Beyond the Judgment: Why I Use Handouts in Parenting Coordination

As a parenting coordinator, I've seen it all—the tough conversations, the misunderstandings, and the genuine desire from parents to do what’s best for their children. It’s a challenging job for everyone involved.

One of the most valuable tools in my practice might seem a bit old-fashioned: handouts.

When I first started using them, I worried they might feel too much like a school lecture. But I've learned they're actually one of the most effective ways to normalize and standardize the co-parenting process.

Let's get one thing straight: these handouts are not about judgment.

They aren’t saying, "You’re doing this wrong, here's how to fix it." Instead, they are about empowerment and collaboration. They are designed to show you that the difficulties you're facing are common. They are meant to give you a clear, neutral foundation for our work together.

By using these resources, we can:

Move past the emotions of the moment and focus on proven strategies.
Build a shared vocabulary for discussing difficult topics.
Shift the focus from blaming each other to building a better future for your family.
My goal is never to be a critic or nag in your family's story. It's to be a guide and a resource. These materials are simply a way to make that process more efficient, more respectful, and ultimately, more successful for you and your children.