Divorce can be extraordinarily difficult for anyone. If you have children, though, parenting in a post-divorce family may present a host of problems you must overcome. While all divorced parents must figure out what is best for them and their families, you can likely increase your chances of raising well-adjusted kids by drafting a comprehensive parenting plan.
As you likely know, divorce can be tough for kids. Put simply, a parenting plan establishes guidelines for you and a co-parent to follow. While clearly setting expectations and obligations are principal benefits of any parenting plan, there are some hidden advantages to executing a well-drafted agreement. Here are three of them:
1. Reduce stress
Under even ideal circumstances, raising good kids can be stressful. If you do not agree with your former partner’s parenting style, though, your parenting plan may be a good way to reduce anxiety. That is, with the right language, both you and your ex-spouse know what to expect from each other.
2. Increase communication
If you do not have children with your former spouse, you may never have to talk to him or her ever again. If you share kids, though, that probably is not an option. With a good parenting plan, you may find communicating with your ex-spouse to be easier. Also, when negotiating the agreement, you have an opportunity to discuss what is most important to you, your former partner and your children.
3. Provide for your children
Your kids have some basic needs that you must meet. When drafting your parenting plan, you can likely address a variety of topics. For example, you may want to tackle extracurricular activities, religious practices, childcare and other important subjects in your agreement.
Fortunately, children are incredibly resilient. Still, you do not want to leave your kids’ future to chance. By creating a comprehensive parenting plan, you ensure everyone in your family has what they need to thrive in a post-divorce situation.