What are the 3 types of co-parenting? Co-parenting is becoming more and more common these days, as more couples choose to separate or end their romantic relationships. The process can be difficult, emotional, and arduous, especially when children are involved.
To make the transition smoother and less stressful for everyone, it’s essential to understand the different types of co-parenting.Â
In this blog post, we’ll cover the three main types of co-parenting that you may encounter, along with their benefits and challenges.
Traditional co-parenting
In this type of co-parenting, both parties remain fully involved in the upbringing and decision-making process of their children. They work together as a team, communicate regularly, and share parenting responsibilities equally.
Traditional co-parenting is often seen as the ideal situation since children have access to both parents, and it promotes a harmonious relationship between the parents.
However, it can be challenging to maintain this type of co-parenting as conflicts and differing opinions may occur, leading to strained communication and tension.
Parallel co-parenting
Parallel co-parenting is the exact opposite of traditional co-parenting. In this type of co-parenting, both parties have little to no interaction or communication with each other.
Communication is typically limited to only essential matters such as scheduling times for picking up or dropping off children. This type of co-parenting is suitable for parents who have had bitter disagreements or contentious relationships.
However, it can be hard for children as they don’t have access to both parents, and changes in scheduling may cause confusion or become a source of tension.
Co-parenting with a parenting coordinator
This type of co-parenting is ideal for parents who struggle to communicate effectively or find common ground when it comes to conflicts.
A parenting coordinator is a third-party professional who provides parenting advice, resolves conflicts, and helps both parties make decisions relating to the upbringing of their children.
It’s an efficient way of maintaining a civil relationship between both parties, preventing constant disagreements and tension that may harm the children.
However, this type of co-parenting can be expensive and may cause parents to rely too heavily on the parenting coordinator leading to fewer interactions between both parties.
So, what are the 3 types of co-parenting? Regardless of which type of co-parenting you choose, it’s vital to keep the children’s interests and wellbeing in mind. Children thrive when they have consistent routines, stable relationships, and access to both parents.
Remember that co-parenting is a learning process that requires open communication, respect, and flexibility from both parties. Choose what fits your situation best, and always do what’s best for your children.
Co-parenting can be daunting, but with the right motivation and guidance, everyone involved can thrive.
