Both parents should stay involved in their children’s lives, especially during challenging times like a divorce. So, when it comes to figuring out parenting time, there are several considerations to remember. These factors are crucial in creating a parenting plan that best supports the child’s well-being and development.
Considerations for an effective parenting plan
A parenting plan should avoid creating undue stress on the child. Instead, it should prioritize the child’s needs over parental convenience. To develop such a plan, consider:
- Age of the child: Younger children, like babies or toddlers, often require shorter, more frequent visits with the non-custodial parent. This is because they need regular routines and have shorter memory spans. As kids get older, they can adapt to spending more extended periods away from each parent.
- Child’s schedule: The child’s schedule is an essential factor. This includes their school, hobbies and time with friends. The goal should be to create a schedule that aligns with the child’s routines and doesn’t disrupt their daily life too much.
- Parent’s schedule: The parents’ schedule is another important factor. Factors such as work, travel time, other commitments and availability should be considered. The aim should be to create a manageable schedule for both parents and minimize potential stress for the child.
- Distance between parents: The distance between the parents’ residences can also impact the parenting schedule. If the parents live far from each other, having longer periods with each parent might make more sense. This approach can reduce the frequency of switching, which can be less disruptive for the child.
- Relationship with each parent: The child’s relationship with each parent is another crucial consideration. If the child has a positive relationship with both parents, the schedule should reflect this. If there are issues with one parent, shorter and possibly supervised visits might be more appropriate.
Creating a workable schedule requires effective communication and cooperation between the parents. If there is conflict, a more structured and specific schedule may be necessary to minimize disagreements. A flexible schedule that allows for adjustments and mutual agreement could work well in more amicable situations.
Plan requirements
As parents work through this process, it can be beneficial to seek an experienced family attorney. They can provide guidance on legal requirements and ensure that the parenting plan aligns with local laws and regulations.
