A parenting plan is a crucial agreement between parties who are responsible for taking care of children and making decisions for them. Before approving a plan, the court will make sure it is in the best interests of the children. If you are in the process of creating a parenting plan, how should you go about it? Here are some do’s and don’ts.
Do include legal custody specifics
According to the Maryland Judiciary’s parenting plan guide, you must include all parental responsibilities, especially who has decision-making authority, also called legal custody. This can be a sole arrangement, where only one parent has decision-making power, or a joint arrangement in which the parents share authority and co-parent the children. Important decision-making concerns include the children’s education, medical care, religious training and extracurricular activities.
Don’t be vague about parenting time
Physical custody or parenting time is another important concern. It is advisable to be specific on when the children will spend time with each parent and where they will primarily live. Moreover, you can specify the schedules for school breaks, holidays, vacations, travels and other special occasions.
Do be detailed about child care
It is also important to include your decisions on who will take care of the kids when you are not available. Additionally, you may mention how you intend to maintain and nurture your children’s relationships with your family members.
Don’t ignore communication matters
Co-parents should put into writing how they will communicate with each other and how they can contact their kids when they are with the other parent. In addition, co-parents should agree on sharing information about their children and giving updates if they have new contact information.
Do include other important concerns
The parenting plan must also detail the transportation setup and how co-parents will go about custody exchanges. Furthermore, co-parents can include restrictions regarding child discipline and other matters that need parental consent.
Do cooperate for your children’s best interests
Having a parenting plan is a way to ensure that your children will continue to receive love and support from both parents. It may also help your co-parenting setup become more organized. Furthermore, it may reduce conflicts and create a healthier environment for you, your co-parent and your kids.