How To Create An Age-Appropriate Parenting Plan After A Divorce?

One of the most challenging parts of a divorce is having to spend time apart from your kids. However, divorced parents are encouraged to create parenting plans to make sure that the children spend time with both parents following a divorce.

While anyone can create a parenting plan, it is vital to make sure that the plan is age-appropriate for your children. It is advisable to contact a skilled Orlando timesharing and parenting attorney to help you create a plan that is appropriate for your child’s age and your unique circumstances.

Divorced Parents Need a Parenting Plan After a Divorce

Generally, Florida courts favor timesharing arrangements in which both parents are equally involved in their child’s life. While the child may live with one parent, the other parent should have enough visitation time during the week and on weekends.

Timesharing arrangements are negotiated between the parents and their attorneys when creating a parenting plan after a divorce. However, many parents fail to take into consideration their child’s age when creating a plan.

Below, we will provide tips on how to create an age-appropriate parenting plan in Florida.

A Guide to Creating an Age-Appropriate Parenting Plan

Here’s how you can create a parenting plan that is appropriate for your kid’s age:

• Two (2) years old or younger. At this age, the child is more likely to develop an attachment to the parent they live with. For this reason, it is recommended to let the non-custodial parent spend more time with the child to ensure that the little one understands that they have two parents who care for and love them.
• Three (3) to five (5) years old. Between the ages of three to five, children become the curious explorers of their world. They begin to manage their feelings and learn how to think and reason. It may be appropriate to incorporate more extended visits to give the child a chance to spend meaningful time with their non-custodial parent.
• Six (6) to eight (8) years old. At these ages, children have to deal with school, homework, and extracurricular activities. Co-parents must consider these factors when negotiating timesharing arrangements for a child aged six to eight.
• Nine (9) to 12 years old. At these ages, children become more involved in social activities and spend more time with their friends. They also develop hobbies. Co-parents should understand that their child may need more time for himself/herself.
• Thirteen (13) to 18 years old. While there may be exceptions, many teenagers become rebellious. In fact, a teenager may express a preference to spend more time or even live with one parent. While you can consider your child’s preference when adjusting a parenting plan, keep in mind that both parents should be equally involved in the child’s life.

Contact an Orlando Timesharing & Parenting Attorney

It is advisable to contact a skilled attorney to help you create an age-appropriate parenting plan. Discuss your particular case with our family lawyers at Donna Hung Law Group today. Call 407-999-0099.