![\"The](\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/The-Difference-Between-Co-Parenting-and-Parallel-Parenting.jpg\" "\\"The")
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It is always in the best interest of your children for both of their parents to put their needs first. This isn’t always easy to do when you are divorced or separated from your spouse.<\/span><\/p>\n For many, the idea of raising children together<\/a> as friend’s post-divorce seems too good to be true. For other ex-couples, not being able to be in the same room together doesn’t seem healthy either. So, how is a couple supposed to co-parent after a separation?<\/span><\/p>\n Finding a way to put your differences aside and focus on your children can be a challenge, even if your intentions are pure. Past marital problems and other tensions may get in the way of your ability to parent together.<\/span><\/p>\n There are benefits to both co-parenting and parallel parenting. We’re looking at the pros and cons of both so that you can decide which method is best for you and your family.<\/span><\/p>\n One of the biggest differences between co-parenting and parallel parenting is that when co-parenting, you maintain a relationship with your ex. Some strive to have a real friendship, while others simply stay civil with one another and communicate regularly about their children.<\/span><\/p>\n Co-parents do not focus on arguing or airing your past relationship woes. They focus on being present and attentive to their children. They rise above the animosity they feel toward one another in order to remain partners in parenting.<\/span><\/p>\n There are many benefits of co-parenting for both your children and you and your ex.<\/span><\/p>\n Watching a marriage end is difficult for children. It encourages stress and creates a sense of unease. The best thing parents can do for their little ones during a separation is to create a strong sense of routine and stability.<\/span><\/p>\n Co-parenting after the dissolution of a relationship is the most beneficial option for the child. But when a child knows that both of their parents are putting their interests first, it creates a sense of security.<\/span><\/p>\n Instead of being torn between two parents or feeling the need to “pick a side” a child will be able to maintain a close and healthy relationship with both parents.<\/span><\/p>\n Parentification is a role reversal between child and parent. Instead of parents caring for their children’s feelings and wellbeing, a child of divorce will develop inappropriate levels of responsibility in the family, often trying to act as a “peacemaker” between the parents.<\/span><\/p>\n Studies<\/span> show<\/span><\/a> that children who engage in parentification often grow up to become reluctant parents themselves.<\/span><\/p>\n When exes co-parent, the risk of parentification is significantly lowered, since the child is able to see that the family unit is still functioning at a healthy level.<\/span><\/p>\n Good parents are consistent with their children. They pride themselves on fostering similar house rules, discipline, and rewards in each household. This creates a routine and sense of consistency no matter where the child is living that week.<\/span><\/p>\nWhat it means to co-parent with your ex<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"What](\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/What-it-means-to-co-parent-with-your-ex.jpg\" "\\"What")
<\/p>\n1. Creates a sense of stability<\/b><\/h3>\n
2. Limited or no parentification<\/b><\/h3>\n
3. Consistency<\/b><\/h3>\n