Parenting Coordination: A Compassionate Approach to Resolving Parenting Disputes
Parenting coordination is a specialized form of alternative dispute resolution designed to support parents navigating high-conflict situations. It offers a pathway to peace, guiding parents and children through the challenges that arise from ongoing disagreements. This process is particularly beneficial for families where the dynamics of co-parenting have become strained, with the aim of fostering a healthier environment for everyone involved.
What is Parenting Coordination?
Parenting coordination is a child-focused approach to resolving disputes, where a trained mental health or legal professional assists high-conflict parents in implementing their parenting plan. The goal is to reduce stress and foster collaboration, making decisions in the best interests of the children involved. This process can be especially beneficial for parents who struggle to communicate effectively or who face difficulties in adhering to their existing parenting arrangements.
As outlined by the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), parenting coordination involves:
- Helping parents resolve conflicts in a timely manner
- Educating parents about children's needs
- Making decisions within the scope of a court order or agreement with prior approval
- Ensuring compliance with parenting plans and protecting healthy parent-child relationships
The overall objective is to assist parents in managing their responsibilities, while minimizing conflict and supporting their children’s well-being. Parenting coordination integrates various functions such as assessment, education, conflict management, and case management—helping parents achieve resolution while maintaining the child's best interests at the forefront.
How Does Parenting Coordination Work?
Parenting coordination is a voluntary process, meaning that both parents must agree to participate. The coordinator works with parents to resolve day-to-day conflicts related to parenting orders, family agreements, or court mandates. The goal is not to make major decisions regarding custody or access, but to focus on practical matters such as:
- Small adjustments to parenting plans (e.g., vacations, holiday schedules)
- Scheduling children’s activities and arranging transportation to events like sports, tutoring, or extracurriculars
- Coordinating travel plans, passport arrangements, or international trips
- Managing the exchange of children’s personal items (e.g., clothing, school materials) between homes
When parents struggle to reach an agreement, the parenting coordinator can step in to make a decision. The coordinator uses a range of information—including input from the parents, teachers, counselors, doctors, and, if appropriate, the child themselves—to guide their decision-making process. This ensures that the outcomes are based on a holistic understanding of the family’s needs.
Benefits of Parenting Coordination
Parenting coordinators are trained professionals who understand the complexities of high-conflict co-parenting. They offer invaluable support in:
- Helping parents communicate more effectively with each other
- Managing disputes without involving children in the conflict
- Creating structured, flexible solutions that meet the needs of the children
By facilitating understanding and helping parents work through their differences, parenting coordination can be a transformative tool for families. It ensures that the children’s well-being is the primary focus, while also helping parents regain control of their co-parenting dynamic.
Learn More About Parenting Coordination
If you’re navigating a high-conflict co-parenting situation, parenting coordination may be the support you need. Contact us to learn more about how our experienced parenting coordinators can help guide you through this process.