Platonic parenting may be a new term, but it has certainly soared in popularity in recent years. The following is an overview of platonic parenting, and how to decide if it may be the right way of parenting for you and your family.
Platonic parenting can take many forms, but basically it is the choice to co-parent without having a romantic or sexual relationship. One common form of platonic parenting is when a couple is thinking of getting divorced, and instead decides to stay together for the sake of the children. They may date other people and live in separate parts of the house, but remain married on paper.
Another form of platonic parenting is two adults deciding to have children together without building a romantic relationship. This type of platonic parenting is becoming more popular all the time. The couple may or may not marry, as it is a type of situation that is flexible to the needs of the children and parents.
Does It Really Work?
Co-parenting with someone you are not in a romantic relationship with can be hard work and even a struggle, but it can and does work when done well. Many people have tried and succeeded. Think of it as a challenge that is worth working on for the sake of your kids.
Why Should You Consider It?
If you have children or want to have children, but are not in a romantic relationship, then platonic parenting is definitely worth considering. Do you have any friends who are also eager to become awesome parents who might consider this untraditional situation? Bring it up and you may be surprised who is open to the idea.
If you have children already and your relationship with the other parent has come to an end, platonic parenting is a worthy consideration which will keep the child’s family intact in the way they have known it up until this point.
What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks?
The benefits are many, and include a child who has two parents working together as a team for their benefit. Another benefit is the simplicity that comes with a child only living in one household, if that is the plan you choose. It is easier to maintain consistency in their upbringing, as well as keeping things simple in regards to organizing rides and childcare among the two parents.
The drawbacks are mostly related to how well, or not, the two parents get along. If you have ill feelings to the other parent and cannot overcome them, living together would not be a good idea. Be honest with yourself and decide whether this is an option in your particular situation.
Whatever your decision, your first priority is of course your children. Keep this at the forefront of your mind, and it will make everything so much easier. When the individual you are co-parenting with grates on your last nerve, think about how to react in a way that would benefit your children. Remember that a child will always benefit from two involved parents who work respectfully with one another, no matter what type of relationship they may have.