For children whose parents are going through a divorce, the transition to a new living arrangement can be stressful. Having to shuttle between two homes where different rules apply can take a toll on them, emotionally and psychologically.
In addition, it can be troubling as a parent to co-parent with your ex-spouse, especially when your parenting approaches don’t match. That’s why you need to read from the same page when it comes to parenting and ensure consistency across both homes.
Why is consistent parenting important?
As children grow, they learn habits from people around them. When you are consistent as parents, children can predict how you react to certain situations, which helps them define right from wrong. Children feel safe with consistency and, in turn, make better choices.
Inconsistency can cause a child to be withdrawn or even develop aggression and hostility to deal with the instability at home. Anxiety at a young age can be too much to bear for them, and the effects of that may manifest later on in life.
How can you ensure consistent parenting?
First, you and your co-parent need to understand that parenting is a joint effort and achieving consistency may take time. Start with the usual routines such as bedtime or daily tasks, and ensure that every parent reinforces the same rules in their household.
If your co-parent is not being cooperative and their way of parenting negatively affects the children in one way or another, it may be time to take further action. This may include seeking the court’s approval on a new custody arrangement. In situations like these, experienced legal guidance can help.