In this episode family law experts Benjamin Bryant and Heather McKinnon talk to psychologist Michael Hawton about the secrets to successful co-parenting. Michael is a child and family psychologist who has been working with families in Australia and overseas for over 30 years. He is also the founder of Parentshop resource hub for parents, educator and child and family specialists. Michael has also found time to write two books: Talk Less, Liston More and Engaging Adolescents and has two children of his own.

We discussed the following topics with Michael:

•Is co-parenting the right option for everyone?

•How important is a parenting plan to co-parenting success?

•How to resolve differences without tearing the kids apart.

•How to manage changeovers effectively.

•How to manage special occasions without hostility and resentment.

•At what should children's wishes be considered when decision making?