When parents in Ohio decide to separate or divorce, the question of how to handle child custody and parenting time can be both logistically challenging and emotionally fraught. Many parents want to have as much time with their children as possible, and it can be difficult to adjust to sharing time with a former partner. However, developing a reliable parenting plan for joint custody can be an important move forward that helps the children to adjust to their lives after divorce. Since joint custody is increasingly the choice of couples and family courts, it can be important to consider the family’s schedules and needs when determining a plan.
One important factor to consider when dividing child custody is the effect of a schedule on the children. When children move back and forth from home to home, it can be a difficult adjustment at first. Being conscious of how extracurricular activities, hobbies and time with friends fit into the parenting plan can help children to move forward, In addition, another key element in successful joint custody plans is physical proximity. Both parents should live relatively close to one another so that transportation is easy and manageable for the children, including daily transit to and from school.
In some cases, parents may want to ask the children for their input into the parenting plan, especially when older children are involved. When they feel like their voices are being heard, they may be more enthusiastic about and committed to the plan. If special needs children are involved, this can be an especially sensitive process that requires additional attention.
When parents choose to divorce, this is often only the beginning of the child custody and co-parenting process. A family law attorney may be able to help a divorcing parent to negotiate an agreement on key issues, especially parenting plans.