Celebrity Co-Parenting

Co-parenting occurs when two individuals share responsibility for raising a child, and they are not married to one another. The two parents have to work together to make a balanced and healthy home for the child. Whether this situation is from a divorce or from a pre-set agreement, both parties need to create a clear line of communication throughout every step of raising the child. Co-parenting can be platonic co-parents or they have tried dating. 

Today, more and more people (as well as celebrities) are choosing to co-parent. With services like Modamily, you are able to choose your own arrangement for raising a family. 

Choosing to co-parent has many advantages for you and the child. It teaches understanding, patience, communication and compromise. By choosing services like Modamily, you are able to start a family whenever you want, however you want- without a traditional marriage. 

Celebrity Co-Parents

Co-parenting is about putting the child first and finding a way that works for everyone. It’s a great arrangement for everyone, no matter who you are. Here are some great examples of celebrities crushing the co-parenting game, who were once married but are not anymore. 

Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner 

This former couple prioritizes co-parenting, “You have to be on the same page. You have to cooperate,” Affleck explained to Today.com in November 2017. “If you recognize that you both have the best interest of the kids at heart, it’s quite a special connection.” 

Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin

“We’ve learned how to communicate with each other. We love each other. We laugh. We have the best in each other. It’s really nice. It makes you feel like you don’t have to lose,” said Paltrow. 

Drew Barrymore and Will Kopelman

These two celebrities celebrate the holidays together even though they aren’t married anymore. "We have good days and bad days, but I think it’s driving towards the same purpose of unity and love and what’s best for [our kids]. We have this idea that just because we break up we can’t love the things about the person anymore that we loved, and that’s not true. There’s no rule book to it. There’s no way of doing it right or doing it wrong.  We are learning as we go. The important thing for us is just communicating as much as we can,” reported Barrymore. 

More Co-Parenting Examples

Co-parenting isn’t limited to two people, it can truly be any relationship you wish, no matter what your sexual orientation is. For example, David Jay decided to create a three-parent adoption for his family. He is the founder of the Asexual Visibility and Education Network. Today, Jay is part of a three-parent family in northern California. He lives with a married couple, Avary Kent and Zeke Hausfather, and is not part of their marriage, but is a father to their biological daughter, Octavia, or Tavi, whose full name includes all three of their last names. They’ve created a triad to raise their family in a happy, healthy home. Three-parent adoption has also been recognized by state statute in California, Maine, Washington State, Rhode Island, and Vermont. 

What a Good Co-Parent Relationship Looks Like 

• You have clear boundaries- This establishes control and recognizes what is and is not working for the child and family. It sets a tone for how things should be done. 

• You have a schedule- You know that you can count on each other to maintain commitments and a healthy routine. 
• You are flexible- You are willing to work around each other’s schedules as unexpected things come up. 
• You Recognize Each Other as Significant Influences in Your Kids' Lives- You share a healthy relationship where you understand that each of you brings significance to the family in your own unique way. 

Tips for Co-Parenting to Relieve Stress 

Child’s Wellbeing is Priority 

Your child’s wellbeing is the number one priority. This isn’t about “giving in” to whatever they want, it’s about putting their needs first, even when you are stressed in a co-parenting relationship. 

Make and Arrangement 

Treat this relationship like a business, where you have to speak respectfully, listen and practice communication and cooperation. Try evaluating each other as co-parents, and what your strengths and weaknesses are. 

Treat your Child as a Child 

Don’t put your child in the middle of adult situations and discussions. They should be in the middle of the co-parents and the highest priority. 

Make Exchanges and Visits Pleasant

When exchanging the child in between homes, meet in mutual areas and make sure the child has everything they need for this visit. Try being flexible to remind yourself of the importance of the relationship to your child’s wellbeing. 

Have a Counselor 

Having a counselor to solve issues and meet for updates is a great option. Take a parenting class or explore professional counseling if your situation seems unmanageable. There are many classes available to assist with tips and tools to help you.

Find a Co-Parent 

If you are choosing to start your family in your own way, consider finding a co-parent on Modamily. We allow you to be selective in who you want to begin this journey with and allow you to meet each other. We have made thousands of connections since 2011 and over 200 babies! With our experience, established networks and will take care of you during the process from beginning to end. 

Sign up today or schedule a free consultation to see what Modamily has to offer you!

Sources 

The Atlantic- How to Build a Three Parent Family 

CANR.MSU- Parenting Tips and Tools for Success.

Us Magazine- Celebrity Exes Who Successfully CoParent

Very Well Family- Signs of a Healthy Coparenting Relationship