For most parents, family doesn’t begin and end with their partner and kids.

While these are the people who should take priority for anybody who is undertaking the commitment of coparenting, it is not realistic to assume that every minute of focus is always going to be on them. There are also grandparents, siblings, nieces and nephews, and all other types of relatives who require a little attention, too. Finding the balance is important not just for general well-being, but also for modelling to kids a good relationship with extended family.

Still, when somebody has children, most would agree that they have to make them their number one priority. Although there can be circumstances that warrant focusing more on other relatives, being a parent has to come first—when kids are still kids, at least. It might seem like an obvious thing to state, but some do lose sight of that. A reality check can be in order.