Here are some less common elements you can include in your parenting plan.
Child custody agreements are solely based on the children’s needs. Because of this, parents usually focus their parenting plan agreements on the larger issues. You must think about some minor points so you don’t end up in a contentious battle with your ex over matters that could have easily been discussed beforehand.
Once you have the bigger things in place, such as the parenting time schedule, you can move on to these smaller matters. Think about your child and what you feel strongly about so you know where to put your focus. Your ex might also have some wishes, so be prepared to work out an arrangement. Here are some less common elements you can include in your parenting plan.
Extracurricular Activities
Children are often involved in extracurricular activities at school or in clubs. Having a plan for how these are paid for and who will transport your child can be beneficial. Sometimes, a clause states one parent can’t sign a child up for an activity if it infringes on the other parent’s time, which might be necessary. In practice, speaking to the other parent before you sign the children up for any activities is always a good idea.
Electronic Devices
Many children have electronic devices such as phones and tablets that they play with constantly. These often go with the child between homes, so there should be a plan for how to handle them. This might include keeping the devices in protective cases, setting certain time limits, and turning on parental controls. If the electronics have a passlock code, both parents should have it.
Social Media
You can include social media guidelines in your parenting plan to help iron out differences and avoid conflict that directly affects your kids. If you and your co-parent can agree not to post pictures of your children or let them use social media until a certain age, add these decisions as a stipulation.
Discussions About the Other Parent
You should never belittle your ex in front of your child. Your child custody order can forbid deprecation or alienation because it can affect the child’s perception of their parents. Despite how you may feel, your ex is still their parent, and they still love them. Your child should not act as a messenger for you to your ex, either. If something needs to be communicated, find a way to do it when your child is not present or cannot hear it. As a divorced parent, encourage your children to have a meaningful relationship with both parents and the extended family.
The Right Lawyer Can Make All the Difference
Hiring a lawyer should be the first thing you do when encountering any legal matter, not a last resort. Whether you’re thinking about a separation or divorce or have been charged with a crime, been injured in an accident, or your civil rights have been violated, you need to first know your rights. Contact Mike Mastracci today at 614 Edmondson Ave Catonsville, MD 21228 (with satellite offices in Ocean City, Snow Hill, and Salisbury, Maryland), 410-869-3400, and check us out on Facebook.