Co-Parenting Communication Plan
A worksheet for separated or divorced parents to agree on communication methods, ground rules, decision areas and conflict resolution, keeping children out of the middle.
2-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Separation & divorce
- Approach / concern
- Family Therapy
- Technique
- Separation & divorce
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 2 pages (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Co-Parenting Communication Plan?
A co-parenting communication plan is a written agreement between separated parents about how they will share information and make decisions about their children. It encourages brief, child-focused, business-like communication and can support either cooperative co-parenting or, in high-conflict situations, parallel parenting.
Why it works
Interparental conflict, rather than separation itself, is one of the strongest predictors of poorer child adjustment after divorce (Amato, 2010). Structured communication and mediation can reduce conflict and improve family relationships (Emery, 2012).
When to use it
- Separation and divorce
- High-conflict co-parenting
- Mediation and family counselling
- Blended family transitions
How to use it in session
- Meet with parents together or separately, depending on safety.
- Agree on a communication method and response times.
- Choose ground rules that both can commit to.
- Clarify decision-making for key areas.
- Plan for disagreements and review regularly.
Clinician tips
- Do not use joint sessions where there is family violence; prioritize safety.
- Co-parenting apps can keep records and reduce conflict.
- Keep the focus on the children’s needs.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
What if my co-parent won’t follow the plan?
Focus on what you can control: your messages, tone and boundaries. A family lawyer or mediator can help if issues persist.
What is parallel parenting?
An approach for high-conflict situations where parents disengage from each other and parent separately, with minimal direct communication.
References
Amato, P. R. (2010). Research on divorce: Continuing trends and new developments. Journal of Marriage and Family, 72(3), 650-666.
Emery, R. E. (2012). Renegotiating family relationships: Divorce, child custody, and mediation (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
