After a divorce, you may struggle to deal with your co-parent’s method of parenting, especially when it comes to important issues like schoolwork or medical problems.

Learning about methods of diffusing conflict and avoiding arguments while co-parenting can help you as you navigate this time.

Communicate with directness

According to Psychology Today, you do not have to constantly talk with your co-parent in order to be effective. Typing out your replies or important messages in an email can help prevent intense fights since you can change your tone or edit what you write before sending.

This also gives your co-parent time to think about how to reply before responding, which can lower tension between you both.

Find a way to release stress

Parenting a child and dealing with a co-parent are tough tasks, and finding a method of releasing stress that helps you feel better is one way to prevent future fights. Whether you want to try an art class or take up jogging, choosing a healthy way to center your emotions can help you stay strong.

After this activity, you can come back to discussions feeling relaxed and ready to talk about important childcare subjects.

Let the small stuff go

Although it may seem tempting to bring up old habits or traits that annoy you about your co-parent, learning to focus on the future can help you avoid arguments. Prioritizing the serious issues you notice while choosing to not mention any minor sources of irritation will also help him or her take your complaints more seriously.

Learning to co-parent with a tough ex-spouse can seem intimidating at first, but it does not have to be a chore.