Adapt Parenting Plans Based on Kids’ Ages
In Florida, a shared custody plan that keeps both parents deeply involved in the lives of their children is what the courts favor following a divorce. While that certainly looks different for every family, there are guidelines that parents may want to consider as they develop a plan that will best address the needs of their children over time. Generally speaking, that will mean changes to the plan as the kids get older. Very young children will normally require the stability of a single home, combined with frequent visitation by the non-custodial parent. On the other hand, older kids could more easily adjust to a 50:50 time share plan. Some proposals that are based on a child’s age include:
Birth to Age 3
Infants and toddlers tend to benefit from short, preferably everyday visits by the non-custodial parent. The visit might be just a few minutes to read a storybook, give a bath, take a walk, or sing some lullabies. This will help to promote a loving bond between the child and the non-custodial parent. Above all else, children this age will need regular, predictable connections with the non-custodial parent.
Ages 3-5
Children this age enjoy playing with toys and simple games. It’s not usually harmful for a parent to skip a day or two between visits, but going much longer can be difficult for the kids. Some experts recommend having similar toys in each home, as well as making visits to playgrounds, zoos, parks, and other child-friendly sites.
Ages 6-11
At this age, little ones may participate in sports, extracurricular lessons and perhaps various camps. Parents can be involved by volunteering as coaches, scout leaders, and so forth. If that’s not possible, kids will still benefit by having parents attend their games, recitals, and the like. Longer periods between visits may be more easily tolerated, but kids still need to bond with parents through discussions, experiences, and significant time together.
Ages 12-18
Parents may feel insignificant to their kids as they get more independent, but nothing could be further from the truth! Teens and tweens benefit greatly by having parents attend their performances and sporting events, and they can certainly utilize and benefit from the experience and advice parents share in chance chats, as well as designed conversations.
Time Sharing for Older Kids
There are myriad strategies to attack time sharing, and families need to examine their own situation to figure out when and how to look at schedule changes giving both parents equal—or nearly equal—time. Just a few ideas include:
- Switching alternate weekends;
- Alternating every other week;
- If parents live close together, the child could spend mornings with one parent and evenings with the other;
- Two weeks per parent.
Getting it Right
Custody issues are generally complex and emotional. But it’s the one issue that you can’t afford to get wrong. At WiseLieberman, our Boca Raton divorce lawyers will help you to create the custody agreement that is best for you and your kids. To discuss, schedule a confidential consultation in our office today.
Source:
extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/co-parenting-series-developmentally-appropriate-parenting-plans.html
