Parenting is not an easy task and it can be tougher when you’re going through a phase of divorce or separation. While it is a tough time for you, you need to remember that it is also going to be hard for your child(ren) as well.
It is very important to know that a child needs the love, care, and affection of both parents. Thankfully, there are ways that you can make the transition much easier both for your child and yourself. The most beneficial thing that you can do is make a good plan that creates a clear and fair schedule for both parents to take care of the child.
The Role of a Parenting Plan
Parenting plans are legal documents that state an agreement between both the parents that specifies how much time and when each parent will have their child. The purpose of this agreement is to establish a fair schedule and outline the role of each parent in raising their child. The parenting plan defines how each parent will share time with their child and take care of their child’s needs after a separation or divorce.
Why You Need a Parenting Plan
If conflict and fighting continues after a divorce, it can hurt the child more severely. Even when you feel that you are protecting your child from conflict, your child will absorb the stress you feel after a conflict. This is quite unhealthy for the child’s development mentally and emotionally.
A good parenting plan can help in smoothing out the tough road after divorce, both for you and your child. When you work out a proper parenting plan with your ex-partner to share joint custody over your child, it takes the guess factor out of the equation. Your child will have a sense of security, as he/she is assured that he/she is the No.1 priority and that both the parents still care for him/her.
A good parenting plan can also help prevent your child from going through emotional and psychological scarring that most children go through after a bad divorce. Your child needs to be reassured that he/she remains your top priority even after divorce. This assurance can help your child to become a confident individual. The best way to work this out is by working out a proper parenting plan for sharing joint custody, even though it might be emotionally difficult for you, as parents.
If you are ready to work out a parenting plan, the professional team at Cahalan & Krall is ready to help. We have extensive experience in helping individuals and families through tough custody issues. Call us to learn how we can help you.