Child custody matters are often challenging to work out because you have to work with a person you aren’t involved with romantically any longer. This sometimes comes with emotions that will lead to increased tension, but you can’t just ignore the need to speak to your ex about your children.
Finding ways to reduce the stress that can come with child custody communication can make your life easier. It can also keep things calm around your children, so consider using these three tips.
1. Stick to the issue at hand
One problem that might creep up is the tendency to bring up things from the past that don’t have anything to do with the situation at hand. An example of this is when the adult problems that ended the relationship are brought up when you’re trying to make decisions about the children.
2. Consider using business-like communication
Emotions can have a negative impact on the productivity of child custody discussions. Instead of allowing those to rule, consider using business-like communication when you’re talking to your ex. Being respectful and calm can help to keep the conversation from getting too tense. It’s also critical that you know when the situation is too tense so you can take a break and come back to the conversation once you and your ex calm down.
Having the parenting plan set can help to reduce the contention while you raise your child with your ex. Working with someone who’s familiar with your situation and applicable laws may make it easier to get the plan set up in a way that works best for your children.