If you share custody, you have likely faced disagreements with your ex on the best ways to raise your child or children. Some of those disagreements may have destabilized your marriage, led to your divorce, or alienated you from your children. When making important parenting decisions, though, unreasonable stubbornness will not help you teach your children life skills or resolve your quarrels with your ex.
Some common challenges that many divorced parents face include school choice, religious life in the home, or standards of respect. In cases of severe incompatibility between parents, you must maintain respect for the positions of the other parent. You will have the opportunity to teach your own values during your time with your child or children according to the custody arrangement. Ultimately, your child must begin making decisions for him or herself. As a parent, your support and advice lend them the confidence they need to develop both positive decision-making habits and an effective platform for adult life. In the case of an immature or irresponsible co-parent, explain yourself carefully to both your child and the co-parent. While you may not be able to change your ex’s mind, honesty and complete explanation can give your child the opportunity to see all sides of the situation and then witness a well-reasoned and thoughtful approach to the resolution of that problem. If you feel that your ex endangers your child with habitually poor decisions, speak with your attorney to attempt changes to your custody arrangement.