Co-parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic can be especially difficult. With schools and businesses being closed, shelter-in-place quarantines being issued, and social distancing measures changing the way we live, you may be wondering what the best options are for you and your family.
Just like with any visitation arrangement, the key to co-parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic is communication. Here are a few tips that we recommend:
Co-Parenting During the COVID-19 Pandemic | Consistency
During these stressful times, it is important to maintain consistency. Adhere to your current parenting/visitation schedule as much as possible. Obviously, the activities you and your child normally do might change, but it is still very important that the child is able to spend meaningful time with both parents. Because this is a new situation for all of us, it is best to work together to ensure that these goals can be met.
Co-Parenting During the COVID-19 Pandemic | Communication
As mentioned before, communication is the most important element of having a fluent co-parenting arrangement during these difficult times. If your work schedule has changed, you need to be flexible and communicate this information with the other parent. Also, for the safety of you and your family, you need to keep the other parent informed if you or your child has been exposed to COVID-19.
Because Oklahoma public schools are closed until at least mid-April, you need to make sure that your child has access to online resources and is keeping up with their schoolwork. Doing so will keep things consistent between both homes.
Above All, Be Safe and Respectful
Things are already stressful enough. You do not want to add to the stress by talking bad about the other parent or by using social distancing as an excuse to avoid parenting time. Even more important is to be safe. Don’t put your child at risk of coronavirus exposure. Any activities you do with your child should adhere to safe, social distancing guidelines.
Contact Our Office If You Have Any Questions
We hope that these tips are helpful. If you have any questions about co-parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic, do not hesitate to reach out to our office. We are always available to help.
