Parting ways with a significant other is often challenging, especially with children. A workable parenting plan can make the transition smoother. As a comprehensive legal document that works as a peace treaty between parents, it outlines how to handle conflicts and schedules.
Remember, for a plan to be successful, it must also be workable. That means it needs to work for everyone in the situation. There are some essential things that it should cover so you and your child’s other parent can avoid unnecessary stress as much as possible.
1. Open communication
When creating your parenting plan, open communication with your child’s other parent is the most effective way to create something workable. To assist with this, many parents include communication itself in their parenting plans. For example, you may want to consider adding a plan for how to handle communication between children and their off-duty parent while with the other parent.
2. Clear details
To make open communication possible, it can also be helpful if your plan includes clear details. When it comes to school activities, doctor’s appointments and vacations, how will each of those situations work? Thinking about all of the scenarios that involve your child can be a great way to brainstorm.
3. Conflict handling instructions
No matter how hard you try to get along, conflicts will inevitably arise before your child’s 18th birthday. Outlining instructions for how to approach common causes of conflict can be a practical way of handling them. For example, detailing schedules in your plan can help prevent arguments when Thanksgiving arrives.
At the end of the day, having a commonsense, workable parenting plan in writing can help ensure both parents can love and support their children to the best of their ability.
