requires collaboration, compromise, and clear communication.
Shannan King, Regional Family Support Coordinator for the GEAR Family Network; which specializes in helping families navigate some of the most difficult times in their lives. King emphasizes that the concept goes beyond divorced or separated parents. "Co-parenting isn’t just something you figure out during a divorce," she says. "You're co-parenting with your spouse, grandparents, friends who may be helping you, and extended family—anyone who is involved in raising your child."
Successful co-parenting means establishing rules and boundaries that everyone agrees on, but consistency can be tricky, especially in households with different parenting styles. King stresses the importance of communication, which is often the most difficult hurdle to overcome, particularly when dealing with a high-conflict ex-partner.
Ultimately, King’s advice boils down to one simple takeaway: put the children first. Whether you're setting rules, communicating across households, or navigating new relationships, the goal is to provide the best environment possible for your kids—a lesson that resonates strongly on a day like today, when the nation itself is seeking common ground for the greater good.
For more information on the GEAR Family Network and the support they offer, visit https://gearparentnetwork.org/.
Additional Information:
TED Talks: How to co-parent as allies, not adversaries
TED Talks: The beautiful hard work of co-parenting
Co-parenting and Joint Custody tips for divorced parents
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You Might Like
