When you have children with your ex-spouse, you may not have the ability to share custody. In many cases, there is one custodial and one non-custodial parent. If you are the custodial parent, you may not feel as though it is your responsibility to foster a relationship between your children and your ex. However, it would be in your best interests to help.
According to Psychology Today, children thrive when they have a meaningful relationship with both parents.
Put your children’s interests first
Your children should be the number one priority. Most courts consider a child’s best interests when making custody arrangements. In general, frequent and meaningful access to both parents has a better outcome for children. Of course, when determining the best situation for your children, you have to think about mental fitness, stability of the home and your child’s relationship with the other parent.
Include the non-custodial parent
No parent should undermine the impact of the other parent on the children’s lives. If the judge believes that you caused a rift between the child and his or her other parent, you could face scrutiny. Try to include the non-custodial parent as much as possible. For example, if your children have an important event at school but do not know if the school informed the other parent, take responsibility and do it yourself. Seek out the other parent’s input on major decisions in your children’s lives.
When parents can act amicably, children tend to have more confidence and have a better relationship with both parents. If you set the standard, then odds are the court will see you as the fit custodial parent.