Plan for times when parenting styles collide

When you and your ex can’t agree on how to raise the kids, there is a chance that disagreements are on the horizon. These can be difficult for you to deal with and they can devastate the children. If you are worried that you and your ex will have clashes of this sort, make sure that you keep these tips in mind.

First, remember that it is OK to agree to do things differently. Your ex doesn’t have to bow to your way of thinking and you don’t have to bow to your ex’s way of doing things. What is important is that you and your ex work to give your child a good life.

Second, be willing to take a step back. Humans usually want to prove that they are right. This is something that can backfire in these situations. Instead, it is sometimes best to just walk away and let the chips fall where they may. Of course, this might not be an option if the issue is a serious matter.

Third, try to keep the problem away from your children. Kids are pretty flexible. What you need to focus on is what is in the child’s best interest. Being stuck between warring parents doesn’t fit into that category.

You can always consult the child custody order to determine if the contentious matter is covered in that agreement. If it isn’t and you feel that the situation is serious enough, you might need to explore the possibility of a child custody modification to get the solution put into the order.

Source: Our Family Wizard, “Finding a Balance When Parenting Styles Clash,” accessed Aug. 18, 2017