The parenting plan is the backbone of your parenting relationship with your ex. It needs to be clear and concise so everyone knows exactly what to expect.
There are a few points that all parents need to think about if they’re working out the parenting plan. Ideally, you and your ex will be able to come up with agreements on these matters together so you can do what’s best for the children.
1. Decision making
Decision-making responsibilities can fall on both parents or one parent. This must be decided for several areas, including education and health care. The parenting plan should make it clear how differences in opinion will be handled in these matters.
2. Parenting time
The parenting time schedule is often one of the more complex points in the parenting plan. You need to come up with a basic schedule. Once you have that done, you can think about the holidays and school break schedules.
3. Communication methods
The parenting plan should outline the right of each parent to communicate with the children. Setting the terms for this can help to avoid confusion later. One thing to remember is that electronic communication between a parent and child can’t be unreasonably interrupted. It shouldn’t be monitored or censored.
Getting the parenting plan together is sometimes the most difficult part of the divorce for parents. Taking the time to set it up in a manner that’s best for the children must be the priority. It may be beneficial to work with someone who’s familiar with these matters so you can draw from their knowledge and learn the options you have.