If you are going through a divorce with a child, it’s critical to discuss custody exchange days. Effectively planning for transition days can make it more manageable for your child to cope with the new life.
Here are three tips for preparing for custody exchange days:
1. Talk to your child about the schedule
Once you and your co-parent have a custody schedule, you need to explain it to your child. They should be aware of when they will be with you and the other parent and when transitions will happen.
It’s crucial to stick to a regular day and time for exchanges, as a consistent routine can be beneficial to your child. You don’t want them to be confused, not knowing when they will be leaving to go to the other parent’s home.
2. Choose a location
If you and your co-parent are comfortable, the parent with the child can drop them off at the other’s home. However, if you are not comfortable with this option, or at least not yet, you can choose a neutral, public location, such as a public park, parking lot, restaurant or shopping center.
If your custody schedule has transitions on school days, the parent with the child can drop them off at school, and then the other parent can pick them up after school hours.
You need to be on time on exchange days. Keeping your co-parent waiting can lead to conflicts.
3. Discuss changes
You and your co-parent should agree on how to handle changes. For instance, how soon should one request a change in the schedule? Consistently making last-minute changes can affect your relationship with your co-parent and child.
It’s vital for co-parents to discuss custody exchange days. Get more information to make decisions in your child’s best interest.
