The Co-Parent Way is a co-parenting methodology developed by Marcie Shaoul; with a history working in the diplomatic service in 2016 Marcie launched her consultancy aimed at helping co-parents better communicate with one another and place their children at the centre of the relationship.

She describes how she saw the same patterns emerging in separating couples after her work with government and civil society. Of her work Marcie says "you can have the same north star, the same place you're heading to; but you're doing it in very different ways" referencing the importance of language, culture, and listening.

Her book, The Co-Parenting Method, launched in 2025, details her six step process which not only helps those going through separation, but professionals working with couples in conflict to help them navigate the unexpected next steps of their lives.

In the course of the discussion Marcie explores her six steps which broadly cover

1) moving from a short term mindset and understanding you are co-parenting for the rest of your life

2) the ability to manage strong emotions; not ignore them, adds Marcie, but find ways to put them to one side to enable better communications

3) recognise changing boundaries and redefine new boundaries between you and your co-parent and children

4) establish ways to communicate without conflict, recognising it takes two to be in conflict so by using the right tools and not escalating situations, potential flashpoints remain calmer

5) making good parenting decisions; including how often do you meet, where do you meet, how you behave etc

6) moving from surviving to thriving; taking control of the things you can and understanding you can make a conscious choice around things you can't control.

The book comes three years after the landmark "No-Fault Divorce" legislation and at a time when the language of family law is under scrutiny, which, says Marcie, has changed, and will continue to change, the divorce landscape.

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