Q. The kids’ dad has not set up the kids’ rooms in his apartment yet and it’s been 6 months. They are telling me they want to see their dad, but they are tired of sleeping on the floor. I think it’s finances. I don’t want them to stop seeing their dad, but I understand that they want a bed. What’s good ex-etiquette?

A. To co-parent properly, parents need a plan. You discuss with your co-parent:

The parenting plan. How often will the children see each parent?

Transportation: Who picks up and drops off and at what location?

Agree to not discuss anything with the other parent at the exchanges. Exchanges are not for conflict resolution.

How will you communicate if one of you is late? Text? And, is there an agreement that you will text if you are later than say, 10 minutes?

Where will the children sleep? Do they have beds at both of your homes? Do you agree on bedtimes? Approach to homework?

Who will make the doctor or dentist appointments? Will you both attend appointments? What about school conferences?

If you need child care, will you call each other first and agree on a common child care provider, or is it every person for themselves?

If there are extras, will you split the cost?

There’s more, but I think you understand the point. There needs to be a conversation and an agreement for how you will do things once you split or your children will flounder. The more organized you are, the safer your children will feel.

If parents want their children to feel comfortable, they must create a comfortable environment for them. I understand it could be a question of funds, but if you don’t create a comfortable place for your kids to sleep, don’t be surprised if they don’t want to stay the night.

Good ex-etiquette for Parents Rule No. 2 is “Ask for help if you need it.” Things like checking with friends for an extra bed would be a good place to start. It just takes a little creativity. That’s good ex-etiquette.

Dr. Jann Blackstone is a child custody mediator and the author of “The Bonus Family Handbook.”/Tribune News Service