What is Parenting Coordination?

Parenting Coordination is a structured, non-adversarial process aimed at helping separated or divorced parents resolve disputes related to their children. A Parenting Coordinator (PC) is a neutral third-party professional—often a mental health expert or a family law professional—who helps parents manage conflicts, make decisions, and implement existing parenting plans in a more cooperative and practical manner.

The main goal of parenting coordination is to significantly reduce the amount of conflict that often arises between parents, particularly in situations where they have recently separated or divorced. This process aims to enhance the overall effectiveness of parenting plans by ensuring that both parents can work together more harmoniously, despite their differences. By fostering a collaborative environment, parenting coordination seeks to create a stable and nurturing environment for children, which is crucial for their emotional and psychological well-being in the aftermath of parental separation.

Parenting coordination is a structured approach that involves a neutral third party, known as a parenting coordinator, who assists parents in navigating their co-parenting relationship. It is essential to understand that this process is not about making decisions on behalf of the parents. Instead, the primary focus is on providing the guidance, resources, and support necessary to empower parents to make informed decisions themselves. This empowerment is achieved through effective communication strategies, conflict resolution techniques, and a strong emphasis on child-centred decision-making.

In practice, parenting coordination can involve a variety of methods and tools designed to facilitate better interactions between parents. These may include regular meetings where parents can discuss their concerns, workshops that teach co-parenting skills, and mediation sessions aimed at resolving specific disputes. The parenting coordinator plays a vital role in helping parents identify their priorities, understand the needs of their children, and develop a cooperative approach to parenting that minimizes discord and promotes a positive co-parenting relationship.

Moreover, the benefits of effective parenting coordination extend beyond just reducing conflict. By fostering a cooperative spirit, parents are more likely to adhere to the agreed-upon parenting plan, which can lead to more consistent routines and expectations for the children. This consistency is crucial, as children thrive in environments where they feel secure and know what to expect from both parents. Additionally, by modelling constructive communication and conflict resolution skills, parents set a positive example for their children, teaching them how to handle disagreements in a healthy manner.

Ultimately, parenting coordination serves as a valuable tool for parents who are navigating the complexities of co-parenting after separation. By emphasizing collaboration and empowering parents to take an active role in their decision-making processes, this approach not only reduces conflict but also contributes to the overall well-being of children. It reinforces the idea that, despite personal differences, parents can work together to provide a stable, loving, and supportive environment that prioritizes the needs of their children above all else.