Parallel parenting with a narcissist: a step-by-step guide gives real help when co-parenting gets hard. You need ways to keep your child safe and stay calm. Big fights can hurt kids quickly.
‘Conflict is what kids cannot handle,’ Van Dine says. ‘So when parents fight, kids get hurt. It really is that simple.’
You deal with mind games, threats, and lots of stress. Parallel parenting with a narcissist shows you how to set rules and stop bad patterns. Many parents say narcissists use control and hurtful words, which can make kids feel worried and sad. You need a plan that works, even if respect and teamwork are gone.
Key Takeaways
Parallel parenting is when each parent cares for the child alone. This helps lower fights and stress.
Make clear rules to keep you and your child safe. This stops chaos and tricks.
Talk using emails or apps to keep talks short and safe.
Write down everything so you have proof of what happens. This helps protect your rights.
Pay attention to your child’s needs and feelings. This helps your child feel safe and cared for.
What Is Parallel Parenting With A Narcissist
Definition
Parallel Parenting is when you and the other parent raise your child on your own. You do not work together as a team. You make your own rules for your house. The other parent makes their own rules for their house. You try not to talk to each other much. This way helps keep your child away from fights and stress.
Key Principles
Only talk when you really need to.
Write messages instead of meeting in person.
Make strong rules for each parent.
Think about what is best for your child, not what the other parent does.
Always follow the parenting plan.
Tip: Try using a calendar or app to keep track of plans and avoid mix-ups.
Differences From Co-Parenting
Here is a table that shows the main ways they are different:
Aspect | Parallel Parenting With A Narcissist | Traditional Co-Parenting |
|---|---|---|
Contact | Only written messages | Talk often and openly |
Boundaries | Strong and clear | Not always clear or strict |
Focus | Keeping things steady for the child | Sharing all duties |
Environment | Two different routines | Routines mixed together |
Effectiveness | Good for lots of fighting | Does not work with lots of fighting |
Why It’s Needed
You need this way when the other parent causes problems or tries to boss you around. Narcissists often break rules and test your limits. Parallel parenting keeps your child safe from getting hurt inside. It also helps you feel less worried.
It stops fights and big mood swings.
Both parents are still part of the child’s life, but not together.
Your child feels more safe and less stressed.
Narcissistic Behaviors
Common Traits
Narcissistic parents act in certain ways:
Behavior Type | Description |
|---|---|
Parental Alienation | Tries to make your child not like you. |
Lack of Empathy | Does not care about your child’s feelings. |
Manipulation | Changes the truth to stay in charge. |
Use of Children as Tools | Uses your child to get back at you. |
Narcissists sometimes pretend to be the good guy when it helps them.
They often break rules and cause trouble.
They do not respect rules so they can stay in control.
Impact On Parenting
These actions can hurt your child. Your child might feel stuck between both parents. They might feel nervous or not know who to trust. You might see your child act out or seem sad.
High-Conflict Dynamics
Narcissists often start fights over small things. They might blame you or say things that are not true. This way of acting makes co-parenting too hard. Parallel parenting lets you step back and keep your child away from the drama.
Set Boundaries
Establish Boundaries
Identify Limits
Start by deciding what you will and will not accept. Think about your time, your privacy, and your child’s needs. Write down your limits. This makes them clear in your mind. For example, you might decide you will only talk about your child, not personal matters.
Communicate Clearly
Tell the other parent your boundaries in a direct way. Use short, simple words. Do not explain or defend your choices. Just state them.
Be very direct, have very strong boundaries, and very reliable, consistent boundaries. If you’re doing communication, you communicate this, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, just in the same line, don’t vary, and don’t let the person destabilize you.
When you answer messages, keep it short and to the point. Do not get pulled into old arguments.
Respond in a very short, concise manner, set the record straight, answer whatever question was asked, and then move on and ignore all the rest of it.
Stay focused on the present. Do not bring up the past.
Don’t bring up Christmas from 1997 because that’s done. Let’s just focus on 2024.
Enforce Consistently
Stick to your boundaries every time. If the other parent tries to cross a line, remind them of your rule. Do not change your mind because of pressure. Consistency shows you mean what you say.
Maintain Boundaries
Handle Pushback
Expect the narcissistic parent to test your limits. They may try to argue or guilt you. Stay calm. Repeat your boundary if needed. Do not react with anger or long explanations.
Adjust As Needed
Sometimes, you may need to change a boundary. If something is not working, make a new rule. Tell the other parent about the change in a clear way. Keep your child’s best interests first.
Self-Care
Taking care of yourself helps you keep strong boundaries. Rest, eat well, and talk to friends or a counselor. When you feel good, you can handle stress better.
Here is how strong boundaries help you and your child:
Benefit of Boundary Setting | Description |
|---|---|
Less conflict and Improved communication | Clear boundaries reduce disagreements and foster better communication, crucial for child well-being. |
Decreased stress | Reduced conflict leads to a more nurturing environment for both parents and children. |
Less room for misunderstandings | Clear expectations streamline responsibilities and align approaches between parents. |
Tip: Boundaries are not about controlling the other parent. They are about protecting your peace and your child’s happiness.
Boundaries work best when you detach from drama and hold yourself accountable. You cannot change the narcissist, but you can control your actions. Stay steady, and your child will benefit.
Limit Communication
When you parent with a narcissist, talking can be risky. You should keep things simple and safe. Only talk when it is needed for your child. Written messages are best because they make a record and stop drama.
Written Methods
Email & Apps
Use email or co-parenting apps to talk. These tools help you stay organized and stop tricks. Keep messages short and only talk about your child. Do not share feelings or private things.
Write messages for all important news.
Use a calm and even tone.
Save every message you send or get.
Apps like OurFamilyWizard and TalkingParents keep messages safe. They help you track talks and stop mix-ups.
Communication Schedules
Make a set time to talk. Pick when and how you will share news about your child. You might send a weekly email or use an app to update the calendar. This plan helps you avoid surprise messages and keeps things steady.
Tip: Only answer messages that matter. Ignore anything that tries to start a fight or take your focus off your child.
Avoid Traps
Narcissists may use messages to start fights. They might send long notes, blame you, or try to upset you. Do not fall for these tricks. Stick to facts and do not argue.
Focus on your child’s needs only.
Do not reply to mean words.
Never share private feelings or stories.
Stay calm and give short, clear answers. If a message is not about your child, you do not need to answer.
Tools
Co-Parenting Apps
Many parents use apps to help with parallel parenting. Here is a table with popular apps and what they do:
App Name | Best For | Key Features | Pros & Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
OurFamilyWizard | High-conflict or court-involved co-parenting | Tone meter, secure messaging, shared calendars, court-admissible documentation | ✅ Good records, ❌ Monthly fees can be a problem |
TalkingParents | Parents needing clear, permanent records | Clear, safe message history, free messages with upgrades | ✅ Focus on records, ❌ Old look |
Cozi | Friendly co-parenting or blended families | Easy to use, shared calendar | ✅ Free version, ❌ No message or record tools |
AppClose | Full features with no cost | 100% free, many features | ✅ No cost, ❌ Not for legal records |
Custody X Change | Tracking time and court prep | Visual schedule, legal help | ✅ Great for court, ❌ Not for daily talks |
Pick an app that works for you. Look for safe messages, shared calendars, and easy records.
Documentation
Always keep a record of every talk. Save emails, app messages, and notes about calls. This helps if the other parent tries to lie or make false claims.
Store messages in a safe spot.
Use apps that save messages forever.
Write down key details after each talk.
Security
Keep your info safe. Use strong passwords for your email and apps. Do not share your login with anyone. Make sure your child’s info is safe too.
Remember: Writing things down and using good tools help you stay in charge. You keep yourself and your child safe from fights and confusion.
Written Agreements
A strong written agreement helps you and your child stay safe. It gives clear rules and keeps things from getting mixed up. Written agreements stop fights and help you focus on your child.
Parenting Plan
A parenting plan is your main tool for this. It explains how you and the other parent will care for your child. Courts often want a detailed plan, especially if one parent causes lots of problems.
Essential Elements
Your plan should include every important detail. Here are the main things to cover:
Exact times and dates for visits.
Clear rules for picking up and dropping off at school.
Who makes big choices about health and school.
Rules for talking—only use written messages.
Neutral places for drop-offs.
Steps to solve problems if you disagree.
Who pays for what and how to track money.
Tip: More details mean fewer fights later.
Here is a table with key rules for your parenting plan:
Guideline | Description |
|---|---|
Court-Ordered Parenting Plan | A clear plan stops confusion and tricks. |
Detailed Arrangements | List all times and jobs for each parent. |
Conflict Resolution | Add steps for solving problems. |
Use of Parenting Apps | Suggest tools to keep talks safe and clear. |
Best Interests of the Child | Make sure every rule helps your child feel safe. |
Legal Aspects
A legal parenting plan gives you extra protection. Courts want to see that your plan puts your child first. Legal papers make your plan official. Both parents must follow the rules.
Always get your plan signed by the court.
Keep copies of all signed papers.
Ask a lawyer for help if you need to change anything.
Professional Help
You might need help from a lawyer or mediator. These experts can help you write a plan that covers everything. They know how to spot weak spots a narcissist might use.
Ask for help if you are not sure.
Let experts check your plan before you sign it.
Documentation
Good records protect you from lies and tricks. You need to keep track of everything that happens.
What To Record
Keep these things:
Every email, text, or app message about your child.
A list of visits and exchanges.
Notes if your child says things that sound influenced.
All costs for your child.
Copies of school and doctor records.
Social media posts or messages that show patterns.
Organize Records
Store your records in a safe place. Use folders on your computer or a safe app. Label everything by date and topic. This helps you find what you need if there is a problem.
Tip: Save every message, even small ones. Patterns are more important than single things.
Legal Use
You might need your records in court. Judges want clear proof that is easy to read. Good records can show if the other parent breaks rules or tries to trick you.
Bring copies of your records to meetings or court.
Share records with your lawyer if needed.
Use your notes to support your story.
Written agreements and good records give you power. You keep your child and yourself safe from confusion and chaos.
Focus On Child
Child’s Needs
Signs Of Stress
Kids who live with a narcissistic co-parent can feel a lot of stress. You might see your child act different or seem upset. Look for these warning signs:
Your child may not feel good about themselves or lose confidence.
They might pull away from friends or family.
They could have trouble trusting people or making friends.
Your child may seem confused or worried, especially after visits.
They might get upset if asked to pick sides.
Some kids feel guilty, left out, or think they are not good enough.
They may feel nervous or sad.
If you notice these things, your child might be having a hard time with all the fighting. Getting help early can really help your child.
Emotional Support
You are very important in helping your child feel safe and loved. Always cheer them on and show you believe what they say. Listen to your child and do not judge them. Tell your child their feelings matter. Make your home a place where your child can talk about worries. Praise your child’s good points and celebrate small things they do well. If your child is having a hard time, you can ask a child therapist to help.
Open Communication
Talking openly helps your child trust you. Ask your child how they feel after seeing the other parent. Use easy questions like, “How was your day?” or “Do you want to talk about anything?” Let your child know you will not get mad or blame them for sharing. Keep your talks private and safe. Do not ask your child to tell you about the other parent. Focus on how your child feels, not on grown-up problems.
Shield From Conflict
Manage Transitions
Switching between homes can be hard for kids. You can help by keeping things the same as much as possible. Tell your child before things change. Pack their favorite things to help them feel better. Stay calm and use a kind voice when dropping off or picking up. If you can, meet in a place that feels safe for everyone.
Consistent Routines
Kids do best when they know what to expect. Make clear rules and keep a daily schedule at home. Try to have meals, bedtime, and homework at the same time each day. When things stay the same, your child feels safe, even if the other parent’s house is different.
Routine Element | Why It Matters | Example |
|---|---|---|
Bedtime | Helps your child sleep well | 8:30 PM every night |
Mealtime | Keeps healthy habits | Dinner at 6:00 PM |
Homework | Teaches responsibility | Homework after school |
Coping Skills
Show your child easy ways to handle stress. Try deep breathing together. Drawing, writing, or moving around can help too. Remind your child it is okay to ask for help. If your child needs more ideas, a counselor can teach more ways to cope.
Tip: Staying calm is the best way to protect your child from stress. When you focus on your child’s needs, you help them become strong, even when things are tough.
Manage Emotions
Parenting with a narcissist can make you feel very upset. You might feel stressed, angry, or confused almost every day. Learning to handle your feelings helps you stay strong for your child. You can learn skills to deal with tough moments and find help that really matters.
Handle Triggers
Recognize Triggers
Some things your co-parent does may make you feel bad. These things can happen again and again. They might make you feel like you have no power or make you sad. Here are some common triggers:
Not talking the same way each time
Trying to control your child
Not working together
Using your child to get what they want
Not following rules you set
Trying to make you look like a bad parent
Controlling money
Fighting about court or custody
Making you feel upset inside
Not caring for your child’s needs
Tip: Write down what upsets you most. When you see a pattern, you can get ready and stay calm.
Regulate Emotions
You can learn to control how you react. Take a deep breath when you feel mad or scared. Walk away if you need a break. Remind yourself that it is okay to feel this way. Try these ways to cope:
Do mindfulness or meditate for a few minutes each day.
Say good things to yourself, like “I am trying my best.”
Think about what you can change, not what the other parent does.
Write in a journal to keep track of your feelings.
This table shows how to match triggers with ways to cope:
Trigger | Coping Strategy |
|---|---|
Manipulation of children | Deep breathing, journaling |
Lack of cooperation | Mindfulness, self-talk |
Financial manipulation | Focus on facts, seek advice |
Legal battles | Stay organized, ask for help |
Seek Support
You do not have to do this alone. Ask for help when you feel like it is too much. You can talk to friends, family, or people who help others. Talking to someone who understands can help you feel less alone.
Remember: Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your child.
Build Support
Friends & Family
Count on people you trust. Tell close friends or family how you feel. They can listen, give advice, or just be there when you need them. You can also ask for help with your child or chores.
Therapy
Getting help from a professional is important. Therapists can teach you ways to handle stress and become stronger. Many parents say therapy helps them set rules and deal with hard feelings. If you feel stuck, a counselor can help you through hard times.
Online Resources
Support groups for parents dealing with a narcissist can help. You can join online groups or social media pages. These places let you share your story, ask questions, and learn from others who have the same problems.
Note: Having a strong support group gives you strength and helps you feel steady. You take care of your feelings and make things safer for your child.
Involve Third Parties
When you parallel parent with a narcissist, you may need help from others. Third parties can give you support, rules, and safety. You do not have to do everything by yourself. Mediation, legal help, and therapy can really help you and your child.
Mediation & Legal
When To Seek Help
Ask for help if the other parent breaks rules or ignores court orders. Get help if your child is not safe or you feel too stressed. A lawyer or mediator can step in when talks do not work. Courts and experts can help if your child’s safety is at risk.
Here is a table that shows why third-party help is important in tough cases:
Evidence Type | Description |
|---|---|
Emotional Stability | High-conflict cases often have parents with mental health problems, so normal co-parenting does not work. |
Legal Intervention | Some actions, like breaking custody orders, need legal help to make parenting work. |
Child Stress Reduction | Studies show kids have 40-60% less stress with parallel parenting than with co-parenting in toxic homes. |
Behavioral Outcomes | Kids in parallel parenting have 50% fewer problems at school and better control of their feelings. |
Long-term Relationships | Parallel parenting in high-conflict cases helps kids have better relationships with both parents when they grow up. |
Choosing Professionals
Pick helpers who know about high-conflict parenting. Find mediators and lawyers who understand narcissistic behavior. Ask about their experience. Make sure they care about your child’s safety and your peace.
Pick someone who listens to you.
Look for experts in family law and mental health.
Ask for clear steps and honest advice.
Prepare For Mediation
Get ready before you meet the mediator. Bring your records, messages, and your parenting plan. Write down your main worries and goals. Stay calm and talk about facts. Do not let the other parent distract you with blame or drama.
Tip: Practice what you want to say. Focus on your child’s needs, not old fights.
Therapy
Benefits
Therapy helps you and your child heal from stress. A good therapist teaches you ways to cope and helps you set strong boundaries. Therapy also helps your child talk about feelings and feel more confident.
You learn to handle your feelings.
Your child feels heard and supported.
You both get tools to deal with hard days.
Find Experts
Look for therapists who help families and kids in high-conflict homes. Ask your doctor or school counselor for ideas. Check if the therapist knows about narcissistic family problems.
Pick someone your child feels safe with.
Make sure the therapist understands parallel parenting.
Integrate Therapy
Make therapy part of your weekly routine. Go to sessions often. Use what you learn at home. Help your child share feelings and try new skills. Talk to your therapist about how things are going.
Remember: You do not have to do this alone. Third parties can help you make life safer and calmer for your child.
Document Everything
Writing things down is one of your best tools when you parallel parent with a narcissist. When you keep records, you help protect yourself and your child from confusion and lies. Good notes help you feel calm and keep things in order.
Why Document
Legal Protection
You need strong records to keep your legal rights safe. Courts and lawyers want facts, not just what people remember. If your co-parent breaks rules or says things that are not true, your records can show what really happened. Legal experts say you should:
Only talk about your child to avoid fights and tricks.
Use emails or co-parenting apps so you have proof of every talk.
Make a clear parenting plan to keep everyone responsible and safe.
If your ex changes how they act, a lawyer can help you change your plan. If they do not follow the plan, you might need to ask the court for help. Good records make this much easier.
Child’s Interests
Your child’s safety and happiness are most important. Keeping notes helps you track your child’s needs and routines. You can show you care about your child first. If your child feels upset or confused, your notes can help teachers or counselors understand what is going on.
Prevent Manipulation
Narcissists often try to change the truth or say things did not happen. When you keep good records, you stop them from changing the story. Written proof makes it hard for them to trick you or your child. You can answer lies with facts, not arguments.
Best Practices
Digital Tools
Digital tools make it easy and safe to keep records. Co-parenting apps and email help you keep everything together. Here is a table that shows how these tools help:
Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
Improved Organization and Clarity | One place for schedules, costs, and child info, so less confusion. |
Enhanced Documentation | Makes clear, dated records of talks and payments, good for court. |
Reduced Direct Conflict Exposure | Lets you talk through an app, so there are fewer fights. |
Increased Accountability | Everything is saved, so people act better; you can see if messages are read. |
Focus on Child-Related Matters | Keeps talks about parenting, not personal problems. |
Enhanced Transparency | Both parents and helpers can see the same info if needed. |
Pick a tool that works for you. Apps like OurFamilyWizard, TalkingParents, and Custody X Change have safe messages, shared calendars, and easy records.
Organize Files
Keep your files neat and simple to find. Use folders on your computer or in your app. Name each file by date and topic. Save every message, note, and paper about your child. Back up your files in a safe spot. This way, you can find what you need fast if something happens.
Tip: Patterns are more important than single things. Keep a daily or weekly log to see what happens over time.
Share With Pros
Sometimes you need to show your records to lawyers, mediators, or counselors. Make sure your files are clear and complete. Only share what is needed. Good records help these helpers support you and your child. They can use your notes to give better advice or help in court.
Remember: Writing things down is not about being in charge. It is about keeping things safe, clear, and making sure your child has a good future.
Challenges & Solutions
Parallel parenting with a narcissist is very hard. You might deal with tricks, lies, and your rules being tested all the time. If you learn to spot these actions and stay calm, you can keep yourself and your child safe.
Manipulation
Spot Tactics
Narcissistic co-parents use tricks to control things or make you look bad. They might try to confuse you, spread lies, or use your child to hurt you. If you notice these tricks early, you can be ready.
Manipulation Tactics | Counter Strategies |
|---|---|
Gaslighting | Write down what happens to catch lies. |
DARVO | Ask experts to check what is true. |
Smear campaigns | Use apps to keep clear records of talks. |
Using children as pawns | Follow court rules for talking to each other. |
You might also see parental alienation. Your child could feel bad for being with you or say things that sound like the other parent. These are sneaky tricks that can hurt how your child feels inside.
Respond Calmly
When you see these tricks, do not get upset. Stay calm and answer with facts only. Use short messages and write everything down. This helps you avoid fights. Try to act boring and do not show feelings when they try to upset you. Always think about what is best for your child, not what the other parent wants.
Tip: If the other parent tries to start a fight, only answer about your child. Ignore mean words or things that do not matter.
Protect Yourself
To protect yourself, make strong rules and follow them. Use apps to save every talk you have. If the other parent hides money, ask a money expert to look at their spending. These experts can find money that is hidden. Always keep your notes and papers safe and in order.
False Claims
Gather Evidence
Narcissistic co-parents might tell lies about you. Write down every time this happens. Save all emails, texts, and notes about what really happened. Ask people who saw things to write what they saw. Videos or papers from officials can help prove the truth.
Write down each lie with the date and what happened.
Ask friends, family, or workers to share what they saw.
Ask for a child custody check if you need more proof.
Work With Attorney
Talk to a lawyer right away if you face lies. Show your lawyer all your notes and proof. Your lawyer will tell you what to do next. A good plan and clear notes help you in court.
Bring all your proof to your lawyer.
Do what your lawyer says to help your case.
Stay Calm
Lies can make you feel scared or upset. Try to stay calm and do not let fear take over. Focus on what is true and what your child needs. Do not fight for power. Keeping things the same at home helps your child feel safe, even when things are hard.
Remember: You cannot change what the other parent does, but you can choose how you act. Stay calm, keep good notes, and always think of your child first.
Long-Term Success In Parallel Parenting With A Narcissist
Building long-term success in parallel parenting with a narcissist means you must stay steady and keep your focus. You need strong boundaries, regular self-checks, and a plan that grows with your child. Your well-being matters just as much as your child’s safety.
Maintain Boundaries
Self-Check-Ins
Check in with yourself often. Ask, “Are my boundaries still working?” Notice if you feel stressed or if the other parent tries to cross the line. Write down what works and what does not. This helps you spot problems early and stay strong.
Tip: Use a journal or app to track your feelings and any changes in your co-parent’s behavior.
Update Plan
Your parenting plan should change as your child grows. Review your plan every few months. Look for new needs or problems. Change rules if your child starts new activities or needs more support. Keep your plan clear and written down.
Set clear decision-making roles for each parent.
Use written methods for updates.
Keep talks short and focused on your child.
Celebrate Wins
Notice your progress. Celebrate when you keep calm during a tough moment or when your child feels safe. Small wins matter. Share these moments with friends or family. This keeps you motivated.
Milestone | How to Celebrate |
|---|---|
Calm response | Treat yourself to a walk |
Child’s progress | Praise your child |
Sticking to plan | Share with support group |
Prioritize Well-Being
Ongoing Self-Care
Take care of your mind and body. Rest, eat healthy, and do things you enjoy. Practice deep breathing or mindfulness. Stay calm and pleasant, even when things get hard. Self-care helps you handle stress and stay healthy.
Make time for hobbies.
Talk to a counselor if you need help.
Join a support group for parents.
Support Child’s Growth
Give your child a safe space to share feelings. Listen without judging. Keep routines steady. Encourage your child to try new things and praise their efforts. Structure and consistency help your child feel secure.
Support Strategy | Benefit for Child |
|---|---|
Open talks | Builds trust |
Consistent routines | Reduces stress |
Praise and encouragement | Boosts confidence |
Seek Change If Needed
Stay open to change. If your plan stops working, make new rules. Ask for help from a lawyer or counselor. Put your child’s needs first. Adapt as your child grows and life changes.
Conclusion
Parallel parenting with a narcissist works best if you follow clear steps. Make strong boundaries and keep your feelings out of fights. Always think about what is best for your child. Write things down to protect yourself and your child. The table below shows the most important things to do:
Key Step | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
Establish Boundaries | Keeps you and your child safe from bad actions |
Detach Emotionally | Helps you stay out of arguments |
Focus on Child’s Needs | Makes your child feel safe and less worried |
Talk in a business-like way every time.
Do not think the narcissist will act different.
Never tell your child about your bad feelings.
Transform your Inner Chaos into authentic personal growth!
Stay informed on the latest research advancements covering:
Co-Parenting With A Narcissist
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of parallel parenting with a narcissist?
You want to protect your child from conflict. You set clear rules and keep communication simple. This helps your child feel safe and reduces stress for everyone.
How do I keep communication safe and clear?
Use written messages like email or co-parenting apps. Keep your words short and focused on your child. Save all messages for your records.
What should I do if the other parent breaks the rules?
Stay calm. Remind them of the rules. Keep a record of what happened. If needed, talk to your lawyer or a mediator for help.
How can I help my child cope with stress from the other parent?
Listen to your child. Offer comfort and support. Keep routines steady at home. If your child feels very upset, consider talking to a counselor.
Can I change the parenting plan if things get worse?
Yes. If your child’s needs change or the other parent causes problems, you can ask the court to update your plan. Keep good records to show why changes are needed.
What if my child says bad things about me after visits?
Stay calm. Do not blame your child. Narcissistic parents may try to turn your child against you. Offer love and support. If this keeps happening, talk to a professional.
Should I tell my child about the other parent’s behavior?
No. Protect your child from adult problems. Focus on your child’s feelings and needs. Let them know you are always there for them.