When divorced parents struggle with ongoing conflicts, the tension often disrupts children’s emotional and psychological well-being. Enter parenting coordinators—a vital resource in resolving disputes, fostering cooperation, and ensuring a stable environment for children caught in the crossfire.

What Is Parenting Coordination?
Parenting coordination involves appointing a neutral third party, often a mental health professional or an attorney with mediation expertise, to assist parents in resolving day-to-day disputes related to custody and co-parenting. Unlike mediators, parenting coordinators can make binding decisions when parents cannot agree, reducing the need for repeated court interventions.

How Parenting Coordination Helps Children
High-conflict parenting exposes children to frequent arguments, inconsistent routines, and emotional distress. Parenting coordinators step in to shield children from this turmoil by helping parents establish clear communication, consistent schedules, and fair agreements about important decisions like education and healthcare.

Benefits for Parents
Parents benefit from reduced stress, fewer court appearances, and a better understanding of how to navigate co-parenting dynamics. Coordinators can teach conflict resolution techniques, promote accountability, and address recurring issues—building a healthier co-parenting relationship over time.

Challenges and Considerations
Despite its benefits, parenting coordination is not without challenges. It can be expensive, and its success depends on both parents’ willingness to cooperate. Additionally, coordinators must tread carefully to avoid biases or overstepping their authority.

Conclusion
As family courts become overwhelmed with cases, parenting coordination serves as a vital tool for alleviating stress and promoting healthier outcomes for families. Expanding access to this service through subsidies or mandatory programs could transform how high-conflict custody disputes are handled.