Once you and your co-parent agree on a custody schedule, you should explain it to your child. Help them understand how they will be moving between the two homes. This allows them to prepare for the new reality.
Below are three tips to help you during your discussion to address their concerns and eliminate anxiety.
Reassure them of your love
When you sit down with your child to discuss the new living arrangement, start by reassuring them of your love. Let them know that both parents love them and want to spend adequate time with them. And you have created a custody schedule that allows that.
Use simpler terms
Use simple terms when explaining the custody schedule. If your child is younger, it can help to use visual aids, for example, a color-coded calendar. Mark the days they will be with you and those when they will be with the other parent using different colors. You can color-code one week and ask them to do the following week as an exercise. You can also use magnets with pictures of each parent on a calendar on the refrigerator.
Additionally, it helps to have visuals for activities or events on the calendar. For example, you can use a different color or magnets for movie nights, school events or extracurricular activities.
Inform your child that they can contact either parent
Let your child know that they can contact either parent, regardless of where they are. It’s not uncommon for children to feel restricted from freely contacting the other parent while with one parent in co-parenting situations. This usually leads to emotional distress. Informing your child that they can contact either of you at any time gives them a sense of security.
It’s crucial to actively help your child understand the custody schedule. Every decision you make should be in their best interest.
