Parenting and Co-Parenting

Surviving the Holidays After Divorce

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The holiday season can be a joyous time, filled with family traditions and festive gatherings. But after a divorce, the holidays can also be a source of sadness, loneliness, and stress. Whether you have children or not, this time of year can be challenging to navigate. Here are some strategies to help with surviving the […]

Child Support in Illinois: Understanding the Basics

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If you’re going through a divorce or separation, understanding child support is essential. It’s a legal obligation designed to ensure your child’s financial needs are met, even when their parents live apart. But how is child support in Illinois calculated? Let’s break it down.   The Income Shares Model: A Team Effort   Unlike some […]

Parenting Without Telepressure: Why Asynchronous Communication is a Game-Changer

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Have you ever felt that constant pull that every text, email, or message requires an immediate response? This phenomenon is called “telepressure,” and it’s a growing problem in the digital age – impacting our parenting styles and our relationships with our co-parents or former partners. Asynchronous communication offers a welcome escape allowing parenting without telepressure. […]

High-Conflict Co-Parenting: Managing Emotions and Protecting Your Children

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Let’s be honest – when you don’t get along with your ex-spouse, high-conflict co-parenting after divorce can feel like navigating a minefield. At Flat Fee Divorce Solutions, I know that it’s difficult to always put your children’s needs first when you’re dealing with hurt feelings, resentment, and strained communication. But here are some ideas to […]

Help Your Child Through Parenting Time Transitions

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As a divorce lawyer, I see plenty of drama. But some of the most heartbreaking moments are the struggles during drop-offs and pick-ups. A child clinging to one parent, refusing to go with the other… it’s tough for everyone. Often, parents get entangled in blame: “You’re scaring them!” or “You’re turning them against me!”. While those […]

“Do You” Parallel Parenting: A Peaceful Path for Divorced Parents in Illinois

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Navigating parenting after a divorce can be challenging, especially when co-parenting feels more like a battlefield than teamwork. If constant communication and shared decision-making with your ex-spouse seem impossible, “Do You” parallel parenting might be the solution you need. This approach prioritizes your child’s well-being while acknowledging that you and your ex-partner may have vastly […]

Building a Co-Parenting Plan That Works

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A good co-parenting plan that works acts as a roadmap. It guides you and your ex-partner in raising your children collaboratively even after your marriage dissolves. After 20+ years of practicing, and drafting hundreds of parenting plans, I know what it takes to create a co-parenting plan that works well. Here are my tips:   […]

Co-Parenting Communication After Divorce

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Divorce reshuffles your family, but your parenting responsibilities don’t disappear. Effective communication with your ex-spouse is crucial for raising your children in a healthy, stable environment. It won’t always be easy. To help, I have developed a list of strategies, but these strategies to help with co-parenting communication after divorce: 1. Shift Your Mindset   […]

Parenting After Divorce

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If you’re a parent facing divorce in Illinois, brace yourself for a change. “Child custody” is out; “Allocation of Parental Responsibilities and Parenting Time” is in. This isn’t just a change in wording; it signifies a major shift in how Illinois approaches parenting after separation or divorce. At Flat Fee Divorce Solutions, I understand navigating […]

How to Tell Your Children About Divorce

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The decision to divorce is never easy, and when children are involved, the emotional stakes feel even higher. Here are five tips to help tell your children about divorce with compassion, honesty, and a focus on your children’s well-being:   1. A United Front: When Possible, Tell Your Children Together   If feasible and tensions […]