When it comes to divorce, figuring out how to manage child custody can be one of the most difficult parts of the process. Even if parents have an amicable divorce, they’re aware that their children may be dealing with a lot of emotional issues regarding the split. Setting up a fair custody arrangement is key to making sure that the children remain healthy and happy.
When does a week-on, week-off schedule not work?
Many parents choose the 50-50 week-on, week-off schedule because they assume that’s the only way they’ll get an equitable split. This type of schedule does work for some families, but it can be extremely disruptive for others, causing issues with parent work schedules and children’s mental health as the constant switching back and forth causes confusion.
What are some alternatives to the traditional week-on, week-off schedule?
Parents looking for alternatives to the week-on, week-off child custody and visitation schedule can consider the 2-2-3 schedule. This has the child spend two days with one parent, two with the other and three with the first. This is ideal for kids who tend to miss both parents equally, and it works for people who live relatively close to each other.
Another option is a schedule that has the children switching parents every two days. This child custody schedule works for young kids and children who are close to both parents. Schedules can also be adjusted as children grow older and become used to their parents’ split.
What can parents trying to figure out custody arrangements do?
Parents looking for custody arrangement options may benefit by working with attorneys who are experienced in working out solutions for families. A family law attorney may be able to help parents come up with solutions that work for the family as a whole.