Parallel parenting offers stability for children after divorce

by | Dec 7, 2018 | Child Custody |

Disagreements are common between divorced parents in California. When exes with children simply can’t get along, the best solution may be parallel parenting. This is a parenting structure where both parents agree to share custody of children without interfering in one another’s day-to-day decisions. While parallel parenting can be beneficial for estranged parents, it can also give children peace of mind.

According to proponents, the main advantage to parallel parenting is that it protects children from the emotional distress that comes from seeing parents fighting. When parents fight in front of their kids, the emotional damage may be long lasting. In order to properly engage in parallel parenting, both exes must have a mutual respect for one another and agree to give up control to one another during times of custody.

Parents will also have to learn to communicate in a more business-like fashion. This approach keeps emotions at bay by eliminating the opportunity to bring up sensitive topics. In parallel parenting, only major decisions regarding issues like a child’s medical treatments should be discussed at length. When parents take emotion out of interactions with one another, it can demonstrate maturity to children and provide them with a greater sense of stability as they age.

No matter the circumstances, parenting after a divorce can be difficult. Nevertheless, the children’s best interests must be placed front and center. That’s why many divorcing spouses work with family law professionals for guidance. An attorney can assist in creating child custody arrangements that allow for equitable time spent with both parents while reducing the need for personal interaction.