Blog

26Jun
2020

Tips for Creating a Parenting Plan in the Best Interest of Your Children

Every divorcing couple with children under 18 has to have a parenting plan for them. Either you and your spouse decide what it will be, and the court approves it, or a judge who doesn’t know you or your children will decide what it is going to be. An experienced mediator can help both parents create a plan that works for the family. 

Questions for parents to think about

What works for the children? For some, a week to week, 50-50 schedule works but the kids will only go to one school at a time. Where will they go?  Will they have to make a long commute to get to school if one parent relocates to another part of town? If it is more practical for the kids to spend more time with one parent during school, can they spend more time with the other parenting in the summer?

What happens when your 14-year-old wants to get a tattoo? How do you deal with extra-curricular activities? Who pays, and how much? Who decides what activities children will have during whose parenting time? How do you decide how to pay for things like braces? 

Focus on the child’s best interests

Remember that you and your former partner share one very important common goal — to do what is best for your child. No matter your differences, sharing this intention is the most important thing at the end of the day.

Work with an experienced mediator

An experienced mediator can help parents find practical solutions. All families are unique, but a mediator can make suggestions from past experiences that may be a starting point to help parents create a plan that works for their family. Irwin Kuhn has extensive experience helping couples navigate mediation and create fair parenting plans. He can help you collaborate on a plan that will work and be in your child’s best interest. If you have questions or you’re ready to get started, contact us at (615) 321-5659!