Alicia and Elise discuss the challenges and triumphs of co-parenting with their former partners on a new podcast collaboration between Bounty Parents and Aptamil Toddler.
After a divorce or separation, it can be extremely challenging to navigate the complexity of co-parenting, particularly if children are involved.
In Australia, statistics show that approximately 30% of marriages end in divorce, with almost half of these cases involving families with children under 18.
Successful co-parenting involves both parents collaborating separately to provide a secure and nurturing environment for their child. It necessitates consistent and respectful communication, active engagement in the child’s upbringing and activities, and setting aside personal differences for the child’s sake. However, transitioning into this dynamic post-separation can be challenging.
In the podcast Every Parent Has a Story to Tell by Bounty Parents and Aptamil Toddler, Alicia and Elise share their personal co-parenting journeys, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing their child above all else.
Alicia’s Journey
“Transitioning from a Single Mum to a Mother of Four”
Co-host Julie Snook highlights the complexities of co-parenting and introducing new relationships by acknowledging, “Parenting is already challenging, and it becomes even more intricate when relationships change, new ones form, and additional family members are involved.”
Alicia’s experience resonates with this sentiment. Following her separation from her ex-husband four years ago, Alicia has remarried and now cares for three step-children in addition to her six-year-old daughter.
“I’ve transitioned from being a single mum to a mother of four, which has been a significant learning curve. It’s been unexpectedly rewarding to have a larger family, despite the inevitable challenges that come with it,” Alicia shares.
While moving on from past relationships often means leaving them behind, co-parenting complexities arise when children are in the equation. Initially, Alicia’s co-parenting relationship with her ex was strained.
“Initially, it was incredibly tough. Our co-parenting dynamic was far from ideal. There was a lot of unresolved anger,” Alicia recalls. “Through mediation, we established a more structured approach. Although it was a stressful and emotional process, it allowed us to set clear boundaries, improve communication, and eventually move past the need for intermediary tools like apps.”
Reflecting on the progress in her co-parenting relationship, Alicia emphasizes the transformative power of clear communication and child-centric thinking.
“Effective co-parenting hinges on transparent communication and prioritizing the child’s needs. As we focused on our daughter, the lingering anger dissipated, paving the way for a more harmonious co-parenting dynamic.”
Elise’s Story
“Navigating Co-Parenting Amidst Personal Challenges”
After a relationship breakdown, rebuilding a healthy co-parenting relationship requires significant effort from both parents.
Elise recounts her journey of co-parenting with her ex-husband, which commenced when their daughter was a newborn.
“My ex-husband left me when I was seven months pregnant,” Elise reveals to podcast hosts Carla Bignasca and Julie Snook. “Navigating life with a newborn while co-parenting amidst personal challenges was incredibly demanding.”
Elise’s daughter, now approaching four, has grown up accustomed to dual households—her mother’s and father’s. Despite the initial hurdles, Elise acknowledges the support of her community of strong women in overcoming the obstacles.
Returning to Australia, Elise takes pride in the effective co-parenting relationship she has cultivated with her ex-husband.
“Considering all circumstances, we’ve managed to establish good communication and co-parent effectively. From the onset, I emphasized that our daughter’s well-being must take precedence, compelling us to work together for her sake. It’s a concerted effort from both sides.”
Summing up her journey as a mother, Elise reflects on her newfound resilience and the invaluable lessons learned through the trials of motherhood.
“I’ve discovered a strength within myself that I hadn’t fully recognized before. While there are days when the challenges seem overwhelming, I’ve developed immense resilience and patience. Mothers truly possess incredible strength.”
Explore the full episode, ‘Building toddler immunity,’ from Every Parent Has a Story to Tell featuring Carla Bignasca, Julie Snook, and accredited practicing pediatric dietitian, Marianne Tomlin.
This episode is presented by Bounty Parents and Aptamil Toddler. Every Parent Has a Story to Tell delves into diverse parenting experiences, covering a range of topics with insights from both well-known and everyday Australian parents. Hosted by media personalities and real-life moms Julie Snook and Carla Bignasca, the podcast aims to share, learn, and connect through the unique yet universal journey of parenthood. What’s your story? Every parent has one.
Every Parent Has a Story to Tell podcast episodes:
- Building toddler immunity
- Cracking the co-parenting code
- Making modern parenting work
- Jana Pittman’s gloriously unconventional family
- Tempting fussy eaters