Many children in Missouri count down the days to the start of their summer vacation from school. However, this time period can be a time of confusion and stress when children divide their time between the homes of two parents who both share child custody. Despite the potential for added stress for the child, there are some ways in which parents can help with the transition.
Perhaps most important is that both parents commit to successfully co-parenting with one another. To do so, parents must commit to open communication and cooperation with one another. Additionally, refraining from speaking negatively about the other parent can prevent further friction. Open communication can help parents set consistent guidelines between the two homes to help aid with transitions as the children move back and forth between them.
In some cases, it may be difficult to come to an agreement, making it necessary to ask for professional help, potentially requesting the court to intervene. Even when parents are committed to peaceful co-parenting, it may become necessary to revisit a previously created parenting plan as the child ages and his or her interests change. A plan that is appropriate for a toddler or preschooler may no longer make sense for a teenager, for example.
Even when parents in Missouri are committed to respecting one another and their child custody plan, disagreements can arise or changes in circumstances can necessitate the need to alter a plan. In some cases, both parties may be in agreement with a potential change. However, having an experienced family law attorney providing guidance even in that scenario can help ensure that no mistakes are made that could be difficult to overturn in the future.
