How can parents in high-conflict co-parenting prioritize their child’s well-being?
Michelle Dempsey-Multack—divorce coach, co-parenting expert, and best-selling author of Moms Moving On—joins host Evelyn Mendal on Help Them Bloom to discuss how divorcing or divorced parents can navigate challenges while prioritizing their child’s well-being. Together, they address common fears, like whether divorce will “mess up” kids, emphasizing that it’s not the divorce itself, but parents’ actions, that shape a child’s long-term health and happiness.
Drawing on her personal experience as a child of divorce and a co-parent, Michelle highlights the power of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and focusing on the child’s needs over personal conflict. The conversation explores managing emotions during the divorce process, supporting children’s feelings, and cultivating critical thinking skills to help kids process their experiences. They also share strategies for maintaining neutrality in co-parenting, navigating high-conflict situations, and empowering parents to focus on what they can control.
Takeaways
Parents often struggle with their emotions affecting co-parenting.
Children's feelings about divorce are valid and should be acknowledged.
It's crucial to support children's relationships with both parents.
Healing from past trauma is essential for effective co-parenting.
Children need to learn critical thinking skills to navigate their feelings.
Validating children's feelings helps them process their experiences.
Parents should avoid projecting their feelings onto their children.
Managing discomfort in children is a key part of parenting during divorce.
Consistent support from one parent can help children thrive.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Divorce Coaching and Co-Parenting
06:04 Emotional Impact of Divorce on Co-Parenting
11:58 The Role of Ego in Co-Parenting Dynamics
18:03 Supporting Children Through Divorce
23:52 The Importance of Validating Children's Feelings
30:03 Final Thoughts on Divorce and Co-Parenting
