11/05/2026
I am frequently asked about co-parenting and how to do so effectively. Here are some hints and tips:
Respect each other’s parenting style. Your co-parent might have different approaches to mealtimes, bedtimes and entertainment but try not to interfere.
Children and young people are okay with different rules in different houses, so unless the child is at risk of harm, you should try to accept the differences.
When you speak about your child’s other parent, use positive or neutral comments. Try to encourage family and friends do the same.
However tempting it is, don’t question your children about the other parent or encourage them to act as spies. If you have questions about what goes on at the other parent’s home, ask your ex directly.
Don’t encourage children to complain about the other parent. If there is a problem, encourage them to talk to you about it and ask if they would like to speak to their other parent about it.
Try and keep your feelings about your ex separate from your parenting decisions. Treat your child’s other parent or carer as you would like to be treated yourself.
Texting and emailing can be useful but sometimes things can be misinterpreted. Think about the best way to communicate with your co-parent or carer.
Share information about your child with each other. There should not be any competition around who has the most information and it means that your child is getting the best possible care from their parents or carers.
Make sure your child has what they need at each home. Your child shouldn’t have to carry the burden of ferrying stuff backwards and forwards between homes.
Keep to financial arrangements and notify the other parent about any issues that will affect them.
Keep each other updated on your contact information. You should each know the other’s address, telephone, work number, etc.
