Navigating life as a divorced parent can be tough. Even if the marriage had to end and you’re happier now, the reality of juggling kids between two homes can be challenging. Recently, actress Sarah Blake shared her honest take on the ups and downs of co-parenting and the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with her ex-husband.
“Some friends say things like, ‘It must be nice to get a break from your kid since you share custody.’ Sure, I’m divorced, and it’s not great. It was hard for a while; now it’s just our new normal,” Sarah explained in a recent interview with Family Life magazine. “But yes, I do get breaks. There were weeks when I had my son, Max, all by myself while Tom was away. When he came back, I was like, ‘He’s all yours! See ya!’”
Sarah and her ex-partner, Tom Richards, tied the knot in 2012 but split in early 2015 when Max was just two years old. They have successfully co-parented since then, maintaining joint custody and a friendly relationship.
Creating a healthy co-parenting dynamic requires continuous effort from both parties. It’s not something that happens on its own; it’s the result of two parents choosing to work together daily for the sake of their child. It can be heart-wrenching to see your child’s belongings split between two homes—everything from toys to holiday decorations now belong to two different spaces. Even something as simple as noticing your child wearing a shirt you didn’t pick for them can hit hard. But these moments also serve as a reminder to cherish the time you do get with them.
“Communication is key. Respect for each other’s feelings is important, and knowing that your child is always observing you helps,” Sarah reflected last year. “We care about each other, which makes everything a bit smoother.”
Even in a well-functioning co-parenting relationship like Sarah’s, challenges arise. “My ex and I live close by and share parenting duties, financial responsibilities, and maintain a sense of teamwork for our kids. They know we’re still a family, even if we’re apart. Our goal is to raise them in a positive environment,” she shared. “Still, the time I spend with my son alone can sometimes feel overwhelming. There are moments when I envy the familiarity of a two-parent household, where someone else can share the load or engage in adult conversation.”
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In summary, while being a divorced parent comes with its unique set of challenges, maintaining a positive co-parenting relationship can make a significant difference in navigating this new chapter of life.