Try to accept different parenting styles

The parenting style of your child’s other parent might change now that you’re no longer in a relationship. If this is challenging for you, it can help to distinguish between your preferences and your child’s needs.

For example, your preferences might include ‘I want my child to be sugar-free’ or ‘I want my child to make their own bed and school lunch.

Your child’s needs include things that affect their health and safety, like taking prescribed medication or avoiding foods they’re allergic to.

If you don’t like something your child’s other parent does because of your preferences, you might let it slide. This way, you can focus on parenting discussions about your child’s needs. As long as your child is safe and secure, different parenting approaches and styles can help your child learn different rules that apply in different situations.