While sometimes necessary and unavoidable, going to court often creates fear around possible outcomes and polarizes family members, particularly when a relationship with children will be affected. In the lead up to going to court, negative feelings and perceptions can escalate and children witness that animosity and fear. Rather than heading down that road, choose a path to resolution that facilitates discussion between parents and allows parents to make decisions for their family. In doing so, parents are modelling for their children how to manage conflict respectfully, which will serve those children well when life throws them a curve ball. To learn about these options, speak with someone with training in resolving (not feeding) conflict and ask about their experience in applying those skills.