7 Co-Parenting Tips Amidst Covid-19

When you and your ex created your co-parenting plan, you probably didn’t think about including specifics in case of a global pandemic.

Don’t worry; you’re not alone on that.

We’re officially a few months into this pandemic, and hopefully, you and your ex have found a rhythm to make co-parenting work for you so far during this time.

However, if we’ve learned anything during this time, it’s that things can change quickly at a moment’s notice.

With each state beginning their reopening plans, we’re still only at the beginning of this “return to normalcy,” There may still be some unique challenges coming down the pipeline.

Here are 7 effective co-parenting tips to help you find the best way to co-parent peacefully during this global crisis no matter what comes next.

1. Be present and attentive

Children are surrounded by information about the virus through school, social media, and their friends, and they may not be equipped to process that information.

Hence the first successful co-parenting tip is to stay present with your children and attentive to their needs to help them process these uncertain times.

2. Be practical

If one household has been potentially exposed to the virus or starts to show symptoms, be practical about what is best for the children.

Remember this healthy co-parenting tip; it’s not about being right or “sticking with the original plan” right now – it’s about keeping everyone safe.

3. Focus on solutions

This co-parenting tip is even more important now than ever. Now you have to work together with your ex when any conflict arises to find a compromise in the children’s interests.

The priority during this time is finding solutions that benefit the children, not winning an argument.

4. Stay healthy

Follow all the CDC guidelines for staying healthy and let the other parent know that you and your household take these things seriously.

Follow this co-parenting tip by keeping both households safe and healthy so you’ll be able to ensure that all visitations keep going as planned and no one needs to be isolated.

5. Over-communicate

Another essential co-parenting tip is to talk about everything right now – school schedules, what you’re telling the kids about the pandemic, hygiene protocols, and more!

Err on the side of too much communication rather than not enough and make sure you ask questions when something is unclear.

6. Let things go

Now isn’t the time to sweat the small stuff. Take this opportunity to practice letting small things go so that you can focus on the big things – like keeping your family safe and healthy.

7. Be positive

Your kids are watching your every move and need a positive role model now more than ever.

Make a conscious effort to embrace the good moments in each day and shed light on the joy that is happening all around, even in this difficult time.

Co-parenting can be difficult even during the best of times, so don’t expect yourself to be perfect.

Also watch: 5 positive mindsets to have during COVID-19.

These co-parenting tips should help keep your co-parenting experience smooth and positive as both of your households navigate these challenging times.