Parenting after divorce can feel like a new world of challenges. While you may have to make some adjustments to learning or returning to parenting on your own after divorce, the good news is that kids are resilient—and there are several things you can do to make the transition easier.
4 Tips for Single Parents After Divorce
From money to coordinating schedules and more, the life of single parents after divorce can look different than the two-parent home did during the marriage. Still, with a little planning and patience, you can figure out what works best for you, and you and your child(ren) can thrive in your new life after divorce.
1. Budget your finances.
Living expenses change when you’re parenting on your own after divorce, and it’s better to know how those changes are going to affect your bottom line ASAP. If you do, it’s easier to make and live on a budget. The sooner you can get a hold on how your finances are going to evolve after divorce, the sooner you can take action to keep your spending and debt in check. That can make a world of difference in your life as a single parent after divorce.
2. Budget your time.
Life’s busy. Don’t forget to set aside time for yourself and for you and your child(ren). When it comes to helping kids get through a divorce, budgeting your time can be as important as budgeting your money. It can help you push pause during the hustle and bustle of life and spend time with the people you cherish. It also lets you explore new hobbies and figure out what you want in life after divorce. Overall, that time well spent can help you stay positive, showing your children that things are going to be OK.
3. Try to work with the other parent.
You got divorced for a reason, but it doesn’t mean that history has to come up every time you deal with the other parent in the interests of your child(ren). Whenever possible, try to co-parent peacefully. Of course, that’s easier said than done—and you should never try to interact with an ex who may be a danger to you and/or your child(ren).
Still, don’t let petty bickering or past feuds get in the way of co-parenting. Try to keep it civil. If that’s not possible, try to figure out how you can peacefully co-parent (like whether you need a neutral drop-off point or a third party to coordinate between the two of you). Do what you have to do to make it work for your child(ren).
4. Know when to go back to court.
If the other parent isn’t complying with the parenting plan and/or isn’t paying court-ordered child support, go to court and let a family judge take action. Do not try to get justice on your own by withholding custody or doing something else that could cause you problems.
Other times you may need to go to court as a single parent can include when:
When Should I Contact a Lawyer?
Whenever you’re having problems with the other parent paying child support or abiding by a custody agreement, it’s time to contact a divorce attorney at The Cossitt Law Firm, LLC. We offer confidential consultations, and we are ready to help you now.
Call (970) 488-1887 or email our firm for a 100% confidential consultation. Phone and Skype consultations are available!
The answers you get can help you understand more about your rights and legal options. With our experienced counsel, 5-star service, and strategic representation, you can be confident that your rights and interests are protected—and that you have the representation you need to set your case up for a favorable resolution.