have managed to greasily co-parent and philippi telling "e.t." you have to get to that point as a divorced pant where you're not putting yourself first. for "good morning america," paula faris, abc news, new york. >> we're going to bring in erica it is apparent they've worked it out and other couples can learn from it. >> ryan and reese are a good example. they've been able to put their kids' needs above their own and co-parenting isn't easy and requires a lot of communication, empathy and patience. but, you no he, what we found that if we talk to couples, there are three things that tend to make it work, number one, they plan ahead and create a schedule. you don't want to wait on the holidays. they also set rues and boundary, not just for t the adults. that means you don't cancel last minute and that the kids follow the same rules at both houses and lastly they stay positive. you don't want to complain or be angry in front of the kids and want the whole thing to feel comfortable for everyone if you can. >> i like number two how set rules not jus

philippi telling "entertainment tonight" as a divorced dad we trade off so last year my kids and i went to my parents in delaware. this year they will be with their mom and i am shooting a movie up in toronto. i'm going to fly down to philly and just have a thanksgiving with my parents and the kids get to be with reese. the couple are parents to deacon, reese often posting pictures of her kids on instagram like this one where ava looks like the spitting image of her mom. >> bonjour mademoiselle. >> reporter: they met in th the '90s their romance blossoming on "cruel intentions." they were married for eight years before deciding to split in 2007 and reese saying on camera in 2011 the kids are surrounded by love. >> i always tell my kids, you're so lucky, it's grandparents and a stepdad. always such a great opportunity to have as many people in your life nurturing and carrying you and guiding you. >> reporter: through it all witherspoon and philippi have managed tlf first. for "good morning america," paula faris, abc news, new york. >> we're going to bring in erica it is apparent they've