HINTS FOR COMMUNICATING IN HIGH STRESS PARENTING MEETINGS

HINTS FOR COMMUNICATING IN HIGH STRESS PARENTING MEETINGS

1. Before the meeting begins visualize what you want to accomplish
2. Always but the child’s best interest first
3. Stay focused on that goal
4. Respectfully listen to the other party
5. Refrain from criticizing
6. When reaching an impasse, agree to disagree and move on
7. Stay focused on the present and the future, don’t bring up old issues
8. View frailties with compassion
9. Be willing to compromise
10. Express appreciation for useful ideas
11. If the other party appears to be baiting you, don’t go for the bait
12. Be solution oriented
13. Keep it businesslike
14. Consider why the other party is behaving the way they are and take that into consideration when you respond
15. If things get out of hand leave the room until you and the other party calm down
16. Endeavor to bring compassion into the relationship
17. Pick your battles and prioritize
18. If you are having trouble getting an opportunity to express your opinions, express your appreciation for the other parties views and add that you would like an opportunity to express your views
19. Remember that high conflict between parents has long term negative effects on your child
20. Remember children have rights and parents have an obligation to protect and preserve those rights
21. You will earn your child’s respect if you successfully communicate and resolve differences
22. For a decision to work, it must be a decision your child can accept. Your child also has to live with the consequences of your resolution to difficult issues