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In Indiana, establishing paternity isn’t just a legal formality—it’s the foundation for a father’s rights and responsibilities when it comes to child custody and parenting time. Whether you're a father seeking more time with your child or a mother wanting to ensure support and involvement, understanding the role of paternity is key to protecting the child's best interests. This post explains what paternity means, how it’s established, and why it matters so much in family law cases involving custody, parenting time, and child support. What Is Paternity? Paternity is the legal recognition of a man as a child’s father. In Indiana, if parents are married when a child is born, the husband is presumed to be the legal father. But if parents are unmarried, the father must take additional steps to establish paternity—even if he is already involved in the child's life. Without legal paternity, a father has no enforceable rights to parenting time or decision-making—even if he is biologically related to the child. How to Establish Paternity in Indiana There are two main ways to establish paternity if the parents are not married: Paternity Affidavit This form can be signed at the hospital when the child is born or later at the local health department. It must be signed by both parents and filed with the Indiana State Department of Health. This gives the father legal rights, but does not automatically create a parenting time or custody order. 2. Court Order Either parent may file a paternity action in court. If there is a dispute, the court may order DNA testing. Once paternity is established by court order, the court can also enter orders regarding custody, parenting time, and child support. Why Paternity Matters for Fathers Without establishing paternity, a father cannot: Request custody or parenting time through the court Make legal decisions for the child (like education or health care) Have the court protect his parenting rights Establishing paternity is the first step to creating a parenting plan, having shared responsibilities, and building a legally recognized relationship with your child. Why Paternity Matters for Mothers and Children For mothers, establishing paternity is essential for: Seeking child support Ensuring the child has access to both parents' medical histories Allowing the child to qualify for certain benefits through the father (like Social Security, inheritance, or veteran’s benefits) And for children, legal paternity gives them a clearer identity, financial security, and—perhaps most importantly—the right to have a relationship with both parents if it is safe and appropriate to do so. What Happens After Paternity Is Established? Once paternity is confirmed, either parent can request a court order for: Custody – The court decides who will make major decisions for the child and where the child will primarily live. Parenting Time – The non-custodial parent (or sometimes both) can receive a parenting schedule, often following Indiana’s Parenting Time Guidelines. Child Support – Based on income and parenting time, the court may order financial support. Establishing paternity opens the door to these discussions and provides a legal framework for moving forward. How Mediation Can Help Mediation offers a respectful, non-adversarial space to work out parenting agreements after paternity is established. A mediator can help both parents: Develop a parenting time schedule Create a custody arrangement that works for the child Resolve conflict in a child-centered way At Hope For Our Future, LLC, we regularly help parents navigate these conversations without heading straight into courtroom battles. Final Thoughts Paternity is more than paperwork—it’s the legal and emotional foundation of a child’s right to be loved and supported by both parents. Whether you’re a father seeking involvement or a mother wanting to clarify legal rights and responsibilities, taking steps to establish paternity is a powerful first move toward healthy co-parenting. If you need support with mediation, parenting coordination, or understanding your options after paternity is established, we’re here to help. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Photo Credit: 7182409 Partnerinflight Dreamstime.com
Co-parenting is never easy, but when one parent consistently pushes buttons, crosses lines, or thrives on drama, it can feel nearly impossible. If you’re dealing with a high-conflict co-parent, it’s important to create and maintain clear boundaries—not just for your own peace of mind, but for your child’s stability as well. Boundaries aren’t about punishment or control—they’re about protecting what matters most: your emotional well-being and your child’s environment. What Does “High-Conflict” Look Like? High-conflict behavior can take many forms. Maybe your co-parent: Sends frequent angry or accusatory messages Tries to argue about every decision Refuses to follow your parenting plan Involves the child in adult issues Constantly criticizes your parenting Won’t respect your time, space, or communication preferences These patterns can wear you down and distract from the bigger goal—raising a healthy child in two homes. Why Boundaries Are Essential Boundaries help you decide what you will and won’t allow in your life. They create a buffer between your co-parent’s chaos and your day-to-day peace. Setting boundaries: Reduces stress Protects your relationship with your child Helps you respond, not react Supports consistency and structure Sends a message: this behavior isn’t acceptable You can’t change someone else’s behavior—but you can control how you allow it to affect you. Practical Boundaries You Can Set Here are a few types of boundaries that can make a big difference: 1. Communication Boundaries Use written communication (like texts, email, or parenting apps) instead of calls or in-person discussions. Don’t respond to every message—only those that require a reply. Take time before responding to messages that upset you. You don’t have to reply right away. 2. Time and Schedule Boundaries Stick to the parenting time schedule as outlined in your agreement. Avoid last-minute changes unless there’s an emergency. Set a cutoff time for communication each day (e.g., no messages after 8 p.m.). 3. Emotional Boundaries Keep conversations child-focused. If things shift to personal attacks or blame, stop the conversation. Remind yourself: their behavior is not your responsibility. Don’t allow their tone or choices to dictate your mood or actions. 4. Physical Boundaries Use a neutral public location for parenting time exchanges if needed. If in-person contact escalates conflict, ask a third party to assist or document what occurs. Tips for Holding the Line It’s one thing to set a boundary—it’s another to stick to it when things get messy. Here’s how to stay firm: Document everything : Save texts, emails, and records of exchanges. This is helpful if the situation escalates or needs court review. Stay calm and brief : Don’t engage in arguments. Use “BIFF” responses—brief, informative, friendly, and firm. Don’t respond to bait : If they insult you, ignore it. Only reply to matters about your child. Revisit your parenting plan : If you’re constantly running into issues, it might be time to revisit or revise your plan with help from a mediator or parenting coordinator. How Boundaries Help Your Child Children absorb more than we realize. When they witness constant conflict or feel tension between parents, it can impact their emotional health. By setting and maintaining boundaries, you: Show your child how to handle stress in healthy ways Create a more peaceful environment in your home Keep parenting time transitions smoother and more predictable Protect your child from being caught in the middle Kids benefit most when they feel safe, supported, and free from adult conflict. When You Need Extra Support If your co-parent continues to cross lines despite your efforts, it may be time to involve professionals. A Parenting Coordinator can help reduce conflict by acting as a neutral third party who helps parents follow their court orders and keep things child-focused. Mediation may also help resolve long-standing disputes and clarify your parenting agreement so there’s less room for misunderstanding. At Hope For Our Future, LLC , we offer both mediation and parenting coordination services tailored for high-conflict situations. Final Thoughts Setting boundaries with a high-conflict co-parent isn’t always easy—but it is necessary. It’s one of the best things you can do for your child, and for your own peace of mind. With a clear plan, consistent communication, and the right support, you can create a healthier co-parenting dynamic—even when the other parent isn’t on the same page. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Photo Credit: 88504872 Parent Conflict Prazis Dreamstime.com
Looking for fun indoor activities for kids on rainy co-parenting days? Whether you're sharing time with toddlers, school-age kids, or teens, this guide offers creative, low-stress ideas to turn gray skies into memorable moments. Discover engaging rainy day activities that strengthen your parent-child bond, reduce transitions stress, and make the most of your parenting time—no sunshine required. Includes age-appropriate games, DIY projects, cooking ideas, and co-parenting tips for navigating weather disruptions with grace and positivity.
Divorce is a major life change—not just for parents, but for children as well. Even in peaceful, well-handled separations, kids can experience a wide range of emotions. Many children adjust over time with support and reassurance, but some may struggle more than they’re able to express. As a Parenting Coordinator, Guardian ad Litem, and Mediator, I often meet families who wonder: Is my child okay? The answer depends on the child’s age, personality, and support system—but there are signs that can help you know when they may need extra assistance. Here are some common signs your child may be struggling after divorce, along with tips on how to support them.} 1. Changes in Behavior or Mood Sudden mood swings, anger, sadness, clinginess, or defiance can all be signs your child is having a hard time processing the changes. Younger kids might regress (bedwetting, tantrums, thumb-sucking). School-age children may become more irritable or withdrawn. Teens might act out, isolate, or seem uninterested in family life. 💡 Tip: Keep routines predictable and offer extra patience during difficult transitions. 2. Trouble Sleeping or Frequent Nightmares Sleep disruptions can reflect emotional stress, especially in children who are not yet able to talk about what they’re feeling. Trouble falling asleep Nightmares or night waking Needing a parent nearby more than usual 💡 Tip: Offer reassurance and avoid discussing adult issues near bedtime. Consider a calming bedtime routine to help them feel safe. 3. Changes in School Performance If your child suddenly loses interest in school, starts missing assignments, or their grades drop, it could be a sign of emotional distraction or anxiety. Keep in close contact with teachers to watch for changes in attitude about school or behavior in the classroom. Some kids may fake illness to avoid going to school. 💡 Tip: Let the school know what’s happening at home so teachers can be part of the support system. 4. Avoidance or Discomfort During Parenting Time Transitions If your child consistently resists going to one parent’s home or becomes upset before or after parenting time, they may be struggling with the adjustment or internal conflict. 💡 Tip: Avoid pressuring your child to choose sides or explain their feelings in front of the other parent. Listen, validate, and seek help if needed. 5. Physical Complaints Without a Clear Cause Children often express emotional distress through physical symptoms like: Headaches Stomachaches Fatigue These are real symptoms—even if there’s no medical issue—and may be linked to anxiety or being emotionally overwhelmed. 💡 Tip: Keep a log of symptoms and when they occur. Patterns can help identify triggers, like parenting time exchanges or family events. How to Help Your Child Cope Let them talk—but don’t force it. Let your child share feelings at their own pace. Keep routines steady. Stability creates a sense of safety. Don’t badmouth the other parent. It puts your child in the middle and increases stress. Consider counseling. A child therapist or family counselor can help children process feelings in a healthy way. Final Thoughts Children don’t always say, “I’m struggling”—but they show us in other ways. The earlier you recognize the signs, the sooner you can support their emotional recovery and help them adjust to their new normal. At Hope For Our Future, LLC , we work with parents and professionals to create child-focused parenting plans and communication strategies that support children’s emotional health after divorce. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Copyright © 2025 Hope For Our Future, LLC. All rights reserved. This blog post may be shared, copied, and distributed in its entirety for non-commercial purposes, provided that proper attribution is given, and no modifications are made to the original work. Photo Credit: 148276248 Child Katarzyna Bialasiewicz Dreamstime.com
Children thrive on routine. When they know what to expect, they feel safer, more confident, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. For families navigating parenting time in two households, routine becomes even more important—but also more complicated. As a Parenting Coordinator, Mediator, and Guardian ad Litem, I often work with parents who are trying to help their children feel secure in both homes. And while each household may look different, having predictable routines can make a powerful difference in your child’s emotional and developmental well-being. The Benefits of Routine in Child Development Whether a child is a toddler or a teenager, routine helps provide: Emotional security – Predictable structure helps children feel safe and cared for. Better behavior – Children are less likely to act out when expectations are clear. Improved sleep and focus – Consistent sleep and mealtime routines support brain development. Confidence and independence – Children become more capable when they know what comes next. When a child moves between two homes, maintaining basic routines helps minimize the disruption and makes transitions smoother. What Routines Should Be Consistent in Both Homes? It’s not realistic for every detail to be identical in both households. However, some shared structure can go a long way. Here are a few routines that benefit from consistency: Bedtime and wake-up times Meal and snack schedules Homework expectations Screen time limits School morning prep routines The goal isn’t perfection—it’s predictability. Even if routines are not identical, being similar helps your child feel grounded. Tips for Creating Healthy Routines in Two Homes 1. Keep it Simple Stick to basic routines that can be replicated in each household. Start with morning, after-school, and bedtime. 2. Communicate with Your Co-Parent Talk about what routines you both value. Even if your parenting styles differ, agreeing on a few key routines can benefit your child. 3. Let Your Child Participate Involving your child in planning routines can help them feel more in control. Let them help create a checklist or visual schedule. This can be particularly helpful for younger kids. 4. Be Flexible, but Consistent Life happens. Schedules change. But as much as possible, return to the routine afterward. Children feel reassured by your consistency—even when things get busy. 5. Use Tools to Stay Organized Shared calendars, co-parenting apps, and checklists can keep both households informed and on the same page. Final Thoughts Children don’t need a perfect situation—they need stability, care, and routine. When parents work together to provide consistent structure in both homes, children can feel supported, even through big changes. At Hope For Our Future, LLC , we help parents build parenting plans and communication systems that keep children’s developmental needs at the center—because kids do best when their world feels steady. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Copyright © 2025 Hope For Our Future, LLC. All rights reserved. This blog post may be shared, copied, and distributed in its entirety for non-commercial purposes, provided that proper attribution is given, and no modifications are made to the original work. Photo Credit: 264809185 Child Bedtime Yuri Arcurs Dreamstime.com
Parenting time orders are designed to help separated or divorced parents create structure around when and how their child spends time with each parent. But for many families, especially those new to the legal process, these orders can feel confusing or overwhelming. Understanding the basics of your Indiana parenting time order can help reduce conflict, improve communication, and give your child the stability they need. What Is a Parenting Time Order? A parenting time order is a legal document that outlines when a child will be with each parent. It may include weekly schedules, holiday arrangements, transportation responsibilities, and instructions for communication. In Indiana, these orders are often based on the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines (IPTG) , which provide a standard framework for parenting time when parents live apart. Key Components of a Parenting Time Order Every order may look slightly different, but most include the following: Regular Weekly Schedule (e.g., every other weekend, midweek visits) Holiday Schedule (alternating holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.) Spring, Summer, and Fall Break Plans Pick-Up and Drop-Off Times/Locations Communication Guidelines (calls, texts, video chats) It’s important to read the entire order carefully. Even small details—like which parent transports the child or how far in advance changes must be requested—can affect how smoothly things go. Follow the Order—Even If It’s Not Perfect You might not agree with every part of your parenting time order, but until it’s legally changed, both parents are expected to follow it. Ignoring or altering the order without agreement from the other parent (or the court) can lead to legal consequences. If the current plan no longer works, speak with your attorney or consider mediation to create a new agreement you can both live with. What If the Other Parent Isn’t Following the Order? It’s frustrating when parenting time doesn’t happen as ordered. Missed visits, late arrivals, or frequent last-minute changes can create tension. Here are some tips: Document each incident calmly and clearly (dates, times, what happened). Avoid arguing in front of the child. Try to resolve the issue directly —but respectfully—with your co-parent. If that doesn’t work, you may need to seek legal advice or consider mediation. Common Misunderstandings About Parenting Time Orders “We made a verbal agreement, so we don’t need to follow the court order.” → Verbal agreements are not legally binding. Always get changes in writing. “I don’t have to let them go if the child doesn’t want to.” → Parenting time is a legal right. If there’s a concern, talk to a professional—not just your child. “They didn’t pay child support, so I’m withholding parenting time.” → Child support and parenting time are separate legal issues. Denying time could backfire in court. Final Thoughts Your parenting time order is more than a schedule—it’s a tool to help your child experience stability, routine, and connection with both parents. Understanding and respecting the order (even when it's inconvenient) sends your child a clear message: their needs come first. At Hope For Our Future, LLC, I support families in navigating parenting time with empathy, communication, and structure. If you’re having trouble following the order or need help working through disagreements, parenting coordination or mediation can help you find a better path forward. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Copyright © 2025 Hope For Our Future, LLC. All rights reserved. This blog post may be shared, copied, and distributed in its entirety for non-commercial purposes, provided that proper attribution is given, and no modifications are made to the original work. Photo Credit: 55621892 Andrea De Martin Dreamstime.com
Texting is often the easiest way for co-parents to communicate. It’s fast, convenient, and keeps a written record. But it can also lead to tension if messages are misread or sent in frustration. When co-parents text with clarity and calm, they can avoid conflict and stay focused on what matters most—their child. Here’s a guide to help make texting more productive and less stressful. ✅ DO: Keep It Focused on the Kids Texting should be limited to topics related to your child—like school schedules, medical updates, or changes in parenting time. Avoid discussing your personal relationship or rehashing old arguments. ✅ Example: “Emma has a fever. I’ve scheduled a doctor’s appointment for 2 PM tomorrow.” ✅ Example: “I’ll drop the soccer uniform off at your house Sunday by 6:00 PM.” ❌ DON’T: Use Texts to Argue or Blame It’s easy to fire off a message when you’re frustrated—but texting isn’t the place to vent. Angry or emotional messages often escalate the conflict and can be used against you later. ❌ Avoid: “You always do this. You don’t care about what’s best for our son.” ❌ Avoid: “Why should I remind you again? You're the one who keeps messing things up.” ✅ DO: Be Clear and Specific The more precise you are, the less likely you’ll be misunderstood. Be sure to include names, dates, times, and details when making or confirming plans. ✅ Example: “Can you pick up Mia from her piano lesson at 4:30 PM at Music Hall on Wednesday?” ✅ Example: “Just confirming I’ll return Alex to your house Sunday at 7 PM after our weekend.” ❌ DON’T: Be Vague or Passive-Aggressive Sarcasm, vague language, and backhanded comments only create tension. If you’re trying to be helpful or cooperative, say exactly what you mean in a respectful way. ❌ Avoid: “Well, I guess I’ll do it AGAIN since you can’t manage.” ❌ Avoid: “Whatever works for you—like usual.” ✅ DO: Take Time Before You Reply Not every message needs an instant response. If you feel frustrated or hurt, give yourself time to cool off. Respond when you can do so calmly and clearly. ✅ Tip: Write a draft, wait 15 minutes, re-read it, and then decide whether to send. ✅ Tip: If you need more time, respond with: “I’ll check on that and get back to you later today.” ❌ DON’T: Use the Child as a Messenger Never send messages through your child or discuss texts with them. Kids should never be put in the middle or made to feel responsible for managing communication between parents. ❌ Avoid: “Tell your mom she needs to be on time this time.” ❌ Avoid: Showing your child angry messages from the other parent. ✅ DO: Keep a Record of Important Messages Save texts that involve agreements about parenting time, expenses, or decisions about your child. Keeping a clean record can help clarify misunderstandings and provide documentation if needed in court or mediation. ✅ Tip: Avoid editing or deleting message threads related to your child’s care. ❌ DON’T: Overshare or Get Personal Your co-parent doesn’t need to know how you feel about their new relationship, parenting style, or weekend plans. Keep the conversation centered on co-parenting—not your emotions or opinions. ❌ Avoid: “It’s interesting that you suddenly have time for him now.” ❌ Avoid: “By the way, I saw you out with someone new—just thought I’d mention it.” Final Thoughts Texting your co-parent doesn't have to be stressful. When messages are respectful, focused, and child-centered, communication becomes more productive—and parenting becomes easier for everyone involved. At Hope For Our Future, LLC, we help co-parents improve their communication and reduce conflict, so they can work toward peaceful, consistent parenting routines that support their children. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Copyright © 2025 Hope For Our Future, LLC. All rights reserved. This blog post may be shared, copied, and distributed in its entirety for non-commercial purposes, provided that proper attribution is given, and no modifications are made to the original work. Photo Credit: 55621892 Andrea De Martin Dreamstime.com
Separation is one of the most emotional and life-altering changes a person can go through. It shifts not only your relationship status, but your routines, identity, and expectations for the future. Whether the separation was recent or you're still adjusting after several months, learning how to rebuild your life as a separated parent takes time—and that’s okay. This post is written from a non-attorney perspective and is not intended to be legal advice. Every family is different. These suggestions are based on my work supporting parents through transitions and rebuilding. 1. Redefine “Family” on Your Terms Family doesn’t have to mean living under the same roof. It means showing up, creating safe routines, and being emotionally present for your children. Many parents feel grief about losing the traditional idea of family, but separation doesn't mean your family is broken—it just means it’s changing. Let your kids know that you’re still a team, even if you live in separate homes. This new chapter is an opportunity to build a supportive, healthy dynamic. 2. Accept That There Will Be Growing Pains You may feel exhausted, overwhelmed, angry, or unsure of what’s next. These are all normal responses to a major life change. So are your child’s behaviors—clinginess, mood swings, sadness, or acting out may be signs they’re also adjusting. Give yourself and your children permission to feel all the feelings. You don’t have to have all the answers right away. You just have to keep showing up. 3. Establish New Routines One of the best ways to restore stability is to create predictable routines for your child—and for yourself. This includes morning and bedtime rituals, meal routines, and consistent parenting time transitions. Even if your co-parent’s home operates differently, maintaining steady routines in your own home builds a sense of safety and reliability. 4. Focus on What You Can Control You can’t control your ex’s behavior, the court system, or how others perceive your situation. But you can control how you respond, how you care for your child, and how you treat yourself. Let that be your focus. Start small: organize your space, plan your week, or set a family goal. Feeling a sense of accomplishment—especially after a season of loss or chaos—is empowering. 5. Reach Out for Support You don’t have to do this alone. Whether it’s through a trusted friend, therapist, support group, or parenting coordinator, there are people who want to help. Having someone who understands your situation—without judgment—can make a huge difference. If communication with your co-parent is difficult or tense, consider mediation or parenting coordination as tools to reduce stress and create agreements that keep your child at the center. Final Thoughts Starting fresh doesn’t mean forgetting the past—it means choosing to move forward with intention. It means making decisions that support your healing and your child’s well-being. You won’t always get it perfect, but that’s not the goal. The goal is to keep growing, keep learning, and keep loving your child through it all. At Hope For Our Future, LLC , I help separated parents rebuild with compassion, structure, and child-focused solutions—because your children’s future matters, and so does yours. This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Copyright © 2025 Hope For Our Future, LLC. All rights reserved. This blog post may be shared, copied, and distributed in its entirety for non-commercial purposes, provided that proper attribution is given, and no modifications are made to the original work. Photo Credit: 33958263 Dieniti Dreamstime.com
When two parents are no longer in a relationship, sharing time with their children can quickly become complicated. Even when there’s a court order or parenting plan in place, unexpected issues come up—missed pick-ups, schedule conflicts, holiday disagreements, or different views on what’s best for the child. While some level of tension is normal, consistent conflict over parenting time creates stress for everyone involved, especially the child. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce conflict, resolve disputes, and make things work more smoothly. What Is a Parenting Time Dispute? A parenting time dispute happens when parents disagree about how time with their child should be shared. These disagreements can be about something small, like switching a weekend, or something major, like long-distance travel or one parent wanting to relocate. What makes these disputes so hard is that they often come with emotional baggage. Old relationship wounds, differences in parenting styles, or communication breakdowns can turn even simple scheduling decisions into major battles. That’s why it’s so important to have clear expectations, good support, and a plan that puts the child first. Using Mediation to Manage Conflict When talking things through on your own isn't working, mediation can help. In Indiana, family mediation offers a neutral space where both parents can speak openly—with a trained professional helping guide the conversation. Mediators don’t take sides. Their job is to help parents: Understand each other’s perspectives Focus on their child’s needs Explore practical solutions that work for everyone Put agreements in writing to avoid future confusion In areas like Terre Haute, Clay City, and Greencastle, local mediation services are available to help families resolve issues without going back to court. Parenting Coordinators and Child-Focused Plans Sometimes, families need more ongoing support than mediation alone can offer. In those cases, a Parenting Coordinator may be a helpful resource. A Parenting Coordinator helps families: Clarify or revise parenting plans Address ongoing parenting time issues Reduce communication breakdowns Keep the focus on the child—not the past At Hope For Our Future, we offer Parenting Coordination services to help reduce day-to-day stress for families caught in conflict. Smart Strategies for Reducing Disputes There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but the following approaches often help: 1. Communicate With Purpose Try to keep messages short, respectful, and child-focused. Don’t use texting or emails to argue or blame—use them to share information and make decisions. If direct communication causes stress, consider using a co-parenting app. 2. Create a Clear Parenting Plan A detailed parenting plan helps prevent confusion. It should include weekly schedules, holidays, school breaks, transportation responsibilities, and what to do when things need to change. If your current plan is unclear, outdated, or not being followed, it might be time to revise it through mediation or with help from a Parenting Coordinator. 3. Focus on Routine Kids do best when they know what to expect. Work with your co-parent to keep transitions smooth and routines steady—even if the homes are different. When both parents support a shared routine, kids feel safer and more secure. 4. Think Long-Term Not every disagreement needs to be a battle. Sometimes, taking the high road and letting small things go is the best move. Focus on the bigger picture: raising a healthy, supported child in two homes. When Conflict Is More Serious In high-conflict situations, or when safety is a concern, more structured solutions may be necessary. Supervised Visitation If one parent poses a risk to the child’s safety or well-being, supervised visitation may be recommended. This allows the child to have time with that parent while being observed in a safe environment. We provide supervised visitation services at Hope For Our Future, helping children maintain connection while ensuring a protective setting. Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Support In some cases, a Guardian ad Litem may be appointed by the court to represent the child’s best interests. This neutral third party investigates the situation and provides recommendations to the court. While not needed in every case, a GAL can be very helpful in situations where trust has broken down or where parents cannot agree on what’s best for the child. Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself Parenting through conflict is exhausting. Trying to protect your child, communicate with a co-parent, and juggle day-to-day life can leave you drained. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Talk to someone who understands Take a break from difficult conversations when you need to Set boundaries around stress Spend time doing something that brings you peace When you take care of yourself, you're better able to show up for your child with calm, patience, and clarity. Local Resources That Can Help If you’re in or near Greencastle, Terre Haute, or Putnam County, there are local services that can make a real difference: Family counseling programs Co-parenting support groups Child-focused mediation Parenting classes Supervised visitation centers Guardian ad Litem services At Hope For Our Future, we can help you connect with the services that are right for your situation. Final Thoughts Parenting time disputes are stressful, but they don’t have to define your family’s future. With the right support, open communication, and a shared focus on your child, it’s possible to move beyond the conflict and build a more peaceful co-parenting relationship. You don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to walk beside you—one conversation, one solution, one peaceful step at a time This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only. Copyright © 2025 Hope For Our Future, LLC. All rights reserved. This blog post may be shared, copied, and distributed in its entirety for non-commercial purposes, provided that proper attribution is given, and no modifications are made to the original work. Photo Credit: 8227576 Ejwhite Dreamstime.com