When parents in West Virginia decide to share custody, they should create a detailed parenting plan. Besides the schedule that establishes when they will each be with their children, the plan should also include information about conflict resolution and communication methods that can come in handy in the future. A thoughtful, detailed co-parenting plan is one that works for everyone.
The parenting schedule—beyond the basics
When you create a co-parenting plan, the main part is the schedule, since it outlines when each parent will on duty and when transfers will be made. However, a well-defined schedule should go beyond the basics and include exceptions to the daily routine, such as:
- Children’s birthdays
- Holidays
- Family traditions such as family reunions and weddings
- Special events where both parents should be present
Do not forget the details
As a central part of the child custody order, the co-parenting plan should also focus on the details that can support a positive, successful relationship between the parents, and in turn, create a nurturing environment for the children. Anticipating issues that could potentially affect the children’s upbringing is necessary to create a detailed plan. Some of the issues you can address include:
- Which parent will communicate with the children’s doctors and teachers
- Which parent will hold important documents such as the children’s passports
- How parents will behave when spending time with the children, such as drinking alcohol
- How, when and under what circumstances parents agree to introduce new romantic partners to their children
- Tools the parents can use for communication about their children
- How parents will solve conflicts related to the children
A co-parenting plan can become your handbook to a successful shared custody journey. Additionally, as you, the other parent and your children’s needs and lives change, you can also adjust your plan.