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I want to move out of state. Should kids get to decide or do I make them move with me?
Q – I have been divorced for several years and have recently fallen in love with a man who lives out of state. I desperately want to move on with my life and take both children with me after the divorce. However, my co-parent and his entire family are here. A move would mean taking…
Read MoreLegal terms you may need to know
As you move forward with the legal process, there may be many aspects, which seem unfamiliar or confusing. The following outlines and defines some of the key language used in many family court systems in the United States. If you are ever unsure of what a term means or have questions about how your case…
Read MoreStruggling as a new bonus mom (stepmom) who doesn’t have kids of my own
Q – I recently married a man who has children. I have never had kids of my own and am struggling with this new role. Even though I try really hard to be the best step parent I can be, his ex-wife criticizes everything I do. Several times I’ve turned myself inside out to get…
Read MoreWhen I enforce a rule my child says they want to live with my co-parent
Q – When I enforce a rule my daughter says she wants to go live with my co-parent. I don’t want her to leave but I don’t think I should back down either. What do I do? A – When a relationship ends there are a lot of things parents find unsettling, overwhelming and downright…
Read MoreHow should you handle special events like Mothers Day or Fathers Day and holidays?
No matter how you slice it, separating your feelings about special days from the needs of your children is important. If you’re grappling with how to handle a special event like Mother’s day or Father’s day with your kids, here’s some tips to help you get started. Plan ahead If you don’t already have something…
Read MoreMy co-parent isn’t willing to adjust schedule for big family event
Q – I have a big holiday family event coming up but it’s not my scheduled weekend. Although we’ve had our moments usually my co-parent and I have a pretty good co-parenting relationship however, this time she isn’t willing to change the schedule. My kids are older and I have considered asking them to speak…
Read MoreDreading first summer without my kids – what do I do?
If this is your first summer, here are a few tips to help you move past the dread. Use time away from your children to recharge Unfortunately too many parents treat kid free time more like a dirty little secret than an opportunity to recharge. If you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and bypass…
Read MoreArranging time between parents – Where do you start?
Figuring out how to take care of children after you separate is perhaps one of the most stressful aspects of divorce. However, when decisions about your children’s future get handed over to the legal system, without a doubt children suffer. In order to stay in control of how life changes for your children, avoid using…
Read MoreCommunicating With Your Co-Parent
In the beginning stages you may have very strong feelings about the divorce and each other. When those feelings are overwhelming, avoid the temptation to share your perspective about the divorce or the other parent with your children. Remember children literally view themselves as half Mom and half Dad. Keep in mind your children deserves…
Read MoreWhat do I tell neighbors and friends?
Q – I live in a tight knit neighborhood. A few months ago my husband and I separated. I feel so awkward when I run into people we know. I can tell some of our neighbors and friends are curious about what has happened. Part of me just wants to get it all out and…
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