Research demonstrates that the most important element in sustaining successful co-parenting after the divorce is the ability of parents to communicate and problem-solve together.
Regardless of how much time children spend with either parent after separation, the parties’ roles as parents continue. Being able to communicate with each other about your children is essential.
At the Centre for Mediation & Dispute Resolution, an experienced mediator works with the couple to structure a parenting plan that provides for custody – both physical and legal, sole or joint – and addresses in detail all areas listed here. The parties are encouraged to imagine how their roles as parents will be redefined after separation, as well as to understand each other’s interests and concerns. This requires a recognition of their continued obligation to ensure the well-being of their children, no matter how their lives change in the future.
“Mediation is a wonderful way to put an end to your marriage in a civilized manner. If you realize that with children, you (two) will always be connected, you can parent together, separately, without an intense ‘hate.’ The two of you must sit there and face your children’s future and care together.”
The mediation process assumes that parents, not the court, are best able to provide for their children’s future after divorce. The process requires hard work. However, mediation can help parents to be clear about what is in their children’s best interest and to create options to meet each child’s needs.
During mediation, you will discuss:
