Creating a parenting plan with your ex if you share young children requires special attention to the unique needs of you, your ex and your children alike. Working to ensure that your parenting plan addresses the developmental needs of your children – and considers how these needs will change as they grow – can make transitions smoother and foster a more positive co-parenting relationship moving forward.
To start, you’ll want to consider that young children, especially infants and toddlers, rely heavily on routines to feel secure. When developing a parenting plan, it’s important to prioritize consistency in daily schedules, including meal times, nap times, bedtime and playtime. Both you and your ex should aim to maintain similar routines in your respective homes to minimize disruptions to your child’s sense of stability.
Timing
For younger children, shorter and more frequent visits with each parent can be more beneficial than extended periods of separation. Long separations from either parent can be distressing for young kids who are still forming attachment bonds. A plan that allows for frequent but shorter periods of parenting time can help maintain your child’s relationship with both parents, better ensuring that they feel connected and secure.
This approach to timing doesn’t have to last forever, though. As children grow, their needs change. A parenting plan for young kids should be flexible enough to adapt to developmental milestones, such as starting preschool or participating in new activities. Consider remaining open to revisiting the plan as your child’s needs evolve, as the same terms that work great now may not be in everyone’s best interests later on.