1) Communicate amicably and talk positively about and to each
other, especially in front of your child.
2) Avoid making promises to gain advantage at the expense of your
co-parent.
3) Make time sharing arrangements together, without involving your
child. Only change the schedule when necessary. This instills
confidence and avoids disappointing your child. When rescheduling is
necessary, notify each other in advance.
4) Avoid scheduling activities for your child during your
co-parent's time, unless mutually agreed.
5) Make decisions regarding important events for your child
mutually and keep each other informed of all events, such as school
events, sports, extracurricular activities, medical, dental and
psychological appointments.
6) Inform each other of your address and phone number. When you
leave town, provide an address and phone number in case of an
emergency.
7) Refer to your co-parent as your child's mother/father in
conversation.
8) Keep your child out of adult issues and conversations including
custody, court, finances, marital issues and your co-parent's personal
life.
9) Encourage your child to feel that he/she has two homes.
10) Help foster a positive relationship between your child and your
co-parent.
11) Promote a positive attitude by step-parents, family members,
and friends (on your side) toward your co-parent. (Spread positive
rumors about your co-parent)
12) Avoid excessive/harassing contact with your co-parent.
