There are many reasons why parents separate. In any separation, a common area of concern for parents in Kansas is the safety and well-being of the children. Understandably, children benefit the most from having both parents involved in their lives. This is why shared parenting has become the preferred type of child custody arrangement for many parents who separate. Here are a few tips for parents who may be taking part in shared parenting.
In a shared custody arrangement, both parents assume equal responsibility of raising the children. However, for shared parenting to work, parents must put differences aside for betterment of the children. It’s no secret that divorce can be messy, but never drag problems from the marriage into parenting. Although negative emotions may linger, leave the past in the past or else the children could be psychologically scarred.
Scheduling and effective communication are big parts of shared parenting. It is always helpful to sit down with the other parent and develop a plan. Outline what days each parent will have the children, as well as school schedules and any extracurricular activities the children may have. Once a plan is developed, stick to the plan by communicating often and effectively.
It goes without saying that parenting after a divorce or separation is never easy. However, shared parenting can be a positive and beneficial arrangement for both children and parents. Those in Kansas who have questions regarding child custody may want to pursue discussions with a legal representative. A knowledgeable and experienced family law attorney can answer questions and provide much-needed guidance.