In divorces, many Arizona families opt for the conventional method of splitting time between the parents. When co-parents opt for a 50-50 solution that places the children equally with both parents, they will usually choose arrangements that allow for one week at one parent’s home followed by the next week with the other parent. However, some experts are beginning to counsel parents that this is not the most effective solution for the children.
Instead, parents should consider more flexible and creative arrangements that move the children between the parents’ homes more frequently. One week away from a parent is a long stretch and can create feelings of separation anxiety in the children. In addition, the long time away will result in the need for frequent communication between the parents to allow the children to speak with the other parent.
The weekly co-parenting plan can also create other issues, including logistical ones for parents whose work schedules make it difficult to be present at the times they need. As such, younger children may require a different sort of arrangement, and parents should be prepared to think outside the box in order to find the solution that works best for the children. Before setting the plan that may be in place for many years, parents must consider the impact on their children.
A family law attorney may help divorcing or divorced parents consider the pros and cons of various different child custody arrangements. The attorney’s experience may help counsel parents and help negotiate the best possible arrangement that is in the best interest of the children. If litigation is necessary to reach this result, the attorney may represent a parent in a custody hearing with the ultimate goal of furthering the children’s best interests.