How Can Parent Coordination Help Reduce Family Conflict?
Parent Coordination is a child-focused alternative dispute resolution process where a qualified professional (the parent coordinator) helps separated or divorced parents implement their parenting plan and resolve conflicts about their children. This process aims to protect children from parental conflict while helping parents make timely decisions in their children’s best interests.
Roles of the Parent Coordinator:
- Helps parents interpret and implement existing court orders
- Mediates disputes about day-to-day parenting decisions
- Provides education about co-parenting and children’s needs
- Makes recommendations or decisions within their scope of authority
- Documents agreements and maintains communication records
- Common Issues Addressed
- Schedule adjustments and holiday planning
- Educational decisions
- Healthcare decisions
- Extracurricular activities
- Communication between parents
- Transportation and exchanges
- Behavioral issues across households
- Building in flexibility for changes
- Establishing clear decision-making protocols
- Professional Support
- Early intervention when problems arise
- Regular check-ins with parent coordinator
- Utilizing counseling when needed
- Maintaining legal counsel as necessary
The success of parent coordination and resolution of custody disputes largely depends on parents’ willingness to prioritize their children’s needs over their personal conflicts. When parents struggle to cooperate, having structured support systems and clear guidelines becomes crucial for maintaining stability in the children’s lives.
If you believe you and your family can benefit from a parent coordinator, feel free to reach out to Helene Bernstein, Esq., and schedule a consultation.
