Tips for Separated Dads on Positive Co-Parenting
As a separated dad, one of the most important things you can do is maintain a positive relationship with your child’s mother. This not only benefits your child, but also makes life easier for both you and the other parent. Here are some tips to help you improve your relationship and manage child contact issues:
If you’re currently navigating child arrangements, it’s also worth understanding how the legal process works. Check out our step-by-step guide to Child Arrangements Orders to get a clear picture of what happens when things need formalising through court.
1. Communication is key
Make an effort to communicate regularly and effectively with your child’s mother. Try to avoid negative or argumentative language and focus on finding solutions that are in your child’s best interest.
2. Collaborate on a parenting plan
A well-thought-out parenting plan can help ensure that both parents are on the same page and reduce the risk of conflict. For practical tools, consider using the CAFCASS Parenting Plan – a resource often recommended by the family court to structure contact arrangements, responsibilities, and communication expectations.
3. Put your child first
Children can often feel caught in the middle during a separation, so it’s important to minimise conflict and prioritise their well-being. This means putting aside your own personal differences and focusing on what’s best for your child.
4. Be flexible
Life can be unpredictable, and it’s important to be flexible when it comes to child contact arrangements. Be open to making changes if circumstances change, and try to be accommodating when it comes to scheduling.
5. Seek outside help
This could be in the form of mediation, counselling, a McKenzie Friend, or support from a qualified social worker. If you’re looking for a more formal route to resolve contact disputes, family mediation is often the first step — and in many cases, a legal requirement before applying to court.
By following these tips, you can improve your relationship with your child’s mother and make child contact arrangements as smooth as possible. Remember that it’s important to focus on what’s best for your child, and that a positive relationship with the other parent can have a lasting impact on their life.
If things do escalate or you’re unsure where you stand legally, our Fathers’ Rights and Child Arrangements service provides clear, fixed-fee guidance from someone who understands the system from the inside.
🧠 Insider Insight: Lach, our founder, is a qualified social worker who used to write Section 7 reports for CAFCASS — the very reports that influence court outcomes. Now he helps dads respond to them. Learn more about Lach’s background.
👉 Learn more about how we can support you or book a free consultation today
