Co-parenting

Finding Steadier Ground While Co-Parenting

A short message about a pickup time can bring up more than scheduling. It may remind you of an old argument or leave you anxious about the next handoff. Time apart from your children can also be hard, even when you know they’re cared for.

Make a plan for the moments you can anticipate

When communication is safe, keep routine messages specific. Confirm the time, place, and one question that needs an answer. If holidays are a recurring source of stress, give yourself space to think about which traditions matter most to you and which ones you can remake on a different day.

You may also want a plan for the first hour after a handoff. A walk, a phone call, or dinner with a friend can give that time a rhythm of its own. If contact involves intimidation or control, a domestic violence advocate can help you explore safety options. National Domestic Violence Hotline

At Femme Health, we make space for the emotional adjustment of parenting across households.

Femme Health offers virtual therapy and online support groups for women only, including support for co-parenting counseling, co-parenting support, therapy for moms.