Divorcing parents need to agree on a child custody schedule. You and your co-parent should decide how your child will move between the two homes after the divorce is finalized.
Discussions about child custody can be considerably emotional since you face the fact that your child won’t be under the same roof with both parents together. Nonetheless, communicating effectively with your co-parent and child can ease the process.
Here are three tips to employ when discussing child-custody schedules:
1. Put the child’s best interest first
Every decision co-parents make, including the child custody schedule to use, should put the child’s best interests first. Your child’s physical, emotional and social needs can guide you when determining the most suitable schedule for your case.
2. Consider different schedules
It’s crucial to consider different schedules, including:
- Alternating weeks – One week with parent A and the next with parent B
- 2-2-3 schedule – Two days with parent A, two days with parent B and then three days with parent A
- 2-2-5-5 schedule – Two days with parent A, two days with parent B, then five days with parent A followed by five days with parent B
- Alternating every 2 days – Two days with parent A, two days with parent B and the pattern repeats
- Alternating weekends – The child lives primarily with one parent and spends every other weekend with the other parent
Assess how each of these schedules could work to choose the one that best suits your situation.
3. Be ready to negotiate
You and your co-parent may disagree on a few matters regarding the child custody schedule. Thus, you should come to the discussion prepared to negotiate respectfully to protect your child’s interests.
Choosing an appropriate custody schedule for your child is crucial. Legal guidance can help you and your co-parent be on the same page.