4 Tips for Long Distance Co-Parenting Between Parents Living in Different Countries
If it was your choice, you would likely choose to co-parent your children in the same country, but this might not be possible for your separated family. If your ex lives overseas due to work obligations, personal reasons, or a new family life, you might have no choice but to split custody of your kids.
You and your partner must remain on the best terms to create a smooth transition and a happier childhood for your kids. Here are four tips for long-distance co-parenting between parents living in different countries.
Improve Communication
Good communication is critical when co-parenting in the same or separate countries. You and your partner might not have seen eye to eye during your romantic relationship, but the conflict and toxicity doesn’t need to continue after a breakup or divorce.
As you will want to remain updated on your children’s lives when they are in another country, you and your ex must learn how to communicate and co-parent amicably. Two Healthy Homes can help parents find ways to work together for the sake of their children. The personalized advice, counseling, and guidance could help you and your ex navigate the challenges of co-parenting in different countries to create a smooth transition for everyone.
Share Special Moments
It might break your heart knowing you cannot be there in person to experience a child’s special moments, such as their birthday or the first day of school. For this reason, you and your former partner must agree to make each other feel a part of all special occasions. For instance, you or your co-parent could organize a video call when your son or daughter opens their birthday presents or blows out their candles.
Also, you could avoid conflict by accepting if they would prefer to fly back to spend time with your kids on their special day. Put yourself in their shoes to maintain an amicable co-parenting relationship.
Show Your Support
It is natural to feel jealous of your ex if they’re the primary caregiver, or they might feel this way if you spend more time with your children. As much as you may dislike the situation, you must try to support your co-parent to make the experience easier, and they may return the favor.
For example, you must ensure your kids know they are loved equally by both parents, keep your ex in the loop about your children, and encourage daily communication. The more you and your co-parent support each other, the easier it will be to care for your kids when living in different countries.
Inform Your Children’s Schools
If you care for your children during the school year and they spend school holidays with a co-parent, consider informing your kids’ schools of the situation. By doing so, they could send simultaneous emails about your children to you and your ex, which will keep them in the loop regarding their academic performance, behavior, and any events they will attend.
Also, the information could help the school provide support to your child when needed, as the separation or missing an overseas parent may negatively affect their mood and behavior. As a result, a teacher could flag potential issues to ensure your son or daughter receives attention and guidance to overcome their emotional problems.