An excellent parenting plan is crucial when working out how to share child custody after a divorce.
Making one may be easier for some people than others. Think about how you typically approach a new project. Do you like to lay everything out in minute detail, or are you someone who works it out as you go along? To make an effective parenting plan, you need a little of both those attitudes.
Why do you need detail?
Your child needs stability in their life after a divorce. Knowing where they will be on any given day of the week or year allows them to plan. For example, they know they are with you on weekdays, and you do not finish work till 6 p.m. so that they can go to after-school basketball practice that day.
Detail works for you too. You can plan to take on weekend work to boost your income, knowing your child will be with your co-parent each weekend. Putting detail in the plan forces you to consider all situations and decide now how you will handle them.
Why do you need flexibility?
There are times when life does not respect plans. For instance, your boss asks you to work this weekend due to an important event. Or your mom falls ill, and you need to spend a couple of weeks looking after her. If you and your ex are flexible with each other, it allows you to ensure that one of you is always available to look after your child.
A parenting plan should focus on doing what is best for your child while respecting each parent’s rights. Getting legal help to set realistic goals and negotiate with each other will help you do what is best for you and your kids.