New Year’s Resolutions for the Divorced Parent

The new year is here, which means it’s time for the age-old tradition of setting resolutions for an improved year. If you are a recently separated or divorced parent with children, this might be an opportunity to make decisions that benefit your children and the new family unit.

Here is a brief list of some ideas to make your co-parenting relationship better in 2020:

• Keep every door open. Make yourself accessible to your children.
• Put your feelings aside to better your children.
• Maintain discipline. Children need to retain consistency, even under two roofs.
• Invest time. Children like to know that they are a priority in your life.
• Show that even after a separation or divorce, you can still have a healthy relationship with your co-parent that is built on respect.
• Avoid playing the blame game. Don’t blame the other parent for all issues, take responsibility for your actions and their impact.
• Respect your child. Don’t use your child as the messenger or spy; let your kids be kids.
• Tell your child you love them. Children need to get reinforced regularly, especially during tough emotional times.
• Keep your promises. Children need a trusting relationship; if you make a promise to your child, make sure you follow through on it.
• Focus on the future. Don’t get caught up on what has happened, focus on what will happen, and this will help you act responsibly.