Going through a divorce right now and trying to figure out how to keep things civil when we disagree on parenting decisions. Like she wants to put our 5yo in this expensive program and I don't think he needs it. I don't want to fight about everything but I also feel like my opinion should matter. Any advice on communication that doesn't turn into arguments?
Keep it simple and business-like. I use a shared Google Doc where we track stuff about the kids and just comment on it like we're coworkers. Removes the emotion and keeps things focused on what's best for them. Sounds cold but it works.
Write stuff down before you talk about it. Sounds weird but it helps you think clearly instead of getting heated in the moment. Also makes it easier to reference later without fighting about who said what.
Keep it simple and focused on the kid's best interest, that's your north star in those conversations. I always try to bring it back to what's actually best for my daughter rather than what I want.
This is tough stuff. My advice is try to have these conversations in writing when you can, keeps things from getting heated and gives you both a chance to think clearly.
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This is tough, man. I'd say focus on what the kids need, not winning arguments. When you lead with 'I want what's best for them' instead of 'you're wrong', conversations go way better. Took me a while to figure that out.