Is Dad Important

If your child has a father that is actively involved, your situation is a little different. Co-parenting with your ex can be a very difficult experience, or it can be a huge help. Do your best to put the welfare of your children first, and work with your ex to develop a plan that gives your children two parents who are fully participating in their childhood. Work out the following details with your ex: 

• Visitation – If needed, impress upon your ex the importance of regular visits, and of keeping promises that he makes your child. Your child will be very disappointed if dad is a constant no-show. Plus, you need to be able to count on your ex to keep his appointed visitation times so that you can have some time to yourself.

• Making Important Decisions – Try to establish a rapport with your ex that will allow the two of you to discuss important issues about childrearing. If you can, for example, establish similar rules in both homes, your child will be far more secure and confident. If you can sit down and work out rules and behaviour expectations, as well as what privileges will be allowed, you’ll raise a better behaved and less confused child.

• Financial Issues – Your child support is likely already established. However, there will be times when your child will have expenses that fall outside of normal living expenses. For example, if your child’s school takes a voluntary field trip that costs $300, are you expected to pay for that out of the child support you receive? Or, will you and your ex discuss it and split the cost if you both agree that the trip is worthwhile?

  It’s rarely easy for divorced parents to work together; there is often much resentment and unresolved feeling that gets in the way. But, if the two of you can find a way to put your differences aside when it comes to your children, you’ll raise a much happier and better adjusted child, and you’ll both be happier, too.