5. “I'm concerned about something and would really like your ideas on it. Could we talk when you have some time?”

When problems come up, many couples find it’s helpful to give each other some advance warning that a difficult discussion may be on the way.

This breathing room and preparation time can help each parent remember that they aren’t under personal attack because a challenge has arisen, only that something requires their discussion and joint efforts.

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  • “You're good with things like this—what do you think?”
  • “I bet if we sat down and put our ideas together, we could come up with a great solution.”
  • “You really saved the day.”