How to discipline your children after your divorce

Photo of attorney Melinda L. Singer

Of course, divorce changes a lot of things, including how you discipline your kids. Before, when they made a mistake, both parents could discipline them without difficulties since they were in the same house. But how can you do this from two homes?

Anything is possible with co-parenting. It offers numerous benefits, and parents can develop unique strategies that work for them. Here is how you can discipline your children after your divorce.

Communicate effectively

If your child makes a mistake while in your house, it will be best to inform the other parent. This way, they can call to talk with them or will be ready to have the conversation when the kid visits. 

It can be devastating when one parent is not informed of the child’s behavior, only to find out when the issue has worsened, perhaps they get into a fight at school for a reason one parent knew weeks before.

Thus, it’s crucial to communicate effectively concerning all child-related matters, including discipline.

Discipline should continue in the other house

When a child is facing disciplinary action, for example, being grounded or not allowed to use gadgets for some time, this rule should apply in both homes. If their discipline period has not ended, it should continue when they visit the other house.

Further, if a child makes a mistake during transition day, the accepted disciplinary action should begin with the parent taking them.

A child should understand if they make a mistake in one house, they will still face the consequences in the other. If the other parent is not cooperating regarding disciplinary action and other matters, it may be time to get legal guidance to protect your parental rights.

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