As a parent, one of your main concerns is to protect the best interests of your children during your divorce. You understand this process will change virtually every aspect of your child’s life, which is why you invest in making sure that your co-parenting plan is reasonable and sustainable. In order to accomplish this goal, it will require both parents setting aside their own personal feelings and focusing on what is best for the kids above all else.
In a co-parenting plan, the two parents will share custody of their kids, including visitation and parenting time. They may also share decision-making authority for their kids. Regardless of the specific details of your co-parenting arrangement, you may find it helpful to consider the long-term impact of any decisions you are considering. With a thoughtful co-parenting plan, you can provide your children with stability and security for years to come.
Considerations for your co-parenting plan
Co-parenting can be difficult as it requires both parents to work cooperatively together to meet the needs of their kids. It is not always easy to set aside temporary emotions and focus on the needs of the children, but the following considerations may be helpful as you consider how to create a sustainable co-parenting plan:
- Think about what will be best for your children based on their age and maturity levels.
- Consider how you and the other parent can remain cooperative and respectful.
- Have a set schedule that will work well according to the kids’ school needs, extracurricular activities and more.
- Have a system in place that you will use in the event of a dispute with the other spouse.
There is no one-size-fits-all parent plan or co-parenting schedule. What will work best for your kids depends on their needs, your work schedules, your family routine, continuity of lifestyle and a variety of other factors that are unique to your situation.
The ideal arrangement for your family
Co-parenting is not easy, but it allows your kids to have strong relationships with both parents after a divorce. The foundation of any positive and sustainable co-parenting plan is a fair and reasonable custody order. Before you agree to terms or make any decisions that could impact your Washington family long-term, it may be helpful to learn more about your parental rights and your custody options.