Using Co-Parenting as Part of Parenting Time

After a divorce, the custody of a child and subsequent parent time allocations are governed by the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act and the Uniform Child-Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA). Currently, joint custody, or sole custody and a subsequent parenting plan are determined based upon both the parent and child opinion, the best interest of child, the ability of parent to cover education, health and mobility, any criminal records of a parent, and the psychical or mental health of a parent. Determining what kind of a parenting plan should be in place to ensure both parents are given the opportunity to be with their child can be settled through a divorce deed.

Recently, the option and application of co-parenting also have spurred as part of joint custody, giving both parents the option to take responsibility for a child and ensure their best interests are met.

Understanding Co-Parenting

Co-parenting is seen as the best way to ensure a child has a close relationship with both parents after a divorce. It not only helps in emotional well-being of a child, but it also can reduce the future signs of social anxiety and depression. Co-parenting involves making shared decisions and applying a workable relationship with your ex-spouse to make a child feel secure, and benefits from consistency about future plans, rewards and expectations. Divorced couples can seek advice from competent family and divorce attorney on how to make an effective co-parenting plan and get it approved from court for the benefit of their children.

Making Co-Parenting Work

Making a co-parenting plan work can be a difficult task. It is important for both parents to practice empathy and create a parenting plan that is open and flexible to implement. A flexible plan can reduce arguments and make the visitation hours more effective, but should be communicated in advance. Another strategy is the use of a nesting arrangement that allows a home to work as a nest where parents take turns to live and spend time with children. Additionally, it is important to stay honest with your child by not giving them any false hope of parents moving in together or ending their divorce unless an intention is present to do so. Lastly, both parents should share in advance their style of parenting and what responsibilities are to be shared, as when one parent picks up their child from school and other parent helps their child complete homework.

If you wish to get more information on divorce & family law, child custody, child support, and guardianship or want to schedule a consultation with an experienced family lawyer, contact Dan Walker Law Office at (630) 920-8800.