Communication after divorce can be difficult, but it is necessary. Communication with your ex-spouse and with your kids after divorce requires patience, planning and sometimes, can be aided by technology. This post provides helpful hints and links to some apps that can help with communication.

Communication After Divorce – With Your Kids

Here are five “Do’s and Don’ts” to consider when communicating with your kids after divorce.

To Do:
1. Do encourage the kids to have a strong relationship with your ex-spouse.
2. Do encourage the kids to talk openly with you about their feelings and thoughts regarding the divorce and custody schedule.
3. Do listen to the kids. You need to be aware of the concerns or problems they may have. Don’t automatically assume the worst regarding your ex-spouse.
4. Do keep the kids aware of the visitation schedule.
5. Do reassure the kids that you’ll always love them.

Do Not:
1. Do not badmouth your ex-spouse in front of the kids.
2. Do not try to manipulate your kids into siding with you. This can backfire in court.
3. Do not make the kids feel as if they caused your divorce. Chances are they already feel this way in part.
4. Do not use your kids as a messenger to your ex-spouse.
5. Do not assume that your kids are alright without making sure first. Talk, listen and get counseling if needed.

Communication After Divorce- With Your Ex-Spouse

Here are five “Do’s and Don’ts” regarding communicating with your ex-spouse after divorce.

To Do:
1. Do be civil and reasonable at all times.
2. Do keep each other advised of appointments, school events, ball games, etc.
3. Do try to resolve disputes in private and away from the kids.
4. Do try to keep the visitation schedule consistent, realizing that changes may occur from time to time. Exchange a calendar of dates for the year if possible.
5. Do be trustworthy. Show up on time and do what you’ve said you would do.

Do Not:
1. Do not assume that your ex-spouse will agree with everything you suggest.
2. Do not overreact to disagreements with your ex-spouse.
3. Do not let conflict with your ex-spouse remove your focus from your parenting obligations and responsibilities.
4. Do not start sentences with your ex-spouse with “You always…” or “You never…”. No one is 100% consistent.
5. Do not fail to respond to your ex-spouse. Being rude or inattentive does not solve problems.

There’s An App for That

Not surprisingly, there are many different apps that now exist to help with communication after divorce. Here is a list of five popular apps, there are many more. The apps are linked so that you can check them out for yourself.

1. 2Houses
2. OurFamilyWizard
3. Kidganizer
4. AppClose
5. CustodyJunction

Are you seeking a divorce in Missouri? The Poplar Bluff divorce attorneys at Kennedy, Kennedy, Robbins & Yarbro, LC, are available to help. Contact our office or call us at (573)686-2459 to learn more about your legal options and to see how our firm can assist you with your family law matter.