How to Co-Parent During the Teen Years After Divorce
Co-parenting teenagers after a divorce can feel overwhelming, but it’s possible to make it work. Your teens need stability and consistency from both parents, even when you’re living apart.
Whether it’s college planning, driving privileges, electronic usage, or dating rules, discuss these privately with your ex first. Your teen should see you working together, not fighting about their future. During your collaborative divorce, plan to address college costs and determine who will cover which expenses. Teens like to have a voice, connect with them too!
It is essential to agree on grade expectations and consequences for poor performance before report cards are issued. Decide together on dating rules—such as curfews, group dates versus one-on-one dates, and meeting potential romantic partners. Your teen needs to know that both parents have the same standards.
When your teen gets their driver’s license or learning permit, decide together who will pay for the car insurance increase. Split the extra cost based on your incomes, or alternate months paying the bill. Discuss these future expenses during your divorce process to avoid conflicts later.
Keep conversations about your teen focused on their current needs, rather than past conflicts. Use text, email and shared calendars for scheduling to avoid heated phone calls. Collaborative divorce builds better communication habits than court battles.
Your teenager shouldn’t get different bedtimes, screen time limits, or curfews at each house. Agree on major rules before problems arise. This prevents your teen from playing parents against each other.
Teenagers push boundaries—that’s normal. When your teen misbehaves, communicate promptly with your co-parent about what happened. Consistent consequences are more effective than mixed messages.
Teen schedules often change due to sports, jobs, and social activities. Be willing to swap weekends or adjust pickup times as needed. Your flexibility shows your teen that both parents prioritize their happiness over rigid custody arrangements.
Family Divorce Solutions comprises well-respected, experienced, and trained attorneys, mental health professionals, financial professionals, and child specialists who work together as a team to achieve a comprehensive and satisfactory resolution for everyone involved. Contact us today
Note: This information is general in nature and should not be construed as legal/financial/tax/or mental health advice. You should work with your attorney, financial advisor, mental health professional, or tax professional to determine what will work best for your situation.
