Going to See Your Ex at Your Child’s Graduation? Read This

Honestly, there’s really no reason to get involved in any kind of confrontation with your ex at your child’s graduation. Regardless of how bad the situation may seem, it’s not the place to argue. Doing so will only upset your child and everyone else in attendance.

It’s your responsibility to be an adult and set an example. There is no reason to let others witness the problems that are happening in your relationship.

Keep reading, to find out what you can do to make sure that the day is filled with celebration and not animosity. You can do it. In fact, it’s probably easier than you think!

High-Conflict

In many divorces, tensions can be high, and you and your ex could find yourselves getting into arguments over just about anything. In one of these high-conflict divorces, the children can find themselves being put in the middle, or may feel like they have to choose sides between their two parents.

Most often, these conflicts happen during the holidays, over things such as who the child will spend the holiday with or what time the kids will be picked up or dropped off.

Graduation Issues

A teen’s graduation is another event that can easily lead to an argument between exes. If both parents aren’t willing to be in the same room together, it can make things awkward for your child on a day that is meant to celebrate their accomplishment. Even if you don’t like the thought of putting aside your differences with your ex, it’s important that you come up with a way to keep the focus on your child.

Communicate Early and Don’t Fight with Your Ex

The best way to avoid conflict with your ex during your teen’s graduation is to contact them before the day arrives and discuss how your differences can be put on hold for the day. This doesn’t mean that you have to be friends with each other. But, being civil toward your ex could be the best graduation present you give to your teen. This will also teach them a lesson about forgiveness and responsibility. Above all, remember that a graduation party is a celebration, and make sure you spend the day celebrating with them. As Michael Rubino, PH.D. said in this article from Patch.com, your divorce ended your marriage and not your relationship as parents.

Remember, your child’s graduation is not the day to fight with your ex.