Parenting Together

Week 1
Do at least half of the limit setting with your children. This means backing up your co-parent. This will not compromise your positive relationship with the children, and it will make you a better parent and partner.

Week 2
Read books, watch videos, and go to websites about parenting and family life. Don't just rely on your partner to supply the information. Then, share your ideas with your partner.

Week 3
Respectfully share your values with your partner and children. Don't wait for problems to occur to discuss what matters most to you. Keep a list in your wallet of things you value -then take one out and share it during a quiet moment.

Week 4
Develop a wide repertoire of parenting skills-from playing, to nurturing, to listening, to limit setting-and practice them all. Watch your partner's "style" of parenting. Notice her strengths and your own.

Week 5
Take more leadership in family rituals. Children can grow accustomed to their mother's involvement at special times like: choosing a birthday present, meals, during bedtime rituals, or staying up to talk to an adolescent who has come home late after an activity. Increase your involvement during these important times.

Source: William Doherty, Ph.D. Author of Take Back Your Kids.