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Co-parenting involves two parents raising their child(ren) following a separation or divorce. In some cases, parents were never married. Co-parenting reflects a commitment to the child’s care, education, and well-being.
Parenting Plans
Most courts require a “parenting plan” in a divorce when children are involved. Co-parents who have never been married often have a parenting plan. The plan describes, in writing, how co-parents care for and make decisions about their children. Plans can vary. Some children split time equally between households and some have scheduled visits with one parent, with many options in between.
Communicating with Co-Parents
Communicating with two caregivers can be challenging. Working with divorced and separated families can mean balancing program policies, a child’s best interests, and parents’ needs. Families who are separated or going through divorce may have high levels of stress. Here are tips for supporting co-parenting families.
What program and school staff can do
- Gather and update contact information for both parents. Share important information (e.g., newsletters, field trips, events, conferences) with both parents.
- Provide forms and documents that include space for two parents to share contact information and addresses.
- Email and mail important forms and documents to both parents.
- Review program policies and procedures. They can guide staff if co-parents disagree about things such as payments, pick-up and drop-off, or attending events.
- Provide flexible conference options. For example, offer video conferences and separate conferences with each parent.
- Provide an inclusive learning space for co-parenting. Show diverse family structures in classroom books and materials. Help children navigate household transitions.
What families can do
- Provide names and contact information for all adults who pick-up the child.
- Provide a schedule to the school. Let staff know who to contact in an emergency and who will pick up the child each day.
- Provide permission for people who can legally access information about their child.
- Talk with program staff about who is responsible for fees and payments.
- Share ways staff can support your child as they transition between households.