What is Parenting Coordination?
Parenting coordination is a child-focused way to help separated or divorced parents manage ongoing conflict. A neutral parenting coordinator supports both parents in following their parenting plan and sorting out disagreements about things like holidays, school decisions, and contact arrangements.
Parenting coordinators are trained in handling conflict, family law basics, and clear communication. Their goal is to guide parents before issues escalate to court. While they can suggest solutions, they can only make binding decisions if the court allows it. This process helps reduce stress and keeps the focus on the child’s well-being.
What to Expect from Parenting Coordination
- Child-focused: The process keeps your child’s needs at the centre, helping you sort out care and contact issues without going to court.
- Neutral help: A parenting coordinator is a neutral guide who helps both parents stick to the parenting plan and resolve disputes calmly.
- Support and tools: They may offer tips on co-parenting and communication to help you work better together.
- Conflict management: You’ll learn ways to handle disagreements that reduce stress and avoid harm to the child.
- Quick solutions: Parenting coordination aims to resolve issues fast, before they grow or reach court.
- Collaborative approach: Coordinators suggest solutions but usually help parents find agreements together.
- Extra support: They can refer you to other services, like counselling or child support programs, if needed.
- Court-ordered structure: In many cases, parenting coordination is required by court to make sure legal parenting duties are followed.