Having a family, becoming a parent, and raising children is a dream many people wish to achieve. But, what happens when you and your spouse decide to divorce? The honor, privilege, and responsibility of being a parent are far from over. When parents share legal or physical custody of their children, Utah law requires couples to have a parenting plan in place. As parents, you know the specific needs of your children better than anyone else. Because of this, you must craft an ideal parenting plan that caters to their needs before anything else.
Find out more about parenting plans and tips on creating one below.
What is a Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan outlines how you plan to raise your kids, make future decisions, and resolve disagreements. It helps you and your former spouse be the best possible parents to your children and avoid unnecessary conflict. Parenting plans allow a more predictable and stable environment for your kids, helping them feel less stress and anxiety from your divorce.
Tips for Creating a Successful Parenting Plan
Finding the right balance for a successful parenting plan can be tricky. Here are some tips that will help you and your ex create a successful parenting plan for your family:
- Keep Your Children at the Forefront — Always keep your kids’ best interest in mind. Children thrive in stable, positive, and predictable situations. When mapping out your parenting plan with your ex, keep your children at the forefront of your mind. Consider their physical and emotional needs. In addition to their needs, consider their wishes.
- Be Open to Communication — Determine ahead of time how you and your ex will communicate. Also, you will need to decide how your children will communicate with the other parent.
- Reasonable and Doable Scheduling — Find a parenting schedule that works for you and your ex. You will likely need to compromise, and some give and take will be necessary. However, your parenting schedule does not need to be a point of contention or stress. There is not a one-size-fits-all schedule. Pick a routine and schedule that works for your unique situation.
- Do Your Part to Stick to the Plan — In your parenting plan, you and your former spouse will include agreements on certain parenting matters. This may include rules on screen time, curfew, religious commitments, and extracurricular activities. For your parenting plan to be successful, you need to commit to the plan. Even if your ex wanes, have the integrity to stick with it.
- Determine How to Make Big Decisions — Your family will inevitably fave big decisions when it comes to your children. Determine a plan ahead of time of how you and your ex will communicate on these matters. Additionally, come up with an idea on how to handle important decisions that must be made in an emergency or a short period.
- Be Flexible Whenever Possible — Rarely do things go according to plan. Life happens, and things come up that will disrupt your plans. Be willing to compromise and be flexible as often as possible.
Contact The Ault Firm
If you and your spouse are considering getting a divorce, contact the experienced family law attorneys at The Ault Firm. We understand the challenges and obstacles you are facing and are committed to providing comprehensive legal representation. Our knowledgeable team of professionals is here to help you navigate this difficult time while providing counsel and support. If you are in the Salt Lake City or West Jordan area, contact The Ault Firm today.
