Worried About The Kids After Divorce? 4 Steps To Creating A Successful Parenting Plan
Posted on: 8 June 2017
If you're going through a divorce, you know it can be a stressful time. You also know that you and your spouse aren't going to agree on everything. In fact, you might not agree on much at all. However, when it comes to your kids, you can probably agree that you both want what's best for your kids. When it comes to successful custody arrangements, it's important that their needs come first. One way to ensure that is for you and your spouse to sit down and create a parenting plan together. An effective plan will include scheduling issues regarding custody and visitation. Here are four steps you can take to create a successful parenting plan for your kids:
Create a Long-Term Plan
When it comes to the time that your kids will spend with each parent, it's important to create a long-term plan – not one that only covers a few weeks or months. The most effective plan will include a full year's scheduling, including vacation time, holidays, and other important events. If your children are able to see their activities, and how those activities involve each parent, they'll feel more secure about the changes that are occurring in their lives.
Allow for Schedule Adjustment
Even the most complete schedules will require adjustments from time to time. This is particularly true if both parents are going to be working. While you and your spouse are creating the parenting plan, be sure to allow for occasional schedule adjustments. For instance, if an unexpected event is scheduled for a time that the other parent should have the children, make sure that both of you are willing to work around those changes as the need arises.
Consider Your Kids Wishes
If your kids are old enough to have a say in the activities they'll participate in, be sure to consider their wishes when creating your parenting plan. This should include allowing your children to choose specific activities that they'd like to be involved in. For instance, if your children enjoying summer fishing expeditions with the other parent, try to arrange your parenting plan to allow for those events to continue.
Seek Outside Help for Conflict Resolution
If you and your spouse reach a point where compromise isn't possible, seek outside help to resolve the conflict. A mediator will help you overcome the obstacles that are preventing you from reaching an agreement over the parenting plan. For questions or concerns regarding your divorce, or custody issues, be sure to speak to an attorney like Novack, Jeffrey N near you.
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