When a couple with children goes through a divorce, there are many more considerations than just dividing up money and property. Once other human beings are involved, things automatically become more complicated. Therefore, the court system requires a parenting plan from the divorcing couple that is for the best interest of the child or children. It refers to a document required by the court that specifies a detailed plan intended to serve as a guide for parents to spell out schedules and responsibilities of each parent relating to the upbringing of their children. The purpose is to avoid conflict in the future and assure proper care of their children. It must be created by both parents with a mediator or their attorney.
This written agreement sets out rules and structures for the ongoing care of the children. It caters to and takes into consideration the development and cultural needs of the child. It establishes a relationship pattern for parents and their children like how time with the kids will be alternated between parents. Decisions in terms of authority, discipline, responsibilities and rules, and how they will get to resolve other parental issues for care of their children are also stated. For example, some of the things considered when creating a parenting plan include where and with whom the children will spend their holidays. Other topics include religious and educational matters.
Coming up with this plan is very useful and important because decisions concerning children are not meant simply to be a matter of giving custody to one of the parents and then assuming that all will be well. After divorce, life goes on and most likely the lives of the parents will dramatically change. New spouses can come into the picture, step-siblings, etc. and it’s important that these changes do not dramatically alter how the children of divorce are cared for. This is why it is very necessary for divorcing parents to agree on and make plans in writing as to how the children will be raised.
This agreement goes a long way in improving and maintaining a co-parenting relationship. The structure of a written plan and knowledge that a neutral, authoritative party like the court system has mandated it, makes the children feel less afraid and more secure in how their future will play out. You will agree that children tend to do better when their parents cooperate which is why this documentation is necessary as it keeps parental conflict to a minimum making the children able to experience meaningful and loving relationships with both parents. Also, children are at a high risk of serious long term emotional problems when they are exposed to ongoing conflict between their parents.
Parents can decide to do this on their own or may want to employ the service of legal professional or an attorney. There is also software that can help you easily create one. Another tool which will most likely be mandated by the court during the divorce process, is to take a co-parenting course. You can easily take online parenting classes that will help teach parents how to develop a parenting plan that suits your family arrangement for effective co-parenting. Classes also teach effective communication and parenting skills for raising stable, healthy and responsible children. Parents are advised on how to deal with issues regarding their children in divorce situations and how to help their children adjust in a healthy way to living apart from a parent.