Is Parallel Parenting Right for You? Navigating Post-Divorce Relationships With Difficult Exes
- Author
- Dr. Karalynn Royster
- Published
- Fri 01 Aug 2025
- Episode Link
- None
Summary
Parallel parenting provides a structured approach for co-parenting with high-conflict exes by creating strong boundaries and limiting communication. This episode explores different co-parenting styles and helps you determine if parallel parenting might be the right approach for your situation.
Key Takeaways:
• Different co-parenting styles exist on a spectrum from nesting to collaborative co-parenting to parallel parenting
• Parallel parenting involves parenting on separate "train tracks" that never cross, with minimal communication
• Most co-parents start with collaborative intentions but may shift to parallel parenting when difficulties arise
• Parallel parenting works best with manipulative, toxic, or boundary-challenging ex-partners
• Strong boundaries are essential when dealing with difficult people, especially when children are involved
• Your house, your rules; their house, their rules—each parent maintains control during their parenting time
• The parenting plan becomes your guide for all interactions and decisions
• Parallel parenting can be temporary as you heal, or a long-term solution for high-conflict situations
If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review and share it with another co-parenting mom. Check out our free guide on different co-parenting styles and our masterclass "How to Handle a Difficult Ex."
Kids First CoParenting System: If you are co-parenting with a narcissist, dealing with a manipulative ex, or feeling overwhelmed by high-conflict dynamics, you are not alone. These resources are designed to help you protect your child’s emotional health and take back control of your co-parenting experience.
Get More Support
- How to Co-Parent with a Difficult Ex Masterclass (Free & Instant Access)
- High Conflict 3 day Communication Bootcamp for Moms
Explore the Kids First Co-Parenting System to learn how to raise emotionally secure kids after divorce, even when your co-parent refuses to change. This is the support system every overwhelmed mom needs.
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