What is Parenting Coordination
Parents rarely move from conflictual to cooperative behavior - without first going through a step of disengagement.
When a Parenting Coordinator
Half of all divorcing couples
in moderate to high conflict will still be clashing three to four years later.
Who is a Parenting Coordinator
Not an authority in just one, a parenting coordinator possesses realistic insight, experience and knowledge in several disciplines.
When is a Parenting Coordinator Needed
Ideally, a parenting coordinator would become involved as soon as it is evident that conflict is affecting the children. Early in the divorce process is best, when the coordinator can assume a role in the negotiation or mediation, helping establish the residency and visitation plans. Whether Ordered by the Court, recommended by professionals or agreed to by the parents, the parent coordinator role should remain on option for at any point after the divorce where the parents are continuing to fight or re-litigate.
Parents vary in their ability to carry out a co-parenting plan. Success generally depends on how well they can disengage from one another. The variety and regularity of access the couples need to the parenting coordinator will be determined by the level of conflict. While those involved in mild conflict may require only minimal contact - possibly once every three months - parents in moderate to high conflict may need to meet at least weekly.
In the first year or two, the coordinator serves as a buffer, absorbing the impact of conflict, shielding the children. By years two to three the aim is for the parents to learn strategies in solving problems on their own.