A parenting plan helps set the schedule for a family when parents separate or divorce. Typically, negotiating a parenting plan requires the establishment of a specific breakdown of overnight parenting time. Parents may also include a secondary schedule addressing birthdays, holidays and similar special events. The details they add to their parenting plan can help ensure a peaceful co-parenting dynamic. The more that parents address in the initial plan, the fewer opportunities there may be for conflict later.
What key parenting issues deserve consideration when establishing a parenting plan, in addition to scheduling?
1. Parental authority
Parents don’t just share time with their children. They also share the legal authority to make decisions about their children’s upbringing. Parents who share parenting time typically also share decision-making power. Parents may want to create rules that name one parent as the final decision-maker in certain matters. Other times, they may want to establish a system for resolving disagreements when they can’t agree on key decisions.
2. Academics and athletics
Frequently, the privileges that children enjoy depend in part on their performance in school. Parents may require that children avoid disciplinary issues and maintain certain grades if they want to keep a part-time job or participate in team sports. Parents may also have strong preferences regarding what types of sports or other extracurricular activities their children pursue. Having clear rules about what the children can do and what is required of them to enjoy those privileges can be helpful.
3. Rules for childcare
If one parent has less time with the children, they might request the right of first refusal so that they can spend time with the children when the other parent can’t be present. Other times, the parents may want to establish minimum standards regarding who provides care for the children when they cannot be with their parents. For example, parents may include a provision preventing future romantic partners from serving as child care providers. They may impose minimum ages or rules that prevent either parent from leaving the children with someone who has a history of substance abuse or criminal convictions.
Various additional issues, including use of technology, are also likely to trigger disputes between parents who share custody without careful consideration. Taking the time to create a thorough parenting plan that addresses current needs and predictable future challenges can be beneficial for parents. Those who invest effort early in a co-parenting relationship can keep things calmer and more peaceful for their family, even when complications arise.