Divorce or separation comes with a unique set of challenges for couples who share children. One of these challenges is post-divorce parenting. Ideally, the court would prefer an arrangement when both parents share custody of the child.
Creating an effective parenting plan is an important step in ensuring the child’s welfare will be taken care of after the divorce. Here are important tips that can help you create a parenting plan that will work for everyone involved.
Focus on the child’s best interests
Children do not deserve to be used as pawns in an estranged relationship. Rather, they need to know that they are loved and cared for by both parents. Dragging the kids into the differences with your spouse will only hurt them and ruin any attempt at creating a healthy parenting plan. Still on the child’s best interest, avoid any temptation to belittle your ex in front of the child or create a rift between the child and the other parent.
Be realistic
Divorce can be contentious at times. However, it is in your best interest that step back and be realistic when discussing your child’s custody. The overall idea should be to establish a healthy relationship between the child and both parents. While you may no longer like your ex, do keep in mind that your child loves them. It helps when you are open to making comprises as long as in so doing, you will be acting in the child’s best interest.
Know your rights as a parent
Both parents have a right to 50% of their child’s time and attention. Of course, this may be a challenge when you no longer live together. However, you need to understand that you have the legal right to be involved in your child’s life. Do not forfeit your right to aspects like education and medical decisions that impact your child.
Divorce is, without a doubt, a difficult undertaking, especially when children are involved. Find out how you can craft a parenting plan that suits everyone involved.
