CO-PARENTING: THE HIGHS AND LOWS

Sharing childcare after a break-up can be challenging, but these celebrity couples are finding ways to make it work

- GEORGIA TREVITT

Going through a separation is never easy, and it can be even harder when children are involved, as Helen Flanagan, Lucy-Jo Hudson and Kim Kardashian know all too well.

As new looks at how they make it work with their ex-partners for the sake of their children, parenting coach Anisa Lewis says it’s important to put differences aside and co-parent in a way that works for your family.

“Communication is key, whatever that might look like – each family is different,” she tells us. “If you put your children’s wellbeing at the heart of your communication and make arrangements that are best for them, you’re already winning.”

While their situations are all different, Helen, Lucy-Jo and Kim have candidly opened up about the highs and lows of parenthood following the breakdown of a relationship.

Relationship expert Tina Wilson agrees it takes a lot of work when it comes to playing happy families. “Co-parenting can be navigated successfully with some effort. Keep the lines of communication open with your former partner but the conversations should stay focused on the children.”

She adds, “It can be normal to disagree on things but give each other the chance to input your thoughts and views and decide together what is ultimately beneficial to the children concerned.”

Helen Flanagan and Scott Sinclair have continued to spend time together since announcing their break-up last summer. In fact, the pair – who called it quits after 13 years – get along so well they even enjoyed a holiday to Dubai last month with their children Matilda, seven, Delilah, four, and two-year-old Charlie.