Minimizing conflict often requires various strategies to break old patterns. It's essential to reflect on your behavior, both when you're alone and preparing to interact with the other parent, and in the heat of the moment when anger starts to rise.
Child psychologist Malin Bergström offers practical advice for better communication between parents!
Pick up and drop off your child as agreed. Make sure to be on time. If you're running late or something comes up, inform the co-parent as early as possible so they can plan accordingly or simply understand the change in plans.
If there's tension in your co-parenting relationship and you need to talk, use "I" statements: “I get stressed when you're late because it makes me late too,” instead of, “You never show up on time. I'm always waiting for you!”
You decide how you want to parent, and the co-parent does the same. This means taking responsibility for your part of the parenting without the other parent interfering, as long as the child is safe and happy with both parents.
If the co-parent asks for help, try to accommodate if you can. Children love seeing their parents help each other out without irritation. This demonstrates that you both live up to your promise of being there for the child. It also helps avoid power struggles over the child or between you in various situations.
Children need a secure and stable environment with loving adults around them. By minimizing conflict and doing your part to reduce arguments, you're acting in the best interest of your child.
Malin Bergström Child Psychologist, Associate Professor & Author
6 augusti 2024
"The turning point came when we found the Every Other Week app. There's less fuss and both of us have a better handle on things. It feels so great!”
"Thank you so much for this app, it has finally gotten us to communicate!”
