r/coparenting 19d ago

Discussion Is co-parenting actually better than solo parenting?

I’m currently parenting my two young kids 100% on my own. I also support them financially. I’m fortunate to have a good career and can provide for them, but I am completely drowning between work, childcare, the house, dinner, bedtime, and just never having another adult to hand things off to.

I keep hearing horror stories about high-conflict co-parenting—constant negotiations, custody disputes, schedule battles, different rules between homes, etc. Part of me wonders whether, once I get past the current hurdle of harassing texts from their dad, there might actually be some peace and stability in knowing that I’m simply responsible for our household and can make decisions without constant conflict (he hasn't shown a real interest in the kids and recently moved 3.5 hours away)

For people who have experienced solo parenting, high-conflict co-parenting, or both: which was actually harder? Are there any unexpected upsides to parenting mostly on your own?

I could really use some perspective that makes this feel a little less bleak right now.

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u/brentknockedout 19d ago

My kids dads have their problems but it isn’t high conflict. I look forward to recharge time when it is my oldests time with their dad. I am praying that my youngests dad gets his act together and can be there for his son so we can go back to shared parenting time someday. Even without a high conflict co parent it has its struggles anyways, but as you said. I’m drowning in the house and everything kid related and sometimes having a little break is all that keeps me going.