Don’t be hard
on yourself

New ways of parenting take
time to become the new normal.
Successful co-parenting, where
two parents work together to
ensure the child is the centre of
decisions, can take a lot of work.
Remember it is the quality of
time spent with your child after
separation rather than the amount
of time that has the most
positive impact.

Allow Time & Space

If children display signs of
feeling depressed or are angry
acknowledge that these are normal
feelings. Show them healthy ways to
deal with sadness & ways to express
anger. Support them to build on
their self-confidence & support
their personal growth. What
children need most is time,
love & attention.

Managing Conflict

Learn to listen. The most important
skill in reducing parental conflict is
listening. Keep communication focused
on the children. Focus on the present
& what is best for your children. Work
on what is right for the children & not
who is right.

Life after Separation

Give yourself time to adjust & practice
self-care. Try to minimise changes
for your children such as living in a
different house, moving away to a
new area, changing schools, losing
contact with friends or extended
family members. Try to respect the
other parent’s independence to lead a
separate life & a separate home.

Communication

Try to make use of FaceTime, phone
calls & keeping in touch by texts when
your child is with their other parent.
Write regularly using letters, nice
stationary/cards or by email & try
recording yourself doing things or
making a special message.
Always remember special occasions
& birthdays.