Co-parenting is tough enough. When you tack on the existence of the COVID-19 pandemic, communication and decision-making become even more challenging feats. It is paramount you inform yourself on how to maneuver these tough times alongside your co-parent, in a way that protects the health of you and your entire family. Here are some tips on how to successfully co-parent amid a pandemic.
Inform Yourself and Your Co-Parent
To ensure you and your co-parent share an understanding of the guidelines necessary to keep your children safe, you must stay up to date on statewide and nationwide orders. On November 20, with a “new wave” of the virus moving throughout Illinois, Tier 3 mitigations were put into place. Gatherings are currently limited, and businesses operate with reduced capacities. You and your co-parent can inform each other on the details of current and future Illinois guidelines here.
The CDC’s blog on maneuvering the virus during the holiday season is continually up to date, and serves as a great additional source for you and your co-parent to inform each other on.
As a whole, communication about the latest national and statewide restrictions will allow you and your co-parent to structure a daily routine that proves beneficial for the health of your children. It will also ensure disagreements or surprises are prevented down the line.
Do Not Let Stress Control Your Emotions
Make sure your emotions are not controlled by the immense stress you may be facing during these times. A high level of stress may cause you to lash out in a manner you would not have under normal circumstances. This is not something your co-parent or children will be happy to deal with, especially during the holiday season. Take time to practice self-care and re-centering, in order to create a better you. Continually being in a healthy headspace will ensure communication with your co-parent is a mutually pleasant experience.
React Appropriately if Disagreements Arise
COVID-19 has become a topic in family court cases. In South Florida for example, a woman lost visitation rights to her child due to the fact that she was against wearing a mask. If you find yourself in a similar situation and feel as if your co-parent’s behavior is harmful to the health of your children, consider a conversation. If a serious conversation does not work, bringing in a neutral source such as your child’s healthcare provider may aid in communicating the importance of following precautions. Generally, issues will probably be resolved at this point. However, if your co-parent continues to act in an unsafe manner, modification to child visitation may need to occur. Under Illinois law, the court would make their visitation decision based on your unique circumstances, while taking into consideration what will “serve the best interests of the child”.
Quality Family Law Services
If you are seeking legal counsel for any family law matter, contact Bradley Tengler, P.C. During these uncertain times, we are able to guide each of our clients though difficult and varied circumstances, with our knowledge in all areas of family law. We ensure there is an understanding of each clients’ unique circumstances, and routinely help them achieve their goals. For a free initial consultation, contact our firm: (815)-515-4168 or fill out our online contact form.