Handout 9
Communication tips
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Separate partner issues from parent issues.
Your partner is now a business partner in the parenting business.
Schedule business meeting times, define topics and stick to them.
Discuss one topic at a time until some resolution is achieved.
Work out clear guidelines regarding roles, visits, decision-making.
For example, What types of things to inform each other of
- illness
- important events: school functions
- appointments arranged: dentist, doctor
Do not discuss issues if either person is affected by drugs or alcohol.
Avoid name-calling, swearing, criticism. Avoid yelling!
Understand that there are likely to be two perspectives on all issues.
Source: Lewis-Nicholson A., Unpublished Material. Lifeworks. 1998.