Everyone knows that mothers have it rough sometimes in the aftermath of a divorce, but so do dads. Divorced fathers have often been stereotyped as uninvolved parents.
However, fathers today typically strive to be the best parent possible after the marriage ends. Unfortunately, it’s hard to overcome the widespread negativity about post-divorce fathering. Let’s look at some ways to do that.
Don’t worry about what others think
Worrying about what people think only distracts you from your most important job—loving and caring for your kids. Focus on improving your parenting skills, and you’ll soon have the respect of your children and your co-parent.
Communicate, but not through your kids
Co-parenting means you’ll have to communicate with your ex to keep up with what is happening with your children. However, avoid sending messages to your ex through your children because it could negatively affect your parent-child relationship.
Document everything
To avoid child custody and visitation problems or further legal proceedings, save all communications with your co-parent. Don’t delete the texts and emails between you and your ex. They might come in handy later.
Speak positively about your co-parent
Never disparage your ex, especially in front of your kids. After all, this is their other parent, and the last thing they need is to hear their father badmouthing someone they love.
Follow your planned schedule
Always strive to follow your custody and parenting plan to the letter. Following your court order ensures your ex cannot use noncompliance against you if they ever become vindictive.
Our final tip is more of a suggestion. Be sure that you know and understand child custody and visitation under Tennessee law. Doing so helps ensure that you make no unforeseen mistakes that could jeopardize your time with the children.
