As a parent, you want what is best for your child. You do not want to expose them to unnecessary trauma or stress, but unfortunately, this comes part and parcel with the divorce process. Thus, you may ask yourself if there is anything you can do to alleviate some of the stress that accompanies the process.
Fortunately, you can take steps to create a healthy co-parenting plan with your ex-spouse that can provide support and stability in this trying time.
Stability through nesting
The Divorce Mag discusses bird nesting as a housing option. This is one potential way to introduce the ever-valuable stability in your home in this turbulent time. It provides this stability by removing the need for your child to travel between your home and your co-parent’s home in accordance with a visitation schedule. Instead, they remain permanently within the family home and you and your co-parent will take shifts living there.
Potential drawbacks
Of course, while this has many benefits for your child, it can sometimes pose a tricky situation for you and your co-parent. First, you will need some way to find housing that you can use when your co-parent stays at the family home. Some parents in your position will choose to rent an inexpensive studio apartment, while others may opt to live with family members or friends nearby.
Next, you and your co-parent need some basic ability to communicate and trust one another, even if you cannot see eye to eye and do not want to spend much time within each other’s presence yet. This is crucial if you intend on leaving each other alone for long stretches of time in the family home. If these things seem doable for you, then bird nesting might serve as a good fit.
