Co-parenting requires cooperation from both parties. Absent it, co-parents can have a difficult time raising children in two homes. So, what should you do if you are in such a situation?
Here is how to deal with an uncooperative co-parent:
Determine the areas they fail to cooperate in
If your co-parent violates every term of your custody arrangement, you may need to consider other options. But if they fail to cooperate in one area, you can find solutions. For example, your co-parent may be on time picking up the kids and attending all kid-related events but refuses to use your shared expenses system. In such a case, you may need to use an alternative system.
Identify what’s beyond your control
Determining the areas your co-parent is uncooperative in and making changes can be beneficial, but you need to identify what is beyond your control. Whatever you do, try to avoid letting their refusal to cooperate upset you or cause you to react.
Do your best to make things work
Even though you can’t control your co-parent’s choices, you need to set healthy boundaries. Your children can benefit from seeing you making healthy choices to protect yourself and them.
An uncooperative co-parent can be incredibly frustrating to deal with. There may come a time when you need to accept that things are not going to improve however much you try to be nice or ask your co-parent to cooperate. If this happens, you may need to seek legal guidance to understand your options and protect your parental rights.