- [Narrator] Introducing the text you send your co-parenting ex, versus the text you'd like to write.
First, the let down. 
From the ex, hey, work trip has come up, can't have kids tomorrow night. 
It's always about you. What about the kids? Or my plans? 
Give and take. Remember, be polite and clear about what they need to do next time. 
Thanks for heads up, I'll juggle things here and have kids. For future, need three days notice this end or you'll have to sort cover. 
And in return, sure. 
Keep cool. 
Can you call to tell them? Best coming from you, they miss you. 
Oh, here's a surprise. 
Will do, and thanks. 
Hmm, well handled by me if I do say so myself. 

Then there's changing the rules. 
From the ex, hey, Mr. 16's come home two hours late. 
Oh shit, seriously? How did you let that happen? 
Wait, get on the same page. Not good. 
You told him he's grounded like we all agreed would happen if he did this again? 
Hm, of course you didn't. 
Nope, said he can't use the car. Stop being such a nag, it's not a big deal. 
Yes it is. You're hopeless, you've got no idea. 
Oh no, hang on they do. We're both going through a hard time with this. 
Not happy about this, we agreed on the consequences together. 
Oh yeah, this is much better from them. 
Okay, let's talk when I drop him off. 
Hmm, not in front of the kids. I'll give some better options. 
Happy to talk alone away from the kids, in person or I can email you. 
After I've picked up my co-parenting medal.