Q: How do I know if my children are truly safe when they move between two homes — and I rarely talk to their mom? What should I do if something feels “off”? What’s good ex-etiquette?

A: When families reorganize, children begin living in two different environments, and parents naturally worry.

But first, let me point out the biggest problem — “and I rarely talk to their mom.” That needs to change right away. How will you ever be able to coordinate efforts if you rarely talk to your co-parent?

Both homes do not need to look the same, feel the same or run the same. They do, however, both need to feel safe.

A truly safe home offers four kinds of protection:

1. Physical safety: reasonable cleanliness, secure surroundings and appropriate supervision.

2. Emotional safety: low conflict, pred

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