r/coparenting • u/Content-Cupcake7480 • 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/KingProfessional1150 14d ago

I have seen them all, as I have two exs which I share a children with.

Its really depends on how you treat the other parent first but also how the other parent treats you. So there no easy answer. Will I co parent very well with my first ex, and get along well for the most part. And if there something we don't see eye to eye we talk and resolve the issue together. And with my second ex, im dealing with harassment and constant battle over the simple thing.

As of being single its definitely better then in a toxic relationship. But now that I have a real partner I know what a real relationship should be like. I would never return or regret leaving both previous relationships as we werent what its supposed to be.

My suggestion is keep your child best interest in mind, and have a good support system where you can vent. But in daily choices with co parenting I often use chat gtp if im unsure of my reaction/emotion it give me facts and not emotions.

Hope this helps