When parents get divorced, it is necessary to construct a parenting plan to define their relationship in the future. This will address things like physical custody (parenting time) and legal custody, or the decision-making power that each parent has for their children.
It’s very important to take the time to focus on creating the ideal parenting plan for your family as you go through a divorce. Below are three ways that it can help.
Reducing stress
First and foremost, a parenting plan should reduce stress for the children and for you and your ex. It provides guidance and helps you avoid disputes. It just helps life go more smoothly after the split.
Increasing stability
A parenting plan can also increase the stability your children feel. They know where they’re going to live, who’s going to take care of them, who will make decisions and things of this nature. Divorce is often hard on children because it undermines their sense of stability in life, so a parenting plan that gives this back to them can make the process much easier.
Addressing unique factors
A successful parenting plan also has to look at the unique factors that apply to your family. Are there any health concerns or considerations? Does the child have any special needs? How far apart do you and the other co-parent live? Where does the child go to school? A parenting plan should address all of these details to create a system that will be optimal for the children moving forward.
As you go through a divorce and create your parenting plan, take the time to carefully consider all of your legal options.